Tour of western Ireland &
the ring of kerry
This tour of Western Ireland includes one of the most scenic drives in the world around the Ring of Kerry. Starting off in Galway and ending in Dublin, this tour showcases the stunning land and seascapes of the so-called Wild Atlantic Coast. There are opportunities to spot seabirds and other wildlife such as seals and dolphins. For the more active, we can include bike rides and walking.
Day 1 – Fly to Shannon, Knock or Dublin and transfer to Galway, a small town on the western coast of Ireland where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a walking tour of the harbour and the town centre with its cobbled streets and winding lanes.
Dinner and overnight in Galway.
Day 2 – After breakfast we travel the short journey to Mhil to take the ferry over to Inish Mor, one of the three Aran Islands sitting just off the coast. The best way to see this tiny island is by bike as the landscape is flat. As you cycle down the narrow country lanes you’ll be able to see an array of bird life and maybe you’ll be able to spot a seal off shore. Visit the impressive prehistoric fort of Dun Aoghasa perched on the top of a 330ft high cliff. In the afternoon we take the ferry back and enjoy an evening in Galway.
Dinner and overnight in Galway.
Day 3 – This morning we continue our journey along the Wild Atlantic Way with a visit to the soaring Cliffs of Moher. These 700ft high cliffs are impressive and we can stop at the Visitors Centre to learn more about the area. The cliffs are a haven for wildlife with puffins and peregrine falcons and you may even spot dolphins out at sea. This spot was used in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince and was portrayed as the Cliffs of Insanity in the Princess Bride.
We arrive at our hotel in Killarney and there’s time for a ride in a horsedrawn jaunting cart.
Dinner and overnight in Killarney.
Day 4 – Today we’ll see one of the highlights of Ireland – the Ring of Kerry. This is a 100 mile scenic drive where you will some some truly breathtaking scenery and you’ll see some beautiful villages and dramatic views of the Atlantic. En route we’ll stop at the Bog Village where you will have ademonstration of Peat Cutting (and also have an opportunity to try a real Irish coffee!). We’ll also make a stop to see some sheep dogs at work. This is one of the most spectaular drives in Ireland and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to stop and take photos.
In the late afternoon we head back to our hotel in Killarney and after dinner we have the chance to visit some local pubs and listen to traditional folk music.
Dinner and overnight in Killarney.
Day 5 – This morning we have an early start to head off to Dublin. On the way we’ll stop at the Rock of Cashel, the seat of the High Kings of Munster starting in the 5th century. It is on this spot that St Patrick is reputed to have converted King Aengus to Christianity. We then continue onwards to Dublin arriving before dinner.
Dinner and overnight in Dublin.
Day 6 – Today is dedicated to sightseeing in Dublin. Depending on the interests of your group we can include a visit to Dublin Castle, Trinity College library or Killmainham Gaol. to see the famous Book of Kells, St Patrick’s CathedralToday you have a free day in Dublin. Or you may choose to visit the Guinness Brewery and try some of “the Black Stuff” or the Jamieson Distillery for a nip of whiskey.
