Irleland Web-site/Forums
 

Two Ireland web-sites have often been recommended here: IrelandYes.com and IrelandExpert.com. I've found both very useful - Ireland Yes for it's warm and friendly forum and Ireland Expert for practical information organized by region. I've also used the Bord Failte site, sites by various counties/regions, and sites (such as Town & Country & Hidden Ireland) that describe places to stay.

Now that I have our route and lodgings fairly well organized, I was wondering if anyone had recommendations for other websites that were helpful in planning what to see & do, and where to eat as they travel through Ireland. I'd especially be interested in sites that provide helpful critiques and first hand recommendations (I enjoy trip reports!).

Any suggestions or hidden gems out there that folks would like to share?

Thanks!

Oops - that would be Ireland int the title, not Irleland, folks. That's what I get for posting too late at night!

Mea Culpa.

For things to see and do, you can check the Irish Heritage site at

http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/Splash.html

Lots of the major sites, other than Blarney, etc. Opening and closing times, but don't trust the admission price figures.

I'm not great about keeping trip notes. But I just posted some Ireland snapshots recently if that sort of thing interests you

http://www.nexxtworld.com/travel/ireland/

Clifton - What an amazing set of pictures! We'll be following in your footsteps in Clare (three days to explore the Burren and the coast), Connemara (four days to explore and relax mid-trip), Tipperary (three days to do some family research in Clonmel plus visit Cahir and Cashel) and a visit to Glendalough as we drive from Dublin to Clonmel. Your photographs confirmed that these were places we really want to visit!!!! Thank you for sharing!

I'll also check out the Heritage site. I like the idea of getting a pass from organizations like this for several reasons. I've found that some of the "little places" you find yourself exploring on a whim are often some of the most interesting. Plus, I like the idea of supporting historical organizations.

Such wonderful photos, Clifton! Tell me when your calendar is available.

Wren2, I heartily agree with you recomendation of IrelandYes.com and IrelandExpert.com. I used the book from IrelandYes.com on two trips and found it to be fab for finding good B&Bs, pubs, restuarnats and sights to see. Maybe you already have that book? highly recomended. Clifton, beautiful photos. Thanks.

Wren2,

We definitely got a lot of mileage out of the Duchas card from the Heritage Service. I wouldn't bother to get it ahead of time, as it's for sale at all the charged sites and I believe it's still 19 Euro per person. The current admission prices are more that those listed on the website, but we visited Castletown House, Glendalough, Cahir Castle, Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle and several others all on that one time fee, plus it's good for a year. Bonus is you get a catalog type book with descriptions and such to take with you as you tour.

Glad you all liked the pics. My first foray into digital and enjoyed taking them.

Clifton - your pic were very nice. I noticed you did the Beara Peninsula as well as Ring of Kerry and Dingle. Would you say they were similiar in terms of scenery, etc? I probably only have time for two on my upcoming trip and since it will be in August I'm leaning away from ring of kerry because of the traffic - but I don't want to miss something really great either. The shots of the Beara seemed more wild - were there still some cute little villages there? Thanks