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Rock Of Cashel Day Trip From Dublin

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With its sweeping green landscapes and fascinating history, Ireland is a treasure mine of wonderful sites just waiting to be discovered. The Rock of Cashel is one such treasure, a remarkable historical landmark that bears witness to Ireland’s medieval past.

The renowned Rock of Cashel, nestled on a beautiful outcrop of limestone, is home to Ireland’s most extraordinary cluster of medieval buildings.

Related Read: Rock of Cashel Tour Tips and Guide For First Time Visitors

The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most stunning and well-deservedly popular tourist destinations.

Rock of Cashel Day Trip from Dublin

Rock Of Cashel Day Trip from Dublin

RELATED READ: Rock of Cashel Tour – Tips and Guide For First Time Visitors

Best Time to Visit Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is open to the public all year. Visit the Rock of Cashel during the summer to make the most of the excellent weather. Summer is often the greatest time to visit both the Rock of Cashel and Ireland.

Just be aware that certain major attractions may be crowded, and hotel costs will be at their maximum.

During the summer, consider going early or late to avoid crowds and have the greatest experience possible. Winter is the most peaceful time of year to visit the castle.

Even though the weather is frequently chilly and damp, you will not be troubled by the hordes who rush to the place during the summer.

How to Get There

The trip from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and covers about 159 kilometers.

There are various routes to Cashel’s Rock. The easiest method to travel to the Rock of Cashel, like many other tourist attractions in Ireland, is by vehicle.

Because the castle is located just off the main highway, getting there is simple regardless of your present location.

By Bus

Cost: $26.00
Duration: 2 Hours

Public transportation is an option for getting to Rock of Cashel, but it has a few drawbacks.

From Dublin, take the bus to Cashel. Bus Eireann operates the 245X service, which links Dublin and Cork.

The bus departs from Busaras Station in Dublin City Center, travels for around two hours, and arrives in Cashel’s Main Street.

Similarly, a bus from Parnell Place to Cashel is available.

By Train

Cost: $60.00
Duration: 1 Hour and 40 minutes

There is no rail service to Cashel. Thurles and Cahir are the closest railroad stations. You may either take a bus or rent a vehicle from there to get to the Rock of Cashel.

By Car

Estimated Fuel Cost: $36.00
Duration: 1 Hour and 30 minutes

The Rock of Cashel is located around 170 kilometers west of Dublin and 100 kilometers northeast of Cork.

The M7/M8 is the quickest and most direct route from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel.

However, you may wish to take a detour and explore the Wicklow Mountains or the historic town of Kilkenny along the way.

6 Best Things to Do at the Rock of Cashel

This renowned structure, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is a must-see for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Ireland’s rich history and beautiful beauty.

Here are the greatest things to do at the Rock of Cashel to make your visit memorable and informative.

1. Cormac’s Chapel

Cormac's Chapel in Rock of Cashel

One of the attractions of every visit to the Rock of Cashel is a magnificently renovated Cormac’s Chapel. This modest and unassuming chapel conceals 800-year-old murals, a magnificent example of Ireland’s first Romanesque buildings.

Admire the chapel’s north entrance, which has an artistically carved tympanum portraying a little centaur pursuing a lion, and look for the sole remaining Romanesque paintings in Ireland.

2. The Cathedral

Cashel Cathedral, Rock of Cashel

The Cathedral was constructed between 1235 and 1270, and it is designed in the shape of a cross with a central tower surrounding a residential castle.

The Vicars Choral Hall was constructed later in the 15th century. The choir was laymen chosen by the church to help in chanting during services.

The Rock of Cashel is associated with St. Patrick, although the name derives from Caiseal, which means “stone fort,” and the hill was formerly the palace of Munster’s monarchs.

3. The Round Tower

The Round Tower in Rock of Cashel

The almost 28-meter-tall tower is adjacent to the north aisle of the 13th-century Gothic Cathedral. The tower is made of sandstone mixed limestone on the lower levels.

It was built of dry stone, but for safety reasons, certain areas have been filled up with mortar. There is a second entryway in the west of the tower that connects to the Cathedral by a triforium hallway.

4. Hore Abbey

Hore Abbey

Hore Abbey

The sight of the lush green Tipperary County may be seen from the castle. Another popular site in Cashel may be seen from the castle grounds to the west.

It’s the Hore Abbey, a destroyed Cistercian abbey from the 13th century, just a 10-minute walk from the Rock of Cashel. If you have the time, these ruins are worth seeing. Keep in mind that there is no admission cost at Hore Abbey.

5. High Crosses

High crosses in rock cashel

There is a large graveyard here with several towering crosses identifying some of the burials. The replica of St. Patrick’s High Cross from the 12th century rests atop the Rock. The original cross is currently housed in the Vicars’ Choral’s ancient hall.

The cross contains two carved scenes and only one of its two original support arms. One image depicts Christ in a long floor-length garment, while the other depicts a bishop with a crozier, which is thought to represent St. Patrick.

6. Cashel’s Town

Cashel’s Town

Except for the castle, there isn’t much to see and do in Cashel proper for most visitors.
You may visit Cashel Cathedral and Cashel Folk Village while in town. There is also a petrol station, a few eateries, and some lodging.

In the charming old town of Cashel, sample the gastronomic delights on offer in the various restaurants and cafés. Visit the Cashel Folk Village museum, see a show at Br Bor, or learn about the town’s fascinating past at the Heritage Centre.

Best Group Tours to Join

This historic monument, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is a must-see for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the enthralling legends that have defined Ireland.

Joining a group trip is one of the greatest ways to explore the beauty and significance of the Rock of Cashel. Here are some of the greatest group tours that will take you through the fascinating stories of this ancient landmark.

Blarney Castle Full-Day Tour from Dublin

Meeting Place: 5 Beresford Place, Lower Gardiner Street, Dublin 1, Mountjoy, Dublin
Price: $90.00 per person

You may spend your leisure time exploring Cork and visiting Blarney Castle. Stroll in St. Patrick’s footsteps by seeing the Celtic Crosses and Round Tower.

Meet the tour guide at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin & board a cozy, climate-controlled van for a magnificent trip through the Golden Vale of County Cork’s lush fields and dairy farms. Panorama of the Galtee Mountains, as well as County Tipperary, are available.

Arrive in Cork on the banks of the Lee River and enjoy an hour touring the city at your leisure. You may explore the ancient English Market or see the architecture of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral.

Day Tour Highlights:

  • Take a scenic drive across the farmlands of County Cork.
  • At Blarney Castle, kiss the renowned Blarney Stone.
  • Experience the tastes of Ireland in Cork’s English Market.

To book this tour click here.

 

From Dublin: Cork City, Cahir Castle, and Rock of Cashel Tour

Meeting Place: George’s Quay, Dublin
Price: $97.00 per person

Cahir Castle will be your first stop. Cahir Castle, situated on a rocky island in the Suir River, is one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles. It retained most of its original defensive construction, including its spectacular keep and tower.

Travel from here to Cork, a lovely city nestled between two courses of the River Lee. The city’s modest size creates a friendly ambiance, and everything is easily accessible on foot.

You will have two hours to tour the city, its tiny alleyways and bridges, the lively English market, and St Finbarr’s Cathedral, which features stunning bell towers.

Day Tour Highlights:

  • Visit Cahir Castle, which is located on a rocky island.
  • Take a stroll around Cork’s lovely streets.
  • Admire the renowned Cashel Rock.

To book this tour click here.

 

Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour

Meeting Place: Simmonscourt Road Ballsbridge, Dublin
Price: $147.00 per person

Arrive in Tipperary’s world-famous Rock of Cashel, where you may walk in St. Patrick’s footsteps, surrounded by ruins and round castles. Feel the essence of Ireland as you appreciate the Catholic Church, one of Europe’s outstanding specimens of medieval architecture.

Then, proceed to Blarney Castle, which is well-known for its songs and legends. Kiss the Blarney Stone on the battlements to obtain the “gift of the gab” – 7 years of fluent discourse.

Day Tour Highlights:

  • Travel in a premium car with a small party of 25 passengers.
  • Discover the fabled Blarney Castle and Gardens.
  • Stroll through the Rock of Cashel’s surroundings and medieval remains.
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To book this tour click here.

 

Practical Tips for the Rock of Cashel Day Trip from Dublin

This historic location provides a combination of history, culture, and spectacular vistas for anyone looking for a fulfilling day trip from Dublin. We’ve produced a collection of helpful hints to help you get the most out of your Rock of Cashel journey.

The Paths are Gravelled

The route up might be difficult for handicapped visitors because it is graveled and bumpy. There is accessible access via a drop-off site closer to the Rock itself, although getting around in a wheelchair would be difficult.

For individuals with mobility issues, there is a steep slope to go up, but there are various rest areas and you may take your time gazing around the site, however, the tourist crush can be extremely strong at times. The visitors’ center personnel can arrange access for you if you phone ahead.

Bring Necessary Supplies

Since the terrain is largely gravel and grass, wear comfortable shoes. The facility is open, and there aren’t many options for refuge.

Because the weather in Ireland is frequently unpredictable, carry a nice rain jacket or travel umbrella in your daypack. Bring your trip camera since this is one of Ireland’s top picture sites.

There’s an Entrance Fee

Adult entry to the Rock of Cashel is $8.75. Passes may be bought in advance online via the official site or in person at the castle.

The guided tour of Cormac’s Chapel is not included and must be purchased separately at the main site. Cormac’s Chapel admissions are an additional $3.28 per adult.

Parking at Rock of Cashel charged $4.92, which seemed excessive given the castle’s vicinity. So your only quibble with the entire trip is that parking at the Rock of Cashel isn’t free.

Book Early

Cashel is a tiny town with only a few lodging options. Cahir, which lies adjacent, is in a similar condition. Both towns are in prime locations for visiting these attractions as well as the rest of Tipperary County.

There may also be some modest B&Bs in the countryside, but they generally only have a few rooms, so book ahead of time. Naturally, depending on your plan, you may start or end your day in Dublin or Limerick.

Is Rock of Cashel Worth Visiting

Without a sure, the Rock of Cashel is worth seeing because it is one of the greatest castles in Ireland. In addition, the castle is located on the route from Dublin to Cork, making it simple to integrate into your vacation plan.

And, together with the neighboring Cahir Castle, the Rock of Cashel is an excellent place to break up your travel between the two towns. Despite its well-known status, the castle is less marketed than Blarney Castle, another famous tourist destination in the vicinity.

Simply said, the Rock of Cashel is one of the greatest sites to visit in Ireland if you appreciate magnificent vistas and towering ruins.

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