3-Day Winter Road Trip from Athlone to Cork and Beyond

Day 1: Winter Wonders

Athlone, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Bean

Start your day with a warm and hearty breakfast at The Coffee Bean in Athlone, known for their delicious pancakes and hot chocolate, perfect for the cold season.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Rock of Cashel

Drive to the historic Rock of Cashel, an iconic site that looks stunning against the winter sky and boasts breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside.
Drive 1.5 hours to Rock of Cashel.
EUR8, 2 hours

11:30AM

Guided Tour of Rock of Cashel

Take a guided tour to discover the legends and history of this ancient castle site, where you can stay warm inside the visitor center.
Stay within the same site.
EUR10, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Lite

Enjoy a light lunch at Café Lite, featuring warming soups and local sandwiches, a cozy spot to relax in winter.
Drive 15 minutes to Café Lite in Cahir.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Blarney Castle

After lunch, make your way to Blarney Castle, which glistens against the winter sun, and don’t forget to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
Drive 1 hour to Blarney Castle.
EUR18, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Blarney Gardens

Wander through the captivating gardens surrounding Blarney Castle, wrapped in winter's stillness, perfect for strolls and photography.
Stay within the same location.
Included with castle ticket, 1 hour

4:30PM

Drive to Cork

Head to Cork city for the evening, where twinkling lights add charm to the city during the holiday season.
Short 30-minute drive to Cork.
N/A, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Check-in at The Metropole Hotel

Settle into your cozy accommodation at The Metropole Hotel, centrally located for your evening adventures during festive cheer.
Drive to the hotel and check-in.
EUR120, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Market Lane

Savor a delicious dinner at Market Lane, offering seasonal dishes made from local ingredients and warm holiday drinks.
Walk from your hotel to Market Lane.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Explore Cork City Center

Take a leisurely evening walk through Cork’s illuminated city center, enjoying the festive decorations and lively atmosphere.
Explore by foot from Market Lane.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Exploration

Cork, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Farmgate Café

Enjoy a hearty winter breakfast at Farmgate Café, renowned for its local produce and warm comfort foods.
Walk to the café from your hotel.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Killarney

Leave Cork and drive towards Killarney, a picturesque town ready to showcase its winter splendor.
Drive for about 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Killarney National Park

Discover the stunning wintry landscapes of Killarney National Park, where you may catch a glimpse of frost and serene trails.
Drive to the park once in Killarney.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Lakeside Restaurant

Warm up with lunch at The Lakeside Restaurant, featuring hearty meals and lovely views over the snow-capped lakes.
Drive 10 minutes from the park.
EUR18, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ring of Kerry Tour

Set off on your scenic drive along the famous Ring of Kerry, stopping at cozy towns and wintery coastal spots.
Begin the journey along the Ring of Kerry.
EUR40, 4 hours

5:30PM

Drive to Ennis

Conclude your day by heading towards Ennis, a charming town wrapped in the warmth of winter lights.
Drive for about 1 hour.
N/A, 1 hour

6:30PM

Check-in at Treacys West County Hotel

Check into Treacys West County Hotel, a cozy place where you can unwind and feel at home for the night.
Drive to the hotel and check-in.
EUR100, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Town Hall

Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Town Hall, known for its modern Irish cuisine and festive ambiance.
Walk from your hotel to the restaurant.
EUR24, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Stroll in Ennis

Take a peaceful evening stroll through Ennis, enjoying the serene atmosphere and holiday lights shimmering in the streets.
Explore by foot.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Majestic Views

Ennis, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Ground Hotel

Start your day with a warm breakfast at The Old Ground Hotel, with options that will keep you cozy on a winter morning.
Walk to the hotel from your accommodation.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Cliffs of Moher

Head to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, where the crashing waves and chilly winds create an unforgettable experience.
Drive 30 minutes to the Cliffs.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience

Explore the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, taking in the magnificent views from the trails, with a chance of beautiful winter scenery.
Stay within the same location.
Included in entrance fee, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Cliffs View Café

Warm up with lunch at The Cliffs View Café, where you can savor hot beverages and delicious comfort food.
Walk to the café from the cliff area.
EUR12, 1 hour

12:30PM

Drive to Galway

Continue your adventure, driving to vibrant Galway where winter markets and festive cheer await your exploration.
Drive for about 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Galway's Latin Quarter

Experience the lively atmosphere of Galway's Latin Quarter, enjoying festive decorations and vibrant street performances.
Drive to the center of Galway.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Coffee Break at Tigh Neachtain

Take a break with a cozy coffee at Tigh Neachtain, the perfect spot to warm up with a local brew while observing holiday cheer.
Walk from the Latin Quarter.
EUR5, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive Back to Athlone

Head back to Athlone, reflecting on a delightful trip filled with winter’s charm and incredible sights.
Drive for about 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours
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