East side of Ireland?

Aimer68 · Newbie

East side of Ireland?

Michele Erdvig · Host

Welcome to the forum. What are your interests? Knowing that will help to suggest things to see and do in the east. You didn't say what the "negative" was about Glendalough. Was it perhaps that it was crowded? Weekends can be a zoo there. It is a beautiful site and locals prefer to visit either early in the morning or early evening when the visitor's center is closed. If you have the place to yourself it can be heavenly.

Not far from Glendalough is Powerscourt one of Ireland's most beautifuly situated gardens.

North of Dublin is Newgrange at Bru na Boinne, Hill of Tara and Trim Castle if your interests run to ancient sites.

Aimer68 · Newbie

Michelle - thanks for the quick reply!! We are contemplating Newgrange, as it sounds awesome, just a little concerned with my claustrophobia. The comment on Glendalough was about the volume of people, I believe. It referenced other comments being made. The gardens at Powerscourt sounds great. We like historical stuff like ruins and castles, as well as gardens and hiking along cool trails with interesting views. We do also like our fair share of city stuff, stores and cool artsy places. We plan on the Guiness tour, as well as the brewery tour in Kilkenny.

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

My wife just couldn't make it past the entrance to Newgrange, but she really enjoyed visiting the site.

Other thoughts for the area include the Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones, returning via the DART; the coast drive from Wicklow to Arklow -- with numerous stops to visit the various beaches; a picnic at Powerscourt waterfall and driving the Vale of Avoca via the Meeting of the Waters, into Glendalough.

While at Glendalough, be sure to visit the Upper Lake and possibly hike up along the river to the deserted mining village. Drive the Sally Gap and/or follow the Wicklow Gap into Hollywood and then visit Russborough.

In Kilkenny, climb to the top of the Round Tower for a unique view of the city. Nearby is Kells Priory, Jerpoint Abbey and Kilree (but mind the bullocks!)

Bob

Michele Erdvig · Host

I don't like enclosed spaces either although I did Newgrange. Last time I waited till everyone was inside and then quickly walked down the passageway. It helped that there was no one in front or behind me and I knew I could turn around and go out at any time. However, when I got to the central chamber (which is surprisingly spacious) it was so crowded with people that I left. They should do a claustrophobic tour of Newgrange where they limit the number of people that go into the chamber. That would solve the problem.

If you can overnight near Glendalough you can enjoy it without the crowds. Once the tour buses leave it is a different place,