Ireland Itinerary in March

Carol Scott · Member

Ireland Itinerary in March

Sidz · Guru

Was in the same area last March, so I can speak to this a bit. As you get deeper into plans, just remember that it takes a heck of alot longer to get places than it appears -- especially on the beautiful west coast areas.

Do you have family or special interests at Ballyvaughan? Certainly a nice place to visit, but I would not want to spend two nights there. Staying in Doolin would be much closer to trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch, etc., and you can make a day trip taking the coastal road up to Ballyvaughan for a day and then cut across the Burren to get back to Doolin. Much to see that way. Also if you like traditional music, Doolin is the place to be as there are two or three pubs that have music each day of the year.

Galway is interesting for sure, but parking is a real chore. You almost need more than one day to mess with it -- in my opinion. Plus the drive from Galway to Kenmare will be lengthy.

Kenmare is wonderful, however, and if you want to give your kids something different to do, you might skip Limerick and go to Kenmare via the Killimer-Tarbert Ferry. Wonderful drive that presents a real dose of the natural wonders of the rural part of Ireland. St. John's castle is perhaps my least favorite over there, and Limerick itself can be a traffic challenge and for short trip can certainly be avoided. Bunratty Castle for instance, which you could hit at the end of your trip, is much more interesting.

Dingle is wonderful as well, so you have some tough choices to make -- but the good news is, you have some time to make it. Appears to me you are trying to see too much in a short amount of time. For instance, you mention doing the Ring of Kerry in tandem with a golf trip or a trip to Cashel. The ROK is a full day alone.

Don't fall into a trap of spending most of your time driving -- that happens to most first time travellers there. When you get closer to your trip, it will be simple to book some wonderful B&Bs at that time of the season. Use this site at http://www.irelandyes.com/lodgings.html, as Michele's first-hand knowledge of these places is tremendous!

I'm sure she will give you more detailed advice, but in a nutshell, just remember: Less is more in Ireland when it comes to seeing the country's beauty.

-- Edited by Sidz at 12:35, 2007-10-02

Carol Scott · Member

Thank you Veteran. No special attachment to Ballyvaughan - just wanted a nice place to stay, preferably self-catering, in a small town with fun local shops and pubs. Ballyvaughan was recommended in various forums. I didn't find any self-catering or reasonable / available B&Bs in Doolin but will keep looking. Is Lahinch a good choice?

Sidz · Guru

Nothing wrong with Ballyvaughan, it's just with the short amount of time you have to spend in Ireland, I wouldn't stay there two days. Doolin is a beautiful area closer to some of the places you want to see. Lahinch is just a small village that is actually -- as strange as it may seem -- a mecca for surfers during the summer months! Seems bizarre to see people with surf boards over there, but it is a spot that attracks a young crowd in the summer.

In Doolin I stayed at Daly House, which is an easy walk to the famous Gus O'Connors Pub and home to some of the best music in the country. Susan Daly will take great care of you. http://www.dalys-house.com/doolin.aspx

Regarding Kenmare, however you get there, it is a great choice for a day or two. One of the gems of Ireland for sure. Staying at B&Bs would probably be the best way to go on this type of trip, as the breakfasts are wonderful and most self catering places rent by the week.

My experience with B&Bs which are recommended by others on this site have been really good. You and your family will enjoy the personal treatment you get, and if cost is a factor, it's the only way to go for best value.

-- Edited by Sidz at 13:24, 2007-10-02

YaYa · Guru

Carol,

I stayed in Ballyvaughan for two nights right in the heart of the village, This was off-season also. It's a very small village with not much to do off-season so I left after two nights. My son said two nights too many. Have you thought of Kinvara right up the road in county Galway? I haven't stayed but stopped for lunch and it is a great little town or large village. Also as Sidz said Lahinch, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna would be other places. I think Lahinch might have more going on as it is bigger. Two of my favorite places on this earth are Dingle and Kenmare. I think your sons would love both these towns and so would you and your husband.

Happy planning, Joan

Sidz · Guru

Joan:

Ah -- a few days in Dingle!!! If I was going to stay anywhere for two or three days, Dingle probably gets the nod. Bustling town, much to do, touring the peninsula is unbelievable, and a good base to go for day trips to Killarney or even Kenmare. Hard to beat Dingle for sure. smile

-- Edited by Sidz at 14:03, 2007-10-02

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carol,

Welcome to my forum! You have received some excellent info so far from the members here. I am wondering if Galway is a must? If not, it might be fun to spend St. Patrick's Day in a smaller place like Dingle. If you could spend one night in Doolin or Ballyvaughan and skip Galway, it would give you a couple of nights in Dingle and a few in Kenmare.

Also, think of staying in Killarney. There would be more for your kids to do there. Much as I like Kenmare sometimes Killarney is the better option.

Self-catering usually runs Sat to Sat for a week. However, in off-season you may get into one for a weekend or a mid-week stay of 3 days. Around March 17 is popular though so book early.

Michele

Carol Scott · Member

I am really looking for a relaxing experience without too much driving but want to feel the variety of the country as well. I was thinking to experience a large variety of talent/entertainment by attending Galway's parade but perhaps Killarney would have a similar event? Would it make more sense to go to Dingle for the first two days, St. Patrick's Day in Killarney, 2 days in Kenmare (we are already booked) and then one day in Doolin and last day in Bunratty?

CowboyCraic · Guru

Carol,

I really enjoyed the St. Patrick's day festivities in Dingle. They have not one but two parades and a myriad of other activities. Galway is going to be an absolute ZOO just before, during and after St. Patrick's day, as they will have two weekend days before the actual date in which to extend the reverie. I have never experienced St. Patrick's day in Killarney but I know that it has been named as one of the largest street parties in all of Europe. Its parade is considered to be the kick off for the tourist season.

That being said, you had better make your reservations in Killarney or Dingle, whichever is your St. Patrick's day roost, within the next few weeks, as it will book up by October's end. The Courtyard in Killarney is offering a ST. Patrick's weekend special that you might want to snap up quick.

I would think two nights in Dingle, Three nights in Killarney and Two in Ennis would allow you to have the best of both worlds. You can use Ennis as your touring base for Doolin, the Cliffs, the Burren and Ennis itself your last two days. Ennis is close enough to prevent the mad dash to the airport and yet far enough away to allow you to enjoy your last two days. Dingle and its Peninsula needs at least the two nights to allow you to explore it thoroughly and at a leisure pace.

Slan Beo,

Bit

Sidz · Guru

Bit:

I was in Dingle this year on St. Patrick's Day. The parade there was really something and the town tremendous all weekend. We made the noon parade -- the early morning version was not exactly in our plans. I think Mr. Jameson had something to do with that decision! smile

We were back in the saddle by early afternoon, sampling Ireland's liquid gold.

-- Edited by Sidz at 16:59, 2007-10-02

CowboyCraic · Guru

Ah an chara,

It is all in the pacing, it is. Sleeping gives the Jameson time to settle and disagree. Surely it would have been easier to join the other half drunk revelers for the early morning parade had you just stayed up! biggrin

Dingle has an absolute blast on St Patrick's day. There is plenty of Irish gold and Irish black flowing, as well as laughter, music and camaraderie. There are no strangers in Dingle that day to be sure!

Go Raibh Mil Maith Agat for the memory and smile!

Slan Beo,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Bit,

I like your suggestions a lot. Carol should go with them. It is a good plan.

Michele

Carol Scott · Member

Bit, Sidz, Michele - thank you so much for your helpful suggestions. I have changed my plans to spend 3 nights in Dingle (self-catering, Erlagh Cottage) where we will relax and tour the peninsula and enjoy St. Patrick's Day. Then on to Kenmare for 2 days (Kenmare Bay self-catering). On the way, we plan to see the Gap of Dunloe and if time permits drive the Ring of Kerry. Next day, Killarney tour, Blarney or just hang out in Kenmare. Then up to Doolin for one night and 2 days in the Burren. I know this is a long drive but we'll just plan on taking the ferry route to "break it up" and lots of stops and 2 drivers. Last night in Bunratty. Any other suggestions are appreciated. Thanks again!

Sidz · Guru

Carol:

Maybe without knowing it, you have picked one of the best self catering cottages in Ireland. The location of Emlagh Cottage is incredible. We were there previously (lady's name that runs it is Maggie, correct?). biggrin

That setting is second to none with a short walk along the shore to Dingle town.

I like your itinerary now, and you will be able to relish the pace.

You've done well -- have a great time!

YaYa · Guru

Carol,

I think you have a perfect itinerary now. Hope you have a great trip.

Joan

Carol Scott · Member

Thank you too Joan - sorry I left you off as your great input on Ballyvaughan started the whole re-grouping of the itinerary!

CowboyCraic · Guru

Carol,

So dleighted that you took teh advice to heart and are extending your stay in Dingle! As for doing the Gap of Dunloe and Ring of Kerry, the Gap of Dunloe usually takes an entire day in and of itself, as does the Ring of Kerry.

Is there a specific reason for staying in Doolin? Ennis makes a great base for the Clare Coast. It is a good size town with excellent music in the evenings on a more regular basis than the smaller coastal towns. With a two night stay in Ennis, you could tour the Cliffs, coast and Burren, with lunch in Doolin, on your one full day and be a short drive, 35 minutes, from the airport on your departure day. I much prefer the atmosphere of Ennis to that of Bunratty. You could find lodging in either the Old Grounds Hotel or TempleGate, which would put you right in the thick of town centre.

You will have a rousing good time in Dingle for St. Patrick's Day.

Slan Beo,

Bit Devine

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carol,

It sounds like you will have a wonderful time. I'm glad you got things sorted out to your satisfaction. Let us know if you have any other questions.

Michele

Carol Scott · Member

Thanks Bit - on the Gap and ROK...what do you think is the best way to spend the 2 days in this area? Can seeing the Gap of Dunloe by pony/pony trap be done in less than a full day? Would this option be available in March? I know it's very touristy, but my kids would like to kiss the Blarney Stone so is there a way you would suggest fitting this in along with another partial day activity?

On Thursday, I was thinking we would drive up the coast from Kenmare to the Cliffs to better enjoy the drive. Since it is such a long drive, I didn't think we'd want to also drive to Ennis and then back again in the morning since we also want to spend Friday in the Burren. We are planning to have dinner at Bunratty Castle on Friday eve so thought it would be best to just stay there. Thanks again for your good thoughts...

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carol,

The complete Gap of Dunloe tour starts in the morning and takes most of the day to accomplish. However, you can certainly go out to Kate Kearney's Cottage and hire a jaunting car to take you into the gap and back to your starting point. You would miss out on the boat ride on the lakes.

Jaunting cars are readily avilable in Killarney town and at Muckross Estate. If you wanted to see the estate, Torc Waterfall and Killarney National Park you can easily do that.

It takes approximately 2 hours to drive from Kenmare to Blarney. Another two hours back. If you absolutely must do Blarney Castle you can do so as a day trip from Kenmare.

Michele

Carol Scott · Member

I just learned that our planned last night in Bunratty with the banquet dinner will not work because everything will be closed for Good Friday. The kids are very disappointed. So I am looking for alternative suggestions. The traditional Irish Night is open on the 20th. Our plans were to drive up from Kenmare and stay in Doolin on the 20th then Bunratty the last night. Now I'm thinking of Ennis both nights instead so we can visit Bunratty when it's open. Where would it be best to stay on Good Friday where everything won't be closed?

CowboyCraic · Guru

Carol,

You would be best to look at either Old Grounds or Temple Gate hotels, as they have dining facilities on premise and would be more likely to be open for meals on Good Friday. Ireland, as a whole fairly locks down on that day.

Good Friday would be the best day you would have for doing a scenic drive, perhaps the Loophead Drive. It would be best to make your reservations quickly, as it is a four day holiday weekend across Ireland and lodging gets snapped up quickly.

Slan Beo,

Bit

YaYa · Guru

Carol,

As Bit said both Temple Gate or Old Ground are good hotels in the heart of Ennis. I've stayed at Temple Gate a number times and was comfortable. One of my stays the people next to me had a family room and they were unhappy with it as it was so crowded. They both have pubs and dining rooms. Also Bunratty Castle Hotel right across from the castle has very nice rooms and of course there is a pub and dining room. Don't stay at the Shannon Shamrock Hotel in Bunratty, it's awful.

Regards, Joan

Carol Scott · Member

Have you heard anything about the self-catering townhouses in Bunratty? Either the Bunratty West or the Shannon Shamrock? The hotels and B&Bs are much more expensive for a family of 5 and I was thinking that with self-catering, we could dine in on Good Friday if needed.

YaYa · Guru

Carol,

I've heard of the Shannon Shamrock self-catering I bellieve on this forum talking about bait and switch with Adare Manor. It would be more reasonable to stay in an apartment.

Carol Scott · Member

Thanks. I have not found any apartment options in Ennis or nearby area. Am I missing an accomodation search engine?

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carol,

I have not visited Bunratty Castle Gardens Townhouses but have heard mixed reviews. Some people are saying that they are not clean, no heat and other problems. They are run by the folks that run Bunratty Shannon Shamrock, which is not the best hotel (to say the least). Although dinners in the restaurant are good.

Have you gone to my "Links" page under Accommodations for self-catering? Cahergal Farm has self-catering and I have inspected the B&B and found it good. Didn't see the cottage though.

Did you see the topic about Bunratty Lodge lowering rates to 29.95 per person? For the five of you that would only be 149.75. That is a very good deal. Check it out.

Michele

Carol Scott · Member

I am wondering about the best way to arrange touring the Gap of Dunloe. I would like to do the standard tour from Kate Kearney's to Lord Brandons and then boat to Ross Castle. I'm not sure yet if we'll want to walk or ride. Would we be able to make our own arrangements for just the boat trip once we get there or do we have to commit to a scheduled tour in advance? I am thinking of doing this our first day as we are staying in Dingle but can't check in until 5 but don't want to commit in case flight's delayed or we just don't feel up to it.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carol,

The Gap of Dunloe tour is pretty strenuous. I would not do it on the first day in the country. Plan something else instead where you are not commited to a whole day's outing. Do the gap on another day. If you only want a boat ride on the lakes you can do so from Ross Castle. However, I would pop into the tourist office to see what the schedule is.

Michele

Dude · Guru

When we were there in '03 it was just the five of us at the Ross Castle pier and the boatman wouldn't "sail" with that few people. If he said what the minimum was, I don't remember.

If you go to Ross Castle, take the forest lane to your left as you approach the castle and see the house with a tree growing up through the middle. It's a lovely little stroll.