AndTheDonkey

Irish Travel Links

In 2007, I walked over 100 miles from hostel to hostel in Cork and Kerry, then traveled by bus. Here's what I found.

You are invited to:
Travel like a local.

An Carraig Ard B&B, Ballydehob, West Cork

Beara Camping

Tuosist, near Kenmare, Beara Peninsula, Co. Kerry
Phone: +353-64-84287 bearacamping@eircom.net
The Beara Peacock lies a short drive from Kenmare and within walking distance of the Beara Way and Gleninchaquin Park. The campsite itself is a lovely green place with winding paths and plenty of privacy. There are some gorgeous views, as well as a friendly pot-bellied pig to entertain the kids. There's also a small shop onsite, and fresh-baked bread available on request.
You can find the Beara Peacock on the R571 on the north side of the Beara Peninsula, about 8 miles out from Kenmare. Rates start at €7.50 for tents and €9 for huts. Cabins and mobile homes are also available, as well as space for your camper/caravan.

Black Valley Hostel

Black Valley, near Killarney, Co. Kerry
Phone: +353-64-34712
Located on the Kerry Way in Black Valley, this hostel is certainly off the beaten track. A welcome escape from Killarney's busy streets, Black Valley is one of the most sparsely populated areas of Ireland, and the view of the moon over the mountains from the hostel's bedrooms is something not to be missed. A shop is conveniently attached to the hostel, which is within walking distance of the Gap of Dunloe and several walking routes. The hostel itself is clean and comfortable, with a friendly, laid back atmosphere.
The hostel is located on the Killarney - Kenmare Rd (also known as the Ring of Kerry). Follow the signs for the Black Valley. Rates vary from €12.50 to €16 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Family rooms are also available.

Burren Stained Glass

Doolin, Co. Clare
Phone: +353-65-7075956
Beautiful stained glass lightcatchers, etc, made right in the shop on Fisherstreet.

Cottage Bar, Glengarriff, West Cork

Derrylahan, Kilcar, Co. Donegal

Dunquin Hostel

Dunquin, near Dingle, Co. Kerry
Phone: +353-66-9156121
Located on the Dingle Way on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula, this hostel is in a stunning location. The Blasket Centre and the ferry to the Blasket Islands are both within easy walking distance, and beehive huts and a prehistoric cliff fort lie a short bike ride away. The hostel itself is clean and airy, with stunning views from both the bedrooms and the dining area with its wall of picture windows. There is also a cozy lounge and an ample kitchen. The reception office sells a few groceries, and is friendly and welcoming.
From Dingle, follow the signs out through Ventry to Dunquin. Rates vary from €12.50 to €17 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Family rooms are also available.

Garranes Hostel and Dzogchen Beara, near Castletownbere, West Cork

Grapevine Hostel

Dykegate Lane, Dingle, Co. Kerry
Phone: +353-66-915-1434 hostel@grapevinedingle.com
Located in Dingle's city centre, this hostel is both busy and surprisingly cozy. The hostel is within a moment's walk of several pubs and shops, and is itself a fantastic place to meet fellow travellers, in the kitchen, the lounge, the dining area, or the little courtyard out back. The hostel is clean and comfortable, a great place to stay and enjoy Dingle.
From bus stop walk through Supervalu supermarket, at the front door turn right and then take first left. Rates vary from €12 to €15 per night for a bed in a dorm room.

Hungry Hill Lodge

Adrigole, near Castletownbere, Co. Cork
Phone: +353-27-60228/60004 info@hungryhilllodge.com
Providing both hostel and camping accomodations, Hungry Hill Lodge is conveniently located midway between Glengarriff and Castletownbere. The hostel is modern and open, with a huge kitchen and a comfortable lounge. The grounds are beautifully kept up, and Hungry Hill is a welcome place to rest after a long day hiking, cycling, or just enjoying the natural beauty of the Beara Peninsula. There is a pub on the hostel grounds and a shop just a few moments' walk up the street.
The hostel is located on the main road between Glengarriff and Castletownbere. Cost is €17 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Family rooms are also available.

Neptune's Hostel

New Street, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Phone: +353-64-35255 neptune@eircom.net
Neptune's is a large, friendly hostel located a few moments' walk from Killarney's town centre, and a few minutes walk from Killarney National Park. The hostel has a particularly spacious kitchen and dining area, as well as free internet access. Tours can be arranged, and the reception staff are always willing to help you find your way around.
Ask anyone where to find Neptune's. Rates vary from €12.50 to €17.50 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Family rooms are also available.

Rainbow Hostel

Doolin, Co. Clare
Phone: +353657074415 rainbowhostel@eircom.net
Rainbow Hostel is my personal favorite. The building is roomy and comfortable, with nice big kitchen and a turf fire burning in the common room most nights. The guest books (also in the lounge) attest to years of happy visitors, many of them repeat customers. This hostel attracts a wonderful mix of people. You'll find yourself unwilling to leave.
You can find Rainbow Hostel just two doors up from McDermott's pub. Rates are around €12-€15 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Private double rooms are also available for €20pps.

Russagh Mill Hostel and Adventure Centre, Skibbereen, County Cork

Top of the Hill Hostel, Baltimore, County Cork

Urhan Hostel, Beara Peninsula, West Cork

Walking Boots Tours

Maeve Kelly, experienced walking guide for the past ten years, arranges and guides small group walking tours all along the west coast of Ireland. "I manage a small number of tours each year," Maeve says, "in order to give my clients the utmost care and attention and the walking holiday of a lifetime. With me you will walk off the beaten track away from tour buses; experience the magical quiet solitude the Irish hills offer; learn of the history, culture, and stories; experience the friendliness of the locals - something that makes Ireland a place apart. Join me to explore the heart and sole of Ireland."