Unveiling the Secrets of County Kerry (get off the tourist trail)
The unique offerings of Tralee, the overlooked attractions in North Kerry, and the best ways to experience the region.
Shopping in Killarney
Killarney is the major tourist town of south west Ireland; you can get practically anything here. One of our first stops was Christy’s Irish Stores. Yes, Christy’s is quite touristy. But if you are traveling with little ones there is no better place to let them pick out their own trinkets and souvenirs. Enter through…
Things to Do Near Killarney
While there is much to do in the immediate vicinity of Killarney, you’ll find equally as much if you venture out a ways. A car is highly recommended- unless you decide to tour the Ring of Kerry- for these trips. Ring of Kerry The Iveraugh peninsula is probably the most traveled area in Ireland. And…
What to Do on the Dingle Peninsula in 2 Days
One of the most common questions I receive when helping people plan their Ireland family vacations is, “We want to visit the Dingle Peninsula. Can we do it in a day trip from Killarney/ Adare/ Cork?” I answer honestly – yes, you can. But then I add, “You will likely feel rushed, and you may…
Dingle Skellig Hotel – a Lovely Stay on Dingle Bay
A quick jaunt from Killarney or Limerick, the Dingle peninsula is a terrific destination during an Ireland family vacation. The Dingle Skellig Hotel, perched on the edge of Dingle Bay, offers spacious family rooms, a tasty breakfast buffet and is an easy 5 minute walk from the center of Dingle town. What to Do on…
Explore Oceanworld Aquarium in Dingle
It was the penguins that drew us to Oceanworld Aquarium in Dingle . And by us, I mean my daughters- especially my eldest, who is just crazy about them. While I had fond memories of the staggering beauty of Slea Head Drive and my first view of town from Connor Pass, all Brenna had to…
Dingle Itinerary : 2 Days in Dingle
One of the most common questions I receive when helping people plan their Ireland family vacations is, “We want to visit Dingle. Can we do it in a day trip from Killarney/ Adare/ Cork?” I answer honestly – yes, you can. But you will likely feel rushed, and you may have to cut short or…
2 Fun Ways to Meet Fungi, the Famous Dingle Dolphin
As if 2020 didn’t bring about enough disaster, late in the year Dingle’s famous dolphin, Fungi, disappeared, never to be seen again. While many hope he just left the waters of Dingle to join a pod of dolphin, it is much more likely that Fungi raced beside his favorite boats as a final goodbye, then…
Scenic Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula
I’ve had the great fortune to drive the Dingle Peninsula twice; the first time in 2002 when I made my first trip- solo- to Ireland, and more recently with my daughters. Each time the breathtaking scenery has left me entranced. Photo after photo of rugged shorelines, crashing waves, and sites so ancient the time elapsed…
There are Only Two Roads into Dingle
The Dingle Peninsula stretches into the the Atlantic Ocean, windswept and dramatic, as if it were trying to escape County Kerry. There Are Only Two Roads into Dingle As you can see by the map above, only two roads will lead you onto the Dingle Peninsula: the N86 and the R561. The N86 The N86…
Fun in Killarney: Killarney National Park, Ross Castle and Muckross House & Traditional Farms
Killarney is the main tourist hub of south west Ireland for good reason. Within minutes you can be wandering an ancient abbey, touring a castle, wandering through Ireland’s first national park or reliving Victorian splendor- to only name a few popular outings. Killarney is also the base for most Ring of Kerry tours, an easy…
County Limerick: Beyond the Tourist Trail
County Limerick can often feel ‘untouched’ by tourists. Medieval towns, ancient history, and tranquil countryside await the curious visitor.
Highs and Lows on the Ring of Kerry
This morning did not produce those amazing Ring of Kerry views… In fact, the fog was so thick in places that there were no views at all. But it didn’t ruin our day! We had an amazing soak in old Jameson barrels at Sneem Seaweed Baths . This article is also available as a podcast….
Wild Atlantic Way from Lahinch to Sneem
Highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way between Lahinch, County Clare and Sneem, County Kerry. Vandeleur Walled Garden Located in Kilrush, not far from the Shannon Ferry. Lovely walled garden and tasty cafe. Find more enchanting Irish gardens! Carrigafoyle Castle Built in the 1490s by the O’Connor Kerry. Managed by the OPW and open from May…
Enchanting Gardens in Ireland – Amazing Irish Experiences
Ireland is a country known for stunning landscapes and natural beauty. The abundant rainfall that contributes to the country’s ’40 shades of green’ is also at least partially responsible for the lush gardens you’ll find across the country. While the majority of public gardens seem to be concentrated in the ‘sunny southeast’, you can easily…
Ireland’s Top 10 Visitor Attractions in 2024 (and expert tips for visiting)
Wondering about the best places to visit in Ireland in 2024? And, if you are planning on visiting one of these tops spots, you’ve probably wondered if there are any secrets to having an amazing visit – and maybe avoiding the crowds (as much as possible). The answers to your questions are below – based…
Round Towers – Amazing Ireland Experiences
Round towers are an -almost- uniquely Irish structure. (Only 3 ancient round towers exist outside of Ireland.) In Irish they are called cloitheach (cloy- cach), meaning bell house, and were probably built between the 9th and 12th centuries. This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the…
Barnahown B&B and Adventures in the Galtee Mountains
Enjoy a local Irish experience at Barnahown in Mitchelstown, County Cork. Restored Georgian farmhouse B&B near the Galtee Mountains.
Things to do in Kinsale, Ireland
I received a terrific question from Jami Casey. This is actually similar to questions I receive often about how to split a group. So I will answer Jami’s specific question, then offer a few general tips. My family of 4 is traveling to Ireland in May of 2024, and I am wondering what you might…
Southeast Ireland’s Celtic Coast
Ireland’s Celtic Coast stretches along the southeastern part of the country. Coastal views, vibrant villages, amazing attractions & fewer tourists.