Like any honeymooning couple, the bride and I went to Blarney Castle. Pure tourist trap. We didn't go to Dingle but I have read that Dingle is about the best preserved area of Ireland in terms of traditional culture. I wish we had gone there rather than Blarney or Cong (tourist trap dedicated to The Quiet Man).

Dunquin Pottery is lovely out near Slea Head. Lisbeth Mulcahy's Weaving shop on Green street is worth a look see. Brian De Staic is one of Ireland's top goldsmiths--I returned with several of his pieces. He does old symbols of Ireland in 14 and 18k gold. Beautiful--some with stones. Also interesting is a ride out to the Blasket Center where you can learn what life was like on the now deserted Blasket Islands. Ballyferriter is a nice tiny town nearby and just down from there is the Gallurus Oratory, the beehive shaped hut more than 1000 years old.

Ann,<BR><BR>Although I would definitely pick Dingle over Blarney, I might add that Blarney Castle is a not to be missed as long as you go when the crowds aren't there (ie early or offseason) . The grounds are some of the best around any castle with the tree lined river and the mansion and gardens down the hill behind.

Heckster, How long will you have on your own? If you only have a day, maybe do Blareny. Dingle dserves at least 2 days IMO. Did not go to Blarney Castle, but did spend 2 lovely days in Dingle. In fact, it was my husband's favorite part of Ireland...mine too! Slea Head drive was spectaculor! We had gorgeous weather too. <BR> We stayed at the Milltown House B&B. which was exceptional. We had a glorious view of Dingle bay, and we could walk to Dingle town. There was a grand old white horse, that was kept in a small pasture near Milltown House. He became our "pet" horse. We brought him quite a few apples! Our best meal of our 2 week trip, was in Doyle's Seafood restaurant. All in all, we had a grand time in Dingle. Hope you get to go. Judy :-)

Dingle! Blarney is not without interest --<BR>but Dingle is incredibly lovely. Just allow a lot of time as the road is rather<BR>daunting.