Last month, after living in Ireland for almost 2 years, I finally made it to Blarney Castle. Tourists from all over the world come to Ireland to see this famous castle and of course, the Blarney Stone. They say that kissing the legendary stone will give the gift of gab. Millions have come throughout the years for their kiss.
I have visited quite a few castles since coming to Ireland and I guess I expected this one to be somewhat the same as the others. However, it turned out to be my favorite! It’s hard to imagine the scale of a castle from a picture. This one was much more impressive and larger to me in person than when I had seen images beforehand. I wish I had known to plan more time. Usually when I go to a castle, it only takes an hour or so to walk around and tour the area. Beautiful gardens and hiking trails saturate the grounds of Blarney Castle. It would have been nice to explore this stunning property longer. If you are planning a visit then my best advice is to build in some extra time for the property surrounding the castle as well.
I arrived mid-afternoon which did hold an advantage. The line for the Castle and the trek up to the Blarney Stone was quicker than I had anticipated. There are a multitude of steps to the top but I didn’t have the long line that I had expected to get to the famous stone. As you climb up the steps and through the rooms of the castle you can take in the history and also see incredible sweeping views of the countryside.
At the top of the castle there are four informational panels about the Blarney Stone. They are some of the legends about how the stone came to possess the powers that give the gift of gab. Kissing the stone itself is a little awkward. The stone is set at the bottom of a wall that now has rails built into it. In order to kiss the stone you lean over backwards while holding onto the railing. There is a person sitting right there to help get you into position. Once you kiss the stone you just slide back up. You can purchase pictures on your way out of the castle of your kiss and you are also allowed to take your own.
kissing the stone
As you enter and leave the property there is a cafe where you can stop for coffee, ice cream or a meal. You can also buy Irish inspired gifts and Blarney Castle souvenirs on your way out through the gift shop. If you are in Ireland then this castle should be on your list of places to see!
