Day 5 -Athlone to Old Castle

Day 5 –

So, today was the slowest day so far for us on this trip as the list of items we had to accomplish was fairly small.  After waking up and having a “full Irish” breakfast we loaded the car and David drove us back to Dublin.  Along the way home we stopped in at David’s office to have a quick coffee and talk some business.

David then drove us to the Airport to pick up a rental car for us to use.  After we switched all our baggage to the rental we thanked David for all he did for us and said good-bye.  Now for most, it would be in the car and drive away, BUT, not for us because not only were we in a car that was right-hand drive but also going on to streets that you drive on the opposite of what we are used too.  Lucky for us we have Bill who was experienced to all this…except he has not been here for over ten years!  Needless to say Mary Anne, Janice and myself had our eyes WIDE open making sure what side of the road Bill went on at every turn and round about.

Like riding a bike, Bill had no problem getting back into the swing of things.  We got on the highway and headed towards Trim Castle. After several wrong turns, none of which were Bill’s fault (or that he would admit to) We arrived at the castle which was built in the 12^th century.  Although we are in Ireland this castle was also featured in the movie Braveheart.  It was very interesting to hear about the history of the castle and its location but to go inside and see the various levels was really something.  One of the interesting pieces they pointed out was graffiti from 1702!

We left the castle and made our way to Ross Castle located on county Meath.  This castle has only 5 bedrooms and is said to be haunted!  Haunted or not staying in a castle will be very exciting!   We arrived and met the owners and had a wonderful home cooked Irish meal.

Staying in a castle is very different from the 3 and 4 star hotels we have been so accustomed too.  It was “lightly” heated so after dinner we sat by the fire place and did some reviewing of the pre-tour so far.  Soon enough it was time for bed and Bill and I went to our main floor room while the ladies had to ascend the tower to their room (which by the way is said to be the most haunted room in the castle – but Bill and I did not tell them that!)  We have to admit that there were some strange sounds at night but nothing that made Mary Anne and Janice scream and coming running down the spiral staircase!  Oh well, maybe tomorrow!