One Week Eire Journey Information

Driving on the opposite facet of the street on slim, windy streets with three foot excessive stone fences on one facet and sheer cliffs on the opposite, will make you depend your blessings and likewise blurt out truths in a panic. However in truth it is the very best approach to see Eire. We landed in Dublin, Eire with the thought of staying close to the massive metropolis and taking day journeys by bus. However after we met up with pals they usually instructed us of epic adventures driving across the countryside and attending to tour cities not on the principle drag and pet child sheep alongside the way in which, I knew we wanted to take the leap and hire a automotive. I will break down our one week Eire itinerary and hope it will provide help to plan your journey.

After a number of days in beautiful Dublin we hit the street to discover Eire’s castles, countryside, and see among the greenest surroundings I’ve ever seen. A street journey is the easiest way to expertise the rolling inexperienced hills of Eire!

Full Dublin Information right here!

Now, I do know you could be considering that you simply’re terrified to drive on the mistaken, err, left facet of the street. And imagine me it IS scary. However when you understand that it is similar to you usually would drive, simply switched, you may get the dangle of it fairly rapidly. I’d extremely advocate having: 1. a copilot to be careful for passing cattle, automobiles, and when you must make a flip, and a couple of. a navigation system. We used our telephones and I navigated whereas my husband, Michael drove. I reminded him about each 5 minutes to remain on the left and the way turning left means staying on the left whereas turning proper means you must swing vast. Oh and three. snacks. You want snacks in fact. We lived on lunches within the automotive of Irish soda bread (a hearty cake like bread) with cheese, sandwich meat, and loads of nuts and chips. Or because the Irish would say, “crisps.” Since chips are fries.

Okay, sufficient about driving, let’s get into per week lengthy journey information in Eire. I feel that is the proper size of time to actually get to see most of southern Eire. We concentrated our efforts within the south and did not spend an excessive amount of time within the center. If you happen to do have additional time I like to recommend heading to Northern Eire, notably Large’s Causeway and Belfast. However since we had one week, this is what we did:

Every week is a very fantastic period of time to see Eire. Though it is a small nation, there’s actually a lot to see and do. Most guests spend a number of days in Dublin after which concentrate on simply the north or south of Eire. The south is the most well-liked with spots just like the Ring of Kerry, the famed Blarney Stone, and Cork. However there’s tons that you simply’d miss in case you simply noticed the most well-liked spots!

So let’s get into it, the proper week in Eire. 

Day 1: Land in Dublin

We landed late in Dublin and stayed in a beautiful AirBnb. Shockingly, motels and AirBnbs had been dearer right here than I used to be anticipating (we could not discover a place for lower than $120 an evening.) This was the selection for stays all through the journey. Oh, and if you have not but, this is my code for $35 off your subsequent keep!

Day 2: Dublin

We began the time off proper by exploring round Dublin: walked St. Stephen’s Inexperienced, took the Trinity Faculty Tour, and did the Guinness brewery tour. To see my full put up on Dublin take a look at 10 Issues You Should Do in Dublin.

Day 3: Dublin

We hiked to a close-by city, frolicked within the pubs, and even noticed some Celtic music and dancing. We additionally argued over the best way to pronounce Celtic. Is it “kel-tic” or “sell-tic”? This is the factor, Boston celtics- proper (promote wins) however conventional Celtic dancing is Kel-tic. The jury continues to be out.

Do not forget to verify my full information to Dublin right here.

Day 4: Kilkenny, Rock of Cashel, Blarney, and Kinsale

We threw warning to the wind and determined to hire a automotive. Sure it was terrifying. Sure, I assumed for certain we might hit one thing. Sure, I assumed we might get run off the street. However really, it is the easiest way to see the countryside. Michael and I had plans of simply staying round Dublin, however after our pals drove round we knew we needed to see what Eire had in retailer. It was among the prettiest countryside I’ve ever seen, with a lot to see and do. Michael and I actually packed it in as a result of we did not need to miss a factor. So know that this itinerary is jam packed.

Kilkenny Fort

Costume discovered right here.

We drove south and headed to Kilkenny, a small historic city well-known for its citadel and the “medieval mile”. This lengthy stretch of street is filled with historical past together with historical church buildings, historic buildings, and naturally the gorgeous citadel. Once I consider Irish castles, I consider the darkish, grey stone, sitting on lush greens. Kilkenny Fort embodies that. You possibly can take a tour of the citadel, then stroll to see the traditional buildings from the times of yore. I do not say days of yore in on a regular basis life nevertheless it felt Irish to me, so I went with it.

Be sure that to take a look at St. Canice Cathedral– however you may must enter via the facet. The entrance is just for the three B’s: brides, bishops, and burials. You possibly can climb the 140 steps as much as get a very good view of Kilkenny.

Since we had been restricted on time, we made strikes and headed subsequent to Rock of Cashel. We did not have a lot time, so we parked and headed straight for the hanging citadel.

Because the seat of many kings, this 12 century tower sits atop a limestone rock. You possibly can take a free tour as soon as inside and likewise see an excellent view of the countryside.

Subsequent, we hit the tiny, cobblestone street and went to Blarney to see the citadel, kiss the stone and see the attractive gardens. We arrived an hour and 20 minutes earlier than closing and had been instructed that, “you solely have time to run up and kiss the stone and are available down” however since there was NO LINE we had been capable of stroll across the gardens as properly. (You may like: Find out how to Keep away from traces and folks whereas touring)

That is the spot the place you may kiss the Blarney Stone.

Whereas the stone was cool and a should, the gardens round had been so spectacular. The luxurious ferns, brilliant pink flowers, caves, and grazing sheep made me really feel like I used to be within the film Fern Gully.

Costume // Rain Coat // Tights // Footwear

It is onerous to stay to the plan once you’re driving and every part seems to be so beautiful. We stopped after a fast rain bathe to see a double rainbow stretching throughout the sky. This was one in all my favourite facets of the drive. We had the flexibility to simply cease and discover.

Ballymackean, Co. Cork – Hidden Coastal Gem

After Blarney, we made a slight detour that ended up being one of many highlights of our journey. Ballymackean in County Cork is a lesser-known coastal space that gives breathtaking cliff views with out the crowds you may discover at extra well-known spots.

The winding coastal street takes you thru rolling farmland earlier than out of the blue opening as much as dramatic sea cliffs that rival the Cliffs of Moher in magnificence, if not in peak. Park on the small gravel lot close to the cliff edge (it is free, however please be respectful of native residents) and take the well-worn path alongside the cliff edge. The views of the crashing Atlantic waves beneath are completely spectacular, particularly at sundown when the water turns golden.

What makes Ballymackean particular is its pristine, secluded seashore that is accessible through a considerably steep however manageable path down the cliffside. The seashore is a mixture of clean stones and golden sand, with fascinating rock formations and tide swimming pools to discover. We spent a peaceable hour beachcombing and located some lovely shells and sea glass with out one other vacationer in sight.

If you happen to go to Ballymackean, do not miss the charming Diva Bakery within the close by village. This small, family-run institution presents among the finest pastries we had in all of Eire. Their conventional Irish soda bread is outstanding – crusty on the skin and completely moist inside – however the actual star is their signature “Cliff Walker’s Delight,” a hearty scone filled with dried fruits and nuts, topped with native cream. The comfy inside with its mismatched classic furnishings makes for an ideal relaxation cease, and the pleasant homeowners are glad to share native ideas and tales. They’re solely open Wednesday via Sunday, 9am-4pm, so plan accordingly!

The very best half about including Ballymackean to your itinerary is that it is solely a 25-minute drive from Blarney, making it a simple addition to your day. Simply comply with indicators for Ballymackean Bay when you get to the coast. I would advocate allocating not less than 2-3 hours for this detour to completely admire the cliffs, seashore, and bakery.

For dinner, we ventured all the way down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had among the finest seafood dished in my life at a beautiful place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!

We spent the night time simply exterior of Killarney, so we may get up and discover.

For dinner, we ventured all the way down to Kinsale since they’re identified for good seafood. I had among the finest seafood dished in my life at a beautiful place known as Jim Edwards. Extremely advocate!

We spent the night time simply exterior of Killarney, so we may get up and discover.

Day 5: Killarney, Kissane Sheep Canine, Dingle, Tralee

I instructed you: we pack it in. Now, you would unfold this out over a pair days or extra, however we had been restricted on time and actually need to see all of it. So, we did. We wakened brilliant and early and headed to the well-known Ross Fort in Killarney. It is a tower home on the sting of the lake with horses and carts that may take you across the grounds. You possibly can even hop in a ship to see extra across the lake.

We ventured over for a tour of the mansion, the Muckross Home.This totally furnished Victorian residence was so attention-grabbing. I realized issues that basically shocked me: like how ladies used to place beeswax, lead, and arsenic on their face to maintain them pale. Fortunately, I’ve no drawback with that. However the motive why we have now the expression “save face” is as a result of they put up screens to guard their face from the hearth so their face would not soften. If I used to be instructed I wanted to place arsenic on my face to look good I’d simply maintain a tan.

Subsequent we drove via the beautiful Killarney Nationwide park to go to the Kissane Sheep Canine farm. This drive was Michael’s favourite and it was so scenic.

We stopped so I may take footage of sheep on the edges of the street. And scream “child sheep!” I do know it is a lamb. However I like saying child sheep as a result of I am a baby.

My favourite a part of the journey was the Kissane sheep canine farm. An actual, working farm the place they use canine to herd the sheep on the tough mountain terrain. It was unbelievable to observe the canine work.

I am a canine lover and seeing canine attending to do what they love makes my coronary heart soften. These are among the happiest canine on this planet as a result of they’re really serving a function. I HIGHLY advocate visiting a sheep canine farm in case you come to Eire.

Plus I received to carry a pet. So my day was made.

After enjoying with the canine we took a drive and headed to Inch Seaside. This small stretch of land juts proper out to the ocean and has a really vast, onerous, sandy seashore. Individuals had been browsing however we stayed bundled up as a result of the chilly wind was fairly frigid.

Rain Coat // Hat // Sweater // Leggings // Footwear

After the seashore it was time for some ice cream. We headed to the lovable city of Dingle. Right here we received an excellent view of the Atlantic Ocean lined with brightly coloured properties and outlets. We ate ice cream at Kool Scoops. I extremely advocate this store. Murphy’s Ice Cream outlets are in every single place, and whereas scrumptious, it’s kind of overvalued.

Prime discovered right here // hat

Dingle is a small city of solely 1300 residents, but they managed to slot in 52 pubs. It is secure to say it is a good place to discover a drink.

After we had some gas we drove extra of the Dingle Peninsula, a phenomenal, scenic drive. Then stopped for a hike and a greater view of the surroundings.

After our hike we ventured to the city of Tralee the place wee feasted on scrumptious and fast Asian meals at a classy restaurant known as Lana.

Day 6: Ennis, Cliffs of Moher, and Burren Nationwide Park

On our final full day in Eire we knew we needed to enterprise to the famed Cliffs of Moher. We stayed at a quaint AirBnb in Ennis, which was near the cliffs and a straightforward drive. One of many different visitors on the AirBnb gave us a implausible tip for the very talked-about and busy Cliffs of Moher. He instructed us to NOT go to the customer middle, however as an alternative take the flip a few kilometer (half mile) earlier than, simply south of the customer middle. We did as directed and noticed a tiny signal that learn “parking right here for the Cliffs.” We turned down the winding street as instructed. A street so small you needed to honk round corners to warn these approaching the opposite method that you simply had been arising.

However we did as directed and located a quiet home the place we paid simply 2 euro for parking and lots with just a few different automobiles. We made the trek over to the cliffs and located that the rain stopped and we had a transparent day for the cliffs with barely any vacationers round. They had been so majestic and grand. You possibly can simply see why Harry Potter was filmed right here. (In case you are questioning it is quantity 6: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince).

We walked across the cliffs for a number of hours, mesmerized by the birds who weren’t getting blown over by the unbelievable wind. I’ll admit, if it had been wet AND windy I feel I’d have been a bit scared. The wind actually does make you are feeling like you would simply be pushed proper off the cliffs.

On the way in which, we handed the Cliffs of Moher Customer middle and it was jam filled with vacationers and busy with automobiles and buses. I am so glad we averted it and located the small sanctuary away from the crowds. After the cliffs we headed to the close by Burren Nationwide Park. This desolate rocky space is not like another in Eire or around the globe. It feels a sparse panorama in comparison with the luxurious inexperienced typical of Eire. The Burren is made up of of glacial-era limestone and rock formations and you will discover historical relics from the previous right here.

We did a brief hike right here and went to the vacationer workplace close by to be taught a bit extra concerning the park and what it teaches us concerning the previous.

Day 7: Galway and Again House

On our final day we headed to Galway as everybody instructed me to go right here. I’ve to inform you: I wasn’t that impressed. I am satisfied that Galway is the proper cease from the Cliffs of Moher on the way in which again to Dublin. You see, the buses take you from Dublin to the Cliffs and Galway all in in the future. Whereas I used to be instructed there have been some enjoyable pubs and eating places, I felt there have been so many different beautiful cities with a extra vibrant historical past than Galway.

I do know, I do know this is not a well-liked opinion. However to me, you will discover extra quaint European cities than Galway.

After which it was again to Dublin! We stayed at an Airbnb (this gave the impression to be the theme for this journey) and had one final conventional meal of fish and chips.

After my travels via Eire I am satisfied the easiest way to get round is to drive. If you happen to do have a number of extra days or additional time I would recommend heading as much as Northern Eire to see Large’s Causeway and Belfast.

BONUS: If you happen to’re a Recreation of Thrones fan, you then’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present had been filmed in varied areas all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Highway, and the Fort Ward property in County Down, which was remodeled into Winterfell. You possibly can even take a guided tour of a few of these filming areas and relive among the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s gorgeous landscapes and medieval castles made it the proper backdrop for the epic fantasy sequence, and visiting these areas in particular person is a should for any fan.

 Different Routes and Extensions

If you happen to’re planning your individual journey to Eire and have extra flexibility in your schedule, listed below are some options based mostly on our expertise:

1. Cork Extension: If Ballymackean caught your curiosity, think about including an additional day to discover extra of County Cork. The city of Cork itself is vibrant and walkable, with the well-known English Market providing native meals and crafts. From there, coastal villages like Kinsale (talked about above) and Cobh (the final port of name for the Titanic) make for enchanting day journeys.

2. Ring of Kerry: Whereas we did not have time to drive the whole Ring of Kerry, this well-known scenic route must be in your record you probably have an additional day. The total 179km circuit takes you thru rugged coastal landscapes, charming villages, and historic websites. Simply bear in mind that it will get very busy in summer season months, and the slim roads might be difficult for nervous drivers.

3. Killarney Nationwide Park Deep Dive: We solely scratched the floor of what Killarney Nationwide Park has to supply. With extra time, you would spend a full day right here mountaineering via historical oak forests, boating on the lakes, or biking via the park’s intensive community of trails.

4. Climate Contingency: Irish climate is notoriously unpredictable. When planning, construct in some flexibility for indoor actions on wet days. Most cities have glorious museums, distilleries, or craft workshops that may save a day when the climate turns.

BONUS: If you happen to’re a Recreation of Thrones fan, you then’re in for a deal with in Eire. Many iconic scenes from the present had been filmed in varied areas all through the nation, together with the Darkish Hedges in County Antrim, which was used because the King’s Highway, and the Fort Ward property in County Down, which was remodeled into Winterfell. You possibly can even take a guided tour of a few of these filming areas and relive among the present’s most memorable moments. Eire’s gorgeous landscapes and medieval castles made it the proper backdrop for the epic fantasy sequence, and visiting these areas in particular person is a should for any fan.

Sensible Ideas for Your Eire Journey

Listed below are some further sensible ideas based mostly on what we realized throughout our journey:

1. SIM Playing cards: Getting an area SIM card with knowledge is crucial in case you’re driving. We picked up a pay as you go Vodafone SIM on the Dublin airport for €20 that included 20GB of knowledge and was legitimate for 28 days. This was invaluable for navigation, particularly on rural roads.

2. Driving Ideas: Apart from staying left, do not forget that most rental automobiles in Eire are guide transmission. If you happen to want an computerized, e-book properly upfront and count on to pay extra. Additionally, many rural fuel stations shut early, so replenish when you possibly can.

3. Climate Preparation: Even in summer season, Eire’s climate can change quickly. Pack layers, a very good waterproof jacket, and waterproof footwear in case you plan to do any mountaineering or seashore strolling.

4. Money vs. Card: Whereas most locations settle for bank cards, some smaller institutions in rural areas (together with that fantastic Diva Bakery in Ballymackean) are cash-only. Maintain some euros readily available for these conditions.

5. Timing Your Visits: Common sights just like the Cliffs of Moher are finest visited early morning or late afternoon to keep away from tour bus crowds. The identical applies to well-known castles – arriving inside an hour of opening or closing usually means having the place virtually to your self.

Eire is an unbelievable nation stuffed with tradition, magnificence, and enjoyable. We met so many vacationers touring from America studying about their heritage and discovering that the nation will not be solely unfold with historical past of the previous, however monuments from prehistoric instances. I assumed that Eire could be wealthy with inexperienced grass and epic cliffs, nevertheless it’s a lot greater than that. The dramatic variations between the bustling cities and dreamy countryside makes for an epic expertise. Whether or not you are into consuming and singing in a thatched-roof pub or need to stroll for miles alongside sheep, you may discover one thing to get pleasure from.

Sláinte!