Instead of taking the usual N7 to Cork from Dublin, I decided to turn off to follow the alternative route. This is the old road. I found myself in the middle of a Festival in the picturesque town of Durrow Co Limerick.

Scarecrows lined the roads into the town and stood or leaned or hung on outside all the shops, public buildings and village green. A wonderful market set up on the green with the best of food, gifts and banter.

Hang in there

Don’t pull too hard!

Let Down your Golden Hair!

another night on the tiles

Driving to Cork from Dublin can be fun. Just don’t take the Motorway the whole way.

The brown alternative route opens up the heart of Ireland with its imagination, sense of community and sheer fun. With tolls savings amounting to nearly €5 you can afford to stop for a coffee anywhere along the road. It may be slightly longer but the experience is superior – less cars, more scenery, more “facilities”, if you feel the need.

What a wonderful achievement by the people of Durrow!