We plan to visit Ireland for the first time the middle of September for nine days. We welcome suggestions concerning our plan as it stands so far. We fly to Shannon from London September 8 in the am. With great fear we will rent a car for our trip.
Day 1 - Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher - Where to stay for the night before our next day drive to Dingle?
Day 2-4 - Dingle for three nights - Slea Head Drive, Pubs and Music, Possible Blasket Island adventure.
Day 5 - Begin our journey to Dublin. Stop at Cashel and maybe stay there or go on and stay in Kilkenny. Would like to have time to visit Kilkenny Castle either in the late afternoon or next morning.
Day 6 - Visit Gardens of Powerscourt, Glendalough and spend the night in this area. Any suggestions of where to stay?
Day 7-9 - Complete short trip to Dublin to drop off car and begin exploring the city. Our priorities seem to be a Walking Tour, Temple Street, Trinity College, Kilmainham Gaol, and a day trip to the Boyne Valley.
Day 10 - Fly home to Spokane Wa.
I fully realize we are only covering a very small portion of wonderful Ireland, but of course hope to come back. Your feedback would be very much appreciated.
Posted by
Fairfax, Virginia
348 posts
Staying in Limerick or Ennis would work for the first night. Powerscourt is less than an hotur from Dublin. I'd suggest staying in Dublin that night.
Posted by
Land of La
9219 posts
I suspect depending on arrival time at Shannon and how long it takes to get your luggage and car rental might dictate your travel time and overnight. Personally I'd drive to the farthest point, that being Doolin, check into a BnB, then visit the Cliffs of Moher. That evening have a pint and some food at McGann's pub (it's also a Bnb but can get noisy) and be ready for an early start the next day. From there drive back Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Spend a couple of hours then hit the road again and head towards Dingle. Enjoy the picturesque ride. I love John and Angela's Bnb http://www.cillbhreachouse.com. MUST enjoy a pint at Foxy John's. While visiting Dingle and nearby environs consider the Gap of Dunloe (take a trap, drive it, hike it) as well as driving over toward Killarney to enjoy the Muckross House and then the beauty of the Killarney National Park. A perfect way to spend one of your days on the West Coast. From the West Coast head back to Dublin visiting the Rock of Cashel, staying the night in Kilkenny and then driving from there to Glendalough the next day. Absolutely one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. Don't rush. Embrace a slower pace. Smile.