On a less grumpy note, Ireland was absolutely beautiful. 

We (me, sis, nephew, mum and mum’s friend) flew to Cork before hiring a car and driving to the house that my sister had rented.  It was a converted barn outside a little town called Drimoleague … basically in the middle of nowhere.  The accommodation was fantastic.  Owned by a British woman (who obviously had the right idea), it was so cosy and quiet.  And the views of the countryside from the house were stunning. 

We visited loads of little towns in the nearby area, and on one day drove to a beach called Barley Cove, which was fantastic.  We also went to Mizen Head, the most south-westerly point in Ireland, the views from which were absolutely breathtaking.

I had never been to the Republic of Ireland before - only the North (which is equally beautiful)  - but I’d defintely like to go back.