Laura... thanks for being the impetus to my completing the trip report!! I promise I will answer your questions tomorrow!

I am wondering, though- when is your trip going to be? Soon? Summer? That would influence my choices, I think... let me know...

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Thanks, Katya! We are leaving in three weeks!

I've been thinking more about it, and think we should arrive in Kenmare from Kilkerry around 1pm (like you did), spend the remainder of the day there, sleep, then get up and do the Ring of Kerry, sleep in Kenmare then leave the following day and travel part way back to Dublin. This would mean two shorter drives rather than leaving it all to one day. But that also means finding another stop. We could choose Killaloe or Birr - do you know anything about these towns? Other ideas? Would love to fly out of Shannon, but it's not possible.

Thanks again for the quick response. I'll be checking in tomorrow!

katya_NY,

I missed your reply about the peat burner previously. It is nice to hear that it was worthwhile ordering. Sounds like it would make a good gift.

Katya,

I was so happy to hear about Dunaree! I'm planning on calling to make my reservation tomorrow. Perfect timing! Can you tell me more about the free coupon for the Folk Park?

Thanks,

Sue

<b>Laura:</b> Wow, you are going so soon! I wish I could go in the fall- I'm sure it will be lovely!

As far as day trips from Kilkenny, I would highly recommend a 1/2 day at least in Inistioge. It's a tiny place, but simply beautiful!

We will most likely never return to the Waterford store, but the town itself is cute- busy, but cute!

I still think Kilkenny is the perfect city in Ireland for me- it has everything that I am accustomed to in the US (convenient shopping) but with that Irish character, at the same time.

I would guess-timate that the drive between Kilkenny- Kenmare, via ROC would be 4-5 hours of driving. When we went, though- it was summer (heavy traffic) and it was raining. It may take you less.

As far as staying in Kenmare as a base for travel to Dingle- I think it might be too far. Dingle's interesting parts are fairly spread out, so I would plan on spending at least a night there if you can. We did visit the Nat'l park in between the two (Kenmare &amp; Dingle) and it was an easy drive from Kenmare.

Have a wonderful trip!!! I'm so jealous!!


<b>partyteacher: </b> Dunaree was a lovely place- Bunratty is very touristy, but so convenient! Dunaree was a perfect base, we actually looked forward to going back there at the end of the day.

We booked our trip with a travel agent, and she gave us a book of coupons for 1/2 price and free entrances to specific attractions... it was a fantastic way to save a few $$.

That, coupled with the fact that my SO and I are just completing our graduate studies... we both have valid student IDs, which was a GREAT savings. Usually 1/2 price or less for most attractions!

Enjoy your trips!! Next time, I think we will head further north... can't wait!

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katya,

Thank you so much for the great info! I'm sure we will have a great time - I can only hope we don't have rain (we will!)

We definitely plan on Inistioge - based on yours and other posts. And I agree - we either need to do the Ring of Kerry or Dingle - not both. We will figure this out.

Thanks again for responding - you've been a great help!

-Laura

ttt for Gr8

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