Trying to decide if it is worth it to stay at Dromoland Casstle. They have a special now for 3 nights that is reasonably priced. We will only be in SW Ireland for 8 nights, though, and wondering if it is a good place to base for day trips to Dingle, Aran Islands, etc. I wouldn't want to miss the bed and breakfast experience and would like to do that, too, for 3 or 4 days. Just don't want to be having to go too far to do things from the castle. Other option is to spend one night at Waterford Castle. Help anyone???
Posted by
Ridgewood, NJ, United States
36 posts
I've stayed at Dromoland and while it's wonderful, it's about a 3 hour drive to Dingle. I'm assuming you are flying out of Shannon? You might want to consider staying at Dromoland on the first or last night of your trip. Ireland isn't the easiest country to do day trips. You are better off staying at B&B's as you move through the country. Although places might not seem so far apart mile wise, picture yourself going 10mph on a one lane road stuck behind a slow tractor. I can almost guarantee this will happen!
Posted by
OP
Castle Rock, CO, USA
16 posts
Thank you so much for the advice. We are actually flying in and out of Dublin. We really want to do the castle experience once but will avoid 3 days. Thank you!
Posted by
New Hampshire
182 posts
Hi Kathy
We stayed at Dromoland a few years ago to experience the "castle" experience. My feeling is that unless they're offering a really good deal, it wasn't worth it. While a nice place, it was very pricey, and we didn't find it that amazing.
While Dromoland is a better location to base from for Dingle, we've heard that Ashford Castle was a better "castle" to experience.
By the way, we found the Aran Islands a wonderful experience.
gary
Posted by
OP
Castle Rock, CO, USA
16 posts
Thanks for the advice. We'll check out Ashford Castle, too. Dromoland is offering 2 nights, one free for 195 per person - so around 400 euros for 3 nights. It seems a good deal but not sure it is a good location to spend 3 of our nights in Ireland. I appreciate your reply!
Kathy
Posted by
Ridgewood, NJ, United States
36 posts
I've stayed at Ashford as well and while it's beautiful it's a long drive. AA Ireland has a free website that can help you determine how long a journey will take. The rate at Dromoland is good and as a home base it would allow you to day trip visit quaint Adare village its with thatched roof restaurants, & spectacular Adare Manor. The Cliffs of Moher are also close enough to visit for the day as well as Doolin. The city of Limerick with St. John's Castle is very close. There might even be a sporting event worth seeing in the city. If you want a night out without driving you could taxi to Bunratty. See the castle & village then have dinner and drinks at Durty Nellies. The pub usually has live music. Just don't sign up for the medieval banquet at Bunratty. Too touristy. The coastlines of Cork & Kerry are really beautiful but I know from experience the drive to Dingle isn't easy and the roads will be slow going.