Derrynane

'Here a man can think, reflect and gain perspective'.

'Governments, large institutions and the church tend to be convenient confusing bureacratic vehicles wherein individual greed may flourish'.

"Watch my eyes yourself now." 

So I did and I observed a gorgeous wink as this smartly dressed and attractive middle aged lady said;

"Well of course you'll be knowing now I can only give you the official line saying no camping."  She continued after she had seen I understood the sub text. "Now be sure to visit the house tomorrow. We'll be there to welcome you and we'll recognize you now to be sure."

She and her younger and equally beguiling colleague completed the locking up of Daniel O'Connell's house and went on their way. A short walk around the tropical feeling and looking gardens soon brought me back to Sadie neatly positioned as is her want in front of the 'No Camping' sign in the car park of Derrynane house. The car park was deserted but it felt more comfortable to stay the night now I had the 'un-official' permission of the two ladies who managed the house. I have found during my travels that out of season most officialdom take a pragmatic view, if treated respectfully, of these 'no overnight camping' notices.

Derrynane certainly is a beautiful spot. Mild too with lush vegetation, beaches and a wee harbour to die for. All is snuggled neatly below high peaks and overlooking the Kenmare estuary and Atlantic ocean. I did visit the house and now am far better informed as to Daniel O'Connel and his key role in the creation of Ireland as we know it today. I feel the sad part of the story is how his eventual falling from favour was partly due to his lifelong conviction to, and use of, non violent means to further his causes. His exposure to the ravages of the French Revolution resolved in him this flame of non violence, but as I trod his footsteps around Derrynane I could not help but agree as to how the very beauty and peace of this place must have played an equal and continually sustaining part in his life.

Awoke this morning to a mist-ical sunrise from my lucky find of a wild camping spot right on the Kenmare estuary at Kenmare quay. The mist is just lifting from the mountains across the estuary on the Beara peninsular. Down the estuary slowly creeping over the glass smooth estuary is the Catamaran I watched last night as he changed sails at his mooring just off the quay. I wonder where he is headed? Maybe he is slowly heading south too.