Castlegregory, Dingle to Doolin

Laoghaire · Senior Member

Castlegregory, Dingle to Doolin

Michele Erdvig · Host

Helen,

That would be a pretty long driving day but is doable. There are certainly plenty of stops on the way to Loop Head. In Kilkee are cliff walks and a nice beach. On the main road from Kilkee to Loop Head are many stops where you could go hiking (if you are interested in that) or stop for photos. You will want to make a stop at the Bridges of Ross. The path to the left takes you to a natural sea arch that you can walk across. I don't like heights but even I was able to do that one.

Once at Loop Head you can park and walk around the whole headland and lighthouse. It would be a great place for a picnic if you get good weather. The headland is very grassy and if you have a blanket to spread out it would be perfect. If traveling with little ones, be careful as (unlike the Cliffs of Moher) there are no railings. It is very uncommercial. With the many stops the drive will take the better part of the day.

I haven't done the boat ride along the Cliffs of Moher. The feedback I have heard is mixed. Some people loved it and others didn't. Personally, I think the very different view of the cliffs would be interesting if it was a nice day.

I have not stayed at Ballyvara House and when I stopped by for a look the hired help refused to show me around. I will try again next time and hope that the owners are home. Cullinan's is very nice and O'Connor's Farmhouse is good (some of their rooms are huge).

Michele

Laoghaire · Senior Member

Hi Michele

Thanks for the info. My original plan was to do "one nighters" at Kilrush and Ballyvaughn, with Loop Head and the Cliffs in between. But am trying to spend at least two to three nights in each area. One really needs a month or more to do Ireland justice, wish it weren't so expensive! We started our Ireland trips in 1991, and am sure you remember the wonderful prices then, as we do. Wow, what a difference.

I shall look into O'Connor's Farmhouse, we do like the big rooms, even though there are just two of us now. We do so much during the day, it is nice to relax in a room with a sitting area.

Again, thank you , your website is the best!

Helen

Michele Erdvig · Host

Helen,

I agree that if you can get a two-night stay in one place it makes for a better trip. If you get an early start with the day you can certainly do it all and end in Doolin for the night. You may want to let the weather determine it. I also like staying in Ballyvaughan.

I am going to date myself, but when I first visited Ireland B&B was 1.50 pounds. A pint of Guinness was 18 pence. Now those were the good old days! Of course there were no en suites back then.

Let me know if I can help with anything else.

Michele