Hi Michele, We have been looking for a place lo stay first and last nights in Ireland. We are, thankfully, flying into and out of Shannon. I have no inclination or intention of driving very far on these days. We've stayed in various spots, some better than others, on previous trips. I know you have excellent recommendations around Bunratty but I think we prefer something a bit less touristed. My choices in Ennis, The Old Ground or The Temple Gate don't seem to have very good deals this Spring. I came upon a little place in Quin that looks interesting The Abbey Tavern , looks like a good restaurant with accommodation and a pub. Does anyone have any knowledge about the place? I do remember driving past it a few years ago.
Tourists have been pretty thin around Bunratty lately because of all the flight cuts into Shannon. But Quin is a lovely village. The Abbey Tavern is right across from Quin Abbey but I have not seen the rooms. They look good on the website though. Perhaps you should send them an email to find out if they will have any sessions or events on your first night. You wouldn't want to be kept awake.
Just outside of Ennis is the Lakeside Country Lodge which I liked very much. They are about 5 minutes from town and have a beautiful view over Killone Lake and Abbey. If I go that way in March, I'll certainly stay there.
Nice to hear from you again! I got some news about you from Annette at The Shores last fall. I believe you were going to be staying there after I was there.
So you are back to Ireland again in March. What number visit will this make? Bill, you will have to do your own Ireland website soon.
thanks Bill for the suggestion. The Lakeside is very appealing but this year I am giving the Abbey Tavern a try, I have already booked. We leave Toronto just before midnite and arrive in Shannon at about 2:00 PM after a stop in Dublin. I want to do the short drive, park the car, have a bit of a rest then dinner and pub. I'll be ready in the morning to drive to Kenmare. Stewart
Not the best weather for Healy Pass. Looks like they did the pass then turned around and did it again the other way. Gluttons for punishment. And they didn't even stop at Josie's for tea and scones!!!