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Castle suggestion for a detour on the way from Dublin to Killarney?

Hi- we are going to Ireland November 19th and haven't figured out one thing- we are driving from Dunlin to Killarney and would like to stop someplace along the way to see a sight and have lunch.

I originally thought Cashel to see the castle, but I heard its undergoing construction- has anyone seen it lately?

Otherwise, I know Blarney is another option, but is it the best stop for seeing a castle?

Does anyone have any other ideas, Kilkenny castle?

Let me know, thanks!!

For reference, this is our nights breakdown
3 nights Dublin
2 nights Killarney

2 nights Galway


Kristen
Burnsville, Minnesota USA 11/10/12
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11/10/12 6:25 PM
Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA
Posts: 6808
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Cashel is really a monastic ruin, not a castle. Had not heard of any "construction" there. Very near to Cashel, though, is Cahir, with its castle in the middle of the river. And I personally love Blarney. There is a lot there besides the castle - the grounds are beautiful, there is a dolmen, and I wouldn't say the castle was "unimpressive" - and you are not under any obligation to kiss the stone if you don't want to. Across the road is Blarney Woollen Mill, too, with great food and shopping.


11/11/12 7:04 AM
Claudia
Land of La
Posts: 1831
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http://www.kilkennycastle.ie/en/VisitorInformation/, reservations a must.


11/11/12 12:37 PM
Susan
Atlanta, Ga USA
Posts: 1297
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Cahir Castle is said to be one of the most intact castles in Ireland. Nearby is the Swiss Cottage which is interesting-has a thatched roof and original furnishings. If you have not booked nights in Killarney I can recommend Randles Court Hotel. We were there last month and liked RC-peat fires burning and nice room-convenient to Muckross House which may be on your list.


11/11/12 2:46 PM
Kristen
Burnsville, Minnesota USA
Posts: 6
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Thanks all! I checked out Cahir on the web and it looks really nice. We may stop there instead. Looks more intact, which is what I'd like to see most. Is there a lot to see on the inside?

I did confirm with the Rock of Cashel via e-mail that there's scaffolding on the outside, don't know how much though, or if it takes away from the beauty of it.

Susan- turns out I am staying at Randle's Court in Killarney- looking forward to it!! And Muckross is on the list :)

Thanks again for any other insights, we have never been to Ireland so having the most info before we get there, is super helpful!