Go Back  Fodor's Travel Talk Forums > Destinations > Europe
Reload this Page >

north western Ireland and NI--any suggestions for a two week stay

north western Ireland and NI--any suggestions for a two week stay

Old Jan 9th, 2003, 03:44 PM
  #21  
Danna
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
The Glenariff Forest Park just east of Glenariff... or Waterfoot is not to be missed. It's magical, particularly the waterfall walk. I don't agree that the Giants Causeway is a must, it's ok, but not that thrilling. Have a grand time!
 
Old Jan 9th, 2003, 06:37 PM
  #22  
David D.
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Sarah,

Donegal is relatively undiscovered by tourists, as it's a prety fair distance from the Republic's two major airports. But therein lies part of its apppeal.

Donegal town is enjoyable, an ideal base for visiting Slieve League, the highest cliffs in Europe (a great alternative to the very touristy Cliffs of Moher). Plus, there are some terrific hiking opportunities around and along the the cliffs. As for lodging, I can recommend two:

Ardnamona House, beautifully situated on the shores of Lough Eske, and featuring lovely, extensive gardens.

Rhu Gorse, more budget oriented than the above, but cozy and super friendly. It, too, overlooks Lough Eske.

Both of the above are located a short drive from Donegal town.

The Donegal town of Dunfanaghy is a good base for exploring the Mt. Fuji-like Mt. Errigal, as well as Glenveagh National Park. Both are well worth your time. Dunfanaghy has at least one terrific place to stay. It's called The Mill Restaurant, and it offers wondeful dining along with modern, super-tidy accommodation.

Ardara, not far from Donegal town, features some good opportunities to purchase Irish knitwear.

Should you venture into the North, by all means see the Giant's Causeway, preferably early or late in the day, as it can get crowded. Bushmills Distillery is fun, but the town that surrounds it is rather depressing, with in-your-face sectarianism. In addition, do tour the Antrim Coast, an underrated delight, which features Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle.

Finally, I wouldn't be overly concerned about referring to Londonderry as "Derry". The city has a majority Catholic (aka Nationalist) population, and "Derry" appears to be widely used.

Best of luck.
 
Old Jan 9th, 2003, 07:07 PM
  #23  
sar
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
excellent info David-thank you very much.
 
Old Jan 11th, 2003, 07:25 AM
  #24  
David D.
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Sarah,

Pardon my follow-up, but I'd be remiss if I didn''t mention Counties Sligo and Fermanagh, two of the islands most underrated and least-touristy.

You needn't be a fan of W.B. Yeats to enjoy Sligo town and the attractive Sligo countryside. Consider staying at either Temple House or Coopershill, both of which are memorable and distinctive and not far from Sligo town.

A short drive from Sligo town is County Fermanagh, chock-full of attractions, but by no means over-visited. Get a good travel guide and introduce yourself to Fermanagh's stately houses, castles, early Christian carvings, and more. Consider staying at Ardess House. located in Kesh.

Best of luck.
 
Old Jan 11th, 2003, 12:42 PM
  #25  
John
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Hi Sarah,

Lots of good advice from folks. The Antrim Coast/North Coast/Donegal County are great.

As several have mentioned Fermanaugh with Enniskellen (or Sligo) as a base is super - I think it is the best part of Ireland.

If a self-catering accommodation is your cup of tea, you may want to research Belle Isle just outside of Enniskellen. It is a super place in a great location.

I would also encourage you to consider visiting one of the folk parks in Northern Ireland. Good for historical context.

Have a great time.
 
Old Jan 11th, 2003, 01:05 PM
  #26  
Danna
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Sarah... we took the same trip but in reverse in the fall of 2000. I didn't find Giants Causeway that impressive. We stayed in Portpatrick, close to Bushmills, nice waves but no food. My main recommendation is on the east coast. The Glenariff Forest Park just east of Waterfoot is amazing. We stayed in Cushendall at the Meadows B&B, she won the best NI B&B award and took us in during a gale! We really like Anne Carey! We continue to visit the landing area of your ferry, Galloway. It is the best! Have a grand time!
 
Old Jan 13th, 2003, 11:32 AM
  #27  
Jeanette
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Sara, I hope you don't mind but I got a lot of useful information from your replies. I too will be traveling alone and driving through Ireland, Scotland & England in September. After all the wonderful responses I am really looking forward to my trip.
 
Old Jan 13th, 2003, 11:40 AM
  #28  
kam
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Don't miss Donegal and the Inishowen Peninisula. Highly, highly recommend St. John's Country House. Reg will plan wonderful routes for you. Wish we could be there again.
 
Related Topics
Thread
Original Poster
Forum
Replies
Last Post
BeverlyJean
Europe
5
Mar 13th, 2017 11:31 AM
sjbisanz1
Europe
4
May 19th, 2006 04:40 PM
stephf54
Europe
5
Apr 2nd, 2006 04:55 AM
dobosotto
Europe
5
Jan 26th, 2006 02:33 PM
NorthernIreland1979
Europe
6
Dec 25th, 2005 06:00 PM

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are On


Thread Tools
Search this Thread

Contact Us - Manage Preferences - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information -