Skellig Michael rises straight out of the Atlantic, jagged and dramatic, and according to archaeologist Neil Jackman, it’s every bit as challenging as it looks. Visiting this remote Kerry island can be an extraordinary experience – but only if travelers understand what’s involved before they try. Visiting Skellig Michael: What Travelers Need to Know This…
Ireland’s coastline stretches for over 7,500km, so it’s no surprise the island is home to some truly stunning beaches. Whether you’re into brisk seaside walks, cold-water dips, or just want a peaceful place to breathe in some fresh Atlantic air, Ireland delivers. This year, 89 beaches across the country earned Blue Flag status, an international…
The unique offerings of Tralee, the overlooked attractions in North Kerry, and the best ways to experience the region.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 see…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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. To…
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…
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…
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 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…
Yes! Family travel in Ireland is possible! No land is more filled with magic than Ireland. Even if you’re past the age of believing in fairies (though I don’t think you should ever stop believing in fairies) the moment your flight touches down on Irish soil a feeling of possibility washes over you. You just don’t…
Summer in Ireland won’t offer you and your family huge commercial theme parks or even guarantee you sunshine but you can be sure that you’ll experience nature like you’ve never seen it, discover history that you never dreamed of and find yourself immersed in a culture that can only leave you wanting more. Check out…