This morning after a lovely breakfast we were off towards the Wicklow Mountains. Our first stop Powerscourt which provided us with the opportunity of wondering through these wonderful formal gardens.

The Japanese gardens captivated us with the beauty of the plants and the way in which they are displayed.

The Pets’ Cemetery was really interesting, particularly the obvious affection and value in which the family pets were held. There was a wonderful gift shop, but all displayed a great deal of restraint in anticipation of tomorrow’s opportunity to shop.
Our next stop was

Glendalough where we enjoyed a pleasant Pub lunch, then some walked around the Monastic Settlement.

It was fascinating to read the numerous tombstones covering the centuries, and to appreciate the magnificent stone work in the monasteries.

There were the remains of several churches and towers for more than one century.

After approximately a 2 hour drive we arrived at New Ross were we were given a tour of the Dunbrody,

which is a replica of the ship that was used to transport immigrants to the US and Canada during the potato famine in the 1840’s.

This ship would accommodate up to 300 passengers. We were appalled at the conditions people had to travel under in those days. Those traveling steerage were treated not as well as animals.

This accommodation (each bunk) would be for 4 to 7 family members, and food was extremely limited. First Class faired somewhat better in that they had meat every day, but they still lived in very cramped quarters.

This would accommodate 3 or 4 family members in the room with 2 bunks. The voyage was 6 to 8 weeks, and many in steerage did not survive.
Quite different from our very luxurious coach, and wonderful meals.
Then we went on to our hotel in Waterford, a lovely dinner and preparations for moving on to Killarney in the morning.
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