Too much site seeing?

Bonnie C · Newbie

Too much site seeing?

Geno · Guru

Hi Bonnie:

Welcome to the forum. A few thoughts on your initial itinerary without knowing too much about your group's must-see moments:

Your travel times between locations probably are not realistic, but that is no big deal -- we all do that. I was just over in Ireland, and have been several times, but I can't ever come close to getting to my destination in the time I allow! biggrin

Also I think you are giving perhaps too much time in Dublin, but that is a personal choice. I like seeing the sites there and then getting to a more rural setting for a better feel for the country. Is there a reason you want to stay in Cork? Some wonderful places in West Cork that could be utilized instead of the city, such as Kenmare or Bantry. You could also look into exploring Mizen Head and Beara peninsulas. I would also suggest at the least, a day trip to Dingle and the peninsula there when you are staying in Killarney.

One thing I do like is the multiple night stays in various locations, which some people don't do and then feel rushed moving around all of the time.

Just more to think about as you begin to mold your itinerary. As you get more details in place there are many here that are glad to help and can provide several B&B options that are proven to be good choices.

Best regards,

Geno

-- Edited by Geno on Friday 28th of March 2014 10:13:04 AM

Bonnie C · Newbie

Thank you for tip about drive times, I pulled them from Google maps as I planned the route but had a feeling they weren't very realistic.

The number of days in Dublin at the end of our trip is uncertain at this point, I wanted a cusion in case we decided to spend an extra night somewhere else, but end in Dublin to fly home.

I like your suggestion of not staying in the city of Cork, and will looking into Kenmare or Bantry instead. My dad would like to stay in small towns and be able to soak up local color.

My parents would like the Dingle day trip while in Killarney. My daughter and I were thinking about doing the Gap of Dunloe tour on horseback with a back up plan of Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle.

Great suggestions! Thank you again!
Bonnie

Geno · Guru

If you like flowers and gardens, try to make it to Bantry House -- an amazing place for both the gardens and the tour of the mansion. Click here for more information. It would be remarkable the time of year you are going to be there.

The other things you mention around Killarney are wonderful choices!

Geno

-- Edited by Geno on Friday 28th of March 2014 10:57:49 AM

Michele Erdvig · Host

You have plenty of time for planning your trip. First, I would make sure if your parents are going. From what you told me in your email it seems it might be a differently paced trip if they are along. If they do go with you, perhaps more multiple night stays and cover a little less territory. You might even think about renting a self-catering cottage for part of the time.

Have you looked into Flying into Dublin and out of Shannon (or vice-versa)?

Michele Erdvig · Host

Gorgeous photo Geno!

tony2phones · Guru

Guessing Michele is privy to alternate information... If you consider just 3 bases then Dublin, Galway and Killarney or possibly Kenmare would work to tick the majority of boxes..

I would also suggest Dublin totally at the end or beginning not splitting the 4 days (3 might do?)