Kinsale Hotel & Spa

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Day Two - TBD

We’re so excited to celebrate with you in Kinsale, Cork, Ireland! Ireland is Maebh’s home, and it means so much to us to gather our favorite people for a weekend of good food and great company. We know traveling overseas is a big commitment, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who’s considering making the journey. Truly, thank you. Our wedding ceremony and reception will both take place at Kinsale Hotel &amp; Spa. The ceremony will be followed by a drinks reception, dinner, and dancing into the wee hours of the night! This website is here to make planning easier with travel tips, accommodation details, and everything you’ll need to know to enjoy your time in Ireland. Whether you’re able to join us in Kinsale or celebrating from afar, we feel so lucky to be surrounded by so much love and support. We can’t wait for our different worlds to meet and to celebrate this next chapter together. Yeehaw! With love,Maebh &amp; Zach

Our Wedding

Two Eejits walk into Orangetheory...

...but one was too focused on their splat points, and the other was too nervous to strike up a conversation. So, despite attending the same gym class for close to a year, our story starts like every modern romance...on a dating app! Maebh, the rebel from Ireland's real capital, having travelled the world, ended up in Seattle in 2018. Zach, the California boy, knew he NEEDED to be in Seattle. He finally found his way there in 2021. Little did either of us know, we would find our life partner and perfect match in the Emerald City! Thankfully, we both swiped right, and our love story began in December 2023. Zach picked a bar literally across the street from where Maebh lived at the time, and she was still late - on time by Irish standards. Our nerves quickly evaporated and we enjoyed some delicious wine, talking until they eventually kicked us out. We had our second date the very next night at (surprise surprise) an Orangetheory class. Zach, always the gentleman, walked Maebh home, and our adventure began. Our story is a story of community and balance. We loved meeting each other's friends, family, and seeing the way our individual communities became our community. We find balance in ourselves and the things we do. We've travelled the world but love a local neighborhood wander. Enjoyed Michelin star meals but can't resist Big Mario's pizza. We go all out with friends and love a cozy night in with our little kitty Cece. We often say our souls are connected; we've been together in our previous lives, and we will find each other in our future lives. We're so excited to share our love and adventure in this life with all of you!

Our Story

Kinsale Hotel &amp; Spa

Travel to IrelandWe know an international trip can feel like a lot—especially from the West Coast—so we’ve gathered the basics here to make planning as smooth as possible. Passports &amp; Timing A passport that is valid for at least 6 months is required for US travelers. You do not need a visa.We recommend arriving at least one day before the wedding to allow time to settle in (and adjust to the time difference) VisasUS citizens do not need a visa to travel to the Republic of Ireland for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days A valid U.S. passport is required for entry. *If you want to travel to *Northern Ireland*US citizens will need an <a href="https://www.gov.uk/eta" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)</a> to visit Northern Ireland. While there are no immigration controls on the Republic of Ireland/Northern Ireland land border, the ETA is mandatory for everyone arriving into, or travelling through, the UK, including Northern Ireland. Flying to Ireland ✈️Most guests traveling from Seattle or California will find the easiest route is flying into Dublin Airport (DUB). Dublin has the most frequent transatlantic flights and best onward connections. Cork Airport (ORK) is the closest airport to Kinsale, but flights are more limited and often connect through London, Amsterdam or Paris. For anyone looking to explore Europe, Cork has some great connecting options. Getting to KinsaleKinsale is located in County Cork, on Ireland’s south coast. It's a 20 minute drive or 30 minute bus from Cork Airport. From Dublin Airport:Drive 🚗: 3–3.5 hoursBus 🚌: The AirCoach will go from Dublin Airport or Dublin City direct to Cork City. It takes 3-3.5 hours. We recommend booking tickets in advance. It's a popular service.Train 🚆: Dublin → Cork (approx. 2.5 hours). The train station is a bit of a pain so would recommend the AirCoach. From Cork Airport:Drive 🚗 or taxi 🚕: ~25 minutesThere are also multiple buses a day that go from Cork City to Kinsale via Cork Airport and take ~25 mins. Driving in Ireland🔹In Ireland we drive on the left side of the road.🔹Vehicles are right-hand drive, meaning the driver sits on the right side of the car.🔹Roundabouts are navigated clockwise.🔹You should always check your position, particularly on narrow, rural roads.🔹The ‘turn right on red’ rule does not exist in Ireland.🔹It is unlikely you would need an international driver’s license for Ireland but it might be worth getting one just in case - <a href="https://www.usa.gov/international-drivers-license" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.usa.gov/international-drivers-license</a>🔹In Ireland, cars use petrol (also called unleaded) or diesel. We don’t use "gas." If you are renting a car, double check if it is petrol or diesel. If the car is petrol, use the green🟢pump. If the car is diesel, use the black⚫pump. It's better to ask if you're unsure than break down using the wrong fuel! Taxis and other transportation The major cities and towns will usually have plenty of taxis and public transportation. If you are travelling to smaller towns (including Kinsale), there are usually taxis available but they are limited. You might want to book ahead. You can use Uber in Ireland (but not Lyft) or download the Freenow App - its more widely used.

Getting Here

2:00 PM ~ Ceremony 🤵‍♂️💍👰‍♀️We’ll tie the knot and make it official — grab a seat and maybe a tissue. 3:00 PM ~ Drinks Reception 🍻🍷Time for a tipple, a chat, and a few photos while we disappear briefly for family snaps. 5:00 PM ~ Dinner &amp; Speeches 🍽️You’ll be called in for dinner, followed by speeches, stories, and plenty of good food. 9:30 PM ~ Time to Party 💃🕺The band starts, the dance floor opens, and it's time for a proper celebration! 11:30 PM ~ Late-Night Bites 🍗🍟A little something to keep everyone fueled for the dancing ahead. Late Night ~ DJ &amp; Residents Bar 🪩🍸DJ until around 2:00 AM, with the residents bar keeping things lively into the small hours.

Wedding Day Details

If you're interested in staying at <a href="https://www.kinsalehotelandspa.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kinsale Hotel &amp; Spa</a>, we have a block of rooms available at a special wedding rate for Friday the 7th, Saturday the 8th, and Sunday the 9th! Single room (1 adult) €189 (~$223)Double/twin (2 adults) €209 (~$247)Family room (limited availability, 2 adults and up to 2 children) €229 (~$270)Triple room (limited availability, 3 adults) €229 (~$270)4 adult room (1 double bed, 2 single beds) €249 (~$285) The rooms are first come, first served, so let the hotel know before June 1st. Phone: +353 21 470 6000Email: <a href="mailto:reservations@hotelkinsale.ie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reservations@hotelkinsale.ie</a> You can text, message in WhatsApp, or send us an email if you need help. We look forward to hanging out with everyone! Email: <a href="mailto:maebhzach@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">maebhzach@gmail.com</a>Maebh: +1 (206) 291-8648Zach: +1 (209) 770-3258

Kinsale Hotel & Spa Rooms

Other Places to Stay in Kinsale

AccommodationsWe recommend staying in or around Kinsale, where you’ll find a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and rental homes. Kinsale is a popular place to stay in the summer, so we recommend booking sooner rather than later! Places to StayThere are many lovely places to stay in Kinsale town and the surrounding area, including:- Boutique hotels- Bed &amp; breakfasts- Airbnb and vacation rentalsWe've added some link below! Kinsale Hotel &amp; SpaIf you are staying at Kinsale Hotel &amp; Spa, shuttles run from 12pm to 8pm back and forth to Kinsale. Helpful Links<a href="https://www.kinsale.ie/stay/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kinsale.ie/stay/</a><a href="https://www.tridenthotel.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tridenthotel.com/</a><a href="https://www.bluehavenkinsale.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bluehavenkinsale.com/</a><a href="https://www.actonshotelkinsale.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actonshotelkinsale.com/</a>

Other Places to Stay

Weather in Ireland

August in Kinsale is late-summer at its best—fresh coastal air, long daylight hours, and that unmistakable Irish charm. Expect long days with temperatures typically ranging from the 65–75°F (around 18–22°C), possibly some humidity, with cooler evenings by the sea. Like anywhere on Ireland’s coast, there’s always a chance of a light, passing shower!

What to pack:Layers (light sweaters or jackets)Comfortable walking shoesA light rain jacket or umbrellaSomething warm for evenings by the coastThe good news: rainy days in August tend to be warm rather than cold, and the scenery stays green and beautiful no matter what!

For the Americans...

Kids under the age of 18 are allowed in pubs (with adult supervision) until 9pm but cannot be served alcohol.Tipping culture isn't the same in Ireland as the US, but some places do prompt for it now. You don’t need to tip for things like coffee, drinks, or lunch, but you might for a nice sit down meal in a restaurant (approx. 10%).Some restaurants and activities may be closed on Mondays and Tuesday - especially in smaller towns. It’s worth checking opening hours before you go!

Cork City

The English Market

Cork may be Ireland's second largest city, but it's number one in our hearts! Here are some highlights of the city for your visit: Locations and Activities<a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/english-market" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">English Market</a> - Indoor food market located in the city centre that has been officially trading since 1788. It's a great place to get food and just walk about.<a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/nano-nagle-place" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nano Nagel Place</a> - This cute heritage museum is about a 10 minute walk from the city centre. It's a good spot for lunch with a beautiful garden and information on Nano Nagle.<a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/cork-fab-food-trail" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Food Tour </a>- Cork has a great food scene so get out there, make some new friends, and enjoy some tasty bites!<a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/cork-city-gaol-heritage-centre" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cork City Gaol (aka Cork City Jail)</a> - This is a heritage museum that shows what life in 19th and early 20th century Cork was like. The Gaol (i.e., Jail) is about a 35-40 minute walk from the city, uphill, but has great views over the city.<a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/shandon-bells-tower-st-anne-s-church" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shandon Bells </a>- Built in 1722, the Church of St. Anne is one of the most important early 18th century churches in Ireland. Reached by a maze of winding streets, the church features a barreled, vaulted ceiling, colorful stained glass windows, and a stone baptismal font that dates from 1629. This is a bit of a trek uphill but has fantastic views of the city.<a href="https://www.bco.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blackrock Castle </a>- Blackrock Castle is the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork. This historic castle has served as an Admiralty Court, a lighthouse, a signaling station, and a gun battery, defending the river approach to Cork. It is now an observary and science centre. There’s lots of parking and buses that will take you to Blackrock. There is also a really nice walk along the river from Marina Market to Blackrock Castle that’s about 4km. Here are <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ays5J2Q3p5ffKxck8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the directions.</a><a href="https://midletondistillerycollection.com/visit-jameson-midleton-distillery/?srsltid=AfmBOopN7zt6k-zYT77lQzIA0KYCc9zW0bJG26HPn8bwZgP0tAWrkJFj" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jameson Distillery </a>- Discover the history and taste some fine Jameson whiskey. The distillery is located in the town of Midleton and can be reached via car or train / bus.<a href="https://www.fotawildlife.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fota Wildlife Park</a> - this is a great little wildlife park near the city. You can get there by train or car. There is also a golf course and a nice spa / hotel. Its a stop on the way to Cobh and a wonderful location for anyone travelling with kids!Cobh - Cobh is a small town outside Cork. You can get the train or drive from Cork City. Cobh is now <a href="https://www.google.com/imgres?q=Cobh%20ireland&amp;imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com%2Faa24ba70-9a12-01ae-259b-7ef588a0b2ef%2F4313c5a7-630f-44a5-8f7e-a7fc6b6e148d%2Fheader-cobh-cathedral-cork.jpg&amp;imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.discoverireland.ie%2Fcobh&amp;docid=iZlGzb6sPzxPxM&amp;tbnid=1TB8gBKJSVHzaM&amp;vet=12ahUKEwiZ6aWp3vKSAxXODjQIHVVMLrYQnPAOegQIGRAB..i&amp;w=2400&amp;h=1600&amp;hcb=2&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZ6aWp3vKSAxXODjQIHVVMLrYQnPAOegQIGRAB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">insta famous</a>, but it was the last stop for the Titanic. There's an interesting <a href="https://cobhheritage.com/explore/the-titanic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">exhibition</a>. You can also go to <a href="https://www.spikeislandcork.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spike Island</a>, which was a military fortress and notorious prison.<a href="https://blarneycastle.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blarney Castle</a> - one of Cork’s most famous tourist activities. Legend has it, if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you will get the gift of the gab! Food and Pubs<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=ireland+hot+chicken+roll+where+to+get&amp;client=firefox-b-1-e&amp;hs=Dx49&amp;sca_esv=016f34706b28a015&amp;channel=entpr&amp;ei=ffCdadH_JYbL0PEPkJGnkQ4&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiRsuO24_KSAxWGJTQIHZDIKeIQ4dUDCBE&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=ireland+hot+chicken+roll+where+to+get&amp;gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiJWlyZWxhbmQgaG90IGNoaWNrZW4gcm9sbCB3aGVyZSB0byBnZXQyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigAUj-IFDdCFi-H3ABeACQAQCYAVagAfMHqgECMTS4AQPIAQD4AQGYAg6gAosIwgIKEAAYsAMY1gQYR8ICBhAAGBYYHsICCxAAGIAEGIYDGIoFwgIFEAAY7wXCAggQABiABBiiBMICBRAhGKsCmAMAiAYBkAYIkgcCMTSgB8BFsgcCMTO4B4IIwgcFMC44LjbIByWACAA&amp;sclient=gws-wiz-serp" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hot Chicken Rolls </a>- Not a specific place but a hot chicken roll is a must try in Ireland! It is essentially a baguette (or wrap) with breaded chicken (plain or spicy), mayo or condiment of choice and salad. You can get them at most deli counters in supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations, etc. The "Maebh Special" is a plain hot chicken with mayo, cheese, stuffing, sweetcorn, and coleslaw, but choose your own adventure!<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/magazine/food-and-drink/cork-tastes-amazing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cork’s Food Scene</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/MacCurtain+Street,+Victorian+Quarter,+Cork,+Ireland/@51.9014486,-8.4706035,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4844900e6160b1d3:0xfbacffb122e0bf0f!8m2!3d51.9014453!4d-8.4680286!16s%2Fg%2F11h0_jts2?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mac Curtain Street</a> - This is a great little street with lots of bars and spots to eat. We recommend checking out <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sin+%C3%A9/@51.9014751,-8.4718159,17z/data=!3m1!5s0x4844900e054c8d7d:0x73873fc3eb33e2cf!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x4844900e6160b1d3:0xfbacffb122e0bf0f!2sMacCurtain+Street,+Victorian+Quarter,+Cork,+Ireland!3b1!8m2!3d51.9014453!4d-8.4680286!16s%2Fg%2F11h0_jts2!3m5!1s0x4844900e054c5fa3:0x4577457c62a42a2f!8m2!3d51.9017208!4d-8.471069!16s%2Fg%2F1tdb87h6?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sin E </a>for some Irish music, too!<a href="https://corkheritagepubs.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cork’s Heritage Pubs</a> - A collection of old pubs in the city (this is a self curated list, so there are other old pubs, too). The website also gives their live music schedule.<a href="https://www.thelongvalleybar.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Long Valley Bar </a>- They have a great sandwich if you are looking for lunch!<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.marketlane.ie/&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiF3rCc5fKSAxVtOTQIHVEfMNwQFnoECEAQAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw1195lR1lpri4EI6BfkLrqQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Market Lane</a> - This restaurant does nice lunch and dinner while focusing on local suppliers. They accept walk-ins, but it can get busy!<a href="https://www.instagram.com/hibbarcork/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hi-B Bar </a>- A great little old man pub in the heart of the city. They say no mobile phones allowed, although it may or may not be strictly enforced. Having a drink in there feels like being in someone’s living room - its a nice vibe!<a href="https://corkheritagepubs.com/mutton-lane-inn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mutton Lane Inn</a> - A nice little pub in the city for a drink.<a href="https://www.fastals.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fast Als</a> - Great pizza slices and highly recommended after a few pints.

Things to do in Kinsale

Charles Fort

Kinsale is a colorful coastal town known for its food, charm, and postcard-worthy harbor views. It’s small, walkable, and full of personality—perfect for wandering, eating well, and slowing down a bit. Kinsale is about 30 minutes from the Cork. The drive is pretty straightforward, and there are regular buses going back and forth from the city (via the airport!) If you don’t have a car, here is a guide on a car free day in Kinsale (although you need a bike for some of the recs) - <a href="https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/car-free-kinsale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/car-free-kinsale</a>. Here are somethings to do in / near Kinsale:<a href="https://www.historicstrollkinsale.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Walking Tours</a><a href="https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/charles-fort-military-fortress/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Charles Fort</a> - it's outside the town but close to the Kinsale Hotel and Spa.<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g211878-d10511044-Reviews-The_Lusitania_Museum_Old_Head_Signal_Tower-Kinsale_County_Cork.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusitania Museum &amp; Old Head Tower</a><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g211878-Activities-c55-Kinsale_County_Cork.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Boat Rides and Cruises</a>Also check out <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g211878-Activities-oa0-Kinsale_County_Cork.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">trip advisor</a>

Things to do in Cork & Kinsale

Wild Atlantic Way

Drive along Ireland’s west coast, start or end in Kinsale, and see some of the most dramatic and beautiful coastline in the world!The route passes through many Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) regions, offering traditional music, local cuisine, and historic sites like the 6th-century monastic settlement on Skellig Michael.Some highlights on the route:<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/county/kerry/killarney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Killarney </a>- A cute town with lots of bars and restaurants. Things worth visiting are Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, Killarney National Park. Killarney is an easy drive (maybe 40 minutes - 1 hour from Cork). There is also a train from Cork to Killarney.<a href="https://dingle-peninsula.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dingle </a>- A town and peninsula located on the southwest coast of Ireland in County Kerry. It is a prominent, Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area on the Wild Atlantic Way, famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, traditional music, and vibrant culture. I liked this blog on what to with 24 hours in Dingle - <a href="https://www.waywardblog.com/travel-guide-dingle-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.waywardblog.com/travel-guide-dingle-ireland/</a><a href="https://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cliffs of Moher</a> - This is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. It gets busy, and you would need a car (or bus tour) to visit, but they are cool to see (they also were featured in <a href="https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/cliffs-of-moher-harry-potter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harry Potter</a>). You can also visit by boat from <a href="https://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/your-visit/beyond-the-cliffs-places-to-see/cliffs-by-land-and-sea/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Doolin Ferry</a> (Doolin is a small town in Clare that would be a fun place to stay).<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/county/mayo/westport/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Westport </a>- Westport is a charming town in County Mayo. Located about 1 hour 30 minutes from Galway, this remote area of Ireland retains its rugged beauty. Here are some <a href="https://www.myirelandtour.com/travelguide/our-travel/westport-weekend.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blogs </a>and <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g186627-Westport_County_Mayo_Western_Ireland-Vacations.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things to do</a>. <a href="https://www.galwaytourism.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Galway</a> - Galway has lots of music and a great buzz! You can also get to <a href="https://www.aranislands.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Aran Island</a> (where Banshees of Inisherin was filmed). If you have a car you can check out <a href="https://www.galwaytourism.ie/kylemore-abbey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kylemore Abbey</a>

Dublin

Like any capital city, Dublin has a lot of going on, but here are some recommendations:<a href="https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> - It's a very cool museum that allows kids, but they won’t be able to participate in some of the activities (specifically the Guinness tasting with an incredible view of Dublin).<a href="https://epicchq.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Immigrant museum </a>- We haven't had the chance to visit this yet, but we've heard it's good!<a href="https://www.visittrinity.ie/book-of-kells-experience/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book of Kells</a> - This has been on Maebh's list for a while, so while we haven't seen it, we do recommend checking it out and letting us know!<a href="https://www.visitdublin.com/howth-cliff-path-loop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Howth Cliff Walk - </a>This is a little bit, but not too far, out of the city. Maebh's recommended it to a few people who were visiting Dublin, and they said it was one of their highlights, so if you have a few days in Dublin might be worth checking out.<a href="https://thetemplebarpub.com/visit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Temple Bar </a>- This is a busy area with lots of cobblestone streets, bars and restaurants. Its a little touristy, and prices can be high, but it is worth a visit, even during the day. There should be a good vibe and street music etc. Kids will be allowed in bars until 9pm Navigating DublinFor Dublin, you are probably better off using public transport instead of renting a car. Parking can be tough and pricey. You can get a <a href="https://about.leapcard.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">leap card</a> to get around. This will also work in Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford.The drive from Dublin to Belfast is pretty easy - it's mostly motorway and takes about 2 hours. Belfast is also worth a visit if you have time, especially the Titanic Museum and the Giants Causeway. If you aren't feeling driving, there are a lot of tour buses that do day trips from Dublin to Belfast.

More Options!

If you have a car, Ireland has lots of mobile saunas / cold plunges. It's a popular activity with locals and a nice chance to take a dip in the ocean! If you want recommendations near Cork - let Maebh know!!!<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/experiences/irelands-ancient-east/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland’s Ancient East</a> - A collection of towns and cities with 5000 years of local history and not too far from Dublin! Some highlights include:<a href="https://tipperary.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tipperary </a>- Lonely Planet named Tipperary (aka Tipp) one of its top 25 must-visit destinations for 2026, highlighting it as a premier spot for hiking, history, and food. We recommend a car to get around. Some highlights are <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g212097-Cahir_County_Tipperary-Vacations.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cahir </a>(the lovely town Maebh's mum is from) and <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g212096-d190066-Reviews-Rock_of_Cashel-Cashel_County_Tipperary.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rock of Cashel</a>. There are lots of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/guide/63831/hiking-in-tipperary" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">good hikes and walks</a>. We can find more recommendations if you plan to stay in or visit Tipp!<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/county/waterford/waterford-city/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Waterford City </a>- Waterford was founded by the Vikings in 914! It's a cool little city with lots to see. Let Maebh know if you're planning a visit and need recs!<a href="https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/county/kilkenny/kilkenny-city/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kilkenny City</a> - Kilkenny City is filled with cultural and medieval wonders, not to mention the always delicious Smithwicks Brewery!

Beyond Cork and Kinsale

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In Kinsale’s center, this boutique hotel features free WiFi and a modern seafood restaurant. Cork Airport is a 25-minute drive away from The Blue Haven. Each classically decorated room at The Blue Haven Hotel enjoys cozy pocket-sprung beds along with tea/coffee-making facilities. With free toiletries, there is also an private bathroom with a hairdryer. Full Irish breakfasts are provided each day, and the Blue Haven Café serves homemade cakes and coffee, along with a seasonal menu from fresh ingredients. The Fishmarket Restaurant specializes in seafood, using local produce in its menu. Garrestown Beach can be reached in 20 minutes by car, while Charlesfort is a 10-minute walk away. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the beautiful Old Head Golf Links are 20 minutes’ drive from the hotel.

Blue Haven Hotel

Actons Hotel is a period building filled set landscaped gardens overlooking the beautiful Kinsale Harbor. It offers rooms with attached bathroom, many with harbor views and a Health and Fitness Club with indoor pool, gym and sauna. Rooms at the hotel are individually designed and all feature satellite TV, free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities, as well as a telephone and hairdryer. Guests at the Actons Hotel can enjoy a range of dishes in the waterfront Bar and Bistro, which serves lunch and dinner. Tea, coffee and home-baked scones are also available in the morning. The Acton’s Health and Fitness Club has a steam room, hot tub and children’s pool and offers a range of aerobics and fitness classes, as well as beauty and holistic treatments. Kinsale, with its winding narrow streets, has a range of interesting shops, pubs, cafes and galleries. Nearby activities include golf, sailing and fishing. The Actons Hotel has free parking and is 30 minutes’ drive from Cork.

Maebh + Zach

Maebh + Zach

Other Places to Stay

Other Places to Stay in Kinsale