Hey there! I am planning a trip for April vacation for my husband and I and our two littles, ages 5 and 1. We visited the Dublin and Glendalough area five years ago (loved hiking in Glendalough, but couldn't wait to get out of the city) and two years ago we visited Connemara and Galway. I was thinking this time we would base ourselves in County Clare. Because of the children, I don't like to drive long distances and I want to base us in an area that we can do a lot in. I was thinking of staying at the Doolin Inn in Doolin for 2-3 days and I wondered, other than the Cliffs of Moher, what you might recommend we do in that area. I was also looking at the Bay View Hotel in Kilkee, but I am not sure about the town and about exploring that part of the region. I was looking at the Adare Castle but that is so crazy expensive even for a night that I doubt we could afford it. Two years ago we stayed at the Park House Hotel in Galway for three nights and then the Glenlo Abby for two nights, and loved both hotels and locations. I was hoping to find hotels with that sort of feel in the County Clare area, and to stay in two different locations that would give us different perspectives or experiences on the region. We like to explore historic sites (we loved walking Kylemore's gardens last time), hiking, strolls, and taking in the atmosphere. We like going to local restaurants, shops, and pubs, and staying put in a place long enough to feel like we get to know it a bit. We like views! We like nice, well-appointed hotels. Any advice would be MUCH appreciated. I feel like I am getting stymied in my research.
Posted by
New York
521 posts
I’m not sure how close it is to the area you’re looking at, but your children might really enjoy Bunratty Folk Park.
Posted by
TN, USA
2158 posts
Since you have already been to the Connemara region, it would be a repeat (of the area to go to Ashford Castle), but you might consider smaller Dromoland Castle in the general area you are considering. It is lovely, but not as grand as Ashford Castle.
I also second the above poster's recommendation for the Bunratty Folk Park....perfect for young ones. Dromoland has a lovely walled garden and pretty grounds. The Hawk Walk is also available there. Your children are too young (especially the one year old), but they might enjoy watching you or hubby land/launch a hawk (make reservations in advance for that experience).
Adare Manor is lovely, but yes expensive. But, the village of Adare (with little thatched-roof shops) is cute, but Bunratty is much more kid friendly overall....no cars to worry about once in the gates. As my Irish cousin explained to me at the time, "Bunratty Folk Park is like what it was for your grandmother growing up." Cute farm animals, thatched-roof cute shops, a small church, crafts, etc. We even met a lovely, gentle Irish Wolfhound when we were there. Absolutely the perfect place for kiddos (and adults). Budget about a half day there, and then you will find two casual restaurants outside the gates along with a sweater/woolen shop (Blarney Woolen Mills store, I think I recall correctly).
If you head south, Connor's Pass is lovely (for a drive) and we also liked Kinsale (Old Presbytery Inn). The Muckross House (I would have to Google to remember where it is....I think sort of near Kenmare...it's all a memory blur now...is lovely and has a farm setting (but we only quickly toured the gardens there due to time constraints....but you can look on-line at what is available there. Rock of Cashel, a bit to the east could be a nice detour on the way to Kinsale, but may not interest the kids much.
Posted by
OP
19 posts
Thank you! Rick Steves’ book was so negative about Bunratty that I had I totally discounted it!