Wild Coasts & Castle Stays: A 7-Day Road Trip from Cork

Morning

Check into Castlemartyr Resort, a countryside retreat known for its peaceful castle ruins, woodland trails, and world-renowned golf course.

Continue your day with a drive to the colorful harbor town of Cobh, the final port of call for the Titanic. Visit the Titanic Experience and follow the real-life story of a passenger as you move through the exhibits. Afterward, take a walk along the waterfront and grab a coffee at Sea Salt Café, one of my favorite spots in town.

Afternoon

Continue to Blarney Castle, where you can climb to the top and kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the “gift of eloquence.” The views from the castle are breathtaking, and the grounds are just as impressive. My favorite spot was the Poison Garden, filled with plants that are as fascinating as they are strange. Explore the Rock Close and stop into the Blarney Woollen Mills for Irish wool, handmade gifts, and classic souvenirs.

Evening

Head back to Castlemartyr Resort for a relaxed evening. Enjoy dinner at the Canopy Bar & Grill or book a late spa treatment to unwind after a full day.

Morning

Drive out to Ballycotton, a quiet fishing village that feels like a true escape. The Cliff Walk offers a scenic and easy trail along the coast with sweeping views of the Atlantic. I spotted a few seals below and had the path almost entirely to myself. It was breezy even in the fall, so I was glad I brought a jacket.

Afternoon

After your walk, continue to Barnabrow House, a romantic country estate near Cloyne that is close to my heart. I got married at this country house, and it was one of the most special places I discovered in Ireland. The setting is peaceful and tucked into rolling countryside. Afternoon tea here is a lovely way to pause and take it all in. Before you leave, say hello to the resident donkeys and goats. They were some of my favorite wedding guests.

Evening

Wrap up the day with dinner at Ballymaloe House. Before your meal, take some time to wander the walled gardens or browse the shop, which carries Irish linen, handmade pottery, and other local treasures. Dinner is served in a warm and traditional dining room, with a menu that reflects the estate’s farm-to-table approach. It was one of the best meals of my trip and the perfect way to close out the day.

Morning

Start with a visit to Blackrock Castle Observatory, a 16th-century fortress turned science center on the River Lee. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the exhibits on astronomy and Irish maritime history were genuinely fascinating.

Afternoon

Make your way to Kinsale, one of the most charming harbor towns in Ireland. Explore the boutiques, walk the Scilly Walk, and stop at Murphy’s for ice cream.

Evening

Enjoy dinner in Kinsale before returning to Castlemartyr. I recommend Fishy Fishy Café for ultra-fresh seafood and a lively setting, or The Black Pig for wine and small plates in a cozy atmosphere. Afterward, head back to the resort for a quiet night.

Morning

Check out of Perryville House and head out early for a full loop of the Ring of Kerry. I recommend driving clockwise, starting in Kenmare and ending in Killarney to avoid tour buses and get the best pacing.

Stop 1: Kenmare

Pick up breakfast and coffee in this charming market town. I loved browsing the boutiques here, especially the locally made leather goods.

Stop 2: Sneem

A quick stretch and photo stop in a colorful little village with a riverside park and small cafés.

Stop 3: Waterville

A sleepy seaside town with great views and even better fish and chips. The walk along the water made for a perfect midday break.

Stop 4: Skellig Ring & Kerry Cliffs

Take the detour for wild coastal views and a quieter alternative to the Cliffs of Moher. I could have stayed here all day just watching the sea crash against the cliffs.

Stop 5: Cahersiveen

Optional stop to see ancient stone ring forts. Peaceful, scenic, and worth it if you’re ahead of schedule.

Stop 6: Rossbeigh Beach

One last stop near Glenbeigh to walk along the wide-open sand and breathe in the Atlantic air.

Evening

Arrive in Killarney and check in to The Killarney Park Hotel, a property with exceptional service and a cozy, elegant vibe. It felt like the perfect reward after a long day of exploring.

For dinner, book a table at Bricín Restaurant or enjoy live music and a pint at The Laurels or Murphy’s Bar.

Morning

Head out early for a loop drive around the Dingle Peninsula, starting with the Slea Head Drive. This coastal route is one of the most scenic in Ireland, with panoramic ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming roadside stops that make it hard not to pull over every few minutes. But, make sure to drive this in a clockwise direction.

One of my favorite stops was a small farm where I held a baby lamb. It felt a little silly at first but ended up being one of the sweetest memories of the trip. Continue on to the Fahan Beehive Huts, ancient stone dwellings tucked into the hillside with beautiful views over the Atlantic.

Afternoon

Stop at Coumeenoole Beach for a walk along the sand and admire the steep drop of Dunquin Pier, one of the most photographed spots in Ireland. From there, make your way into the town of Dingle. I found it to be one of the most charming and colorful towns in the country. Have lunch at Out of the Blue and explore the many boutiques along the bay.

Evening

Return to Killarney in the early evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner back in town. For something elegant, book a table at The Park Restaurant at your hotel. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, Treyvaud’s offers hearty Irish cooking and a friendly atmosphere.

Morning

Check out of The Killarney Park Hotel and begin your journey north toward County Clare. The drive takes about three hours, so plan for a mid-morning start and break it up with a stop in Adare, one of Ireland’s most picturesque villages. The thatched cottages and cozy cafés are perfect for a quick coffee and stroll before continuing on.

Afternoon

Arrive at the Cliffs of Moher for a scenic walk along the cliffs. Even with its popularity, the landscape still feels wild and dramatic. Start at the Hag’s Head entrance on the southern end for a quieter experience, or begin at the main visitor entrance and head south for ocean views and photo stops.

Give yourself about 90 minutes to walk, take in the views, and explore the visitor center if you’re curious about the geology or wildlife of the region.

Evening

Drive just under an hour to Dromoland Castle, your final overnight stay. This 16th-century castle is one of the most luxurious places to end a trip through Ireland.

The grounds are sprawling and peaceful, with woodlands, gardens, and even falconry experiences if you arrive early enough in the day.

Dinner at the Earl of Thomond Restaurant is a true fine-dining experience. The elegant setting, excellent service, and beautifully plated dishes made this one of the most memorable meals of my trip. Afterward, enjoy a nightcap in the drawing room or take a quiet evening walk through the gardens.

Morning

Wake up slowly at Dromoland Castle and savor a final Irish breakfast in the sunlit dining room. If your flight is later in the day, take some time to explore the castle grounds or book a spa treatment before check-out. The walking trails, gardens, and quiet corners made this one of my favorite castle stays in Ireland.

If flying out of Shannon Airport

You’re just 15 minutes from Shannon Airport, which makes for a smooth and stress-free travel day. It’s a small and friendly airport with a simple layout and quick security lines. You’ll still have time for coffee and a browse through the shops before boarding.

If returning to Cork

If your departure is from Cork Airport, plan for a one-hour-and-45-minute drive. Consider leaving after breakfast and making a quick stop in Limerick or Charleville for lunch or a leg-stretch. I found the drive relaxing and scenic, with rolling hills and easy roads the whole way.