25th - 29th August. Lough Key and Boyle.

After a slight detour up two locks on the Shannon Erne Waterway, we sailed on to Lough Key. Castle Island looks as impressive as ever.

We did the Lough Key experience, which firstly takes us through tunnels to the basement level of Rockingham House. This house was built by the famous architect, John Nash, in 1809/10. Here the cook tells us, via our handsets, what it used to be like in this great house, before it burned to the ground in 1957.

Next our tour takes us to the top of the Moylurg Tower, which gives a splendid view of Lough Key. Fortunately there is a lift to the top, as Brigitte damaged her ankle whilst at Carrick.

It is interesting to see Castle Island from above. It is further from land than it looks to be from the jetty.

This aerial walkway is Ireland's only tree canopy walk.

In the park this is the largest Yew Tree and creates a cave under the spreading branches.

On Tuesday evening the sky had a strange front across it, lying above Drumman's Island.

Shannon had great fun, playing with Oscar, when Martin and Marion, from cruiser Dicey, came to visit. Sorry about your heads, lads!

This is a rare sight. A sign post in the middle of Lough Key, which directs us to Boyle.

As we approach Boyle, the light is just right for reflections.

Boyle is a pleasant harbour, though the moorings are tricky for us. We have to use the centre doors for access.

Sunset at Boyle Harbour.John and Brigitte left us on Thursday. We have had a good week, with lots of games of manille every evening.