Travel Information

To fully experience Ireland’s rich culture and history, it is important to visit at least one of its major castles. This is very easy if you hire a car. Car hire gives you the freedom to define your itinerary and go to otherwise inaccessible areas. You can rent a car the moment you arrive in Ireland by going to any of the numerous car hire agencies in the airports or major cities. For the small price of car rental you have complete control over your agenda and can even make important detours to the nearby tourist attractions. Many car hire agents would be very happy to help you personalize your car travels. Carrigaholt castle is worth the car trip. It can be found in County Clare, on a cliff overlooking the Shannon Estuary. It was built in the 15th century, and is five storeys tall. Its history is dramatic, and includes an attack by the Spanish Armada and a four-day siege led by friends-turned-traitors (who later hanged all the inhabitants because of a supposed breach in surrender terms. The lords of Carrigaholt Castle also played a significant role in Ireland’s history. Third Viscount Clare raised a regiment of horses known as "Yellow Dragoons" for James II's armies. The sight of this army marching down the Castle grounds must have been heart-stirring. Today the 57,000 acre estate is invaded only by tourists. To include Carrigaholt Castle in your car travels through Ireland take the road southwest of Kilkee and travel 7 miles. It is on the west side of the jetty at Carrigaholt, and can be accessed through the field. Since it is open daily you can schedule your car travel anytime during the year. To rent a car to take a car trip to Cahir Castle, you can approach a carhire agency in any of Ireland’s airports or major cities.