Ireland
 

Hi there,

My family is traveling to Ireland at the end of June. We will be flying into and out of Dublin and have rental cars lined up for the trip. We will be going to Kilarney, Cork and Galway. We would like suggestions for out of the way places as we know we are traveling at the height of the season. Wondering about the peninsulas? Also, we are hearing about insurance for the cars? Anyone know about going to Skellig Michael?

Thanks so much!

>> Also, we are hearing about insurance for the cars?<<

<i>What</i> are you hearing? Yes, you do need to purchase insurance (credit cards usually do not provide coverage for rental cars in Ireland)

http://skelligislands.com

If you enjoy gardens, the Ballymaloe Cooking School in Cork is definitely worth a stop. If cooking is an interest, doubly so:
http://www.cookingisfun.ie/gardens/our-gardens

While I didn't go to Skellig Michael, I stayed on Valentia Island at a friend's house near the visitor center, the Skellig Experience, on the island. Just across the bridge in Portmagee are the boats that make the trip and it's my understanding that reservations can be made by phone, depending on weather.
http://www.skelligexperience.com
http://www.skelligmichaelcruises.com (among others, Google for more)

How long on the ground?

Rental cars first, see http://www.infiniteireland.com/credi...tal-insurance/ Companies I mention, Dooley and easytoursireland.

Skellig Michael, boats leave about 10 am return about 4 pm so you need sea legs a head for heights and a strong bladder. I would suggest Portmagee or Valentia Island the night before but be aware sailings are weather dependant.

As to Cork, Killarney, Galway and peninsula's?? that itinerary depends on how long you have and your travel style but I always recommend a night by the Shannon crossing between Kerry and Galway to give a full day for Clare which offers a lot more than 1/2 mile of tourist cliff.

Old Midleton Distillery in Midleton, close to Cork and second Ballymaloe Cooking School. We really love Cobh and the history there since some of my relatives left for America from that port. Very interesting and historical.

I would explore Connemara and take the ferry from Rossaveal, north west of Galway to visit Inis Mor.
http://www.aranislandferries.com/