The Ring of Kerry is the most beautiful drive in the world – and also, one that can be crowded, especially with tour buses. Yes, EVERYONE wants to see the Ring of Kerry! But did you know that right off the Ring of Kerry is a 20 mile drive along Ireland’s coast that is JUST as beautiful?

Driving the Ring of Kerry, and want to get off the beaten path? Head to Staigue Fort - it's between Sneem and Caherciveen, off a tiny road inland. You will drive a very narrow lane, but keep following the signs. There's a visitor centre with films (and a cafe), although we never stopped there. Park your car in the lot and pay your voluntary entrance fee. Skip across the creek, and climb a small hill to get to the fort.

Foodie Finds: Avoca in Moll's Gap, Co. Kerry, Ireland

We'd driven for hours from Co Clare toward our cottage in Co Kerry. We didn't have any restaurant recommendations in Killarney, but had a great one for Moll's Gap, about a half-hour south-west of Killarney. And, it was halfway to our rental home, Pier Cottage, west of Sneem. So, we held out a little more for the Avoca gift shop and cafe, in Moll's Gap.

We're in Ireland, and loving it (needless to say). And yes, the rain is ubiquitous.