Ireland is anything but boring! I am excited to share with you a 10-day itinerary that covers all the beauty that Ireland has to offer. My journey began in late August with my first stop in Dublin. Come along with me as we explore Ireland and all its wonders!
DAY 1: DUBLIN.
Arriving in Dublin was anything short of a new experience for me.
Requirement #1: I wanted to arrive and stay in a castle. A legitimate marked in the books as a real castle, CASTLE like the one you see on the cover here. The Fitzpatrick Castle is located in Killiney Co., the outskirts of Dublin city. But let me not get ahead of myself. I need a CAR!
LOST ON DAY 1.
I checked out my rental car and I was on my way to the Fitzpatrick Castle to check in for the next 2 days.
I officially lost my way to the Fitzpatrick Castle. Go me. I’m winning at getting lost in another country from the start. Friends, it didn’t stop me. Didn’t scare me. Quite honestly all I could do was laugh. Ireland road signs are somewhat different than in the United States. Speeds are in kph vs. mph as well. The bigger reason for getting lost is not so much the road signs but more so my GPS was not working correctly in Ireland. That’s another thing. If you use your phone for GPS in Ireland, understand that it may not be 100% reliable at all times. I used google maps as I read it was the best, most reliable while in country. I encountered cell service issues and sometimes it took me a little off the beaten path.
THE KILLINEY-DUBLIN TRAIN SYSTEM.
In order for me to get into the city of Dublin, I needed to take the train from Killiney Co. One thing I learned in Ireland is everyone will tell you, “It’s just around the corner.” I laugh. Their “around the corner” means about a 20-25 minute walk to the train station. The hotel receptionist told me that I’d much rather take the train than drive. I quickly saw why. Dublin reminds me of Washington, D.C. Lots of traffic and people everywhere.
DUBLIN CITY: THE TEMPLE BAR.
I arrived in Dublin City running on jet lag, but excited to explore for the two days I had in Dublin.
I stopped by the famous Temple Bar that everyone tells you is a ‘must see’ if you’re in Dublin. It was a quaint small bar with live Irish music. It was a cozy little bar with live Irish music. I especially liked the exterior design, with flowers hanging from the rooftop and growing on the walls of the bar. Temple Bar had a great atmosphere and friendly people. Some people danced, while others sat and chatted while the music played in the background. I enjoyed watching everyone having a good time. By the way, do you like people watching?
There wasn’t a sense of rush in the bar at all. It was so nice to be surrounded by people just enjoying the vibe and music. An older Irish man approached me asking who I was with. I gladly stated: “Me, myself and I.” He said that Dublin is a safe city so not to worry but not to carry valuables in the late evenings. I appreciated the tip.
I stayed long enough to taste the Irish Guinness. Are you familiar with the famous Guinness? I was told before traveling to Ireland that I need to try Guinness in America before tasting it in Irish. Personally, I’m not a fan for the dark, strong beers as such but I did so for the sake of being a tourist. It was definitely strong. I can’t say it changed my mind about dark beers but I did the touristy thing. Box checked. Hahaha. Are you a fan of the dark beers?
SIGHTSEEING.
I found Dublin city to be very crowded, busy with lots of things to see and do…definitely designed to attract tourists. There were restaurants, stores, bars and shopping from every angle. If you’re into shopping, you’ll love Dublin city. Personally, I prefer to explore the great outdoors. I wanted to see the cliffs and views and all of Ireland’s beauty.
DAY 2: WICKLOW.
Ahhhh. Ok friends, it’s day 2 and I’ve got an excursion booked to head to Wicklow for horseback riding. I thought 2 hours was plenty of time to get ready for this trip. I was wrong. The lady at the front desk of the Fitzpatrick Castle told me I would need a taxi…like 10 minutes ago. She was AHMAZING!!! Booked my taxi and he was driving like a mad man to get me where I needed to be ASAP.
Side Note: Everyone I encountered in Ireland from Day 1 was extremely kind and helpful.
HORSEBACK RIDING.
I loved the Wicklow horseback riding. It was so fun. Truly one of my top to do list excursions when visiting Ireland. I got to see all of Ireland’s beauty wrapped up in this 10-day itinerary and this was just the start of it all. In Ireland it can rain at anytime, but what I learned is…it doesn’t last long at all. I learned the difference between Western and English riding. I didn’t know there was a difference until I did. Our tour guides, three lovely Irish women were so kind and helpful…like when my horse decided he wanted to walk the slowest of the group. My horse got a soft pat on his tush from one of the tour guides to keep it moving. Hahaha.
We trekked through this lovely greenery with moss hanging in the trees. It was so beautiful to take in the views all around me. Once we were done with our horseback tour, they took us into a small town nearby for some good ole Irish lunch. The food was so good, but heavy. I was ready for a nap.
Are you ready to see what’s in store for Day 3 of my most memorable 10-day itinerary showcasing all of Ireland’s beauty? Let’s go WEST!!!
DAY 3: DUBLIN TO GALWAY.
Follow me along as my adventure carries me to Galway! Did you know this is where Ed Sheeran was first discovered playing music on the corners of Galway? Well, it is and I can completely understand why! Galway is such a relaxing, yet vibrant city. I treated myself to sleeping in this morning since my day didn’t consist of anything “planned” per se other than my drive to Galway. It was about a 2.5 hour drive from Dublin to Galway. It is amazing to me to think I was just on the east side of Ireland and in just a few short hours I am resting on the west side of Ireland.
DRIVING TO GALWAY.
Before departing Dublin I asked the receptionist if there was anything worth pulling off the highway to check out on my drive. She advised not so much…unless you want to drive an hour out of the way. I decided to continue on my journey to Galway where I had only heard nothing but wonderful things about this city and I couldn’t wait to check it out for myself. I was excited to leave Dublin and explore somewhere new.
The drive was nice, it was simple. Nothing like what I drive back home in Virginia. I will say the whole idea of driving on the left side of the road sitting in the right seat honestly hasn’t phased me at all. I was expecting a lot of nervousness…but no, I was good. It was an experience to say the least, haha. Here I was cruising along M50 to N6 just like the rest of the locals.
I didn’t have any real plans for my first day arriving in Galway other than to explore the area and see what I could find. My entire trip consisted of one real tour, if you will, while the rest was meant for spontaneity to see what I could fine on my own time. It was perfect!
One thing I learned while visiting is that Ireland is known for all of their roundabouts. Every turn you make, literally…lol, you’re on another roundabout. I found this especially true in Galway. My best guess is this is Ireland’s way of keeping traffic moving. Galway was quite crowded although you can’t tell from this picture as this was taken near Salthill beach a short drive from the inner city of Galway. Maybe the US needs to consider increasing the roundabouts… 😉
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST PASTRIES, COFFEE AND TEAS.
My first stop was to find something tasty to eat. I could eat at the hotel but why?! I stopped by this little tea room right in inner city of Galway. It’s called the Corrib House Tea Room. It was PERFECT!!! It’s so quaint and cute and I just love the decor!! They had an assortment of pastries, coffee and teas along with brunch. I was starvin’ marvin, friend!! I ordered this tasty coconut pastry and a chai tea latte while waiting for my brunch! All of it was so delicious! So good that I went back the next day to get another one. 🙂
There are a few other tea rooms you can stop by, like the Cupan Tae which is absolutely adorable as well. You can also go into the inner city of Galway and find a wide selection of restaurants to choose from depending on what you’re craving.
GALWAY CATHEDRAL.
One of the most breathtaking structures I entered in Ireland had to be the Galway Cathedral. It was absolutely gorgeous with marble from floor to ceiling. All day parking is provided onsite for 5 euros. It’s definitely worth it. After checking out the Galway Cathedral you can walk across the small bridge into the inner city of Galway where all the action is happening.
GALWAY SHOPPING.
I am not a person to shop much when traveling UNLESS I find things I cannot find back home. I love unique gifts and I was on a mission to find just that to bring home to my kids. One of the stores I was hoping to see here in Galway… the Claddagh Jewelers!!! It’s a quaint turquoise colored building which just gives it its’ own flair that I love so much. I was so happy to see this store!
Here is where I bought rings for both my daughter and I. The claddagh ring represents love, life and loyalty. I bought my daughter a necklace so that she could wear her ring around her neck given she was just a little girl at the time. This way she could grow into her ring. 😉 It was the perfect mother/daughter gift! Next up – finding my son a gift! I landed with an Irish wallet and sweater for my son, my daughter, and well of course, myself. I was so happy with my souvenirs!
DAY 4: GALWAY.
THE KYLEMORE ABBEY CASTLE.
I chose to explore some more today! I drove my happy little self West to explore the Connemara National Park. Before arriving there, I stumbled upon this beauty so I just had to stop and check it out. No regrets! So worth the stop and definitely recommend to visit…the Kylemore Abbey Castle.
I arrived about 10 minutes before the open tour was closing with liquid sunshine all around me. I rushed inside the castle to check it out and then spent most of my time outside enjoying the views.
CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK.
After enjoying some time at the Kylemore Abbey, I took back to the roads and found myself at the Connemara National Park. I found this nice little trail to walk along and just enjoy the views. The trees and greenery in Ireland were so vibrant and full of life! As a hiker, I was excited to find a national park in Ireland to explore! I was ‘home.’
This was a favorite day of mine. The entire adventure of driving around and just getting lost and finding myself. It was just me, myself and I. It was such a peaceful drive heading back to my hotel. The only thing surrounding me were mountains with limestone and wild sheep everywhere!!
WATCH FOR THE SHEEP.
At one point, I encountered a herd of sheep that blocked my road. I literally just sat there admiring their willingness to just take their sweet time and talking to them as if they could understand me. I can definitely say I got their attention and they turned facing me with their heads. Yet, they still just went slowly on their way crossing the road while I sat and waited.
This moment in time reminded me of my all time favorite movie, Leap Year! In my mind, I was Amy Adams and the sheep…well, they were the sheep of Ireland like in the movie. Hahaha…I felt like I was living out moments from the movie and I was loving every single moment of it! Have you seen Leap Year?
It was a long day of adventuring and I loved it all. It was time to head back to my hotel and just relax. Tomorrow’s big adventure will have ALL OF MY ATTENTION! Keep reading…it’s about to get super magical in here!!!
DAY 5: GALWAY.
I have yet to leave Galway completely. Today is going to be the most magical day of all! I was beyond excited for today. One of my dreams was always to visit Ireland and see well…hang on, I’ll get there in a bit. First…let’s head on over to the New Galway Station where I met up with my tour guide, Gary. Ah, loved Gary!! He had quite the personality and a great sense of humor. He was super friendly and answered all the questions my tour group had on our first stop to…
DUNGUAIRE CASTLE.
If you’ve made reservations ahead of time, you are able to take a tour and dine enjoying a medieval banquet at the Dunguaire Castle. Our tour group had a bigger, most magical place to go…I know, I know. Get to the point, Christine. Hang with me friends. For now, take in these gorgeous photos of the Dunguaire Castle.
Fun Fact: The correct term for ‘castles’ in Ireland is ‘townhouses.’ They were built in Ireland so many miles apart equally to communicate with one another with ships coming inland back years and years ago.
DOOLIN VILLAGE.
Our tour took us from the Dunguaire Castle to a small village nearby called, Doolin’ for a little lunch. As we approached our pub for some lunch, I took in the vibrant colors of the shops surrounding us. I learned in Ireland meals are NOT little but they are sooooo good!
I chose to have the Irish beef stew and it was quite delish.
It was definitely filling and easily put me into a food coma once back on the tour bus until…Gary announced our next stop. Here it is, friends!!!!
THE CLIFFS OF MOHER.
Friends. The Cliffs of Moher. Absolutely breathtaking. I have no words but I have so many words. Hahaha…the views were spectacular!!! Photos really do no justice for the Cliffs of Moher…but standing there on the cliffs with the wind blowing me everywhere, I was in heaven. I could stand here forever.
This view took my breath away. The wind blew my tears away, hahah. It was just such a magical moment for me. A dream come true. Have you ever dreamt a dream wishing one day it will come to fruition? That was me, right here. I made this happen. I was lost in the beauty all around me.
Gary did warn all of us…he said no matter how tempted you are, please stay BEHIND the barriers. They’ve had people die there because they didn’t take it seriously on how much danger could be involved. Gary said it’s not the winds that will get you…the winds will take your phone and hats and sunglasses…but the wind gusts that come from all directions at once…that is what you watch for.
POULNABRONE – THE PORTAL TOMB.
Next up after leaving the Cliffs of Moher was the Poulnabrone, also known as the Portal Tomb. It was so interesting. Historical excavation says that there were remains of approximately 33 people left at this site meaning that it is thought this tomb was used for a period of 600 years thousands of years back.
What I found super fascinating was the limestone all around us. Everywhere you looked there was limestone. All of this was created from the combination of glacial movement and rainwater dissolution. Just look at this!
This is limestone that I walked on that just seemed to go for miles and miles. They call the crevices in the limestone grikes which form between the blocks of limestone called clints. The grikes is a direct result of what happens when the rainwater dissolves the limestone. Absolutely fascinating!!
Fun Fact: I also learned while on this tour that the Irish used to get their heat supply from Bogs in the ground. They hold at least 75% water. The Irish back in years’ past used the peat from the bogs to heat their homes. Most homes these days do use more traditional methods for their heat source (i.e. gas, electric).
As our tour was ending for the day, Gary stopped by this gorgeous beach so that we could snap some photos. It was so windy everywhere we went in Ireland but the temps weren’t too bad. Nothing a light jacket or sweater couldn’t handle.
DAY 6: GALWAY TO KILLARNEY.
INNER CITY OF GALWAY.
Today I woke up, grabbed some grub from the hotel, packed up my things to check out of the Menlo Park Hotel and then went into the inner city of Galway for some sightseeing. Basically I just took my time soaking in the music playing on the streets by the locals and grabbing some lunch from The Kings Head in the city.
THE MENLO CASTLE.
Eventually I left the inner city of Galway and drove off stumbling upon (yet again) another castle and thought…eh, sure why not! The Menlo Castle. I had nowhere to be. Well, I did. A dinner buffet scheduled at a different castle in route to Killarney, but not til later in the evening so I had some time to kill. The Menlo Castle had a sign saying on the gate saying not to cross by if closed…I scoped out the area – ALL CLEAR! Friends, I couldn’t NOT see the Menlo Castle at this very moment. Haha…so I jumped the gate and ran up to the castle to snag some AHMAZING pics!! I loved all the ivy growing on the castle ruins! It was actually one of my favorite castles I had seen while in Ireland.
BURREN NATURE SANCTUARY.
After visiting the Menlo Castle, I decided to check out the Burren Nature Sanctuary. I found out about this little place from some locals earlier in the day when asking what else is there to explore nearby. I had time to kill waiting for my buffet dinner later that evening. The Burren Nature Sanctuary was not busy at all. In fact, it was small and quaint. It was actually quite relaxing walking a path of grass in solitude soaking up the fresh air, the sounds of the birds in the distance and reflecting on my trip thus far. As soon as I finished the Burren Walk, I met some buddies…a few horses, Jack, the llama and Sean, the sheep. Hahaha…they were quite fun to visit with.
COOLE PARK NATURE RESERVE.
I was still open to exploring some more after I left the Burren Nature Sanctuary. My buffet dinner show reservations at the Bunratty Castle weren’t until 530pm in the evening of my departure from Galway in route to Killarney. So, off to Coole Park Nature Reserve I went. It was also nice and small and quiet. The weather was perfect! Sunny, no liquid sunshine (as the Irish like to call the rain)…until I decided to take a walk on one of the smaller trails and then came the liquid sunshine. Temperatures dropped drastically and and it became super windy. You just never know what kind of weather you’re going to get in Ireland.
THE BUNRATTY CASTLE.
I did a fantastic job of killing some time while still getting to explore more of Ireland!! It was time to head off to M18 towards Bunratty Castle for my evening dinner. I met two silly pigs with one looking like he was trying to escape the depths of his mud pit. There were crows EVERYWHERE!!! You know in those scary movies where the crows are above cawking nonstop? Yep, I could say I lived through one of those movie scenes on this day. I had never seen so many crows in my life in one area! Do you notice everywhere I go I encounter animals of some kind? It’s kinda my thing. Hah, I love animals!
This was quite an interesting and fun experience! The castle was beautiful. We were greeted with music and meade upon entrance.
THE MAIN COURSE, MEETING NEW PEOPLE AT DINNER.
Since I arrived solo, the host sat me with a group of Canadians. They were so fun!! The lady in the group asked me why I was alone in Ireland. I explained to her that this was my celebration and gift to myself for my 40th birthday. It’s been a dream of mine to visit Ireland, so why not?! Go big or go home! She nicely commented back, “You’re starting it off right…a trip by yourself! That’s the best gift you could give yourself. You’ll see as you hit each 10 year mark you’ll continue to grow and grow…it’s so nice to meet you! I’m happy for you and Happy Belated Birthday!” I loved her kind words.
I ate, I laughed, I chatted with my group of newly acquainted Canadian friends and we listened to the singing of the Irish during our dinner. Everyone sang so beautifully. Once the show was finished, it was time to hit the road. I had a 2 hour road trip ahead of me and it was already 8pm!!
DRIVING TO KILLARNEY.
I was headed to Killarney and couldn’t wait! Driving in Ireland was not bad at all. Now driving in Ireland in the dark on N-highway (Ireland’s National Highways) with no lights – pitch black, narrow and winding roads and unsure where I really am in the dark…well, to be quite frank, I was NOT feeling it! This is the ONLY time I truly became a bit nervous driving in Ireland. I wasn’t even concerned with deer jumping out in front of me…but what about the wild sheep and cows! I can laugh now…I didn’t laugh then! In fact, I held onto the steering wheel…”Jesus, Take the Wheel.” Yes, I was there in that moment.
MUCKROSS PARK HOTEL & SPA.
Eventually, I arrived at my hotel for the next two nights. The Muckross Park Hotel & Spa. This place was so beautiful inside and out! I was literally centered in the middle of the Killarney National Park. I mean, as a hiker…I was pretty excited about this!It had been a long day for me. It was a fun day but I was tired y’all.
The best part of it all that evening was…
- I made it safely to my hotel.
- The hotel staff brought my luggage in for me AND parked my car in valet.
- I ordered cookies and milk to soothe my soul after that drive.
- My room was AHMAZING and it looked like a room set for a queen.
Sidenote: The front desk woman had a super strong Irish accent!! It was so interesting to hear the changes in the Irish while visiting each city. She spoke so fast I honestly thought she was speaking a different language. It didn’t help I was exhausted either, hah.
If I could leave you with anything from my Day 6 experience, it is this…
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.”
Anonymous
DAY 7: KILLARNEY.
Here we are, friends. I’m in Killarney! After a long night of driving and tired feet…I decided to wake a tad earlier than expected just to soak in the tub. Why not! It’s an AHMAZING room. I felt like a queen with tired feet! Hahaha. I knew I was going to be too tired to walk my happy butt downstairs for breakfast so I was sure to fill out my breakfast form for room service. Again, why not! It was quite delish as you can see here and relaxing to just take my time this morning.
IN ROUTE TO MY NEXT TOUR.
I’m getting picked up from my hotel to head to my next tour, the Ring of Kerry. My tour guide’s name is John. He’s quite the character as they all seem to be. He explains to me that the Muckross Park Hotel & Spa is right across from 25,000 acres of beautiful national park and only 3 miles from downtown Killarney. He says, “An easy walk into town…you can walk back from town thru this path,” as he’s pointing off in the distance to a park trail…”but not in the dark, not alone. Ah yes, 3 easy miles and there’s castle ruins around about that way” as he points in the distance. I knew at that moment I’m in the perfect spot…a national park all around me…YES PLEASE!!! My happy place.
John asks me if I traveled here with anyone and I said, “Why yes…the best company ever!” He asks who and where are they as I’m the only one sitting in his shuttle at the moment. I said, “Well, of course…me, myself and I! We are having so much fun together!” He looks over at me while driving not paying attention to the road and says, “You’re one brave lad…my lady. That is wonderful. You’re enjoying your time here, is that right?” I smiled and happily replied, “Living my best life!! I am loving Ireland!!”
THE BUS RIDE AND SOME IRISH HUMOR.
I’m now sitting on the tour bus with everyone else ready to explore the Ring of Kerry. In route to the Ring of Kerry, John starts to explain what the R and the N in front of the numbers on the roads mean in Ireland. He says the R is Regional and the N is National. John says that the N means romance roads because of the many narrow roads and turns…that explains last night’s drive to my hotel. Hah!
John has quite the sense of humor. He tells us hot drinks are not allowed on the bus. Then he goes on to share that he went to school as a child with a Nun and was caught daydreaming one day. Next thing he knows he’s smacked upside the hand with a switch and the Nun says, “John O’Neil, you’ll never make it in life staring out a window!” He shouts, “Mother Angelica how you’re so gosh damn wrong! Look at me now! I’ve been staring out a window since 1972! How do you like that Mother Angelica!” Oh my goodness we were all laughing so hard on the bus.
THE KERRY BOG VILLAGE.
One of our stops on our way to the Ring of Kerry was called the Red Fox Inn. Well, that’s what John called it. The official name is The Kerry Bog Village.
The village is set up as if you were walking into the 19th century in Ireland. It was quite the experience and I liked seeing the Irish Foxhounds and Bog Ponies. The Irish Foxhounds were so big!! I did not expect them to be so large. The Bog Ponies were charming with the flipping of their tails nonstop. My first encounter with both. Ah yes, I was also able to grab myself some real Irish coffee with Baileys. It was delish!
THE DINGLE PENINSULA.
Next stop was the Dingle Peninsula. It was a quick stop to snap some photos of Ireland’s beauty! The views were so breathtaking. There I am…tourist photo! 🙂
SLEA IN THE DINGLE PENINSULA.
Next up…we visited an area called Slea where we were able to meet a sheep herder. He explained and demonstrated to our tour group just how his dogs are trained to herd his Scottish blackface sheep based on whistle commands. The sheep dogs were so eager to do their job. It was an incredible demonstration to watch in action. The dogs both herded the sheep together and then would split them apart all based on which commands they were given. Absolutely AHMAZING in my book! According to the sheep herder, his sheep fear when the dog slowly walks up to them…but the sheep fear nothing as the dog lays.
THE SCARRIFF INN.
I’m going to be completely honest about the drive around the Ring of Kerry. There is so much to see and do and the drive inbetween the locations we stopped seemed like forever!!! I was starvin’ marvin at this point! We stopped at a place called the Scarriff Inn which had a beautiful view of the water. I decided on some shepherds pie and some Irish cider. My belly was happy and so was I. Hahaha.
MY THOUGHTS ON THE RING OF KERRY TOUR.
While I enjoyed the places we visited and took many photos where I could, I must be honest. If I had to do the Ring of Kerry tour all over again, I would drive myself – OR – bring a friend or two. It was interesting to hear the facts provided by our tour guide and to be driven around to each place. However, it was a LONG ride around A LOT of narrow roads on cliff edges with approximately 50 people on my bus with nonstop chatter. I’d prefer to do this on my own. I could take my time and stay as long or as short as I desired and stop where I choose to versus only have a few specific places to stop. But that’s what tours are for, right friends?! Note for next time…I go solo. Lol.
DAY 8: KILLARNEY TO WATERFORD.
CHANGE OF PLANS.
I had a terrible migraine the evening before it was time to depart…must’ve been that full tour bus. I’m kidding…partially. Lol. I decided this morning I would sleep in and take it slow. My trip. My choices. My hotel room had an AHMAZINGLY huge bathtub that I just could not NOT try out.
I was scheduled for a tour of Dingle for my Day 8 in Ireland. However, I wasn’t feeling it when it comes to sitting on a bus from the crack of dawn to the sun setting with another group of 50 people being driven around the lands of Ireland. I opted out of this tour. I decided today I would make my own plans. While I was unsure what that would entail, I was ok with this decision too. I asked the Irish man at the front desk of my hotel as I was checking out his thoughts of driving to Dingle myself. He said there’s no point in visiting Dingle if I already did the Ring of Kerry tour the day prior. So, note to you, my friend…if you do one of the two tours, The Ring of Kerry or Dingle, probably best not to do the other. 😉
I decided to explore a little more around Killarney before making my way to Waterford. First up –
KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK.
MUCKROSS HOUSE.
I decided my first stop would be the Muckross House. I was hungry and wanted to try something different for breakfast. Well, slightly different, lol. I ordered a pastry and a mocha latte with a view of the Muckross House Gardens.
Gorgeous!!! I cannot get over how everything I saw in Ireland was absolutely breathtaking.
TORC WATERFALL.
I decided that I would explore the Killarney National Park. First stop, the Torc Waterfall. I didn’t realize the walk would turn into an actual journey to arrive there. But it was so worth it. I was walking through the Killarney National Park to get to the Torc Waterfall and it did not disappoint! It was absolutely beautiful. It’s approximately 70-80′ high and steals the show once you’ve arrived in front of this beauty! I snapped my photos, took in the view and began my walk back through the Killarney National Park.
THE ROSS CASTLE.
Next up, I went to explore the Ross Castle. It’s located within the Killarney National Park. The Ross Castle is said to have been built in the 15th century. I didn’t spend too much time here as I would have preferred. I was hungry, again and I needed to start heading towards Waterford.
DRIVING M8 TO WATERFORD.
You may be wondering what is M8. M8 is considered one of Ireland’s motorways, for us in the United States…our highway. So here I am. Finally on M8 and music is on, window down and I’m cruising 120km (75mph). Perfect time for me to reflect and think about this entire trip and what it means for me and what it will mean for my future self. It’s amazing how much time you get to ponder about yourself and your life and everything that encompasses it when you’re on a solo trip. Good shit y’all…good shit!! 😉
IRELAND BED & BREAKFAST – MEETING MY HOST
Voila!! I made it to my B&B in Waterford. I was greeted in the most certainly pleasant way one could be. My Irish B&B welcoming by Matt, the one and only! He greeted me by first saying, “Why my lady you must be Christine? I was worried I hadn’t heard of you yet. Where are you coming from?” I told him I drove from Killarney. He continues on, “Oh my lady, Christine…that is a distance to drive! I’m glad you’re here safe and you travel alone? You are one brave lady I must say.” He told me that his name, “Matt” in Irish means “Brazil.” Matt loved to chit chat and I didn’t mind at all. It was nice. Matt said his daughter moved to Virginia for horseback riding and training in the Blue Ridge mountains area.
DINNER AT DOOLEY’S
The night sky was falling over us. I knew it was time to grab some quick dinner before I crashed for the evening. Matt suggested a quick drive (4 minutes) into Waterford for dinner. I stopped in the Dooley’s Hotel and ate in their restaurant. The food was quite delish and filling. Just what I needed to put my tired self to bed!
WHERE I STAYED IN WATERFORD.
Matt gave me a tour of their home and said his wife was not home at the moment. Specifically, he said, “My lady isn’t here at the moment as she stepped out briefly but when she learned it was a single lady traveling on her own, she said to me, “Give her the suite! She needs her own bathroom.” I laughed and said thank you, that is kind. Matt continued, “So I did because if not I’ll hear her in the morning.” I couldn’t stop laughing. Such a character! I love the personalities of the Irish I’ve met to date on my trip to explore Ireland’s beauty!
Here’s a sneak peek into the B&B. It was quaint and my host/hostesss were beyond kind and accommodating.
Matt told me across the street from their home were castle ruins that I could explore. If anyone were to stop me, just tell them I was staying in their B&B. Noted. I made sure to make it part of tomorrow’s adventure before I departed back to…Dublin! Gah…my trip was coming to an end very soon!
DAY 9: WATERFORD TO DUBLIN.
Ah, Ireland…how I love you! An authentic Irish breakfast made by Pauline and Matt just for me. They are such great host/hostess. It was quite delish with tomatoes, poached eggs, sausage, bacon, toast, orange juice and coffee. All of this for just ONE person, hahaha. Did I eat it all? Not quite. 😉 Matt, I’ve learned, is a very personable person which I can appreciate. He was excited to share with me all about his daughter explaining that she lives in Winchester, VA. That’s nearly 1.5 hours from my hometown. I saw pics of his daughter, the horses she trains and rides and learned she’s lived in Virginia for the past 17 years. A fond father of his daughter!
CASTLE RUINS.
I love finding and exploring places that look untouched by people. These castle ruins were just that.
KILKENNY.
I drove to Kilkenny, about 37km (22 miles) from Waterford. Matt suggested Kilkenny and said they have a beautiful castle that he thinks I’d like. I figured why not?! I found Kilkenny to be such a quaint and cute town. I loved it there! There was this hometown feel. I stopped into Cafe 22 to grab myself a nice chai latte. Delish! I just couldn’t get enough of them.
THE KILKENNY CASTLE.
The Kilkenny Castle. My lucky self found this nice stone flat to sit on right outside of the castle to enjoy my chai latte. It was quite nice there. I love to people watch.
LIFE. IS. GOOD.
This castle was HUGE on the inside and absolutely gorgeous inside out. The outside yard and lawn was immaculate with water fountains found throughout the grounds.
I found Kilkenny to be on the top of my list of places I’d visit again along with Killarney and Galway if ever I find myself in Ireland again. Just look at the vibrant colors here all from Kilkenny. Loved it all!!!
I spent about 2-3 hours in Kilkenny before I needed to make my way back to Dublin. I had a specific request from my travel agent on my departure just as I did with my arrival. The request for a castle upon departure was granted as well. Fit for a queen if I must say so myself.
ARRIVING IN DUBLIN – THE YACHT.
Before I checked into my castle, I stopped by The Yacht for dinner. I was told it’s a beautiful restaurant right off the water with a gorgeous view. If you’ve made it this far in my Ireland’s Beauty 10-Day Itinerary, then you’ll know that I just love a gorgeous view! Just look at how fancy and beautiful both my drink and meal were! I love a good presentation. 😉
THE CLONTARF CASTLE HOTEL.
My final moments are wrapping up. I arrived at the Clontarf Castle Hotel. The castle was beyond my expectations. There were crystal chandeliers that hung from the ceiling to the floor. Absolutely breathtaking! Everyone I encountered was dressed to the nines.
My room was fit for a queen!!! My name was on the TV screen welcome me. I mean…fancy, fancy in my book and just what I wanted! Hahaha. It was grand! Loved it all!
Remember, friends…
“Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.”
-Anonymous
Check out how Ireland’s Beauty: All Wrapped Up In A 10-Day Itinerary impacted me personally here.
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XO, Christine
