Ireland bound...

[frog4gators]

I just booked my vacation for Ireland in April. I know Ireland isn't renound for its wildlife but does anyone know of any species that I should be on the lookout for? My travel will be on the southern portion of the island, east to west. Any must dos for those who have been before? Thanks!

[Eric D]

Never been but your going to have a blast for sure.....

[Loupey]

I'd leave long lenses at home in favor of some nice landscape lenses.

It's such a beautiful place that I would rather sell some equipment just to get a couple primes in the 21mm/24mm/35mm variety. So much green of every shade imaginable. How will you be getting around? Driving? Bed-and-Breakfasts? I recommend both to really see the local scenes and meet the people. Besides, B&B's are far less expensive and far more accomodating (meals included).

I can't remember seeing any wildlife. Just too busy climbing ancient castles (which aren't closed to the public) and trying to stay on roads far too narrow for two vehicles to pass (must fold the rearview mirrors often).

[frog4gators]

I'll be driving around in a rental. I land in Dublin then will spend 6 nights in various B&Bs while traveling west towards Shannon. My last night Im staying in Adare Manor. I plan on seeing Ring of Carey, Cliffs of Moher, Billarney Stone, Rock of Cashel... etc.

[Loupey]

Cool.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher in the afternoon and watch the sunset. Fantastically beautiful place (as is most places there). There is a rope bridge that is unforgettable.

I skipped the Blarney Stone/Castle. If you're interested, I can recommend a few other areas and some photos (if I can find them - not digital )

The rental will probably be manual transmission. You'll be driving on the opposite side so shifting with the left hand. Fortunately the clutch is still on the left.

[danpics]

As far as wildlife, there are some deer, but I only saw one group in the two weeks I was there. There's also the frogs and a few small birds. The scenery is definately the main attraction.

[Loupey]

frog4gators - I just sent you an email.

I made a mistake earlier about the rope bridge. The place I was referring to is in Carrick-a-Rede in Northern Ireland. While I understand you will be in southern Ireland, I did want to make that clarification in case anyone else was considering going there.

Information on the rope bridge can be found here:

http://www.discovernorthernireland.c...lycastle-P2829