Trip to Ireland May 2013

careed · Newbie

Trip to Ireland May 2013

Wellsley · Guru

Hi careed, welcome

I'm sure you can. Why don't you make a list of your must see's and then maybe someone will know of a place that will fit the bill.

Frank

careed · Newbie

Thanks Frank, I guess I am leaning towards the south west area of Ireland. I really like the area around the Ring of Kerry. I am looking for hiking areas and quaint villages to puruse. I would love to include at least one castle and ruins of castles and elaborate gardens. From what I have read, they say Ireland is quite small but after traveling in England even though an area may be small traveling around can be quite different and take a lot more time than we are used to the US. From some of the tours I see advertised it seems like you do a lot of driving from place to place. I am looking for more time sightseeing and exploring than driving around. I look forward to suggestions.

tony2phones · Guru

Consider a week self catering in or around Kenmare, This gives access to the Beara and Iveragh Peninsula's which have lots of options for walking, sightseeing and villages. Use the other 3 days touring between your airports and there.

Wellsley · Guru

Hey Tony is that you on the tractor in your avitar.

careed,

Ross Castle in Killarney is nice with beautiful views of the lake and mountains. There is also alot to see and do in that area. Muckross gardens are also nice. Not sure of any castle ruins near killarney. I have not been to Kenmare but have heard nothing but good things about it. And it does make for a central location.

Frank

tony2phones · Guru

Irish Mobility Scooter, just borrow it of one of the neighbours when stuff needs moving.

Judy · Guru

Hi careed,

You didnt mention how many are in your group. If you want to stay in one place for your base I would recommend Killarney. You could rent a self catering house for 7 days and be centrally located for all the sightseeing on your list.

Here is what I would do with the 7 days in Killarney, in no special order.

1. Tour around Killarney, Muckross House and Gardens, Muckross traditional farms and Ross Castle.

2. Day tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

3. Day tour of the Dingle Peninsula with trip over Connor Pass.

4. Day tour of Berra Peninsula with trip over Healy Pass.

5. Day trip to Cork (Blarney) or Cobh

6. Day trip around the Ring of Kerry.

7. Open

8. Travel to Ennis with stops in Adare and Bunratty Folk Park (Castle) stay in Ennis for 2 nights.

9. Trip to Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.

10. Flight home??

Keep in mind that self catering houses are normally rented by the week from Saturday to Saturday. We stayed at a lovely house in Killarney for one week last summer. It has 3 bedrooms sleeping 7, great location and I would highly recommend it if it would suit your needs. The cost was about ½ of what we would have paid at a hotel. If there are more than 7 in your group the house is a duplex and you could rent both sides.

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p64508

Judy M.

careed · Newbie

Thanks for all your ideas. You guys are great. I love the house idea and using Killarney as our base. I am getting so excited.

Michele Erdvig · Host

careed,

Either Killarney or Kenmare is a good base for the SW of Ireland. Everyone has given you great ideas for your trip. Let us know if you have any other questions.

Michele