We're traveling to Ireland in August and spending the first 3 days in Westport. Instead of driving there from Dublin the same day we land, I wanted to stay somewhere in between to relax and rest. I was reading that either Kilkenny or Athlone would be a good midway point. Any recommendations on either, or even better suggestions and ideas are welcome.
Posted by
Mountains of S. Oregon
868 posts
Athlone would be much more direct. We like Athlone, especially Sean's Pub. Definitely don't drive to Westport after landing. Even Athlone is a bit dicey.
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
2540 posts
Kilkenny is definitely the long way round.... My personal choice would also be Athlone. That is also near the early Christian site of Clomacnoise with its ruined churches, round towers and carved crosses.
Posted by
OP
USA--Oregon
2 posts
Any thoughts on Mullingar? Is it roughly the same size as Athlone? It appears to be on the highway to Westport but closer to Dublin.