I realize these are two VERY different options - my husband and I will be staying in 2 B&B's prior to arriving to the Galway area, 2 nights in Kenmare and 2 nights in Dingle - will be a long scenic drive coming from Dingle as we are stopping off in Doolin and Cliffs of Moher.

Our purpose of the last 2 days is to: 1. Take a plan to the Aran Islands, or 2. explore a nearby castle, go fishing, etc (something other than driving long distances!) My thoughts on The Twelve is that it might be a nice 'change of pace' as we might be b&b'ed out? Not sure. The hotel looks gorgeous and does boast wonderful reviews. The cottage, however, also looks very intriguing and not the typical b&b atmosphere...also with wonderful reviews! PLUS very close to the airport for getting to the Aran Isles the following day.

So please fellow Fodorians all thoughts and suggestions are widely appreciated. Thanks so much.

Melissa

I don't know the properties but in terms of distance, they are both on the coast road, about 11 km between the two. The coast road is much more built up since I lived there so going further out to Spiddal might be a bit less populated but it's been awhile for me. I would choose based on the type of accommodation you want.

BTW, Donnelly's on the coast road in Barna used to be very good for seafood and general ambiance. It would be good to get a recent opinion, mine is from 8 years ago!

Personally Tuar Beag is the only place to stay in Spiddal

http://www.bandbgalway.com/

We stayed at Cloc na Scith just east of Spiddal for a week back in 2003. It was a wonderful thatched roof cottage.....very reasonable $. From there we explored Connemara up to Cong and west to the tip. Terrific.