Southern Ireland trip in May/June 2009!!!!!!!

Keany · Veteran Member

Southern Ireland trip in May/June 2009!!!!!!!

susan · Senior Member

Hi Erin-

Where in North Leitrim is your family from? My husbands family is from Dowra and we will be self catering there for a week this June.

Susan

Keany · Veteran Member

Susan,

My grandmother was born in Glenfarne, not too far from Manorhamilton.

One of these days I would like to self-cater near there for a week. But that is another trip - at least I hope so!

Erin

Green Dragon · Guru

I did a trip similar to that, but backwards, in 2006... I posted it with pics in the trip reports section. Perhaps it will give you some clues! I did all those things but visit Cork.

Keany · Veteran Member

Thanks GreenDragon,

I think I found your trip report and it was helpful. Am I correct that you based in Ennis, Ballybeg and Killkenny for four days each before heading to Dublin? You really covered a lot of ground.

Based on your trip report, I'm thinking maybe 1 night in Wicklow, 2 nights in Kilkenny, 4 nights in Killarney or Kenmare, 4 nights in Dingle and 2 near Shannon airport. We already went to Inishmore and aren't really that interested in the Cliffs of Moher after seeing Slieve League. We've also seen Dublin, so we are anxious to get out and into the country.
Your thoughts?

Thanks,
Erin

Green Dragon · Guru

I think that's a great plan. We stayed in Ennis, Rathmore (near Killarney), Kilkenny and then Dublin. I could have skipped the Dublin portion, but my companions had never been. :)

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

That sounds like a very nice relaxed plan for your trip to Ireland. Since you are not interested in the Cliffs of Moher, I recommend the lesser known Loop Head. It really is a lovely area.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

I forgot to include Cork; we wanted to spent a little time around there. How would you fit that in?

I also am concerned that we might be moving to places that are too close together. For instance, we want to see Glendalough and Wicklow Mts, so should we just add a day to Kilkenny and visits on the way there instead of staying in Wicklow? On the other hand, I don't want to do much driving the first day.

Michele, I sent you a check for your book, so hopefully it will arrive soon. Then I can start figuring out the B&Bs. I'm sure I will post again with questions about that; I already have a few I am thinking about, but don't want to inquire until I get the dates set.

I wil also make a note of Loop Head.

Erin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

If you want to see Co. Cork then you will have to pull a day or two from some other areas such as Dingle and Killarney/Kenmare. You could easily remove a day from each and have two days for Cork. Since on your first day in the country you will be heading south to Wicklow, I suggest overnighting near Glendalough. You don't want to drive too far on your first day.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

Thanks Michele,

This is the latest schedule, but its not set in stone yet.

May 24th: arrive in Dublin, pick up rental car and drive to Wicklow or Glendalough for night. Any suggestions for BBs?
May 25th: drive to Kilkenny, stay there one night.
May 26-27: Cork area 2 nights- not sure where
May 28-30: Kenmare or Killarney 3 nights
May 31-June 3: Four nights in Dingle, Annette has room at the Shores
June 4-5: 2 nights near Shannon, Not sure whether Bunratty or Ennis

I was thinking of skipping Wicklow and driving to Kilkenny the first day, but I'm concerned it might be too far. Plus, besides the Castle, I'm not too sure what else we would want to see there.

Please feel free to comment. We know we definitely want to golf one day in Dingle, and perhaps another 1-2 days somewhere else. You gave me some golf websites on another thread. Thanks - my husband loved them!

One more question for now - does anyone have any suggestions for the smallest car that can accomodate two sets of golf clubs in the trunk?

Thanks again,

Lots to plan, but we are already counting down the days.

Erin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

To to my Lodgings page for B&B suggestions. Much as I like Dingle I think four nights is too much. Take one of those nights and add it to Kilkenny. There is much to see and do in the Kilkenny vicinity. I have a whole chapter about it in my book.

Most people like Kinsale in Co. Cork. Now if you really want a splurge golf at Old Head. It is spectacular but $$$$$$$$$$$$!

Can't help with the car as I don't know how big your clubs are. I suggest you call a few companies to inquire.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

Michele,

I was worried that perhaps 4 nights in Dingle might be too much. It just sounds so lovely, but then again, so are lots of places in Ireland.

After reading trip reports, it sounds like people are seeing lots of sights in one day with the longer days. My last trip was in September / October, so the days weren't so long.

Now I am thinking along these lines:

Wicklow area: 1 night -
Kilkenny: 2 nights -
Cork or Kinsale: 2 nights
Kenmare or Killarney: 3 nights
Dingle: 3 nights
Shannon area: 2 nights

My husband is excited about the golf, but not the splurge. I think we may visit Old Head and get a hat - that's about all we want to splurge.

I sent you a check for your book. I hope you received it by now. I'm looking forward to seeing your lodging recommendations.

Thanks again for all your help.

Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Erin,

I would definitely recommend Kinsale over Cork. I get confused just navigating Cork's streets, too many one ways and bridge crossing for this arizona desert gal, I suppose.

From Kilkenny to Kinsale, you could detour a bit and visit Cobh. You might even consider two nights in Dingle and then moving on to two nights in Galway and then spend your last night at Bunratty.

Just food for thought. Glad to see that you are giving Kilkenny it's due. It is a wonderful town and the surrounding area has many historical references. I am sad that I will miss it this year but I have Donegal to fill up my eye instead.

Slan Beo, Bit

Keany · Veteran Member

Bit,

Thanks for the suggestions. Cobh is on my list. Maternal great-grandparents come from Cork, but unfortunately, I don't know any more than that. Geneological research on that line has come to an end. But I want to just see Cork and my husband is interested in the Michael Collins connection.

We've been to Galway, so don't plan on going there again this trip.It wasn't our cup of tea, although we loved Salthill.

Right now I think we will spend two nights in Bunratty or is that too much? We want a more relaxing trip than we did last time.

Now that I have the plan of what towns we will stay in, I have to start planning what B&Bs to stay in. The only thing set is the Shores. I'd love to hear recommendations for Wicklow area, Kilkenny, Kinsale and/or Kenmare. We don't want to spend more than about 40 Euro per person per night.

You will love Donegal. Its my husband's favorite place. Its so wild and beautiful and way off the tourist path. We hope for a return trip staying at least a week there. Ahh, more dreaming....And I haven't even finished planning this trip!

Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Erin,

One of my favorite places to stay in Kilkenny is outside of town. Lawcus Farms Guesthouse might be out of your price range though, as I know they were raising their prices. Closer to City Centre, Fanad House might suit you well. Alcantra would be another good choice. Its about a ten minute walk to city centre.

Two days in Bunratty works well. If you get a chance, explore the Loop head peninsula. You will find an amazing landscape unvisited by a lot of tourists. I would suggest Parkhouse B&B for something in your price range. If you want a splurge, my favorite is Bunratty Lodge.

In Kinsale, Danabel's would possibly be in your budget range. If you choose Danabel, try to get a room on the backside of the house, as these have the harbour views.

If you need any help in tearing down the genealogy wall, drop me a note. I have had some fair success with making finds for others.

Slan Beo,

Bit

Keany · Veteran Member

Bit,

Thanks for the suggestions. Lawcus Farms looks awesome. I'm going to inquire about their prices. I'm also considering Alcantra and will look into Fanad House and Danabel's.

I've sent an inquiry to Bunratty Lodge. Even though we are only staying 2 nights, I am hoping we can get in on the special offered for 3 day stays. I've heard that some places are actually lowering prices to lure tourists.

Thanks for the geneology offer. My mother's family has all passed on so there are no more leads for me. I have a couple of names, but they are so common to be of no help whatsoever. (Reilly, Connors, and Murphy) I also don't have the name of a town so I think it is a dead end. What do you think?

I did lots of research to find out about my paternal grandmother, born in Leitrim. I was able to trace that line back quite far. I also got my Irish citizen and passport out of it. I love doing the geneology - its like a puzzle, but unfortunately, it takes lots of time, which I don't always have.

You must be counting the days until your trip. I'm only at the weeks stage.

Thanks again,
Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Erin,

Counting down the days, indeed! I am anxious to be over there. It will be a shoe-string trip but I will be in Ireland where the air, the beauty and the magic are all free. biggrin I have been finding, as I book, that the B&B rates have been in the $45 - 60 range. It may be the areas in which I am staying. Tis okay, I will give up a meal here and there, which isn't a sacrifice given the size of the breakfasts served.

Lawcus Farms might be a splurge but well worth it. There are many stories to be heard in those walls. If you book in there, I hope that you are put in the Stone room. That is hands down my favorite room there.

As to the genealogy, if you send me what you have, I will see what I can come up with for you. A friend recently was complaining that he had hit a dead end and that there was no hope of finding anything more. Four hours later, I had taken him back another generation. I won't promise the same results but I do promise teh same efforts.

I must have passed through and stopped in Keady, where my Gran's roots are, a dozen times prior to knowing that was where her family originated. It will be different this time,because I know that there is a family connection. I am hoping to find my Great-great grandfather's name in the Flax mill rosters which are archived there. If the relatives are able, I will also visit the family holdings.

Another Lodging suggestion, in Dingle, is Blooming Wildflower Cottage. It sets right on the Harbour and is at town centre.

Slan Beo,

Bit

Keany · Veteran Member

Bit,

We are booked at the Shores for Dingle area. But I will put the Blooming Wildflower Cottage on my list for future trips.

We are going on a shoestring also, but like you, will sacrifice a meal or two. We just could not pass up the airfare. So I tell myself that we already saved money there, so what's a splurge or two. I've written to Lawcus and we'll see what they say about the rates.

I'm not familiar with Keady. I hope you find your great great grandfather's name and visit the family holdings. Isn't it funny how you feel about a place you had never been and knew nothing about. I guess that's just Ireland.

We visited Glenfarne three years ago - this is where my grandmother was born and lived until she was a teenager. I really felt a connection to the place, even though I never knew her. Unfortunately, we were on our first green blur tour and did not stay very long. Since then I have found out more information about her and relatives that still may be there. We wanted to return this time, but concentrating on the south gives me another excuse to go back! Which we will someday.

I appreciate the offer about geneology. I don't have much but will send you what I have. Shall I send it through your profile? I don't want to bore others with my family history!

Thanks again,
Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Erin,

You can send me the info via private message. just click on my Forum name and it will take you to the right area to send me a private message.

Slan Beo, Bit

Keany · Veteran Member

Bit,

That is awfully nice of you! I will gather what little infomration I have and send you a note.

I also have another question [will they ever end??] This time about car rental.

I tried Kemwel and I am confused about their basic versus inclusive. As I read it, inclusive includes CDW and basic does not. Why I am uncertain is that there inclusive price is so much higher than other companies', which I think are including CDW. Perhaps Kemwel's inclusive price is the super CDW?? We are looking for a compact with manual transmission. Kemwell quoted over $600 for their inclusive package for a two week rental. Ouch!

Many thanks

Erin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

You are correct. With Kemwel basic does not include CDW. It is for those using their credit card insurance coverage. Inclusive includes CDW. However, Super CDW is extra per day.

That does seem like a high quote. I got a quote for $494 for 26 days. Try clearing the cookies and cache from your computer. Those booking engines are very smart and may be picking up on other quotes you received before.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

Michele,

After searching for quotes, cleaning the cookies and caches on two different computers, I have finally given up!

I called Kemwel and got a price of $424 for a manual transmission. That's for 13 days with a Ford Focus type of car. Originally Kemwel said the lowest they woudl go was $594.82 after I called them about an internet price of $698.28. Then I called back and got the better rate. I booked it before it changed the other way.

Have you received my check for your book? I am anxiously awaiting it.

Erin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

Yes, I have received your check. Another glitch at the printers. Something about a broken belt on the equipment. I expect to be sending out the 2009 edition on Friday. Finally! I appreciate your patience...and that of everyone else.

Gettilng rates on cars is like getting airfares. They change moment by moment. I am glad you finally got one you liked.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

Michele,

Have you any recommendations for the Wicklow area? I've got an inquiry to Riversdale, which looks really nice and has availablity. But I would like to check some others before I do so.

Thanks,
Erin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Erin,

Riversdale is extremely nice. It is my favorite in Glendalough. A little farther out is Wicklow Way Lodge. However, it is not really near much. Way out in the country and up a mountain. But wonderful views. Depends on how close you want to be to a town.

Michele

Keany · Veteran Member

Thanks Michele,

I had seen Riversdale and Wicklow Way Lodge on your website. We like that Riversdale is on the mountain and we are only staying one day, so we will make our reservations there.

Thanks for your help.

Erin

Keany · Veteran Member

Bit,

I contacted Lawcus, mentioned your name, got the Stone Room and a 10% discount!

Thanks so much.

Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Excellent, Erin!

You will not be disappointed. Hopefully you will rise early enough to take a walk along the King River. It is a beautiful way to start the morning. Mark & Annamarie should be able to tell you of any vegetarian places in Kilkenny.

Give them my best, though it has been a few years since I have been there.

Slan Beo, Bit

Keany · Veteran Member

Thinking of a small change in our plans.

Instead of 3 days in Kenmare, what about dropping a day to stay one day in Portmagee? We hope to take the boat to Skellig Islands. We know it is weather dependent, but we would love to see it and the puffins.

Has anyone done this? I'm thinking that 3 days in Kenmare might be too many. Or is it better to just stay in Kenmare and travel early to Portmagee for the boat?

Bit - the walk seems lovely. My husband loves to rise early for anything to do with nature.

Wish we had more time to fit in everything we want to do!

Erin

CowboyCraic · Guru

Erin,

You are just discovering the one of the secrets of Ireland's magic. You could be there a year and still not feel like you have enough time to see everything.

The Skellig trip is so weather dependent. I would hate for you to overnight in Portmagee and then have there be no boat.

There are Puffins to be found on the Blaskets, as well. You could very well see them there whilst on Dingle. They offer Boat tours to the Blaskets. You will also find Cormorants there, alongs with several Gull species and Kittiwakes.

Three days in Kenmare is just about right. It allows you one day to explore Killarney National Park and its environs. You could also use part of a day to explore Glen Inchaquin Park.

Cáisc shona duit (Happy Easter), Bit