Built by Dermot McCarthy in 1446, little is left of Blarney Castle today but the tremendous stone walls, two spiral stairwells and the dungeons, yet hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of visitors from all over the world flock to it to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone each year.

Kissing the Stone, situated on the inside of the highest parapet, is said to give those that kiss it the gift of the gab.

To reach the Stone means climbing several stories of narrow circular stairway to the ramparts, then walking along the weather smoothed parapet to where the Stone is set in one of the parapet walls.

One of the castle assistants will assist you in laying down on the walk, then to bend over backwards into the parapet opening, then to kiss the Stone while balancing yourself upside down! The photo (left) shows the position.

If it doesn't seem that high to you from up there, take a look at this photo (right). The Stone is located just to the left of the corner where the parapet walls meet....ie: about 6 floors up! Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's tallest tower keeps.

There are several rooms to explore inside the castle though the main portion of this roofless castle is open to the elements.

Take note:

1) The trek to the top of the castle is not for the weak of heart. You will climb about 6 levels to the top of the castle to reach the Stone.

2) The walk around the parapet is very smooth from centuries of weathering and tourist traffic who visit the castle every year. This also includes the stone stairways inside the castle. Be especially careful in damp weather!

3) Some stairways are extremely small and some passages may only be large enough for children to pass through.

4) The castle dungeons are open but it is not recommended to venture into them unescorted as they are not lighted. Take flashlights with you and spare batteries.

Blarney Castle Gardens [TOP]

The Gardens at Blarney are extensive and beautiful when in full bloom. Spring and Summer are the best times to see the blooms but the fall is lovely too with Autumn foliage.

Visit:

• The Witch's Kitchen,
• Fairy Glen,
• The Wishing Steps,
• The Sacrificial Altar, and many more lovely spots.

The Gardens are perfect for picnics and for exploring.

Blarney House [TOP]

Blarney House was built in the 18th century and is a perfect example of a Scottish baronial mansion. The hose has been the home of the Colhurst family since it's construction. The turreted facade accents its period interior which features a grand stairwell, family portraits and Victorian decor. The grounds of the house include an arboretum and landscaped gardens separate from the castle Gardens.

Blarney Woollen Mills [TOP]

The Blarney Woollen Mills is Irelands most famous weaver. Its name is often linked with Irish standards such as Waterford Crystal and Belleek China. Cork has a long-standing history of merchantiles that date back to the Viking era, and Blarney Woollen Mills was the last of the great weavers.

Often times while you're visiting the Mills you will be able to see one the of staff operating one of the original shuttle looms upstairs beside the Aran Sweater section of the floor. Here, you can also hear the weaving machines that still run daily up on the top floor of the building. These looms produce the famous Tricot tweed that you can find in the men's department on the ground floor.

As well, you will find a number of industries displayed inside these brick walls including those of Belleek China and Waterford Crystal, Stephen Pearse Pottery and many of the other crafters that have made a name for themselves in Ireland. You will find many great deals here. And you can ship your purchases home to save on paying tax and shipping duty.