My husband and I are visiting Ireland this December and had already booked 7 nights in Dublin. But, we’ve realized traveling to other areas of Ireland from Dublin each day would be quite time consuming. So, we are now looking at staying in Dublin only 3 of the nights, and doing 2 in another area, and the last 2 near Shannon to fly home from there.
Our previous trip, in 2012, we only stayed in one hotel in Dublin. We did have side trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Roscrea, Howth, and Wicklow. As much as we loved all those day trips, we want to do new things this time. So, we’re not sure where else to stay as a home base and would love suggestions for those other nights.
Thinking of visiting north too! Open to those suggestions as well.
I know in episodes, Rick has mentioned Dingle. What about Galway, Limerick, or Cork?
Side note: we do require a hotel or B&B that offers rooms with private bathrooms because of health issues. So, shared bathroom accommodations are out.
Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Chicago
643 posts
I might suggest Kenmare, which is a charming town with some nice hotels (Park, Brook Lane,
amongst others). Gives you access to Ring of Kerry, etc.
Kinsale is another nice smaller town option. It's a dining destination and has many nice hotels.
Gives you access to the southern coast. Have a pint at the Pink Elephant Pub.
Cork is fine, but in my opinion it's a larger city with not quite as much to offer.
Posted by
11 posts
I loved Galway - lots to do there, music to listen to, and you can get a boat or plane to the Aran Islands from there too (tho December Might not be the best time of year for that). Doolin is a great place for music and sea views, and you can get transport to Aran Islands from there too. And as for a hotel I would highly recommend staying in a B&B instead. There are many with private bathrooms, and the personal contact is priceless.
Posted by
1583 posts
We really liked the Parknasilla Resort in Sneem on the Ring of Kerry. Yes, it is a resort with all the resort like trappings of a full restaurant, spa, pool, kayak rentals, private hiking trails..... You get the idea. But in the off-season they have great rates, they are on the Ring with easy access to Kenmare, Killarney NP and the Beara Peninsula. They also have self-catering apartments. The town of Sneem also has a couple of B&Bs and at least one other hotel.