Noel sets off south cycling to the coast with mates on the Saturday morning as we set off north, under a cloudless blue sky.
We only have a short distance on a busy road after leaving the town, but manage to gain a crawling convoy of 4 lorries behind us! It is a relief (for them and us!) that we turn off onto farm lanes again, following a route Mike Murphy has provided for us. A climb through cattle farms to Cromwell Road, and then an exhilarating whizz down the other side on a rough track with grass down the middle.
Two small towns we pass through are holding cattle markets, the yards full of animal trailers, loud mooing coming from enormous metal sheds and the auctioneers calling out the frantic bidding over the tannoy.
After about 30 miles we turn off to ascend the forested Slieve Bloom Mountains. One of the best cycling routes we have ever followed. Good surfaces, gorgeous views and no cars. Twice, deer shy away from us at the edge of woodland. Blueberry bushes line the road side brooks. At the highest coll we reach 1500 ft, and then it is a freewheel almost 5 miles down to Kinnitty. We were due to stay here but it is only 3 o'clock, so we carry on to the historic market town of Birr. We are practically pulled in off the town square into the "Emmet" Guest House by the enthusiastic lady owner (Maureen) and her loquacious mother. They house our bikes in the utility room, then show us around. It is a beautiful Georgian town house that they have just finished restoring, including ornate plaster ceilings and marble fireplaces.
We explore the town making the most of warm evening sunshine, and come across a substantial castle, ruined 6th(!) century church and (as we are getting used to) more traditional pubs than seems possible. As recommended by Maureen we eat in the bar of the Doolys Hotel, also on the square, and are entertained by an incomprehensible wedding party- some of the blokes wearing flat caps, and the bride a very well upholstered young lady.
Tour miles to date: 345
Location:Kilkenny to Birr
