Hi all
My partner and I are travelling to the Emerald Isle at the start of September. We have a couple of days in Belfast then head north to the Giants Causeway and the Antrim Coast - I'd like to keep going through to around Donegal, and it seems it is doable in a day, but IS IT? I was also thinking of staying somewhere like Killybegs or somewhere along the coast, so any recommendations would be brilliant.
We're then going down to Roundstone for a couple of days then Dingle. My partner wants to do the Ring of Kerry, because everyone does, but others have said to stay in Glengarrif and do the Ring of Beara, so that's a bit confusing. Would love some thoughts from folk in the know :)
susieinoz
1
jbinternational
the problem with travelling anywhere in Ireland, Republic and North is that there is so much to see and you make so many stops, especially if you get off the main roads, that it takes longer than expected, I travelled right around the coast of Ireland, so have done the Ring of Kerry and Beara and Dingle and West Cork Scenic route, all are beautiful but the place that I loved the most was Down Patrick Head http://www.ballycastle.ie/D%FAn%20Briste.htm in County Mayo, only me there and I thought it better than the Cliffs of Mohr
2
rodway
My interpretation is that you will spend a day on the Causeway Coast from Belfast and then move to Killibegs. My assumption is you wish to spend most of the time driving and keep to the A and N roads, skip Derry other than for a coffee and quickly cross co Donegal vis the Barnesmore Gap. "Doable" - yes but enjoyable - I will reserve judgement
R.
3
susieinoz
Thanks rodway, hence me asking for advice. When it's 'doable' in Australia to travel 1000km in a day, I recognise this is not the case in Ireland, which is why I am asking the experts.
What we were intending is yes, to spend some time on the Causeway coast then travel through Derry through Ardara, where we will spend a couple of nights and take time to explore the region a little. It can only ever be a little when time is short unfortunately. How much time would you recommend us to take to drive through this area? I am hoping that it will be light until a reasonable time :)
Do you have other advice on my other questions? Thanks
4
ltrayers
I agree with jbinternational, traveling around Ireland takes longer than expected. yes there is lots to see and do to slow down your trip, but also winding unmarked roads that take more time to get from place to place. Expect to get a little lost of the beaten path, and plan time for it. However, those will probably be the most beautiful and memorable parts of the trip.
I enjoyed the Cliffs of Moher; they are amazing. Also, don't just plan to drive through, get out and go walking. A hike along the cliffs or through the mountains will be spectacular.
The Ring of Kerry took a whole day when I traveled. It was nice but a tourist place. I am curious to see the Ring of Beara. Off the Ring of Kerry is the more remote Skellig Ring Road that has lovely coastal views.
Also, look out for concerts and festivals in Ireland. They can be fun, but they can also make it difficult to find a place to stay. Do some research and plan accommodations ahead.
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
trusted partner
trusted partner