My husband and I and our 2 sons (in their 30's) are planning a trip to Ireland this August. My son wants to spend a day in Donegal bay surfing. We'd also like to see some of the west coast. We planned on flying in to Shannon and renting a car or would it be better to fly into Dublin? How long it would take to drive from Shannon to Donegal? Would it be possible to take a bus or train there instead of driving? We would probably stay in B & B's , do we need to make a reservation? Also I'd like to spend one night in a castle, any suggestions? Thanks for any and all suggestions!! Kate
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
If you are renting a car, flying into Shannon makes more sense than Dublin. If the west coast is your focus, there is no need to fly into Dublin. Shannon airport is small and out in the country, so you get a lot of practice driving on the other side of the road before you encounter any traffic, for one thing. Unless you have some particular reason to go all the way to Donegal for surfing, there are popular surf areas very near to Shannon airport. Lahinch has become quite the surf town, and it's probaby only an hour or so from the airport. Shannon to Donegal is more like five hours at best.
Posted by
OP
Damascus, Md., 20872
5 posts
Thanks so much for that info, really helpful. Maybe we'll check out the other area you suggested for surfing. Thanks for responding. Kate
Posted by
California
27 posts
If you are planning to be on the west coast - I would suggest staying at Markree Castle - it's actually a family-ran castle that has a lot of character. It was originally built in the 14th century. Great grounds for a walk, offers a restaurant and bar area. It's located in Collooney, near Sligo. Since it's basically a B&B - it's very reasonably priced. If you want a five-star castle (with a five-star price) - Ashford Castle is really nice in Cong. I've stayed there several times and it is a wonderful experience. A few restaurants, a pub, many places to walk, a quaint village within walking distance, and the castle itself is beautiful.
Posted by
OP
Damascus, Md., 20872
5 posts
Jody thank you so much for the suggestions. I will check them both out since I'm not familiar with either one and hopefully we'll be able to stay at one of them. Thanks so much for responding. Kate