Kinsale, Ireland

We visited one of the happiest little harbor towns in the southwestern county of Cork!  It's a nice seaside village, a colorful place with cobblestone streets, bright colored doors, good food, and a lot of history.  Read along and learn more about what there is to do in Kinsale!

We followed Rick Steve's recommendation on touring visiting Kinsale.  We went on a historic stroll of the town led by Barry Moloney.  I first saw him in the parking lot as we were parking, and I felt a little start struck-yelling in excitement "JORDAN thats HIM! That's the guy in Rick Steve's book!"

We learned several stories about the town and learned the port's history.  A major battle took place here in 1601 that pitted the English against the Irish/Spanish forces for mastery of the seas and control of all trade; the English won the battle (sadly?!?) but we all know the Irish eventually won the war for independence. Interesting tidbit, the Irish who came to help the Spanish were all from the northern Clans. As punishment for their involvement, the English stripped the northern clans of their land and encouraged English and Scottish settlers to move and take their place. This is what led to the creation of Northern Ireland when Ireland ultimately gained their independance.

Barry explaining what it was like to live in Kinsale and its layout in the early years of settlers and trade.

I would say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree here.  Bode seems like he is just as much a history buff as his dad!

For us there is nothing better than to wander around town.  Loving all the bright contrasting colors, walking cobblestone lanes, and admiring all sorts of local arts and crafts.

I love this pink shop!

 I spy window ships

Street signs get cold too!

 This little goober had so much fun, and was all smiles 

He isn't shy with making friends.

Bode really enjoyed being carried on his dad's shoulders.

We had heard that there was a tribute to those who died on the Lusitania (a ship torpedoed by a German submarine in 1915 just off the coast of Kinsale killing 1,200 people, sparking America's entry into the war) in the cemetery, so we went to take a look.  We couldn't find it but we did take some cute photos!

Before leaving town we got some local catch of the day at Dino's, along with a battered sausage and some french fries.  They were delicious and greasy and the best fish and chips either of us have ever had.  The prices were very reasonable too.   

Kinsale was a great way to spend half a day, the rest of our journey today took us to the Muckross house.  Read along in our next post for highlights!