Journey Through Ireland: A Girls' Road Trip from Dublin to Limerick

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Advisor - Laura Vaughn
Curated By

Laura Vaughn

  • Ireland

  • Road Trip Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • City Travel

  • Outdoors

  • Sightseeing

  • History

Green grass of Ireland
Curator’s statement

Embarking on a road trip through Ireland is an adventure I'll always cherish. From the rugged coasts to the rolling hills, every twist in the road reveals a new facet of this captivating country. The quaint villages, the warm hospitality, rich history and breathtaking landscapes that Ireland is renowned for. Whether it's exploring ancient castles, savoring traditional cuisine or losing yourself in the magic of the Irish countryside. this road trip created memories that I will forever hold a special place in my heart. Join me as I navigate the winding paths and hidden gems of Ireland, uncovering the essence of this enchanting land with each passing mile.

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Road trip highlights

Journey Through Ireland: A Girls' Road Trip from Dublin to Limerick - Road trip highlights

Our road trip through Ireland began in the lively heart of Dublin and wound its way to the charming city of Limerick. With carefully curated personal tours, our journey seamlessly blends breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, hidden gems and authentic Irish experiences. From markets and shopping to local activities and famous pubs, every moment was tailor-made for this unforgettable adventure.

Dublin

Trinity College: Our journey began with a guided tour of Trinity College, where the Book of Kells captivated us with its ancient artistry and rich history.

Temple Bar: We explored the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, not only discovering galleries and pubs but also enjoying street performances and artisan boutiques.

Dublin Castle: A visit to Dublin Castle unveiled centuries of Irish history and a glimpse into the city's royal past.

Famous Pubs: The Brazen Head, Dublin's oldest pub, treated us to live music and an atmosphere steeped in history. The Stag's Head, known for its Victorian charm, offered a cozy retreat.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle: Our guided tour of Kilkenny Castle immersed us in medieval elegance, with sweeping gardens and opulent interiors.

Kilkenny Design Centre: Here, we indulge in artisan shopping, admiring local crafts, jewelry and textiles. We couldn't resist bringing back unique souvenirs.

Famous Pubs: Kyteler's Inn, with its centuries-old history, introduced us to Kilkenny's medieval spirit. Langton's Bar, a vibrant gathering spot, treated us to traditional music and a lively atmosphere.

Cork

English Market in Cork: Our senses were treated to a feast as we explored Cork's historic English Market, where we sampled local cheeses, pastries and fresh produce. Cork's local charm enchanted us as we mingled with friendly vendors and soaked in the bustling market atmosphere.

Shandon Bells and St. Anne's Church: Climbing the iconic Shandon Bells tower, we had a bird's-eye view of Cork's colorful streets and learned about its musical heritage.

Famous Pubs: The Oliver Plunkett, renowned for its traditional music sessions, allowed us to savor Irish culture. The Franciscan Well Brewery, a hidden gem, offered craft beers and a unique ambiance.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

Blarney Castle: We had the incredible opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone, gaining the gift of eloquence according to legend. The castle's stunning architecture and lush surroundings made it a highlight of our journey. The beautiful gardens surrounding the castle transported us to another world, with meandering paths, tranquil ponds and vibrant flora.

Cobh

Titanic Experience in Cobh: Our guided tour retraces the Titanic's last port of call, offering poignant stories and an immersive experience.

Famous Pubs: The Roaring Donkey, a charming local haunt, provided a warm welcome.

Cobh painted houses: You'll find a delightful row of colorful houses adorning the waterfront. These charming and vibrant houses have become a favorite destination for tourists, who flock to capture the picturesque scene or simply revel in the cheerful atmosphere they bring to the town.

Kinsale

Kinsale Artisan Market: Kinsale welcomed us with local arts, crafts, and gourmet delights, allowing us to take a piece of its charm home. Kinsale was truly one of our favorites, with its picturesque harbor, colorful streets and the warmth of its people leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

Desmond Castle: We explored the fascinating history of Desmond Castle, which has served as a customs house, a prison and now houses the International Museum of Wine.

Famous Pubs: The Spaniard Bar, steeped in maritime history, charmed us with its character. The Blue Haven, an award-winning gastropub, delighted us with its culinary offerings.

Skibbereen

Historical Society: Our journey led us to the historical society, where we delved into the past of my friend's family ancestors, connecting with generations gone by.

Skibbereen Farmers Market: Immersing ourselves in the town's vibrancy, experiencing the lively ambiance and discovering local produce, crafts and unique treasures.

Famous Pubs: We enjoyed renowned pubs like "An Chistin Beag" and "Fields of Skibbereen." These establishments not only served traditional Irish cuisine but also provided an authentic insight into the local way of life.

Killarney and The Ring of Kerry

Killarney: A place of natural beauty and rich history. We explored the lush landscapes of Killarney National Park and were captivated by the grandeur of Muckross House and Gardens.

The iconic Ring of Kerry: We uncovered breathtaking coastal vistas and wandered through charming towns like Kenmare and Sneem.

The Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher: No Irish adventure is complete without witnessing the sheer beauty of the Cliffs of Moher. Standing at the edge, we were left speechless by the dramatic meeting of land and sea.

Limerick

Famous Pubs: Nancy Blake's and The Locke Bar, treated us to lively Irish ambiance, traditional music, and a taste of local camaraderie.

St. John's Castle: We toured the historic St. John's Castle, immersing ourselves in its medieval heritage through exhibitions, stories of the past, and panoramic views of the city.

The Milk Market: A lively marketplace with a history dating back over 150 years. Discover fresh produce, artisanal crafts and international foods while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that the market brings to the city.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle: Just a short drive from Limerick, transported us to medieval Ireland. The castle's imposing walls and well-preserved interiors ignited our imaginations, while the adjacent Folk Park recreated a vivid medieval village. The medieval banquet was a highlight and a perfect conclusion to our road trip. Amid torch-lit castle walls, we enjoyed a sumptuous feast of traditional Irish dishes while being entertained by music, stories and jesters.

Our journey through Ireland was nothing short of remarkable, filled with unforgettable experiences and heartfelt connections. Ireland's warm welcome embraced us at every turn and the genuine kindness of its people truly made our adventure exceptional. Each destination left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out Elena Federico's Fora guide, Guide to a Luxury Long Weekend Getaway in Dublin.

Advisor - Laura Vaughn

Travel Advisor

Laura Vaughn

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Ireland.