16.05.2018 The perfect day!

Today was a very special day. It all started with a nice chat with Eleanor. She was a very interesting lady. I started early in the day and headed to the Wicklow Mountains. After a short time, I noticed how spectacular the scenery is. Today, the sun blessed me all day long, such days are rare here! It felt like I was rewarded by life.

I had to stop every few kilometers because there was something to admire. For you, I captured the most beautiful moments. After arriving at the Wicklow Mountains, I got a bottle of water and set off by car along the Scenic Route that completely circles the National Park. I have to say that I changed my route at some point during the day to see even more. It was so much fun to play with my camera, not having any time pressure, and stopping countless times. It was surprisingly not crowded, I often traveled for kilometers all by myself, and I thought it was GREAT!

I encountered astonishingly diverse 'pictures' and like the past few days, I was completely fascinated by Mother Nature. From Laragh, I drove to Sally Gap and further to Blessington Lakes. I almost went around these lakes completely, but unfortunately, almost everything is privatized and you can only access them from the city side. Nevertheless, I couldn't resist enjoying a really awesome lunch. I think I ate as well in one week as I haven't in 1 year. Hahaha...

Then I drove back to Sally Gap and continued towards Laragh Lake. Among other things, the bridge from the movie P.S. I Love You was there. It's where the two of them kissed for the first time. Unfortunately, I could only admire Laragh Lake from above. I was already prepared for a hike with all my gear, but eventually there was a slope and no further path opened up to me. So I continued on. Sheep and lambs greeted me regularly on my way, they were really adorable.

After successfully completing my circuit, I decided to drive to my B&B and check-in. Afterwards, after a short rest, I drove back to Glendalough. An old monastery ruin and a charming landscape with two lakes. I decided to hike along the Lower Lake to the infamous Upper Lake. The perfect combination of gently rolling green hills, a narrow sandy beach by the lake, and the slowly setting sun gave me a feeling of freedom and perfection. Finally, when I arrived, I felt a sense of pride. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm afraid to go hiking alone... but I managed it and pushed myself even further. Although a longer 'hike' wasn't possible today, I believe that I will muster the courage at some point. Maybe not on this vacation in Ireland, but definitely on the next one.

Back at the accommodation, I got myself some grapes, blueberries, and a beer. Now I'm relaxing with TV (for the first time in Ireland) and ending the day, the perfect day.