ITINERARY
DAY 1: Dublin to Galway
Failte Romhat; (Welcome), Your tour starts when we leave the capital city of Dublin and make our way to the wild west of Ireland.
Along the way, we will visit the historical Trim Castle, home of ‘BraveHeart’ an impressive Norman Castle, situated on the banks of the river Boyne. Onwards through the stunning Boyne Valley area, we’ll head for the ‘savage beauty’ of the Connemara region. Here we will settle into our accommodation overlooking Irelands only Fjord at Killary. After a tasty evening Barbecue, eating some of the best local produce, we will then head for a nighttime walk around the amazing Diamond Hill. Upon return, we will visit a remote local Irish bar to enjoy a creamy pint of the black stuff!!!
DAY 2: Connemara / ‘The Holy Mountain’
DAY 3: Inis Oirr & Cliffs of Moher
Today we head down the west coast, through the almost lunar-like landscape of the Burren region to catch an early morning boat to the Aran islands. Travel back in time as we spend a whole day on the Gaelic speaking island of Inis Oirr, the smallest and less inhabited of the Aran Islands. Miles of stone walls wait as you explore the island by bike. After lunch, we head back by boat via the base of The Cliffs of Moher leaving us time for a hike along the Atlantic edge to the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher standing 214m (702 feet) above sea level.
From there we will take a ferry crossing over Ireland’s longest river, The Shannon, before arriving at your accommodation in Killarney located near to the National park.
DAY 4: Full day Killarney National Park
Accommodation located close to the town and park.
Day 5: Killarney to Valentia Island
This morning we drive “the Ring of Kerry “, a journey through County Kerry with amazing views at high altitude with stops regularly for spectacular photos.
From there we will stop and you can either opt for a three-hour walk to Valentia Island and Bray Head (included), take a boat trip around the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skellig Islands ( €50 extra – very weather dependent ) or opt to hire a bike and discover the island at your own pace (€15 extra).
After a full day of discovery, we will check into our accommodation in the picturesque fishing village of Portmagee. This is also one of the best places in Ireland to join an evening stargazing.
DAY 6: Valentia Island to Dingle Peninsula
Today we travel to the Dingle bay where not only nature but also Dingle itself is incredibly beautiful. We stop at Inch Beach, where you will have plenty of time to wander along the peninsula of sand and get lost in your thoughts. Here at your own expense, you can go surfing in the wild Atlantic ocean.
In the afternoon we visit the Dingle Whiskey Distillery (included), a small local distillery which includes generous samples of whiskey, vodka, and gin.
We spend the night on the edge of Dingle town, which is an excellent place with lots of restaurants and lively pubs.
DAY 7: Full day Dingle Peninsula
Isolated from the rest of Ireland by the impressive landscape, the Dingle Peninsula will take you where the locals go. We will follow a coastal trail on windswept cliffs, perched above beautiful coastlines. After the Slea Head hike, we will make our way back around the peninsula to Dingle town, where you will be able to take part in a few optional activities such as sea kayaking, paddle boarding or horse riding. Overnight in Dingle.
DAY 8: Dingle to Cork
This morning we leave Dingle and travel in the direction of County Cork. Cork is a small city with a relaxed pace of life. You’ll have plenty of free time to wander the streets of Cork, with some fantastic sights and attractions to see and do. For example, the bustling and colorful English market, enjoy a great guided tour of the Franciscan Well Brewery, a half day trip to Blarney Castle & Stone or a visit to the ancient site of St Finbarr’s Cathedral. Overnight in Cork
DAY 9: Cork to Kilkenny
From Cork, we will take in the imposing Rock of Cashel, once the seat of the Kings of Munster. For more than 1,000 years the Rock was a symbol of royal and religious power; until rivalries saw Brian Boru, future High King of Ireland, take over in the 10th century.
Arriving in the medieval city of Kilkenny, you will be greeted by a local tour guide who will bring you on a walking tour around the medieval mile. Meet the witch Dame Alice Kyteler, rhymes, taverns, crime, punishments and much more.
In the evening you will have plenty of free time to discover the city’s many attractions, such as the castle, the Canice cathedral, take a guided tour of the Smithwicks brewery or just simply relax and enjoy the sights and sounds from a nearby coffee shop. Overnight in Kilkenny
DAY 10: Kilkenny to Dublin
This morning you will enjoy a unique Cultural & Heritage Experience where you will experience first hand the ancient Celtic game of Hurling, the world’s oldest and fastest field game. Learn the skills of the worlds oldest and Fastest field game (3000 years old).
In the afternoon we bid farewell to the medieval city of Kilkenny and make our way to the monastic city of Glendalough. Wander the valley and lakes, touching haunting medieval remains that stand long after Viking raids and the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
In the evening we arrive back in the city of Dublin. This is where your tour comes to an end – we hope you had a blast on your Irish journey!
