We have 8 days to get a taste of Ireland at end of August; flying into Shannon, renting a car. We want to be reasonable about time and not spend it all in the car or be too rushed. One of the must-sees are Aran Islands, so looking at mostly County Clare, Is it reasonable to include Aran Islands and Dingle in same trip? Just not sure about time and distance. Considering Galway area and not Dingle, but wonder about including Dingle and not Galway. Thoughts?
Posted by
1172 posts
Are you also flying out of Shannon and looking to spend all 8 days on the west coast?
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Yes, exactly
Posted by
1172 posts
When I was planning our trip last summer I read that it was easier to get to the Aran Islands from Galway than from Doolin as Doolin's ferries can be impacted by the tides.
Based on this, I would say that Galway should be on our itinerary. With 8 days I would say that you have enough time to also do Dingle. We really enjoyed Dingle. Unfortunately, due to bad weather we had to skip our planned Aran Islands stop
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2842 posts
It's only about 3.5 hours driving from Galway to Dingle, with good quality roads in between. Shouldn't be much of an issue including both in your proposed itinerary.
If the weather cooperates you could drive the coastal route via Lahinch, Kilkee and Kilrush to connect with the Tarbert Ferry. Would add a couple of hours to the trip but it really is a spectacular drive. Then, for an added thrill, drive into Dingle via the Conor Pass.