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Southeastern Ireland recommendations

Hi all. Planning our second trip to Ireland. A couple of years ago we went to Galway, Limmerick, Adare and loved exploring the west coast. I now have my sights set on south east. I’m very interested in Wexford, Waterford, Rosslare, Cork. I’m interested in hearing how the Waterford greenway is? We are going with three teens, we like to bike as a family, in a leisurely way, and the greenway looks nice. Any feedback? I saw one hotel on beach I’m interested in Kelly’s beach resort. I love sea glass and would like to hunt while in Ireland. Also interested in any specific hotels or restaurants or must sees in this entire area. Thanks so much

Posted by
140 posts

In general, we preferred the west of Ireland over the east. That said, we had some good times in and around Wexford.

We stayed at the Killiane Castle and Countryhouse. It's too far from anything to walk. It's pretty unique, though. I would recommend it. In Wexford, we enjoyed the Thomas More Tavern. Tintern Abbey was interesting. Kilmore Quay has a nice beach.

My ancestors are from Waterford, so we did some exploring there. Powerscourt also has some family history, so we stopped there. Wicklow mountains are picturesque.

The most enduring memory of the trip was driving. Of course the roads are narrow and the rock walls are high. To add to the fun we passed every form of farm equipment, every kind of traffic obstacle, a dozen different types of wildlife, sheep, a herd of cows, pedestrians in crosswalks with prams and finally a marching band. It was like playing a video game.

Posted by
2267 posts

I had a short couple of days in the southwest a few years ago. The Kilkenny and its castle are worth a stop, and I enjoyed an afternoon in Wexford. There's an important theater in Wexford—not architecturally, but artistically. Definitely see what's on the stage when you're around.

The absolute highlight of my trip there was my visit to the Hook Lighthouse!

Cork is a whole topic of its own, but one well-traveled and more easily researched. I'll just note a meal at the famous Ballymaloe cookery was an absolute treat. I wished I'd booked a night there, so I could retire from the dining room to the read in front of the living room's fire with a whisky. But instead, I took a short drive to the Ballycotton Cliffs for the most invigorating, windswept walk.