Itinerary feedback

Roy · Guru

Itinerary feedback

Michele Erdvig · Host

Roy,

It takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to drive from Shannon to Killarney. I assume that you are going there first because it is your arrival day and you don't want the longer drive to Dingle? By going to Killarney first, then Dingle and on to Skibbereen you are backtracking a bit.

If you want to do the all day Gap of Dunloe tour you would be much better off doing it from Killarney rather than Dingle. That would mean an additional day in Killarney.

Good idea to break up the long drive with an overnight stay on your way to Co. Westmeath. Cashel might be a good stop for you.

Michele

Roy · Guru

Michelle,

My wife thought that Cashel was a great idea. She really wants to visit the Dingle area for two nights, so we will rethink the Gap of Dunloe. One of our goals is to walk a lot. Is it too far to drive from Shannon to Dingle the first day?

Thanks,

Roy

CowboyCraic · Guru

Roy,

Since you are traveling from the East coast, jet lag may not be as large of an issue. I think Dingle is just on the edge of a doable distance for a first day. Take the Ferry, which will give you time to stretch your legs and make several view stops along the way. That would save you from some of the backtracking.

Slan Agus Beannacht,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Roy,

It is possible to go from Shannon to Dingle on your first day. It is debatable whether the ferry will save time. It probably depends on if you arrive right before it departs and can drive right on without waiting. It will enable you to have a bit of a break from driving as you cross the Shannon and the air is usually bracing. You can also choose to take the main roads south through Limerick.

As for the Gap of Dunloe, you don't have to do the whole thing. If you just want a glimpse, you could drive out to Kate Kearney's Cottage, park and then hike a couple of miles in, then return to your car. That won't take the whole day. Of course the complete experience with horse-drawn vehicle, boats, etc. is unique. Why not let the weather determine it? You don't want to do the gap in bad weather.

Michele

P.S. Be sure to do the Cherry Tree Walk past Killarney House and on to Deenagh Cottage. It is lovely.

Roy · Guru

Michelle,

Thanks for the advice. You too Bit.

We've retooled to look like this:

7/7 Depart JFK
7/8 Arrive Shannon-Stay in Dingle (Duinin House B&B)
7/9 Dingle
7/10 Killarney (The Mountain Dew B&B)
7/11 Killarney
7/12 Stay in Skibbereen (P.K. Lodge B&B)
7/13 Skibbereen
7/14 Cashel (Ard Ri House B&B)
7/15 Derryhall-My wife's family time (Co. Westmeath)
7/16 Derryhall/Dublin (by train)
7/17 Derryhall
7/18 Derryhall/Longford
7/19 Derryhall7/20 Travel to Shannon- stay at B&B in Bunratty
7/21 Depart SNN

The only B&B I don't have a lot in information on is The Mountain Dew in Killarney. It seems very conveniently located. Does anyone have any experience/feedback on it?

Thanks,

Roy

CowboyCraic · Guru

Roy,

I am not familiar with the Mountain Dew, so I cannot comment on that B&B. However, did you check out the special offer post that Michele recently put up for Loch Lein? It is an excellent deal and one you might consider.

Looks like the trip has fleshed out nicely. Enjoy your adventure and make sure you post a trip report when you get back!

Slan Go Foill,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Roy,

It looks like a good plan. I have no feedback on Mountain Dew. Do take a look at the sepcial offer that Loch Lein Country House is offering to see if it suits you: http://www.irelandyes.com/specials.html My "Lodgings" page will also give you some other suggestions for Killarney as well as for Bunratty.

If you are looking for something in walking distance of Killarney try Killarney Lodge, Earl's Court, Robeen, Ashville, Chelmsford or Applecroft.

You will have to let us know how the itinerary worked for you when you return.

Michele