A VISIT TO THE SISTER NATIONS

An inter-country trek uncovers medieval history, majestic landscapes and age-old stories

- Sheila Grant, Ardrossan, Alta.

It was the first time visiting Europe for my husband and me—we can’t wait to go back, by the way—and our trip itinerary included visiting both Ireland and Scotland. There was just so much to see! We began with beautiful Dublin, Ireland, which looking back seemed to have historic buildings at every turn. The scenery at Blarney Castle was breathtaking and I remember looking up to what seemed like the ruins of a four-storey castle. The Cliffs of Moher, measured at around 213 metres high and eight kilometres long, took quite a while to hike, but getting to see the ancient landmarks and incredible views was well worth it. We also visited Ballygally Castle, located along the Causeway Coast, which was used by the Game of Thrones cast and crew as a set—a cool tidbit of information! We toured the superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains of the Ring of Kerry, and passed through lush lands and crossed more than a few peat bogs en route to Moll’s Gap.