Up popped a Mermaid!

Each of Ireland's islands has a unique character all of its own, but the island of Inishmaan is especially unique. We got the ferry across from Doolin this morning and pretty much walked around the entire island, taking minor roads, marked trails, but also, the best bit, finding our own way along the remote southern shoreline along a series of limestone rock shelves. There are not too many people here, but off the trail, we saw just a handful.

The baking heat lent a very relaxed air to the day. Once we found some tidal rock pools that were deep enough to swim in we stayed put for most of the afternoon, enjoying the freedom of having this magnificent coastline all to ourselves. Where most beaches will have been thronging with people fighting for a bit of space for their towel during this amazing heatwave, it was a special privilege to enjoy such extended peace and quiet, as if we were the only people in the world. I don't think I've relaxed so much in years. This woman is very good for me!