We have the fantastic opportunity to be in Ireland at the end of this month. Flights are set in and out of Dublin already; no flexibility there. We normally have an idea of what we want to accomplish when we travel; not thinking about Ireland previously that is not the case this time. So - any advice is much appreciated. Other than having flights set (land 5/25 at 10:45 am; depart 5/30 at 7 pm), the only other thing we know is we want to get a car and drive outside of the major cities and experience countryside and villages. We get more enjoyment from casual wandering than museums, galleries, etc. I have read through many posts today, and I understand the challenges with driving. I also appreciate there are many opinions on best sites/towns/places to visit. So we will have to read your suggestions with much interest! We are thinking on focusing on the southern portion of the country this time around. Really just want to experience the beauty of the people, villages and countryside of this country and take tons of pictures! Other than Day 1, which will be landing in Dublin mid-morning and spending a casual day (walking tour (recommendations appreciated); visit a pub, etc.) we are a blank canvas. Some friends have recommend Dingle and the west coast, but it seems like we really can't go wrong unless we cram too much into the time we have. We really look forward to your thoughts. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
bedford, indiana
459 posts
For what you shared as your interests (mine as well) I don't think you can go wrong with south west Ireland. Dingle, the Dingle Peninsula, Kenmare, the Ring of Kerry, and any of the towns out west on the RofK. While touring down that way we also really enjoyed the Beara Peninsula and the villages as we drove out tht way. The crowds were smaller, traffic lighter, and the towns offered exactly what you state you want in a trip. You might give the Beara Penins. web site a look and see what you think!
http://www.bearatourism.com/bearaway.html You might check around out there in the Kerry area and see what B&B/hotels/cottages are available on short notice and then construct your travels based on finding a spot to stay! A couple days near Waterville/Port Magee, a couple of days in Dingle, and a couple near Kenmare or Castletown.Bearhaven and you will have your west coast countryside villages well covered. We loved the area. Day trips around this area from any central location are very plentiful...its a beautiful spot to visit. Don't sell Beara short!
Posted by
OP
23 posts
Thanks so much! We are looking forward to the trip!
Posted by
OP
23 posts
Ok - the latest is that our son is joining us on the trip. His first time in Europe so will be fun. Now my wife and I need to pick him up in Shannon on 5/26 late morning. That may cause us to alter our thinking a bit about what to do/see in Dublin on Day 1. Do we not stay in Dublin that day at all and immediately head out because we could end with a day in Dublin instead on the back end of the trip? Or do we stick with our original Day 1 plan in Dublin and just get up the next morning and head to Shannon for our son. Is there an advantage to spending Day 1 driving and seeing sights/countryside between Dublin and Shannon. Just curious if anyone has ideas on how to work this into the 6 day/5 night plan. I know it's not well-defined; any thoughts advice favorite spots are appreciated!
Posted by
1585 posts
And I thought I had tricky family logistics! If you sleep well on the plane and are comfortable driving on the left in a foreign country then go ahead and rent a car in Dublin and head west. I am not being sarcastic when I say that. I really mean if you are comfortable with all that then go for it. But if not, how about this. Parents take the bus to Cork from Dublin Airport upon arrival. Then you can do things there on the 25th and meet son the next day either in Cork (he also takes bus) or at Shannon which you reach by bus and then rent a car for the remainder of your trip.