I am headed to Ireland and will be arriving in Cork for 2 nights. I have time for 3 nights on the west side and was thinking of Galway. Then I would go to Dublin for 3 nights before leaving for Scotland. Does any one have any recommendations as far as specific B&B's to stay in? I'm also not sure whether to rent a car or take the trains. I have a railpass that works for me there but my travel partner does not. This is a very last minute trip so any advice/suggestions are welcome.
Posted by
wichita, kansas
484 posts
Justin, Why not just stay in the Counties Cork and Kerry area. You have Kinsale,,Killarney,Beara Peninsula, Ring of Kerry(Iveragh Peninsula)Mizen Head etc. There is certainly enough to keep you entertained without using up a lot of time traveling.
To get to Galway from Cork by rail will require going back to Dublin and consume about six hours.
Posted by
New York, NY
319 posts
I would second this advice. I just got back from two weeks in Ireland, and spent time in Cork, Kerry, and Galway. Galway is nice but Cork and Kerry are much nicer in my opinion.
Driving is a hassle, but you miss a lot if you are reliant on public transportation since it is minimal out there. If you're up for it, driving the ring of kerry and dingle peninsula are musts. The itineraries in Rick's guidebook worked well for us, and made the drives very enjoyable. If you're interested, I'm looking to pass on my guidebook and a road atlas now that I'm finished with them.
Kinsale was a great place to stay to enjoy Co. Cork. It is considered the gourmet capital of Ireland, and we had a fantastic meal at Max's Wine Bar.
In Dublin, we stayed at Ophira in Dun Laoghaire. It's a short 15 minute train ride into Dublin, and a very nice area. Not too expensive either.
In Kinsale, we stayed at Harbout Hill Farm. It was a five minute drive from the heart of Kinsale.
Enjoy your trip!
Posted by
Boston, MA, United States
1806 posts
If you do decide on Galway (which is a fantastic and vibrant city - especially for nightlife and nearby sights like the Cliffs, Poulnabrone, Aran Islands), try the Four Seasons B&B on College Road.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1856 posts
We stayed at a place called Tahila Cove, just west of Kenmare in 2002. It was right on the water--had its own dock--and was very friendly. The location was convenient for both the Beara Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry. We liked Kenmare--it has plenty of shops but is much less touristy than Killarney. Try to get to Dingle and spend one night up there.