Things To See & Do
Explore the many peninsulas of the south west, pointing like fingers out into the Atlantic. You’ll find foaming seas, craggy coastlines, end-of-the-road viewpoints to offshore islands and quaint towns and villages, such as Schull on the Mizen Peninsula, packed with local craft shops and super cafés. The Ring of Kerry is the most famous, of course, though that also means it can be rather crowded and busy. Set off early or linger late to avoid the main tourist traffic yet still enjoy the magnificent scenery.
Don’t miss the barren, rocky landscape of the Burren in County Clare, with its limestone pavement and petrified springs. It’s like nowhere else on earth. Look closely and you’ll find signs of life everywhere, from wild flowers clinging in crevasses to cows seemingly grazing on stone.
Connemara is still a hidden delight, often referred to as Ireland’s last wilderness. In the summer it is bursting with colourful hedgerows of wild flowers. Make the most of long, light evenings by wandering along sandy beaches or rocky shores. Keep an eye out for seals and perhaps even dolphins, then cosy-up in a local pub and hum along to traditional music.
McKinlay Kidd puts time and effort into hunting out the best places to stay so you don’t have to: we seek out the friendliest, best-value small hotels, guest houses and charming restaurants that Ireland has to offer. Many have a fascinating history of their own, having been family-run for five, six, seven or even eight generations! Or if you are looking for somewhere very special to stay, perhaps for a celebratory occasion, we can include a magnificent tower house right on the shoreline in County Clare, or an Irish castle nestling within a glorious 1,000 acre lakeside estate. Please ask us: the possibilities are endless – just like Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way!
