The Indagare Guide to a Perfect Long Weekend in Ireland

With its impressive landscapes, fascinating history and wealth of unique properties, Ireland is a veritable pot of gold in the destination department. Whether you’re looking for rest and relaxation, cultural immersion, time enjoying the great outdoors or days spent on the green, you can find it at your fingertips. Here’s a snapshot of a dream long weekend in Ireland.

Contact Indagare for assistance planning your trip to Ireland, be it a long weekend or a full-blown holiday.

Day 1 - City Exploration

Sliced in two by the meandering River Liffey, Dublin is an easily walkable city, with the majority of its cultural and historic sites concentrated within a two-mile radius. With the exception of your arrival transfer, and perhaps a ride to dinner, you won’t need the services of a driver for your stay.

Dublin’s best hotels are all located in the city center. We especially enjoy The Merrion’s quiet location, Georgian-style and high-touch service. Indagare’s tip: As many international flights arrive in the wee hours of the morning, we recommend pre-booking your stay the night prior to guarantee early check-in.

After settling in, head out for a day of exploration through the streets of Dublin. Indagare’s excellent on-the-ground Dublin guides can provide necessary context and insider connections throughout. We recommend stops at Dublin Castle, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Grafton Street, Kilmainham Gaol and St. Stephen’s Green. If energy wanes, stop at Two Pups Coffee for a caffeine break and a pastry.

To round out your day, pop over to O’Donoghue’s Bar for a quick pint and some live music, followed by a fabulous dinner at Bastible, Clanbrassil House, The Greenhouse or Fade Street Social.

Day 2 - The Countryside

Begin your journey to the Irish countryside, the beating heart of Ireland, replete with picture-perfect imagery at every curve in the winding, stonewall-lined roads. Travelers to Ireland have their pick of beautiful countryside hotels, and it’s just a matter of matchmaking you to your perfect property. Do you prefer boutique and sense of place-filled? Amenity-rich and activity-laden? It’s all there. We particularly love Ashford Castle, Ballyfin and Adare Manor, all within 2.5 hours of Dublin by car.

Once at your hotel, take the time to luxuriate in your surrounds. Head out for an afternoon of fishing on a local loch. Try your hand at falconry or clay shooting. Channel your inner-Artemis and give archery a go. Head out for a bicycle ride, visit a local farm, play a round of golf or read a book by a crackling fire.

Day 3 - The Countryside Continued

Day three could be all about exploring the grounds of your country estate depending on your hotel. But if you’re looking to delve more deeply into local sightseeing, many properties offer easy driving access to the following locales. Indagare can always assist in pairing you with an excellent guide to show you around on your last day before flying back.

• The Cliffs of Moher
• Connemara National Park
• Galway
• Blarney Castle and Gardens
• World-renowned Golf Courses