Driving on the opposite facet of the highway on slim, windy streets with three foot excessive stone fences on one facet and sheer cliffs on the opposite, will make you rely your blessings and likewise blurt out truths in a panic. However honestly it is the best possible method to see Eire. We landed in Dublin, Eire with the concept of staying close to the large metropolis and taking day journeys by bus. However after we met up with pals and so they instructed us of epic adventures driving across the countryside and attending to tour cities not on the principle drag and pet child sheep alongside the best way, I knew we wanted to take the leap and hire a automotive. I’ll break down our one week Eire itinerary and hope it will assist you plan your journey.
After just a few days in pretty Dublin we hit the highway to discover Eire’s castles, countryside, and see among the greenest surroundings I’ve ever seen. A highway journey is the easiest way to expertise the rolling inexperienced hills of Eire!
Full Dublin Information right here!
Now, I do know you may be considering that you simply’re terrified to drive on the improper, err, left facet of the highway. And imagine me it IS scary. However when you understand that it is similar to you usually would drive, simply switched, you will get the dangle of it fairly rapidly. I might extremely advocate having: 1. a copilot to be careful for passing cattle, vehicles, and when you should make a flip, and a couple 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 you should swing vast. Oh and three. snacks. You want snacks after all. 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 proper size of time to essentially 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. For those who do have further time I like to recommend heading to Northern Eire, notably Big’s Causeway and Belfast. However since we had one week, here is what we did:
Every week is a very fantastic period of time to see Eire. Though it is a small nation, there’s actually a lot to see and do. Most guests spend just a few days in Dublin after which concentrate on simply the north or south of Eire. The south is the preferred with spots just like the Ring of Kerry, the famed Blarney Stone, and Cork. However there’s heaps that you simply’d miss in the event you simply noticed the preferred spots!
So let’s get into it, the proper week in Eire.
Day 1: Land in Dublin
We landed late in Dublin and stayed in a beautiful AirBnb. Shockingly, motels and AirBnbs had 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 break day proper by exploring round Dublin: walked St. Stephen’s Inexperienced, took the Trinity School 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 tips on how to 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 continues to be out.
Remember to verify 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 believed for positive we would hit one thing. Sure, I believed we would get run off the highway. However really, it is the easiest way to see the countryside. Michael and I had plans of simply staying round Dublin, however after our pals drove round we knew we needed to see what Eire had in retailer. It was among 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
We drove south and headed to Kilkenny, a small historic city well-known for its fort and the “medieval mile”. This lengthy stretch of highway is filled with historical past together with historic church buildings, historic buildings, and naturally the gorgeous fort. After 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 fort, 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 however it felt Irish to me, so I went with it.
Ensure to take a look at St. Canice Cathedral– however you may must enter by means of the facet. 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 very good view of Kilkenny.
Since we had 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 placing fort.
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 awesome view of the countryside.
Subsequent, we hit the tiny, cobblestone highway and went to Blarney to see the fort, kiss the stone and see the attractive gardens. We arrived an hour and 20 minutes earlier than closing and had been instructed that, “you solely have time to run up and kiss the stone and are available down” however since there was NO LINE we had been capable of stroll across the gardens as effectively. (You would possibly like: Learn how to Keep away from traces 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 had been so spectacular. The luxurious ferns, vibrant pink flowers, caves, and grazing sheep made me really feel like I used to be within the film Fern Gully.
Gown // Rain Coat // Tights // Footwear
It is arduous to stay to the plan if you’re driving and the whole lot seems 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 elements 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 abruptly opening as much as dramatic sea cliffs that rival the Cliffs of Moher in magnificence, if not in top. 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 through a considerably steep however manageable path down the cliffside. The seashore is a mixture of clean 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.
For those who go to Ballymackean, do not miss the charming Diva Bakery within the close by village. This small, family-run institution provides among the greatest pastries we had in all of Eire. Their conventional Irish soda bread is phenomenal – crusty on the surface 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 comfy inside with its mismatched classic furnishings makes for an ideal relaxation cease, and the pleasant house owners are pleased to share native ideas and tales. They’re solely open Wednesday by means of Sunday, 9am-4pm, so plan accordingly!
The most effective half about including Ballymackean to your itinerary is that it is solely a 25-minute drive from Blarney, making it a straightforward addition to your day. Simply comply with indicators for Ballymackean Bay when you get to the coast. I would advocate allocating at the very least 2-3 hours for this detour to completely respect the cliffs, seashore, and bakery.
For dinner, we ventured right down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had probably the greatest seafood dished in my life at a beautiful place referred to as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!
We spent the evening simply outdoors of Killarney, so we might get up and discover.
For dinner, we ventured right down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had probably the greatest seafood dished in my life at a beautiful place referred to 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 instructed you: we pack it in. Now, you may unfold this out over a pair days or extra, however we had been restricted on time and actually need to see all of it. So, we did. We awakened vibrant and early and headed to the well-known Ross Fort in Killarney. It is 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 absolutely furnished Victorian dwelling was so fascinating. I discovered issues that actually shocked me: like how ladies used to place beeswax, lead, and arsenic on their face to maintain them pale. Fortunately, I’ve no drawback with that. However the purpose why we have now the expression “save face” is as a result of they put up screens to guard their face from the fireplace so their face would not soften. If I used to be instructed I wanted to place arsenic on my face to look good I would simply preserve 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 photos of sheep on the perimeters 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 toddler.
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 unbelievable to observe the canines work.
I am a canine lover and seeing canines attending to do what they love makes my coronary heart soften. These are among the happiest canines on the earth as a result of they’re really serving a objective. I HIGHLY advocate visiting a sheep canine farm in the event you come to Eire.
Plus I obtained to carry a pet. So my day was made.
After enjoying with the canines we took a drive and headed to Inch Seashore. This small stretch of land juts proper out to the ocean and has a really vast, arduous, sandy seashore. Folks had been browsing however we stayed bundled up as a result of the chilly wind was fairly frigid.
Rain Coat // Hat // Sweater // Leggings // Footwear
After the seashore it was time for some ice cream. We headed to the lovely city of Dingle. Right here we obtained an awesome view of the Atlantic Ocean lined with brightly coloured properties and retailers. We ate ice cream at Kool Scoops. I extremely advocate this store. Murphy’s Ice Cream retailers are in all places, and whereas scrumptious, it’s kind of overestimated.
Prime discovered right here // hat
Dingle is a small city of solely 1300 residents, but they managed to slot in 52 pubs. It is protected 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 stylish restaurant referred to 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 unbelievable tip for the very talked-about and busy Cliffs of Moher. He instructed us to NOT go to the customer heart, however as a substitute take the flip a few kilometer (half mile) earlier than, simply south of the customer heart. 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 method that you simply had been developing.
However we did as directed and located a quiet home the place we paid simply 2 euro for parking and lots 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 had 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 just a few hours, mesmerized by the birds who weren’t getting blown over by the unbelievable 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 best way, we handed the Cliffs of Moher Customer heart 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 some other in Eire or all over the world. It feels a sparse panorama in comparison with the luxurious inexperienced typical of Eire. The Burren is made up of of glacial-era limestone and rock formations and you could find historic 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 instructed me to go right here. I’ve to inform you: I wasn’t that impressed. I am satisfied that Galway is the proper cease from the Cliffs of Moher on the best way again to Dublin. You see, the buses take you from Dublin to the Cliffs and Galway all in sooner or later. Whereas I used to be instructed 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 could find extra quaint European cities than Galway.
After which it was again to Dublin! We stayed at an Airbnb (this appeared 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 the easiest way to get round is to drive. For those who do have just a few extra days or further time I would recommend heading as much as Northern Eire to see Big’s Causeway and Belfast.
BONUS: For those who’re a Sport of Thrones fan, you then’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present had been filmed in varied areas all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Highway, 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 areas and relive among the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s gorgeous landscapes and medieval castles made it the proper backdrop for the epic fantasy collection, and visiting these areas in individual is a should for any fan.
Different Routes and Extensions
For those who’re planning your individual journey to Eire and have extra flexibility in your schedule, listed here are some recommendations based mostly 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 entire Ring of Kerry, this well-known scenic route needs to be in your listing when you have an additional day. The total 179km circuit takes you thru rugged coastal landscapes, charming villages, and historic websites. Simply bear in mind that it will get very busy in summer time months, and the slim roads might 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 mountain climbing by means of historic oak forests, boating on the lakes, or biking by means of the park’s in depth 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: For those who’re a Sport of Thrones fan, you then’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present had been filmed in varied areas all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Highway, 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 areas and relive among the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s gorgeous landscapes and medieval castles made it the proper backdrop for the epic fantasy collection, and visiting these areas in individual is a should for any fan.
Sensible Ideas for Your Eire Journey
Listed below are some further sensible ideas based mostly on what we discovered throughout our journey:
1. SIM Playing cards: Getting an area SIM card with information is important 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 knowledge and was legitimate for 28 days. This was invaluable for navigation, particularly on rural roads.
2. Driving Ideas: Moreover staying left, do not forget that most rental vehicles in Eire are handbook transmission. For those who want an computerized, guide effectively upfront and count on to pay extra. Additionally, many rural gasoline stations shut early, so refill when you possibly can.
3. Climate Preparation: Even in summer time, Eire’s climate can change quickly. Pack layers, a very good waterproof jacket, and waterproof footwear in the event you plan to do any mountain climbing or seashore strolling.
4. Money vs. Card: Whereas most locations settle for bank cards, some smaller institutions in rural areas (together with that fantastic Diva Bakery in Ballymackean) are cash-only. Maintain some euros readily available for these conditions.
5. Timing Your Visits: Standard 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 typically means having the place nearly to your self.
Eire is an unbelievable nation stuffed with tradition, magnificence, and enjoyable. We met so many vacationers touring from America studying about their heritage and discovering that the nation shouldn’t be solely unfold with historical past of the previous, however monuments from prehistoric occasions. I assumed that Eire can be wealthy with inexperienced grass and epic cliffs, however it’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 ingesting 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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