My husband and I are excited to make our first trip to Ireland this October. After going through many forums and reading a variety of itineraries, I'd like to get some thoughts to see if what we have planned is feasible. We're in our early 30's, both photographers, and interested in castles and ancient history more than scenic drives. We would like to stay in a castle at least one night, and Ashford and Dromoland are unfortunately out of our price range.
Any thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Day 1: Arrive in Shannon, drive up to Cong, stop and see some castles along the way. Our flight gets in at 7am, and we don't want to plan too much in case we have jetlag. Stay in Cong.
Day 2: visit Ashford Castle. We'll both be doing hawk walks and afterwards (or before) walk the grounds. Should we stay in Cong or drive to Doolin?
Day 3: Doolin, see the Cliffs of Moher, and visit the Burren along the way. Stay in Doolin.
Day 4: Aran Islands
Day 5: drive to Dingle, see the peninsula. Stay in Ballyseede Castle in Tralee.
Day 6: Killarney National Park (?) and Ross Castle. Stay in Bunratty.
Welcome to my forum. I think that your itinerary is doable. However, I suggest you stay in Cong for your first two nights. That will give you time for all you want to do. There are also cruises on Lough Corrib from Ashford Castle. Connemara is on Cong's doorstep. Plenty to fill your two days besides the activities you already have planned.
Day 1: Arrive in Shannon, drive up to Cong, stop and see some castles along the way. Our flight gets in at 7am, and we don't want to plan too much in case we have jetlag. Stay in Cong. * Fine
Day 2: visit Ashford Castle. We'll both be doing hawk walks and afterwards (or before) walk the grounds. Should we stay in Cong or drive to Doolin? * Cong.
Day 3: Doolin, see the Cliffs of Moher, and visit the Burren along the way. Stay in Doolin. * Fine.
Day 4: Aran Islands * Fine.
Day 5: drive to Dingle, see the peninsula. Stay in Ballyseede Castle in Tralee. * Long day but it can be done. Get an early start. You can take the Shannon Ferry across the river if you like.
Day 6: Killarney National Park (?) and Ross Castle. Stay in Bunratty. * Fine. Bunratty Castle is very good too.