Go on a one week Western Ireland road trip that includes stunning landscapes, castle hotels, trad music, and charming towns using this blog post to help you plan everything ;).
Driving through Western Ireland is a feast for the senses, and no road trip would be complete without a visit to the wild beauty of Connemara, the serene splendor of Kylemore Abbey, and the breathtaking cliffs of Slieve League.
In Connemara, I have no doubt that you will be captivated by rolling landscapes of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and charming villages where time seems to stand still.
At Kylemore Abbey, the enchanting lakeside castle offers a perfect blend of history, romance, and tranquility, with its beautifully restored Victorian walled garden and peaceful woodland walks.
My husband and I took a 13 day trip to Ireland in August 2024 with three of those days being full travel days to and from San Diego for us. Depending on where your home city is, you might have more or less travel time across the pond (assuming you are indeed starting in the US ;0).
Our trip was centered around attending the Coldplay concert at Croke Park in Dublin :). Having a guitar playing Irish man as a husband, when I asked him in early 2024 if he would like to see Coldplay in Dublin – it took him less than 2 seconds to excitedly reply – YES :).
This western Ireland road trip was our second trip to Ireland with the first being with our 3 kids for my (again) Irish husband’s 40th birthday in 2009.
Because we had three kids in tow aged 8-13 on that road trip, we stayed in the lower half of the Emerald Isle and focused on the more touristy stops like Bunratty and Blarney Castles…
If you scroll down to the day to day itineraries at the bottom of this post, I have included our April 2009 itinerary as well for your reference however having now spent more time in the northern west coast of Ireland – I truthfully must say our second itinerary (August 2024) gave my husband and I many more jaw dropping Irish countryside moments :).
In a rush?
Western Ireland Travel Guide
The Little Details
Maps
HOW TO USE THIS MAP:
Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers of the map and names of places included. You can click the check marks to hide or show the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information from each point of interest.
If you click the little star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view the map on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the ‘menu’ button, go to ‘Saved’ on a computer and ‘You’ then ‘Saved’ on phone, click ‘Maps,’ and you will see this map on your list.
How to Get to Western Ireland
Most international visitors to Ireland will fly into Dublin Airport or Shannon Airport.
Dublin Airport is the busiest hub, offering more international flights but Shannon Airport is the main airport for western Ireland however has fewer flight options.
We flew our favorite British Airways nonstop flight from San Diego to London and then took an easy up and down jump over to Shannon Airport via BA’s partner airline Aer Lingus.
Most visitors will fly into Dublin and do a large circle of the island before returning to Dublin which is a very easy option as well.
Because our western Ireland road trip started with an 8pm arrival time at the Shannon Airport, we stayed close to the Shannon Airport at Dromoland Castle Hotel for the one night.
I am not kidding when I say, renting a car in the small(ish) Shannon Airport was one of the easiest places we have picked up a rental car in Europe ;0. We used Hertz rental car because we are Gold members with them and trust them internationally.
However there are multiple car rental companies to choose from at the Shannon airport. You can see all your options to work within your own budget here.
The fee for returning the car at the Dublin airport (if that is your end city as well) was minimal too which made our one way rental from Shannon airport to Dublin very convenient for our itinerary :).
After spending the one night at Dromoland Castle, we continued on to Galway the next morning with a stop at Cliffs of Moher along the way :).
Best Time of Year to Visit Western Ireland
The best time to visit Western Ireland is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild (usually!) and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.
Having visited in both April and August, I can say – we wore the same types of clothes at both times of the year (sweaters and light jackets) and needed umbrellas an equal amount of time for each trip ;0.
Recommended Number of Days for a Visit to Ireland
Yes – I know I titled this blog post ‘A One Week Road Trip’ HOWEVER, one week would only be touching the surface of all that Ireland has to offer…
And I am not including any time you would want in Dublin for this week itinerary (personally we loved our easy pace of 3 full days in Dublin!), so keep that in mind as you plan how long to make your vacation.
My personal recommendation would be to spend a full two weeks on the island of Ireland – NOT including the amount of time you need to get there and also get back home. If you are coming from western US, that would mean your total days on vacation would be closer to 17 days ;).
If you have limited time off or only want to make this a two week trip including travel days – I would suggest leaving the US on a Thursday night so that you arrive Friday, spend two weeks exploring this fantastic Emerald Isle, and then go back home on the third Sunday after your departure day…
Money and Plug Details in Ireland
In Ireland, the currency is the Euro (€), and most places accept credit and debit cards, though it’s always handy to carry some cash for smaller establishments or tips.
It is recommended to use a BANK ATM machine once in the country you are traveling to to withdraw money out of your US (presumably) bank account. This is the least expensive way to handle bank fees and foreign exchange rates.
Be sure you are using a credit card with zero foreign transaction fees as those can add up!!
Ireland uses Type G plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz, so travelers from outside the UK and Ireland may need a plug adapter and potentially a voltage converter.
I bring this extension cord with me everywhere I travel and these adapters when traveling to the UK and Ireland.
Best Places to Stay in Western Ireland
Use the map below for the hotels that I would consider top hotels and other places I would stay on a western Ireland road trip ;).
As mentioned previously, we did not venture south of Shannon during our August 2024 trip thus I am not adding any options for County Cork, Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula on my list.
However this excellent Telegraph list is a fantastic reference if you are wanting to add accommodations in those areas to your own itinerary.
I have included detailed descriptions of the places we actually stayed below :).
HOW TO USE THIS MAP:
Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers of the map and names of places included. You can click the check marks to hide or show the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information from each point of interest.
If you click the little star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view the map on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the ‘menu’ button, go to ‘Saved’ on a computer and ‘You’ then ‘Saved’ on phone, click ‘Maps,’ and you will see this map on your list.
Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle, once the ancestral home of the O’Brien family, descendants of Brian Boru, Ireland’s last High King, dates back to the 16th century and exudes timeless grandeur.
Staying here offers a luxurious experience, blending historic charm with modern comforts, where you can indulge in fine dining, stroll the manicured grounds, and even try your hand at falconry.
Cliffs of Moher are less than a one hour drive away from this grand property.
As mentioned above, our flight arrived into Shannon Airport at 8pm so we stayed at Dromoland Castle for the first night of our itinerary before continuing on to Galway with a stop at the Cliffs of Moher.
We also stayed here with our 3 children back in 2009 and at the time our 8 year old called this the bestest hotel in the whole wide world :).
Galway Hotels
If you decide to make Galway your homebase for the majority of your Western Ireland road trip itinerary, you will want to read my Galway Travel Guide here.
We made The g Hotel and Spa our base for the 3 nights we slept in Galway.
In the last few years, we have made every attempt to avoid moving hotels frequently however staying at a castle hotel was a high priority for me as part of our 2024 itinerary thus moving hotels more than I normally would was part of our Irish road trip experience ;).
Ashford Castle
When doing my initial research on castles to stay at in the Connemara area of Western Ireland, Ashford Castle stood out to me ;0.
Originally built in 1228, the castle has transformed over centuries from a medieval fortress to a luxurious 5-star hotel, offering a blend of Irish history and world-class hospitality.
Staying here is an unforgettable experience, with elegant rooms, incredible dining, and natural beauty.
It is an Ireland destination in and of itself of which you could spend entire days at without even leaving the property. We spent two nights here but could have easily done 3 nights to explore Clifden/Sky Road, Kylemore Abbey, and more of the Connemara area.
This will most certainly be a property my husband and I return to time and time again :).
Lough Eske Castle in Donegal
If you plan on visiting Slieve League in the north of Western Ireland, you will likely want to stay overnight in order to avoid an excessive amount of driving in one day.
While there were many highlights of our Irish road trip for us, seeing Slieve League was in the top 5 fyi…
While Lough Eske is not as luxurious or ornate as Ashford Castle, the staff is extremely kind and hospitable (those Irish truly might be the nicest people on Earth!), and the rooms are extra spacious and comfortable.
What to See on a One Week Western Ireland Road Trip
Cliffs of Moher
No visit to Western Ireland is complete without marveling at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where towering cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable photo opportunities.
Since there is only one parking lot in the area, your parking lot ticket is your “entrance” to this natural beauty. Learn more and buy your timed/dated ticket here.
While there is no turnstile or agent to deny entrance at any part of the area, the website does say tickets are required 🤔.
We arrived at 1:45pm for our 2pm entrance time and had about 25 cars in front of us for the parking lot ticket booth…
(we also took our 3 kids to Cliffs of Moher back in 2009 :))
Dunguaire Castle
You will pass Dunguaire Castle on your drive from Cliffs of Moher to Galway.
Dunguaire Castle, a picturesque 16th-century tower house near Kinvara, was once the seat of the O’Hynes clan and later became a gathering place for Ireland’s literary revivalists in the early 20th century.
You can explore the ivy covered exterior and enjoy the stunning views of Galway Bay on this road trip stop.
Connemara: Clifden and Clifden Castle
Connemara is a breathtaking region of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and unspoiled coastline, offering a serene escape into Ireland’s natural beauty.
And a not miss in the area (besides the famous Kylemore Abbey) is the town of Clifden and Clifden Castle.
Stop for lunch at Guys Bar and Snug in downtown Clifden – you will love how perfectly and friendly ‘Irish countryside’ the vibe is here :).
CLIFDEN
CLIFDEN CASTLE
Clifden Castle, a picturesque ruin just outside the charming town of Clifden, offers a glimpse into the history and grandeur of 19th-century Ireland.
Accessible via a scenic walking path, the castle is surrounded by rolling hills and coastal views, making it a peaceful and photogenic stop on your Western Ireland road trip.
Look for a tiny little parking lot on the left side of the road on your way to Sky Road and then walk the little over half mile to this ivy covered old castle :).
Connemara: Sky Road
Sky Road in Connemara offers one of the most scenic drives in Western Ireland, winding along cliffs with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.
The drive is an unforgettable experience – even in the wind and rain like we experienced it ;).
Be sure to take your time as you drive or stop at one of the many pull-offs to fully appreciate the panoramic vistas and peaceful atmosphere.
Connemara: Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey, nestled in the heart of Connemara, is a breathtaking Gothic-style mansion surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil lakes.
You can explore the abbey’s rich history, stroll through its Victorian walled gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque landscape as well as Connemara ponies.
For more information – read my Kylemore Abbey post here.
Murrisk Abbey and Croagh Patrick
Murrisk Abbey, located at the base of Croagh Patrick in Connemara, offers a peaceful and scenic spot for history enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the ruins of this 15th-century abbey, which was once a site for medieval monks, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings with views of the rugged landscape.
The abbey’s remote setting makes it a perfect stop for a quiet moment of reflection while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Connemara: Doolough Valley Between Leenaun and Louisburgh
The rural R335 road is one of the most scenic drives in all of Ireland.
Unfortunately, it is also sometimes closed due to road repairs on bridges ;0. Use Google Maps to find out if this road between Leenaun and Louisburgh is drivable.
Slieve League in County Donegal
Slieve League, one of Ireland’s most stunning and dramatic coastal spots, is a must-see on a Western Ireland road trip.
With cliffs rising nearly 600 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, it’s an awe-inspiring sight that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Having seen photos of Slieve League on Instagram, I immediately made driving to this unforgettable destination a top priority for our itinerary.
For more information and helpful tips on visiting Slieve League, read this blog post here.
What to Wear in Ireland
For spring, late summer, or fall visits to Ireland, pack layers, including medium weight sweaters, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes for changing weather.
Don’t forget a scarf and umbrella for added warmth and rain protection.
In the photo below, I had just realized I left both of my rain coats at the hotel we had left 3 hours earlier!! Thus – I am wearing my husband’s extra jacket ;0.
Our Full August 2024 Ireland Day to Day Overview
DAY 1 | Fly from San Diego to Shannon via London on British Airways
DAY 2 | Arrive in Shannon 8:30pm | Drive to Dromoland Castle Hotel
DAY 3 | Drive to Galway with stops at Cliffs of Moher, McGann’s Pub in Doolin for lunch, Corkscrew Hill, Dunguaire Castle | Stay at The g Hotel and Spa for 3 nights
DAY 4 | Galway: Spanish Arch, City Museum, Long Walk, Galway Cathedral, Westend live music at Crane Bar
DAY 5 | Galway: day trip through Connemara with stops at The Quiet Man Bridge, Clifden for lunch at Guys Bar, then drive the Sky Road and explore Clifden Castle ~ spend night back in Galway
DAY 6 | Drive to Cong in Connemara – stay at Ashford Castle for two nights
DAY 7 | Kylemore Abbey and Murrisk Abbey since R335 scenic drive from Leenaun to Louisburgh was closed
DAY 8 | Drive from Ashford Castle to Slieve League (3 hours) ~ spend night in Donegal at Lough Eske Castle
DAY 9 | Drive to Dublin with stop at Emerald Guitars in Donegal (3 hours) | Stay 4 nights at The Westbury Dublin
DAY 10 | Dublin: Kilmainhaul Gaol Museum, St Patrick’s Cathedral, wander streets of Temple Bar, Christ Church, live music at Cobblestone Bar, St Stephen’s Park, shopping on Grafton Street
DAY 11 | Dublin: Trinity College, Coldplay concert
DAY 12 | Dublin: Guinness Brewery tour, Roe & Co Irish Whiskey Distillery tour, dinner at The Hairy Lemon
DAY 13 | Fly Dublin to San Diego via London on British Airways
Our Full April 2009 Ireland Day to Day Overview
DAY 1 | Fly LAX to Dublin
DAY 2 | Arrive Dublin 8:30am
DAY 3 | Dublin: Trinity College, Guinness Brewery Tour
DAY 4 | Drive to Cork with stop at Rock of Cashel and Waterford Factory | Overnight in Cork
DAY 5 | Drive to Killarney: Blarney Castle and drive short portion of Ring of Kerry | Overnight in Killarney
DAY 6 | Drive to Shannon with stop at Bunratty Castle | Overnight for 2 nights at Dromoland Castle
DAY 7 | Visit Cliffs of Moher from Dromoland Castle
DAY 8 | Drive to Dublin with stop at Clonmacnois
DAY 9 | Fly Dublin to LAX
I hope you found this post for what to see on a one week western Ireland road trip helpful in planning your own fantastic adventure!
A one-week road trip through Western Ireland offers an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural experiences.
From the rugged beauty of the Cliffs of Moher to the lively streets of Galway, this adventure promises cherished memories and a deep connection to Ireland’s enchanting spirit.
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Life is short, the world is wide.
I want to make some memories.
~Mamma Mia
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