Day 17 - July 23

Set off to mainly sunny skies again today - 2 days in a row - we're breaking records! We walked down very quiet roads toward Clogher and then set north on a quiet lane to Dunanoir Fort in Smerwick Harbour. This was an ancient promontory fort which may have been defended as early as 500 BC. It's known in Irish history for one of the bloodiest battles when Spanish,  Italian and Irish forces were all working together to build up the Fort in 1580. Before they could finish though, English government forces led by Lord Grey began a three day siege which ended with 600 men, women and children being massacred by the government forces. At least the site is remembered and a plaque tells the history of what happened. 

We walked on Smerwick Beach for a few kilometres. When we started on the beach, an older Irish couple came to speak to us about our travels and offer advice. When I asked why the beach wasn't busy on a sunny, Sunday morning (maybe 10 people over several kms), the woman said that this was busy!!

The Three Sisters  - view near Feohanagh

On toward other beaches, sand and surf. A picnic on the beach and then on to the little town of Ballydavid. From there we walked along the cliff top to Gorman's Hilltop Guesthouse, where we took in the panoramic 360 degree views of the coast and Mount Brandon. 

The views all along the way today were amazing. From down at sea level and the endless stretches of beaches to the tops of craggy cliffs and crashing surf, there was lots to see and smell. The weather helped with the walk today as I was struggling with a sore leg and ankle. I had to pole the whole way but the sun and sky were very motivating. 

We had an amazing dinner at Gorman's Hilltop Guesthouse where we are staying.  We had a view of the ocean and the entire dining room to ourselves.  Finished the evening watching the sun set over the Atlantic - a first for us!

Km hiked 16