Would it be unrealistic of my husband and I to consider driving from Shannon to Doolin, getting on the ferry and going to the Aran Islands for our first night in Ireland? We're flying from Boston Sunday night-Monday morning. We've been to Europe a few times, and are usually wide awake when we first land, for about 3 hours. Would this allow us enough time to get to the Aran Islands, possibly take a cat-nap then go exploring? We're open Monday and Tuesday, we're meeting friends of ours in Galway on Wednesday. Thanks!

that shouldn't be a problem. It takes just over an hour by car to get from Shannon to Doolin. The Aran Islands are only 20 minutes by boat from Doolin. You would want to check sailing times though so you know what time you need to be there. The times don't seem to be on their website, but there is a contact phone number - http://www.doolinferries.com/

Your only problem with this is that there is the possibility that the ferry won't be running due to weather and you won't be able to make your booked room and then you'll be running around trying to find a place.

irlandes,

Rather than taking the traditional route from the mainland, why not consider an exciting airborne alternative to reaching the Aran Islands? Fly Aer Aran.

Reaching Inishmore via Aer Aran is a short, highly scenic ten-minute flight. (note the airline flies to all three of the Aran islands). Flights depart from Inverin on the Galway coast, at the Connemara Regional Airport. You'll fly on an eight-seater aircraft, and (weather permitting) enjoy spectacular views of Ireland's west coast. Also, look into Aer Aran's package deals, where you can obtain a night's B & B, along with return-trip airfare, for around euro 70.

Speaking of lodging, if you should stay on Inishmore, do consider the Man of Aran Cottage. While I've not spent an overnight there, I can heartily recommend its restaurant, offering fine, fresh seafood in a very pretty, atmospheric location. Quite nice, indeed.

Best of luck.

I agree that it is possible and agree that weather could be a factor from Doolin. David's idea is good, but it would require a longer drive, my guess would be 2-3 hours depending on traffic and how easily you get through Galway. If traffic is terrible in Galway, it could be longer.

I'm not sure when you are traveling, but check the schedules from doolin. You apparently need to call the booking office to get the schedule which is 353 65 7074455.

Sounds like a nice way to kick off a trip if the weather is good.

Bill