Driving on the opposite aspect of the street on slim, windy streets with three foot excessive stone fences on one aspect and sheer cliffs on the opposite, will make you rely 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 concept of staying close to the large metropolis and taking day journeys by bus. However once we met up with mates and so they informed 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 lease a automobile. I will break down our one week Eire itinerary and hope it will show you how to plan your journey.
After just a few days in beautiful Dublin we hit the street to discover Eire’s castles, countryside, and see a few of the greenest surroundings I’ve ever seen. A street journey is one of the best ways to expertise the rolling inexperienced hills of Eire!
Full Dublin Information right here!
Now, I do know you could be considering that you just’re terrified to drive on the flawed, err, left aspect of the street. And imagine me it IS scary. However when you notice that it is identical to you usually would drive, simply switched, you may get the hold of it fairly shortly. I might extremely advocate having: 1. a copilot to be careful for passing cattle, automobiles, and when you’ll want 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 you’ll want to swing broad. Oh and three. snacks. You want snacks after all. We lived on lunches within the automobile 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 every 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. When you do have further time I like to recommend heading to Northern Eire, significantly Large’s Causeway and Belfast. However since we had one week, here is what we did:
Per week is a extremely great period of time to see Eire. Regardless that 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 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 for those who simply noticed the most well-liked 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 stunning AirBnb. Shockingly, inns and AirBnbs had been costlier 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 time without work 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 put up 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 one can pronounce Celtic. Is it “kel-tic” or “sell-tic”? This is the factor, Boston celtics- proper (promote wins) however conventional Celtic dancing is Kel-tic. The jury continues to be out.
Remember 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 lease a automobile. Sure it was terrifying. Sure, I assumed for positive we might hit one thing. Sure, I assumed we might get run off the street. However really, it is one of the best ways to see the countryside. Michael and I had plans of simply staying round Dublin, however after our mates drove round we knew we needed to see what Eire had in retailer. It was a few 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 Citadel
We drove south and headed to Kilkenny, a small historic city well-known for its fortress and the “medieval mile”. This lengthy stretch of street is stuffed with historical past together with historical church buildings, historic buildings, and naturally the gorgeous fortress. Once I consider Irish castles, I consider the darkish, grey stone, sitting on lush greens. Kilkenny Citadel embodies that. You may 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 sure that to take a look at St. Canice Cathedral– however you may have to enter by the aspect. The entrance is just for the three B’s: brides, bishops, and burials. You may climb the 140 steps as much as get a superb 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 putting fortress.
Because the seat of many kings, this 12 century tower sits atop a limestone rock. You may take a free tour as soon as inside and likewise see an amazing view of the countryside.
Subsequent, we hit the tiny, cobblestone street 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 had been informed 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 nicely. (You may like: The right way to Keep away from strains and folks 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 plush 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 while you’re driving and all the things seems to be so beautiful. We stopped after a fast rain bathe to see a double rainbow stretching throughout the sky. This was one among my favourite facets of the drive. We had the flexibility to simply 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 street 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 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 stunning shells and sea glass with out one other vacationer in sight.
When you go to Ballymackean, do not miss the charming Diva Bakery within the close by village. This small, family-run institution presents a few of 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 full of 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 homeowners are glad to share native suggestions and tales. They’re solely open Wednesday by Sunday, 9am-4pm, so plan accordingly!
The perfect 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 might advocate allocating no less than 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 recognized for good seafood. I had top-of-the-line seafood dished in my life at a stunning place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!
We spent the night time simply exterior of Killarney, so we may get up and discover.
For dinner, we ventured all the way down to Kinsale since they’re recognized for good seafood. I had top-of-the-line seafood dished in my life at a stunning place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!
We spent the night time simply exterior of Killarney, so we may get up and discover.
Day 5: Killarney, Kissane Sheep Canines, Dingle, Tralee
I informed you: we pack it in. Now, you can 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 wakened vibrant and early and headed to the well-known Ross Citadel 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 may 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 house 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 motive why we’ve got 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 informed I wanted to place arsenic on my face to look good I’d simply maintain a tan.
Subsequent we drove by the stunning 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 may take photos of sheep on the edges of the street. 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 canine to herd the sheep on the tough mountain terrain. It was unbelievable to look at the canine work.
I am a canine lover and seeing canine attending to do what they love makes my coronary heart soften. These are a few of the happiest canine on the planet as a result of they’re really serving a function. I HIGHLY advocate visiting a sheep canine farm for those who come to Eire.
Plus I bought to carry a pet. So my day was made.
After taking part in with the canine we took a drive and headed to Inch Seashore. This small stretch of land juts proper out to the ocean and has a really broad, 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 bought an amazing 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’s kind of 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 gasoline we drove extra of the Dingle Peninsula, a ravishing, 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 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 simple drive. One of many different company on the AirBnb gave us a improbable tip for the extremely popular and busy Cliffs of Moher. He informed 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 street as instructed. A street so small you needed to honk round corners to warn these approaching the opposite manner that you just had been developing.
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 automobiles. 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 may 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 can simply be pushed proper off the cliffs.
On the best way, we handed the Cliffs of Moher Customer heart and it was jam full of vacationers and busy with automobiles 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 around the globe. 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’ll find historical relics from the previous right here.
We did a brief hike right here and went to the vacationer workplace close by to study a bit extra concerning the park and what it teaches us concerning the previous.
Day 7: Galway and Again Dwelling
On our final day we headed to Galway as everybody informed 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 at some point. Whereas I used to be informed there have been some enjoyable pubs and eating places, I felt there have been so many different beautiful cities with a extra vibrant historical past than Galway.
I do know, I do know this is not a well-liked opinion. However to me, you’ll 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 Eire I am satisfied one of the best ways to get round is to drive. When you do have just a few extra days or further time I might counsel heading as much as Northern Eire to see Large’s Causeway and Belfast.
BONUS: When you’re a Sport of Thrones fan, then you definitely’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 Citadel Ward property in County Down, which was reworked into Winterfell. You may even take a guided tour of a few of these filming areas and relive a few of 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 particular person is a should for any fan.
Different Routes and Extensions
When you’re planning your personal journey to Eire and have extra flexibility in your schedule, listed below are some strategies based mostly on our expertise:
1. Cork Extension: If Ballymackean caught your curiosity, think about 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 needs to be in your checklist when you’ve got an additional day. The total 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 will 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 can spend a full day right here climbing by historical oak forests, boating on the lakes, or biking by 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: When you’re a Sport of Thrones fan, then you definitely’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 Citadel Ward property in County Down, which was reworked into Winterfell. You may even take a guided tour of a few of these filming areas and relive a few of 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 particular person is a should for any fan.
Sensible Ideas for Your Eire Journey
Listed below are some extra sensible suggestions based mostly on what we realized throughout our journey:
1. SIM Playing cards: Getting a neighborhood SIM card with knowledge is crucial for those who’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: Apart from staying left, keep in mind that most rental automobiles in Eire are guide transmission. When you want an computerized, e book nicely upfront and anticipate to pay extra. Additionally, many rural gasoline 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 for those who plan to do any climbing 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. Maintain 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 typically means having the place virtually to your self.
Eire is an unbelievable nation filled 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 can 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 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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