We kicked off Day 3 with yet another morning of sleeping in. No alarms, no major plans, just slow packing and soft baby snores. Once the car was loaded, we detoured to Pig & Leaf, where Anna emerged with breakfast treasures: a curry chicken sammy, a pecan breakfast bar, a few coconut lime protein balls, and a cozy chai for the drive.

Breakfast picnic? Yes please. We unwrapped our treats at Minard Castle, a tucked-away coastal gem with castle ruins, sea views, and plenty of space to roam. Over the past few days, nearly everyone we met had commented on how unusually warm and sunny it’s been, so we took full advantage. Socks off, toes in the water, and cheeks to the sun. The perfect Irish beach moment, and we soaked it up.

Nap time hit, so we drove through green-blanketed countryside toward Adare Manor, which we received as a hot tip before we came to Ireland. The only way to roam the manor’s stunning property was to join them for a meal, so off to The Carriage House it was for lunch. We tag-teamed a delicious juicy burger, a classic club, and beet salad to fill our stomachs before exploring the grounds. Adare Manor was…dare I say, stunning. We strolled, we gawked, we briefly fantasized about coming back for a golf trip (right after we magically become good at it). Then came our favorite new tradition: an impromptu blanket hangout on the lawn, castle in view, with Liam holding court.

We piled back into the car for the final leg to Kilkea Castle, rolling in just in time for a late 8:30 dinner. Liam, naturally, rallied. He spent the meal charming every table, sending grins and giggles to new friends while we toasted another golden day.