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. Located in a wooded glen overlooking the River 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…
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. podcast episode 193 Round Towers in Ireland At least 120 round towers are thought to have existed…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Traversing heather-pocked peaks and harmonious forests, the Ring of Kerry is a popular tourist trail situated on Ireland’s mystical and unblemished South-West coast. The 120 mile route covers vast expanses of imposing wilderness, welcoming hamlets and secluded waterways, as well as one of Ireland’s most spectacular storm pillaged coastlines. To find out more about what…
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…
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…
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. Staying at Dingle Skellig…
This post is part of the initiative “100 cities to home swap before you die” from Knok.com Killarney is, undisputedly, the center of southwest Ireland tourism. The “gateway” to the Ring of Kerry and home to some of Ireland’s most scenic views, Killarney draws visitors year round. A single, perfect day in Killarney begins early, with a walk…
To wrap up 2012, I wanted to share my 10 most popular posts of the year. Today I bring you #9, itinerary tips for one of Ireland’s most popular destinations, the the Iveragh Peninsula- better known as the Ring of Kerry. This guest post, written by Dr. Jessie Voigts of Wandering Educators, covers everything…
Once upon a time, before the thought of kids or marriage had entered my mind, I took a vacation to Ireland. Just me, self navigating from the “wrong” side of the road, following a map, often getting lost and having the greatest adventure of my life. I was loading the images from that trip into…
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…
If you’ve watched any movie taking place in Ireland it can seem like a magical and romantic place. And it is! This shot, taken in Killarney National Park, is “the full Irish”. A myriad of green, a thatched roof cottage, jaunting cart and friendly horse. I’m even wearing a lovely tweed. This was the first…
