2009-02-20
yew tree
If you go to Killarney, then walk in the woods for long enough, you will find a lake.
It�s called Muckross, and that�s a combination of Gaelic words, roughly translating as �pig peninsula.� Wild boar used to roam there. But now there�s a bike path. You can take it early, at dawn, in the fresh coldness of the morning dew as the sun peaks out over Torc Mountain to the east.
Along this path, you will come across ancient abbey ruins. They are from the sixth century, and the sacred yew tree in the center is still intact. It is said that if you touch it, you will die within the year. The bark contorted like mangled muscle sinew is worth admiring with at least your eyes if not your hands. Step over the short spiked fence, reach up high as you can and let your fingers trickle down the rough surface.
Back on your bike westward 3k to Ross Castle, along the lake�s fringe. It�s picturesque. Inside the walls, a hobo has made a nest in one of its crevices, two beer cans balance on what was long ago a stone windowsill. The view from here to the lake is fit for a king. Or at least a duke.
There is a gigantic Victorian era mansion another 3k from here, faithfully following the trail. You could go inside it if you want, there are guided tours. Then you could keep going, complete the circle at the Torc Waterfall. The water is loud and misty, you might think about how water like that never looks identical to itself, it always looks different, every time it falls. And it also always looks the same.
If you don�t go to Killarney, you could go someplace else. But wheresoever you go, you really ought to go.
leesah-likes at 5:51 p.m.