My wife and I are planning our fifth trip to Ireland this May/June. We're both retired (66 and 71 years old) and will be renting a car. During our visit, we'll be staying among other places) in Donegal and Dingle.
Question 1: The distance from Donegal to Dingle is about 280 miles, and using Michelle's rule-of thumb would take about 8 hours. Can someone suggest a convenient and enjoyable small town to stop at for the night on this drive?
Question 2: While we're in Donegal, we plan to visit the Slieve League cliffs. I think I can remember some posts warning people not to drive all the way to the top - rather park in a car park near the bottom and walk. Do I remember correctly?
Question 1: We really like Enis...spent one night there and wished we could have stayed longer. Not sure without looking at the map if it is the mid-point between the 2...but nonetheless it has a lot going for it. I think Tony might chime in and let you know all the details about Enis and surrounding area!
Question 2: The road up to the top was slightly better this past fall than in 08. I chickened out in 08 and walked up, but wished that I had driven after I saw the road. It looks worse from below than it really is. Just take it slow, esp at the curves in case another car is coming down...be prepared to stop or veer left....not a good time to be confused about which side of the road to be on! I say absolutely go for it!
I think the halfway point between Dingle and Donegal town might be Galway but it is not a small town. That would put you a bit farther north of Ennis, which is a much smaller town.
They have improved the road up to Slieve League recently. As Dan suggested, drive up, unless you are into hiking. Just be sure to close the gates after you.
There is a whole lump of (some of the best of) Ireland between Donegal and Dingle. It depends what you want to see/do on the way. Straight down the N17 past Sligo. Knock through the inevitable road works near Tuam and then Galway maybe go a little past and overnight in Kinvara on the coast..That way you can at least see some of the coast and Burren before left turn at Ennistymon, back onto the M18 under the Shannon tunnel and on to your destination. Ennis would be a good stop if you just want to stay more or less direct. Or even Gort before you hit the M18, The Lady Gregory is a decent enough Hotel.
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Two rules for Ireland, Take your time & bring a sense of humour
We were in Donegal last October and drove to upper car park at Slieve League with no problems at all. Not too many people were there so we never met a car coming the other direction - not sure how that would have played out. However you get up there make sure you do. The view is spectacular!
Also - I've stayed in Kinvarra a few times and find it to be a charming town. I think that would be a great mid point for your trip
Last time I was in Kinvara we stayed in Fallons B&B which was a great find. The rooms were really nice and Maura Fallon could not have been nicer. Might be worth looking into