First Dream Trip to Ireland in August 2014

tampacb · Veteran Member

First Dream Trip to Ireland in August 2014

tony2phones · Guru

Hi, Welcome.. so basically 7 days to fit in Galway, one of the Arans, Cliffs of Moher north of SNN and Dingle and Inveragh (ring of Kerry) south of the Shannon before heading to Dublin.

Possibly start by driving up to Galway. 1 1/2 hours north on good roads to introduce yourselves to Irish driving. 2 nights Galway before dropping down past the Cliffs and Doolin with 1 night somewhere from Ennis to Adare (inclusive).

Cross the Shannon and drive round Dingle to Killarney or Kenmare, 2 nights for Inveragh and Kerry national Park maybe cycle the Gap of Dunloe.

That leaves 2 days before you need to be in Dublin? or just fit one night between, Maybe Kilkenny?

tampacb · Veteran Member

Thanks, you have given me some things to read about. I'm looking at each of these cities in Michele's book, places to see and to stay. I'm also googling facts about each city and searching the forum. This will hopefully help me decide on an itinerary.
I like the idea of first heading to Galaway. I am looking for an awesome castle experience one night while on our and also a real farm experience one night...I Know there are several .what are your favorites that I can research.
Also, what are some experiences and places that should not be missed by my sons.
thanks

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

What kind of things are the boys interested in? What is your budget for a Castle stay?

Some possibilities/options for Farmhouse B&B stays: http://www.irishfarmhouses.com/

tampacb · Veteran Member

The boys like to bicycle, play sports ( hockey, football, soccer in the states)read books, fish,and especially visit breweries, pubs, music, make beer and have fun with the locals.
I of course, like small towns, cafes, local grocery stores, farms, vegetable gardens, animals, lace, woolens, and the pub experiences...my husband likes it all.
I know the castle stay is pricey. I think Michele's book said up to maybe $200 per person per night, That will be our splurge, I don't want the five star just for a luxurious bedroom and dinner, I want to choose the one best for our experience in just the right city- If there was a medieval feel with dinner buffet festivities, music, etc that would be awesome. I saw that some have specials if you stay two nights perhaps. We can plan our itinerary around places like this.

tampacb · Veteran Member

I see Michele recommended Dromoland to someone in the past...I will check that one out. I have time to explore all of your suggestions....

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

Michele's complete Castle Hotel list is here: http://www.irelandyes.com/castles.html

markan · Senior Member

One castle hotel not on that list that is worth considering is Kinnitty in Co. Offaly.

www.kinnittycastlehotel.com/index.html

I've stayed here with my wife 4 different times over the years and as recently as 2012 and we've always enjoyed it. If you can be there on a Friday or Saturday night all the better as they open up the Dungeon Bar which is really cool and usually have live entertainment going. Your sons would probably enjoy this place as it's got a very medieval feel to it, is reputedly haunted (I never detected anything myself - I just thinks is an old castle with strange noises), and is more laid back than other castles like Dromoland, Ashford, and Glin. My wife and I have always enjoyed relaxing/drinking in the Library bar and/or Dungeon Bar (when open). Often times on a weekend some local farmers will come in here to hang out in the castle pubs and can be a lot of fun to meet and talk to. There's also a couple of nice pubs down the street in the village of Kinnitty.

The on negative is that it's a bit out of the way in the middle of the country and would probably serve best as a place to stop for a night on the way to Dublin.

tony2phones · Guru

If you are aiming to see Cahir and Cashel on the way back to Dublin then a castle that won't break the budget http://www.tipp.ie/butlerca.htm another option close to Dromoland but non castle a few miles outside Ennis would be http://www.newparkhouse.com/ to splash out a little (lot for me) http://www.sheenfallslodge.ie/

For the 1st night if you want to be just outside Galway and by Spiddal (where I normally recommend Tua Beag) for a semi farm and thatch fix http://www.thatchcottage.com/ Think Michele likes that one..

Michele Erdvig · Host

A word of caution about renting a van and declining insurance. Your MasterCard probably only covers a certain amount and may exclude certain vehicles. If the van you are renting costs more than about $30,000 to replace if in an accident you may have to purchase insurance. Check on that carefully. Also, if you have more than a small amount of luggage you may want to consider getting a larger van.

tampacb · Veteran Member

Thanks Michele,
I will review your renting a vehicle section thoroughly before getting any quotes, and I know the CDW insurance isn't all I'll need, it's just an extra and free to me from world MasterCard. I wondered if the 6 person van would be large enough for us, I read they can sometimes be very small.

The Kinnity castle hotel sounds like so much fun , but they are booked the entire time we are there. Trying to decide which castle experience in which city to choose... In 1 city bike riding, in 1 a castle, in 1 a pub crawl, in 1 a farm stay...like that maybe...and fill in all the details with adventures in and around the main attraction.

I'm thinking about having you plan the itinerary for us Michele, it sounds like a great deal, but I first want to read all about everyones experiences and suggestions to learn which places interest us the most.

tampacb · Veteran Member

We will be driving, the five of us, for 7 days. Our three sons are six feet tall. Which van types might you recommend?
I was going to quote with Dan Dooley and Avis ( Michele you just used Avis I believe). Any other companies I should inquire about?
I'm reading your book Michele and loving it.
I emailed the New Park House for information and availability as well.
Thanks
Cindi

Michele Erdvig · Host

Check on Ballyseede Castle near Tralee. It is more mid-range in price. If you are up for a splurge try Dromoland or Ashford. BTW, I really liked Kilronan Castle but it is not in your line of travel.

Once you purchase insurance through the car rental company it negates the MasterCard insurance. Read the fine print.

I will let Bob recommend a van for you since he has rented them. I stick with a small car for myself and my husband.

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

For two rentals last year, I booked directly through Hertz. In the past, I have also used Dooley and Budget.

Assuming that either you and/or your husband are also tall, with three, six-foot tall boys (and luggage) a six-seat van might feel a bit cramped. It would depend upon the vehicle on offer, though. The TYPICAL six seater (a Ford Galaxy, Renault Grand Scenic or Opel Zafira) has two front seats, a bench-style center seat that (arguably) holds three and two rear seats -- that 'fold up' out of the floor of the cargo area. They are a bit difficult to get in and out of.

We had a Ford Galaxy in June and our six foot + SIL occupied BOTH rear seats and still found that less than ideal. Even then, THAT only worked as we were Self-Catering -- since we only needed to co-habit with the luggage on arrival and departure days. For the type of touring that you are planning, I would think that a NINE passenger van would be needed -- unless you are of the 'strictly carry-on luggage' type of travelers . . .

MY World Master Card limits me to NO more than $50,000 worth of vehicle -- roughly 35,000 Euro. In Ireland, the Galaxy is pretty much at the TOP of that threshold (if not OVER). I usually ALSO carry a third party 'Excess' cover, from someone like Questor or Insurance4CarHire as it offers supplimental coverage for things like tires and such, that MasterCard does NOT cover. Some of the Forum members (I',m thinking of murphy) have had success with a company called Easy Tour Ireland for Car Hire, through Hertz. I've never used them, so I have no opinion.

Hope this helps!

tony2phones · Guru

EasytourIreland are a relatively new player and are getting good press on the forums.. The man in charge was with some other US specialist and deals by default with Hertz but seems to negotiate a decent rate for US license holders.

tampacb · Veteran Member

Thanks,
Ballyseede is booked all month with weddings. I have emailed Dromoland and Ashford.

tony2phones · Guru

Ballinahinch would always get my vote over Ashford http://www.ballynahinch-castle.com/connemara-hotel

Michele Erdvig · Host

Try Waterford Castle & Smarmore Castle.

tampacb · Veteran Member

Thanks so much Michele,
I love the Smarmore Castle website and reviews on trip advisor. I'm not so sure about the Italian dinner though, perhaps in town 7 mlies away their would be a good pub to catch a meal and some great music. I have emailed them for availability. They are located in Adare, is that north of Dublin? How far North of Dublin? that might be a last night stop -departing on 8-29 for Dublin...getting closer to making a decision on an itinerary. Once we have the places and cities in mind, I'm letting you plan the full itinerary and maps Michele.

I've been reading some things about the great Irish oysters you shouldn't miss ...where would that be a featured highlight...I'm thinking you may say everywhere.?

-- Edited by tampacb on Friday 31st of January 2014 06:17:38 PM

-- Edited by tampacb on Friday 31st of January 2014 07:08:30 PM

tony2phones · Guru

You will have lots of Oyster options in Galway or just south from Galway Paddy Burkes in Clarinbridge for the best Oysters and general food at good prices.. Or for "foodies" who like parting with cash rather than tasting food Morans on the Weir

tampacb · Veteran Member

Michele,
Have you...or has anyone else reading this heard anything lately about Smarmore Castle. It looks lovely, but I haven't heard back from them and their Facebook page hasn't had any activity that I can see since 11-28-13. There is a reference to them on google about being up for sale?

Tony, I will definitely be checking out Paddy Burkes, that is exactly the kind of place we would love!! Foodies for sure but not looking for fancy with all the kids in tow on this trip.

-- Edited by tampacb on Saturday 1st of February 2014 05:32:48 PM

Michele Erdvig · Host

Smarmore has been for sale for a few years. But half the B&Bs in Ireland are too! In this real estate market it takes a long time for places to sell.

I second Paddy Burke's. A friend of mine who loves raw oysters raved about them there.

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

Many times, in Dec, Jan and Feb, accommodation owners take advantage of the 'Slow' season, in order to enjoy some R&R -- and vacations -- of their own. It's also been my experience that many hosts take the whole 'internet connectivity' with decidedly LESS urgency/enthusiasm than their US counterparts ...

If you need an URGENT response, it is always best to PHONE. I buy a $5 or $10 dollar International Phone Card from Publix for calls to Ireland -- but they are available from LOTS of places. Calls to Ireland cost me about two cents per minute, that way.

murphy · Guru

In regards to rental cars: in 4 trips the Murphys rented Hertz the last 2 times secured thru "Journey Through Ireland". Great to work with. No surprises no hidden costs and can prepay in US dollars with no fees and usually a nice discount. Also hear good reports about another Hertz franchisee Conn at Easy Tour Ireland, a former owner of the Journey Franchise. On the other 2 rentals, we had good luck with AutoEurope, but not so good with National/Europecar/Irishcarrentals

tampacb · Veteran Member

Thanks so much for the rental car info, I'll be tackling that in a few weeks.

For now though, If Smarmore Castle contacts me and has an availability- how far north of Dublin are they and how long to drive into Dublin from there? I probably need to book it when contacted, as the castles I've contacted, other than Ashford, are already all booked. ( The Ashford sounds a little too formal with the dinner jackets etc... I want a more family relaxed atmosphere).
Our Football game at Croke Stadium is on 8/30, so I want to book our accommodations in Dublin ASAP. I was thinking arrive Shannon on 8/23 arrive at the Smarmore, if available on the 28th, and return the van in Dublin on the 29th. Does this sound like a good plan? If so, What would be a good b&b or even hotel in Dublin for the five of us on the 29th and 30th if the above plan sounds good? I think I'll start to plan the 23rd-28th itinerary after the castle and Dublin accommodations are settled.
Thanks, I love this forum and I'm reading more things everyday. I love the thread on Dublin pubs and craft beer, that will make a pub crawl in Dublin an awesome experience!

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

Directions from Ardee to Croke Park: M1: 64.3 km, 47 mins

Smarmore is 4.5 Km South of Ardee.

Driving directions to Croke Park (Per GOOGLE Maps)

This route has tolls. - more info »

Castle Rd

Ardee, Co. Louth, Ireland

	1. Head south
		3.6 km
	2. Turn left toward Kells Road
		2.3 km
	3. Continue straight onto Kells Road
		1.8 km
	4. Continue onto Main Road Collon/R168 Continue to follow R168
		8.6 km
	5. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the M1 ramp to Áth Cliath/Dublin Partial toll road
		800 m
	6. Merge onto M1 Partial toll road
		42.6 km
	7. Exit onto N1 toward An Lár/City Centre/Calafort Átha Cliath/Dublin Port
		4.1 km
	8. Turn left onto Fitzroy Ave.
		400 m
	9. Turn left onto Jones' Road
		20 m
	10. Turn right
		51 m

Croke Park

Jones' Rd

Dublin 3, Ireland

This route takes you past the Airport. Were it ME, I would drop the car (van) THERE and taxi to the hotel.

For Dublin Pub info: http://www.publin.ie/

Which Dublin Hotel would depend upon your taste and Budget. I would suggest something that offers easy access to transport to Croke Park.

tampacb · Veteran Member

As far as taste and budget for Dublin:
The b&b's I've looked at from Shannon- Galaway etc seem to be 35 euro to 40 euro per person. That's comfortable, less or more is acceptable as well depending on location, breakfast, and atmosphere. We are laid back, like cozy comfort. I don't really do the Super 8's in the states, nor do I choose 5 stars either- I'd rather spend the extra money at the pub, or in the town. I'm not sure if a hotel is more or less than a b&b. We will be out and about probably even more in Dublin than anywhere so will only be sleeping at our accommodation and having breakfast if included. I would like to stay two nights at the same place in Dublin. We will be out every moment possible, absorbing the town, the pubs, and the excitement of our Florida fans in town for the Big game.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Hotels generally cost a lot more than B&Bs. Hotels in Dublin during a special event can cost the moon. You need to check on them now since a big game is on. You could try the Croke Park Hotel because it is nearby the event. This page has other suggested hotels nearby: http://crokepark.ie/about/getting-here/accomodation

Croke Park is on the northside of Dublin. If you want to stay city center you will be looking at the Dublin 2 area. From what you told me you probably are looking for a 3 or 4 star hotel.

tampacb · Veteran Member

Any b&b's in the same area Michele?

Wow Michele, you were right about busy event bookings and securing accommodations. Most of the hotels in the link you provided are booked. The Maldron, Smithfield has 2 rooms available for us. One room is called a twin room with a double bed and a single bed, but the maximum occupancy says two adults. We will have three sons 19-25 in that room as I don't want 3 rooms and one son having to be in a room alone. I hope they don't mind. The reservation says there is no cancelation fee if cancelled with a written email within 24 hours of arrival. The price seems kind of high at 1272 euros for both nights for five of us and includes full Irish Breakfast.

I would prefer staying at a B&B- can you recommend any? I'm about to go read your book now for some.

PS- I have emailed Beechwood Country house for availability for the 29,30,31 of August.

thanks

-- Edited by tampacb on Sunday 2nd of February 2014 05:40:51 PM

-- Edited by tampacb on Sunday 2nd of February 2014 05:54:16 PM

Michele Erdvig · Host

I don't have any recommended B&Bs in Dublin City. You could do a search to see what you come up with in that regard. Beechwood in Malahide would be a lot less money but you will have to commute into Dublin for city type sightseeing. There is a DART station in Malahide or you can take the bus.

I had a good experience at the Ashling Hotel near Phoenix Park. LUAS runs right in front of it and the hopper bus is just across the street. It is not "city center" but public transport can whisk you right in.