The ancient Celtic chieftains of Muskerry were the McCarthy's and their principal stronghold was Blarney Castle. This world renowned 15th. Century keep has a stone on the battlements that if kissed, imparts the gift of eloquent speech.
This morning we stretch our legs with a visit to the castle and it's extensive grounds to not only kiss the stone but to look for local birds such as Sparrows, Blackbirds, Robins, Chaffinch, Starlings, Jackdaws etc.
Around noon we have a forty-minute drive to Ballycotton Bay for lunch and an afternoon exploring the area. This bay has a fine beach, miles of cliff walks and three shallow lagoons isolated from the sea behind sand bars and gravel banks. We should see wildfowl and waders, especially large flocks of Golden Plover and Lapwing. This will give us our first opportunity to pick off divers at Knockadoon Head.
Late this evening a one-hour drive takes us to Kinsale for the first of two overnights. Kinsale is the gourmet capital of Ireland and is unique among Irish towns in that it has more restaurants than bars. Your guides will advise on the best dining and after dinner we will have a talk from a local expert.