Glendalough
In a valley south of Dublin, there are two lakes and a monastic site from the 6th century with a typical round tower that is 33 m high (see below); it was used to protect holy items in times of war as the Vikings raided Ireland quite often. St Kevin lived here in harmony with nature (especially blackbirds) and played an important role in the development of Christianity in Ireland. Ruins of his church can still be seen on-site.
Crossing the valley to get to the lake, we went through thick green forests of birches with some undergrowth (as you can see in this picture). The terrain was wet and moorish, better not leave the dry paths winding their way through the green landscape!
The small trek is absolutely worth it ... the path opens up into wide space and you can see the amazing lake with its high rocky hills on both sides and the reflections on the water. A slight breeze stirs the waves on the lake ... take it all in!
With a clear sky in the background and without wind, the lake is a stunning sight fit for postcards as it looks like a mirror reflecting the sky ... look at me to guess the huge size of the lake! For swimming, the water is too cold though.
For an extra bonus, go a bit further through the forests at the side of the lake and you will find further ruins and walls of the monastic site such as St Kevin's Church (now overgrown with moss, but still in their original state). Can you imagine living here? The silence and remoteness?
Of Ireland's many natural and monastic sites, Glendalough is surely a good combination of both, and it is easy to reach from Dublin. A must-see before leaving the island!
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