Ireland Trip 2010
(continued)
Day 6 Fri, July 2: IRISH NATIONAL STUD & GLENDALOUGH
This morning drive to Kildare which is in the heart of Ireland's horse country. A visit to the Irish National Stud will show you the history and current trends of horse-breeding in Ireland. See some of the magnificent horses and learn about horse-breeding. Then take a walk around the Japanese Gardens which were established in 1908 and represent the "Life of Man" from cradle to grave in the traditional Japanese style of gardening.
Then drive southeast into County Wicklow to see the 6th century monastic ruins of Glendalough, where the peacefulness of the valley conjures up the spirit of the monks. The Visitor Centre explains how St. Kevin founded this settlement at a time when Christianity was burgeoning throughout Ireland.
Continue to Kilmacanogue to visit Avoca Woollen Mills. This company produces high-quality woolens and also has a good café. Return to Dublin and freshen up before dinner.
After dinner attend a performance at the Abbey Theatre, Ireland's National Theatre. This famous acting company was founded by William Butler Yeats and Lady Gregory in 1904. Now housed in a modern building, the Abbey specializes in performances by Irish playwrights, and whether the play is classical or modern and you can be sure of a stimulating evening.
Day 7 Sat, July 3: Viking boat ride & Clonmacnoise
