Driving on the opposite aspect of the highway on slim, windy streets with three foot excessive stone fences on one aspect and sheer cliffs on the opposite, will make you depend your blessings and likewise blurt out truths in a panic. However in truth it is the very best approach to see Eire. We landed in Dublin, Eire with the thought of staying close to the massive metropolis and taking day journeys by bus. However once we met up with buddies they usually advised us of epic adventures driving across the countryside and attending to tour cities not on the principle drag and pet child sheep alongside the way in which, I knew we would have liked to take the leap and hire a automotive. I will break down our one week Eire itinerary and hope this may assist you plan your journey.
After a couple of days in pretty Dublin we hit the highway to discover Eire’s castles, countryside, and see a number of the greenest surroundings I’ve ever seen. A highway journey is one of the simplest ways to expertise the rolling inexperienced hills of Eire!
Full Dublin Information right here!
Now, I do know you is likely to be pondering that you just’re terrified to drive on the improper, err, left aspect of the highway. And consider me it IS scary. However when you notice that it is similar to you usually would drive, simply switched, you may get the grasp of it fairly rapidly. I might extremely advocate having: 1. a copilot to be careful for passing cattle, vehicles, and when it’s worthwhile to make a flip, and a pair of. a navigation system. We used our telephones and I navigated whereas my husband, Michael drove. I reminded him about each 5 minutes to remain on the left and the way turning left means staying on the left whereas turning proper means it’s worthwhile to swing broad. Oh and three. snacks. You want snacks in fact. We lived on lunches within the automotive of Irish soda bread (a hearty cake like bread) with cheese, sandwich meat, and loads of nuts and chips. Or because the Irish would say, “crisps.” Since chips are fries.
Okay, sufficient about driving, let’s get into per week lengthy journey information in Eire. I feel that is the right size of time to actually get to see most of southern Eire. We concentrated our efforts within the south and did not spend an excessive amount of time within the center. Should you do have additional time I like to recommend heading to Northern Eire, significantly Big’s Causeway and Belfast. However since we had one week, here is what we did:
Every week is a extremely great period of time to see Eire. Although it is a small nation, there’s actually a lot to see and do. Most guests spend a couple of days in Dublin after which give attention to simply the north or south of Eire. The south is the most well-liked with spots just like the Ring of Kerry, the famed Blarney Stone, and Cork. However there’s tons that you just’d miss in the event you simply noticed the most well-liked spots!
So let’s get into it, the right week in Eire.
Day 1: Land in Dublin
We landed late in Dublin and stayed in a stunning AirBnb. Shockingly, lodges and AirBnbs have been dearer right here than I used to be anticipating (we could not discover a place for lower than $120 an evening.) This was the selection for stays all through the journey. Oh, and if you have not but, here is my code for $35 off your subsequent keep!
Day 2: Dublin
We began the day without work proper by exploring round Dublin: walked St. Stephen’s Inexperienced, took the Trinity Faculty Tour, and did the Guinness brewery tour. To see my full submit on Dublin take a look at 10 Issues You Should Do in Dublin.
Day 3: Dublin
We hiked to a close-by city, frolicked within the pubs, and even noticed some Celtic music and dancing. We additionally argued over how you can pronounce Celtic. Is it “kel-tic” or “sell-tic”? Here is the factor, Boston celtics- proper (promote wins) however conventional Celtic dancing is Kel-tic. The jury remains to be out.
Do not forget to examine my full information to Dublin right here.
Day 4: Kilkenny, Rock of Cashel, Blarney, and Kinsale
We threw warning to the wind and determined to hire a automotive. Sure it was terrifying. Sure, I assumed for certain we would hit one thing. Sure, I assumed we would get run off the highway. However really, it is one of the simplest ways to see the countryside. Michael and I had plans of simply staying round Dublin, however after our buddies drove round we knew we needed to see what Eire had in retailer. It was a number of the prettiest countryside I’ve ever seen, with a lot to see and do. Michael and I actually packed it in as a result of we did not need to miss a factor. So know that this itinerary is jam packed.
Kilkenny Fort
Costume discovered right here.
We drove south and headed to Kilkenny, a small historic city well-known for its fortress and the “medieval mile”. This lengthy stretch of highway is filled with historical past together with historical church buildings, historic buildings, and naturally the beautiful fortress. Once I consider Irish castles, I consider the darkish, grey stone, sitting on lush greens. Kilkenny Fort embodies that. You possibly can take a tour of the fortress, then stroll to see the traditional buildings from the times of yore. I do not say days of yore in on a regular basis life but it surely felt Irish to me, so I went with it.
Make certain to take a look at St. Canice Cathedral– however you may have to enter by means of the aspect. The entrance is just for the three B’s: brides, bishops, and burials. You possibly can climb the 140 steps as much as get a superb view of Kilkenny.
Since we have been restricted on time, we made strikes and headed subsequent to Rock of Cashel. We did not have a lot time, so we parked and headed straight for the putting fortress.
Because the seat of many kings, this 12 century tower sits atop a limestone rock. You possibly can take a free tour as soon as inside and likewise see an ideal view of the countryside.
Subsequent, we hit the tiny, cobblestone highway and went to Blarney to see the fortress, kiss the stone and see the attractive gardens. We arrived an hour and 20 minutes earlier than closing and have been advised that, “you solely have time to run up and kiss the stone and are available down” however since there was NO LINE we have been capable of stroll across the gardens as nicely. (You would possibly like: Learn how to Keep away from strains and other people whereas touring)
That is the spot the place you may kiss the Blarney Stone.
Whereas the stone was cool and a should, the gardens round have been so spectacular. The luxurious ferns, brilliant pink flowers, caves, and grazing sheep made me really feel like I used to be within the film Fern Gully.
Costume // Rain Coat // Tights // Sneakers
It is arduous to stay to the plan while you’re driving and all the things seems to be so pretty. We stopped after a fast rain bathe to see a double rainbow stretching throughout the sky. This was considered one of my favourite features of the drive. We had the flexibility to only cease and discover.
Ballymackean, Co. Cork – Hidden Coastal Gem
After Blarney, we made a slight detour that ended up being one of many highlights of our journey. Ballymackean in County Cork is a lesser-known coastal space that gives breathtaking cliff views with out the crowds you may discover at extra well-known spots.
The winding coastal highway takes you thru rolling farmland earlier than all of a sudden opening as much as dramatic sea cliffs that rival the Cliffs of Moher in magnificence, if not in peak. Park on the small gravel lot close to the cliff edge (it is free, however please be respectful of native residents) and take the well-worn path alongside the cliff edge. The views of the crashing Atlantic waves under are completely spectacular, particularly at sundown when the water turns golden.
What makes Ballymackean particular is its pristine, secluded seashore that is accessible by way of a considerably steep however manageable path down the cliffside. The seashore is a mixture of easy stones and golden sand, with fascinating rock formations and tide swimming pools to discover. We spent a peaceable hour beachcombing and located some lovely shells and sea glass with out one other vacationer in sight.
Should you go to Ballymackean, do not miss the charming Diva Bakery within the close by village. This small, family-run institution gives a number of the greatest pastries we had in all of Eire. Their conventional Irish soda bread is phenomenal – crusty on the skin and completely moist inside – however the true star is their signature “Cliff Walker’s Delight,” a hearty scone filled with dried fruits and nuts, topped with native cream. The comfortable inside with its mismatched classic furnishings makes for an ideal relaxation cease, and the pleasant homeowners are glad to share native suggestions and tales. They’re solely open Wednesday by means of Sunday, 9am-4pm, so plan accordingly!
The very best half about including Ballymackean to your itinerary is that it is solely a 25-minute drive from Blarney, making it a simple addition to your day. Simply comply with indicators for Ballymackean Bay when you get to the coast. I would advocate allocating at the least 2-3 hours for this detour to totally admire the cliffs, seashore, and bakery.
For dinner, we ventured all the way down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had the most effective seafood dished in my life at a stunning place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!
We spent the evening simply outdoors of Killarney, so we might get up and discover.
For dinner, we ventured all the way down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had the most effective seafood dished in my life at a stunning place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!
We spent the evening simply outdoors of Killarney, so we might get up and discover.
Day 5: Killarney, Kissane Sheep Canine, Dingle, Tralee
I advised you: we pack it in. Now, you may unfold this out over a pair days or extra, however we have been restricted on time and actually need to see all of it. So, we did. We awoke brilliant and early and headed to the well-known Ross Fort in Killarney. This can be a tower home on the sting of the lake with horses and carts that may take you across the grounds. You possibly can even hop in a ship to see extra across the lake.
We ventured over for a tour of the mansion, the Muckross Home.This totally furnished Victorian dwelling was so attention-grabbing. I realized issues that basically shocked me: like how ladies used to place beeswax, lead, and arsenic on their face to maintain them pale. Fortunately, I’ve no downside with that. However the purpose why we now have the expression “save face” is as a result of they put up screens to guard their face from the hearth so their face would not soften. If I used to be advised I wanted to place arsenic on my face to look good I would simply hold a tan.
Subsequent we drove by means of the beautiful Killarney Nationwide park to go to the Kissane Sheep Canine farm. This drive was Michael’s favourite and it was so scenic.
We stopped so I might take footage of sheep on the edges of the highway. And scream “child sheep!” I do know it is a lamb. However I like saying child sheep as a result of I am a baby.
My favourite a part of the journey was the Kissane sheep canine farm. An actual, working farm the place they use canines to herd the sheep on the tough mountain terrain. It was unimaginable to look at the canines work.
I am a canine lover and seeing canines attending to do what they love makes my coronary heart soften. These are a number of the happiest canines on the earth as a result of they’re really serving a function. I HIGHLY advocate visiting a sheep canine farm in the event you come to Eire.
Plus I acquired to carry a pet. So my day was made.
After taking part in with the canines we took a drive and headed to Inch Seaside. This small stretch of land juts proper out to the ocean and has a really broad, arduous, sandy seashore. Folks have been browsing however we stayed bundled up as a result of the chilly wind was fairly frigid.
Rain Coat // Hat // Sweater // Leggings // Sneakers
After the seashore it was time for some ice cream. We headed to the lovable city of Dingle. Right here we acquired an ideal view of the Atlantic Ocean lined with brightly coloured houses and retailers. We ate ice cream at Kool Scoops. I extremely advocate this store. Murphy’s Ice Cream retailers are in every single place, and whereas scrumptious, it is a bit overestimated.
High discovered right here // hat
Dingle is a small city of solely 1300 residents, but they managed to slot in 52 pubs. It is secure to say it is a good place to discover a drink.
After we had some gas we drove extra of the Dingle Peninsula, a good looking, scenic drive. Then stopped for a hike and a greater view of the surroundings.
After our hike we ventured to the city of Tralee the place wee feasted on scrumptious and fast Asian meals at a classy restaurant known as Lana.
Day 6: Ennis, Cliffs of Moher, and Burren Nationwide Park
On our final full day in Eire we knew we needed to enterprise to the famed Cliffs of Moher. We stayed at a quaint AirBnb in Ennis, which was near the cliffs and a straightforward drive. One of many different visitors on the AirBnb gave us a improbable tip for the extremely popular and busy Cliffs of Moher. He advised us to NOT go to the customer middle, however as a substitute take the flip a few kilometer (half mile) earlier than, simply south of the customer middle. We did as directed and noticed a tiny signal that learn “parking right here for the Cliffs.” We turned down the winding highway as instructed. A highway so small you needed to honk round corners to warn these approaching the opposite manner that you just have been arising.
However we did as directed and located a quiet home the place we paid simply 2 euro for parking and loads with only some different vehicles. We made the trek over to the cliffs and located that the rain stopped and we had a transparent day for the cliffs with barely any vacationers round. They have been so majestic and grand. You possibly can simply see why Harry Potter was filmed right here. (In case you are questioning it is quantity 6: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince).
We walked across the cliffs for a couple of hours, mesmerized by the birds who weren’t getting blown over by the unimaginable wind. I’ll admit, if it had been wet AND windy I feel I might have been a bit scared. The wind actually does make you’re feeling like you may simply be pushed proper off the cliffs.
On the way in which, we handed the Cliffs of Moher Customer middle and it was jam filled with vacationers and busy with vehicles and buses. I am so glad we averted it and located the small sanctuary away from the crowds. After the cliffs we headed to the close by Burren Nationwide Park. This desolate rocky space is not like another in Eire or around the globe. It feels a sparse panorama in comparison with the plush inexperienced typical of Eire. The Burren is made up of of glacial-era limestone and rock formations and you will discover historical relics from the previous right here.
We did a brief hike right here and went to the vacationer workplace close by to be taught a bit extra concerning the park and what it teaches us concerning the previous.
Day 7: Galway and Again Residence
On our final day we headed to Galway as everybody advised me to go right here. I’ve to let you know: I wasn’t that impressed. I am satisfied that Galway is the right cease from the Cliffs of Moher on the way in which again to Dublin. You see, the buses take you from Dublin to the Cliffs and Galway all in someday. Whereas I used to be advised there have been some enjoyable pubs and eating places, I felt there have been so many different pretty cities with a extra vibrant historical past than Galway.
I do know, I do know this is not a preferred opinion. However to me, you will discover extra quaint European cities than Galway.
After which it was again to Dublin! We stayed at an Airbnb (this gave the impression to be the theme for this journey) and had one final conventional meal of fish and chips.
After my travels by means of Eire I am satisfied one of the simplest ways to get round is to drive. Should you do have a couple of extra days or additional time I would counsel heading as much as Northern Eire to see Big’s Causeway and Belfast.
BONUS: Should you’re a Sport of Thrones fan, then you definately’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present have been filmed in numerous places all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Street, and the Fort Ward property in County Down, which was remodeled into Winterfell. You possibly can even take a guided tour of a few of these filming places and relive a number of the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s beautiful landscapes and medieval castles made it the right backdrop for the epic fantasy sequence, and visiting these places in individual is a should for any fan.
Various Routes and Extensions
Should you’re planning your individual journey to Eire and have extra flexibility in your schedule, listed here are some recommendations primarily based on our expertise:
1. Cork Extension: If Ballymackean caught your curiosity, take into account including an additional day to discover extra of County Cork. The city of Cork itself is vibrant and walkable, with the well-known English Market providing native meals and crafts. From there, coastal villages like Kinsale (talked about above) and Cobh (the final port of name for the Titanic) make for enchanting day journeys.
2. Ring of Kerry: Whereas we did not have time to drive your complete Ring of Kerry, this well-known scenic route ought to be in your record if in case you have an additional day. The complete 179km circuit takes you thru rugged coastal landscapes, charming villages, and historic websites. Simply remember that it will get very busy in summer time months, and the slim roads may be difficult for nervous drivers.
3. Killarney Nationwide Park Deep Dive: We solely scratched the floor of what Killarney Nationwide Park has to supply. With extra time, you may spend a full day right here mountaineering by means of historical oak forests, boating on the lakes, or biking by means of the park’s intensive community of trails.
4. Climate Contingency: Irish climate is notoriously unpredictable. When planning, construct in some flexibility for indoor actions on wet days. Most cities have wonderful museums, distilleries, or craft workshops that may save a day when the climate turns.
BONUS: Should you’re a Sport of Thrones fan, then you definately’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present have been filmed in numerous places all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Street, and the Fort Ward property in County Down, which was remodeled into Winterfell. You possibly can even take a guided tour of a few of these filming places and relive a number of the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s beautiful landscapes and medieval castles made it the right backdrop for the epic fantasy sequence, and visiting these places in individual is a should for any fan.
Sensible Suggestions for Your Eire Journey
Listed below are some extra sensible suggestions primarily based on what we realized throughout our journey:
1. SIM Playing cards: Getting a neighborhood SIM card with knowledge is crucial in the event you’re driving. We picked up a pay as you go Vodafone SIM on the Dublin airport for €20 that included 20GB of information and was legitimate for 28 days. This was invaluable for navigation, particularly on rural roads.
2. Driving Suggestions: Moreover staying left, keep in mind that most rental vehicles in Eire are guide transmission. Should you want an automated, e book nicely upfront and count on to pay extra. Additionally, many rural fuel stations shut early, so replenish when you’ll be able to.
3. Climate Preparation: Even in summer time, Eire’s climate can change quickly. Pack layers, a superb waterproof jacket, and waterproof footwear in the event you plan to do any mountaineering or seashore strolling.
4. Money vs. Card: Whereas most locations settle for bank cards, some smaller institutions in rural areas (together with that great Diva Bakery in Ballymackean) are cash-only. Preserve some euros available for these conditions.
5. Timing Your Visits: Common sights just like the Cliffs of Moher are greatest visited early morning or late afternoon to keep away from tour bus crowds. The identical applies to well-known castles – arriving inside an hour of opening or closing usually means having the place virtually to your self.
Eire is an unimaginable nation stuffed with tradition, magnificence, and enjoyable. We met so many vacationers touring from America studying about their heritage and discovering that the nation just isn’t solely unfold with historical past of the previous, however monuments from prehistoric occasions. I assumed that Eire could be wealthy with inexperienced grass and epic cliffs, but it surely’s a lot greater than that. The dramatic variations between the bustling cities and dreamy countryside makes for an epic expertise. Whether or not you are into consuming and singing in a thatched-roof pub or need to stroll for miles alongside sheep, you may discover one thing to take pleasure in.
Sláinte!
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