I am building a trip using Rick Steves itinerary. He has 2 nights in Waterford coming from 1 night in Kilkenny and driving on for two nights in Kinsale. Not many people talk about Waterford and Wexford. Should I be going there? Also he has only one night in Kenmare before moving to Dingle. I want to hike in Killarney Park and do a bunch of attractions there. Won’t I need two nights? Should one be in Killarney? Won’t I waste time driving back to Kenmare. I read that it’s about 45 minutes. I don’t mind moving a lot. I never unpack a suitcase. I appreciate your thoughts.
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
2280 posts
I have to admit I don't know which RS itinerary you are referring too... Don't feel you have to stick rigidly to it - use it as guidance and follow your own instincts about places to stay and time in each. You have already identified an issue over 1 night in Kenmare and I agree with you on this one. You need to build in a minimum of two nights, especially if you are wanting to hike.
I like Kenmare and find it less touristy than Killarney, however from what you are saying, it would make more sense to stop in Killarney for two nights. Kenmare is good if you want to do Ring of Beara (well worth while) .
Waterford and Wexford? I've not been to either so can't give a reasoned answer to this one apart from saying there may well be other nicer places to visit. I'd also query just 1 night in Kilkenny. There's a lot to do there and it almost deserves two nights.
Posted by
Freedonia
16273 posts
You do realize the itinerary is just a suggestion. You can modify it anyway you want. They'll still let you into the country if you deviate from it. It's just his opinion. It's not the Gospel According to Rick.
If you want to do things in Killarney Park then stay two nights. Stay three. It's your trip. Go through his guidebook, and others as well, and see if you really want to go to Waterford or Wexford.
You have to decide what is important to you.
Posted by
168 posts
We traveled through both Waterford and Wexford during our last trip. While we prefer the west of Ireland, both places were worth the visit. In Wexford we stayed at the somewhat unique Killiane Castle Farm. Also in Wexford, we enjoyed the Thomas More Tavern for more than one meal. Waterford is famous for the Waterford Crystal factory. Really enjoyed the tour and the gift shop, but I think the company is actually owned by the orange-handled scissors company now.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
If you're at all pinched for time then I'd agree with wasleys that a stopover in Waterford and Wexford can easily be sacrificed for the extra time in Kerry. Though most here consider Killarney to be a congested tourist trap, in your particular case I'd agree that it might be your best bet if your primary interest is the NP.
Posted by
124 posts
I think the length of your trip and time of year makes a huge difference. Killarney gets a bad rap for being so touristy, but we were there in May and it was delightful! Maybe we saw one bus and at every location we went to there were no lines. It is the best location for so many fantastic experiences. Although, I can see that the peak summer months could be a disaster there.