Blooming Flowers/Trees in the West and SW: Are they spectacular in late May?

radar · Member

Blooming Flowers/Trees in the West and SW: Are they spectacular in late May?

Shawn · Senior Member

Isn't May the time of year when the Burren's normal rocky landscape is covered in flowers in full bloom? Anybody???

shawn

CowboyCraic · Guru

If you are looking for flora and fauna in full bloom, I would have to vote for May. The scenery is breathtaking no matter what month you go but the flowers are best in late April and the month of May. If you are looking to stay on the west coast, Dingle, Clifden, Kenmare, I would recommend flying into Shannon and booking two nights in each, Dingle & Kenmare, and 3 nights in Clifden. This will leave you two nights at the end to stay in the Shannon region, which will give you two days to explore the Cliffs of Moher, the Shannon Estuary and/or Bunratty and put you in close proximity to the airport for your departure. the Arans are exceptionally pretty in May. If you take a Cliffs of Moher cruise during May, you will be surprised how many wildflowers are blooming within the crevices of the cliff face. Clifden is the heart of the Connemaras, which is bursting with blooms during April and May. Of course the flowering will depend on the rains they receive during the winter season, as they had quite a dry & hot summer season this year. From Kenmare, you can visit the Irish National Park in Killarney, which will also be bursting, and the Ring of Kerry will be spectacular, as well. You will only have to venture far off the beaten path by choice.

Also a major benefit when traveling in May is that it will be less crowded as the high season runs through July, August and into September. The roads will be easier to navigate and the cost of accommodations will be cheaper, as well as easier to find. All of the attractions are open, as well.

I hope that this helps you out in your decision and hasn't made it more difficult. No matter when you go, purchase Michele's book for reference and keep asking questions here. Ireland is beautiful and welcoming no matter when you choose to visit.

Slan Agus Beannacht,

Bit Devine

Cowboy Craic

stewh · Guru

I have found that May is the perfect time to visit the West of Ireland. Pretty well everything is open but the Summer crowds are not yet in evidence. Kenmare is an almost perfect town. When we were there a few years ago we visited the beautiful (and large) Derreen Gardens a few miles away. The rhododendrons in May are spectacular. You can easily spend a few hours; don't rush. http://www.irishgardentours.net/derreen/index.html

stewh

radar · Member

Thanks for the thoughtful replies. Looks like we'll hold out for a May trip, most likely in '08.

Dave

wojazz3 · Guru

May is also MUCH less crowded than August. August is one of the peak tourism months for Europe.

Bill

Melissa5 · Guru

radar, we sure enjoyed the flowers on the unique Burren area in July, and I'm pretty sure May is even better for flowers. However I suggest you research a bit more so that you can choose the place and time that suits you best. Being married to a biologist, I can tell you that Ireland isn't exactly the place to go if you are really into trees! However the Burren area is unique...if you read up on it you will see what I mean. We all enjoyed spending time on the Burren.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Radar,

I will add my vote for May. My favorite time of year to visit Ireland. There are many wonderful gardens to visit all over the place. Once you get your itinerary in place I will be happy to recommend some to you. One not to miss in May is Muckross Gardens where the rhododendrons are as big as houses! Truly spectacular.

Michele