Dalkey (County Dublin): The cutest of a string of upscale seaside towns in suburban Dublin nicknamed "Bel Eire" for their wealth, beauty, and density of celebrity residents, Dalkey is both a short drive and a million miles away from the busy city. With a castle, a mountaintop folly, lovely beaches and some fine restaurants, this is a town that tempts you to settle into its comfortable affluence.
Carlingford (County Louth): The ancient name for this gorgeous little town is Cuan Aighneach, which means "Haven of the People with the Perfect Reputation." With its castle ruins overlooking the glassy lough, and pedestrian-friendly lanes filled with colorful shops, cafes, and pubs, this place tends to live up to its reputation.
Inistioge (County Kilkenny): Nestled in the Nore River Valley, surrounded by undulating hills, this riverfront village with two spacious greens and a host of pubs cries out to be photographed. Its rivers and lakes are swimming with fish and attract hosts of anglers.
Kinsale (County Cork): Kinsale's narrow streets all lead to the sea, dropping steeply from the hills around the harbor, although the crowds of visitors teeming on the sidewalks every summer attest to the fact that the Kinsale secret is out. The walk from Kinsale through Scilly to Charles Fort and Frower Point is breathtaking. Kinsale has the added benefit of being a foodie town, with no shortage of good restaurants.
Dingle/An Daingean (County Kerry): Dingle is a charming hilltop medieval town. Its stone buildings ramble up and down hills, and its small population is relaxed about visitors. It has lots of little diners and picturesque pubs, and a lovely, historic church.
Kenmare (County Kerry): It's easy to fall in love with Kenmare, with its stone cottages, colorful gardens, and flowers overflowing from window boxes. It's also home to several elegant hotels, so makes an enchanting base when exploring the Ring of Kerry.
Athlone (County Westmeath): Sitting at the edge of the River Shannon, its streets curving around a sturdy, fortresslike castle, Athlone is a charmer. Houses are painted in bright hues, and with its small, funky boutiques and spirit of fun, it has the feel of a busy university town. Good restaurants and lively pubs add to its charms.
Ardara (County Donegal): On the southwest coast of County Donegal, the tiny town of Ardara looks as if it were carved out of a solid block of granite. Its streets undulate up and down the rocky hills, and are lined with little boutiques and charming arts shops, many selling clothes made of the famed Donegal wool. You can wander its entirety in a few minutes. It's a bite-size place.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
