I just came across mention of something called the Celtic Plantarum, but I can't find much on it. Evidently it's a botanical gardens in Tipperary, near Cashel, with modern reproductions of ogham stones, dolmens, etc... sounds neat! Has anyone been there? I'd love to hear more -- or find a map so I can see where exactly it is!
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It is in Dundrum about eight miles from Cashel. I haven't been yet as I have been too busy looking at B&Bs, guesthouses and hotels. Also last time the weather was dreadful when I was there so not conducive to outdoor pursuits. However, Corey (yesiree) has been there. Hopefully he will check in and let you know the details.
Yep, I've been to the Plantarum. In fact it's one of the "finds" mentioned in Episode #1 of our Irish Fireside podcast http://www.irishfireside.com.
The nursery in Dundrum has set up a very nice garden with just about every plant that grows in Ireland. It has two miles of paths, but it's not unmanageably huge. They've also added some reproductions of a cranog, ogham stone (which we pronounced slightly wrong in our podcast), dolmen, etc. The reproductions are pretty good (no plywood cutouts or spray painted paper mache here).
There's no charge. However, you can leave a some coins in the donation bucket on the gate.
It's not on the tourist trail, so you won't find a giftshop or costumed guides. In fact, there have been times when I've whole place to myself. Even on a drizzly day, it's still a nice site to visit, but in the winter it can get a little boggy.
It's on the main road, so it's easy to find...and anyone in the area can point you in the right direction (we've got a map on our Cashel Episode Guide). The restaurant just down the road has good meals; I think it's called the Rectory.
Hehehe... what comes around goes around. The first mention of it I saw was when I clicked on your podcast information (just reading the outline, as it was at work) from when you posted it on fodors :P
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May the light be your guide and the darkness be your comfort!
It's such a small world. I think the Plantarum is worth the stop for anyone who loves plants and gardens. Plus, it's a nice break from places with queues and folks elbowing their way to capture that perfect photo.
Thanks for investigating the site. Your feedback is always appreciated.
Since I am trying to make a good profit on my photos, I was thinking it would be a great place for photo ops with the stones and flowers and such. My goal is to make the photo sales from each trip pay for the next trip :)
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May the light be your guide and the darkness be your comfort!