Hello! We are traveling this October to Ireland, flying through Dublin. I don't know Ireland well, so I am looking for advice. We are hoping to find one really cool place and park ourselves there (maybe going on short day jaunts from there with our toddler). As a couple we stayed in Dublin a few years ago so there isn't much there we would want to re-explore. We got to hike in Glendalough that trip and fell in love with the countryside so we are excited to return for a longer trip (five days), this time as a family. Our favorite place in Italy is this tiny little town that has great hikes and restaurants and a community feel. I am looking for a similar environment in Ireland. I am hoping for our trip to be relaxing and beautiful and filled with countryside. I also want to be immersed in Irish culture so I love the idea of being able to go to pubs and hear music, maybe go horseback riding, etc. if there was ONE place you would go to experience Ireland (and would match the criteria above) where would it be?
Posted by
1172 posts
I would have to say Dingle.
Fits the beautiful scenery, great music, pubs etc.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1862 posts
You might like Kenmare. The location is good for daytrips in a variety of directions. There are lots of restaurants and pubs to choose from. Another benefit is that many of the pubs offer an early (around 7:00) in addition to a later time for music - that might be a nice plus if you are traveling with a little one.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
Two great suggestions so far. Would only add Galway as another option. It's central to explorations of Connemara (our favorite place in Ireland), with day trips out to the Aran Islands, the National Park, Kylemore Abbey, Cong, Clifden, etc. There are a number of very nice self-catering places in the area that would make for a cost-effective base for a family. We've found that being able to cook and eat in is a significant cost savings versus having to dine out all the time.
Can train there from Dublin in 3 hours, collect a car and be on your way.