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Coastal Ireland vacation

Posted by on

I'm in the beginning stages of planning my first vaca to Ireland (I'm half Irish). I would like recommendations for coastal Ireland. I am a 50-ish female and will be travelling alone and will not be renting a car. I like to hang out with locals and would like input of which airport to fly into and transport options from the airport to the coast. I'll be flying out of DC.
Although I am in my 50's, I look and act a lot younger. I am also newly single.

I prefer the road less traveled and advice on getting private tours from the locals.

Thanks much,
Donita

Posted by
16895 posts

Even though you want the road less traveled, I'd still start with Rick's Ireland guidebook to give you your bearings. It summarizes bus connections along the coast between the towns covered, as well as recommended local guides, etc. See also https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/ireland/itinerary. For actual bus schedules, see www.buseireann.ie or the related site www.transportforireland.ie.

If you're not interested in Dublin, then you'd probably fly into Shannon. Are you also thinking of including Northern Ireland? How long do you expect to travel? I recommend giving the trip as much time as you can.

Posted by
3123 posts

Another question is, which coastal area(s) do you want to visit? Ireland has almost 2,000 miles of coastline, so it will help if you narrow it down a bit. Both major airports (Dublin and Shannon) are very near their respective coasts; ditto for Belfast. Are you most interested in sandy beaches, or awe-inspiring cliffs, tidal contrasts, fishing villages...?

Posted by
4 posts

I always use Rick's guide books - I've had the pleasure of meeting him!

I'm right at my initial stages, but I am a water baby. My trip length will be about 7-10 days. I am interested in both Cork and Galway. As much as I can see without renting a car or doing a bus tour.

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