Itinerary

Dublin to Belfast

Departing from Dublin, your journey takes you north, with a brief stop at Stephentown Pond Nature Park for a comfort break. Continuing onward, you arrive in Belfast.

Arrive in Belfast

Arriving in Belfast you begin a short city tour which covers the capital's triumphs, tragedies and soul. Your first destination is the globally recognised Falls Road. This historically significant area offers a glimpse into Northern Ireland's complex past, particularly during the period known as The Troubles. As a center of expression, the Falls Road is renowned for its vivid murals, which depict key events, figures, and political messages from this turbulent era. It's a compelling stop for anyone interested in understanding the region's history and the experiences of its people.

The Titanic Quarter and Ballycastle

Moving on you arrive in the famous Titanic Quarter, a regenerated hub where the famous liner was built and launched in 1911 where you will also have time for lunch. There are alot of options on how to spend your time here, such as the Titanic Experience, a hop on city bus tour or exploring one of the decommissioned navy ships that are docked here. Your guide will be able to assist you on which might be best to suit your interests! Moving on you head to Ballycastle for an quick tea break before you arrive at The Giants Causeway.

The Giants Causeway, free evening in Portrush

Made up of 40,000 or so hexagonal-shaped stepping stones created during a volcanic age almost 60 million years ago. Or is that what they want us to think? Legend has it that the Causeway was once a bridge linking Ireland to the Isle of Staffa in Scotland, created by two dueling giants and split during one particularly tumultuous battle. We'll let you decide which to believe! Your last stop is where you will lay your head for the night. You arrive in Portrush ready for your evening meal and to explore this charming fishing village.

Depart for Derry

You leave Portrush behind, charmed by this small village but ready to explore the bustle of Northern Irelands second biggest city, Derry.

Derry

Welcome to the historic walled city of Derry, home to the much loved TV series ‘Derry Girls'. Here, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in all that this energetic city has to offer. Choose from walking tours or city bus tours to make the most of your visit and explore as many sites as possible. Alternatively, you can delve deeper into the city's offerings by visiting its fascinating museums, iconic landmarks, or the striking murals scattered throughout. Enjoy the time however you choose before we set off again for a hilltop fort that will take your imagination on a journey through the ancient past…

Grianan of Aileach to Glenveagh National Park

From here, you head to County Donegal, and your first stop is the jaw dropping hilltop fort of Grianan of Aileach. Rumoured to the site of the baptism of St Patrick, the neolithic burial chamber dates back to 200 BC. This imposing structure will show the ingenuity and skill of our ancestors, standing strong now even after centuries. You then head into the picturesque Glenveagh National Park and past the soaring peak of Mount Errigal where you will also stop for a well-deserved lunch in beautiful surroundings, before traveling through the traditional fishing villages of the area. Along the way there will be plenty time for walks, photos and soaking up the local culture.

Free evening in Donegal

After a few photo stops on the way taking in ruined churches, beaches and glens, we arrive into Donegal in the early evening. Your driver guide will give you a short tour of the town to help you get your bearings before you are free to explore and find somewhere to enjoy an evening meal.

Depart Donegal

Leaving Donegal get ready for a day exploring some of the oldest relics in Ireland and the ancient past they reveal. In the morning, you pass south along the coast near Donegal and into County Sligo. This area is home to dramatic views of the gorgeous mountain, Benbulben. There will be a few surprise stops and a comfort break scheduled into this part of your day.

The Megalithic Tombs of Carrowmore

Outside Sligo Town lies Carrowmore, where you have the chance to visit the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, some of which date back over 6000 years.The scale and significance of this sight may leave you a little awestruck but you hopefully still have your appetite in tact as we are heading next to the quaint Crossmolina Village for your lunch break. You'll have time now to digest, not just your meal, but also the landscapes, monuments and stories of the morning.

Achil island

Moving westwards, you enter County Mayo, an area that was tragically ravaged by the Great Potato Famine. Winding roads curve through the picturesque farmlands, bogs and open moors, offering views of distant hills and the Atlantic coast, where you'll visit the dramatic Achill Island. Here you have time to savour the rugged sea and peaceful beauty of Keel beach and the atmospheric deserted village of Slievemore with its 5000 year old history.

Free evening in Westport

From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next two nights where your guide will do a quick orientation tour and drop offs at where you are staying.

Westport to Kylemore Abbey

You depart from Westport and have a short hours drive to your first stop on day 4, Kylemore Abbey.

Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park

The beautiful monastery at Kylemore Abbey is truly something to behold. Picture grand buildings and magnificent Victorian gardens that jumped off the pages of a storybook. A treat for both the eyes and soul. Next you Explore the Connemara National Park's verdant marshes and incredible historical sites before a well earned lunch stop.

Go off the beaten track

Roam Clifden, site of the first transatlantic flight landing, and home to a delightful castle while you pick one of their charming lunch spots to enjoy. The afternoon itinerary is flexible and your guide will ensure you take the route that best suits the weather and the interests of the group while ensuring you get a real off the beaten track adventure. You might want to include the legendary Twelve Bens, a famous jagged mountain range of Connemara, or be enchanted by the seemingly infinite blend of earth and sky at sunset on the Sky Road.

Free evening in Westport

You arrive back in Westport for the evening, why not consider sampling some of their delicious local seafood in the town's top notch restaurants.

The Village of Cong

Travel inland past Lough Mask to the village of Cong in the heart of Ireland's lake district. Rows and rows of traditional stone homes provided the setting for John Wayne film classic, “The Quiet man”. You're free here to visit the local museum devoted to the movie, or discover the magnificently restored 12th-century Cong Abbey.

Heading to Galway

Your route then weaves through the Maam Valley, a stunning pass lined by gorgeous mountains. Exiting the valley, you head to Galway City, a vibrant harbour city that combines traditional market life with high quality restaurants and pubs. It's time to discover for yourself why Galway has inspired so many hearts, songs and stories.

Free afternoon in Galway

Picturesque views, excellent food, and cosy pubs await you in this lively town, where charm and energy blend seamlessly. With the afternoon and evening free to explore, you're invited to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant spirit, discovering everything Galway has to offer at your own pace. Known as the cultural and artistic heart of Ireland, this welcoming, colourful city is sure to captivate you with its unique flair. Stroll through the Galway Market, where local flavours entice your senses. Dive into the city's rich history and heritage at the Galway City Museum, or take a leisurely walk along the scenic Salthill Promenade to soak in stunning views of Galway Bay.

Free evening in Galway

Evenings in Galway promise unforgettable fun and great crack (good times). Whether you're savouring fresh local seafood, wandering the vibrant, colourful streets of the Latin Quarter lined with cosy pubs, or tapping your foot to the lively rhythm of an Irish jig, the city comes alive after dark. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and the sounds of traditional Irish music filling the air, you're bound to create lasting memories and experience a night you'll treasure for years to come.

Joining second part of the tour and travelling to the Burren

You start the day with joining the new driver-guide and other intrepid fellow travellers on the second leg of your journey. Once you're on the bus with your new group, the day starts with a short drive along the coast from Galway City to the Burren, one of Ireland's national treasures which you'll be keen to explore.

Dunguaire Castle and Corcomroe Abbey

The first stop is the attractive village of Kinvara, where you get a chance to take in the dramatic Dunguaire Castle and discover its remarkable historical legacy but there is more to see so we move on after grabbing some quick snaps. From here you head to the Burren. This is one of Ireland's most arresting landscapes: a patchwork of glacial limestone pavements, rare flora and ancient stone monuments. The Burren was also home to one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland. You'll stop here to visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century ruined monastery that sits against a backdrop of the Burren Mountain.

Kilfenora

Feeling inspired? It doesn't end there! There is still so much to see on this packed day. We take a couple of detours on the road to your next stop but for very good reason… We'll visit Ballyallaban Earthen Ringfort, a mysterious stone structure whose exact history is unknown but likely dates to mediaeval times. Then we visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen, which dates to the early Neolithic period, with estimates from 4200 BC to 2900 BC. After time to explore these intriguing monuments, you travel to Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”. You can visit the town's fabulous ancient cathedral before we stop for lunch in one of the area's charming villages.

Cliffs of Moher and free evening in Killarney

We make haste to catch our ferry but not before we stop at one of the world's most iconic coastlines. Welcome to the incredible Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way. Here, you can stroll along the dramatic trails and spot rare seabirds. Fans of Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, or Leap Year may recognize these cliffs from their famous on-screen appearances. Continuing south through County Clare, we stop at Lahinch beach before hopping a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney. This energetic, charming area will be your base for the next three nights, so take your time sampling the superb collection of traditional pubs and live music.

Inch Beach

Today, your tour explores the fabulous Dingle Peninsula, famous for its scenery and Gaelic culture. Your first stop is Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand stretching out into the Atlantic. Venturing down the narrow roads away from the beach leads you through the town of Dingle.

Slea Head and Beehive Huts

Next your driver will stop at the Fahan Beehive Huts, the distinctive shape of these stone houses will of course be familiar but the design of these early medieval celtic dwellings date back to 2000 BC. This remarkable example dates from 800 AD and still stand today in tribute to the skill of the islands stonemasons. You continue towards Slea Head, an area loaded with ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings and some of the most incredible photo stops you will see on your tour.

Gallarus Oratory and Kilmalkedar Church

Take in the breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands, an ideal spot for panoramic photos. If the weather permits, enjoy a stroll along the beaches and cliff tops to fully embrace the stunning scenery before pausing for lunch. Next, visit the Gallarus Oratory, a 1,000-year-old marvel and the best-preserved church of its kind in Ireland. Standing within its ancient walls, you can only wonder at the lives of those who worshipped here centuries ago. Continuing towards Dingle, stop at the historic Kilmalkedar Church, a national monument along an ancient pilgrim path. This tranquil site invites reflection, its rich history woven with stories of faith and resilience.

Dingle and free evening in Killarney

Arriving back amidst the brightly coloured houses and jolly harbour of Dingle, you can spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying delicious seafood in this idyllic setting. In the evening, you head back to Killarney, with time for an evening stroll in the National Park that envelops the town.

Depart Kilarney for the Ring of Kerry

Today, you explore the Ring of Kerry, a spectacular route through some of Ireland's most visually spectacular areas. You head out in the morning, navigating the roads about the valleys, towns, and villages, and through the foothills of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, home to Ireland's highest mount, Carrauntoohil. You'll have the option to stop and watch the Kells Bay Sheepdog Trails which your driver can help to arrange.

Cahersiveen Ring Forts

Next you join the scenic coast road through Glenbeigh on the way to Cahersiveen where you'll visit the impressive Cahergal Stone Fort, a ring fort outside Portmagee. You can explore and discover the local legends that surround the fort while gazing out over the Atlantic.

Portmagee and Derrynane

You stop for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee. Alternatively, you can have a quick snack and head to the island of Valentia for a visit to the Skellig Experience to find about the ancient community of monks who lived on the rocky island. Later, there's a photo stop in Charlie Chaplin's “home away from home” at Waterville, before enjoying fine views at the top of Coomakista pass. Winding down from the peaks, you head to Derrynane House, home of the family O'Connell. Daniel O'Connell, 'The Liberator of Ireland', had a very strong bond with this place. Here, you can enjoy a walk in the scenic gardens or along the beach and explore the main house.

Torc Waterfall and return to Killarney

Continuing along the Ring, you stop at Moll's Gap and the Ladies View. Stroll a short way from here to the Torc Waterfall before heading back to Killarney.

The road to Blarney Castle

We set off on your last day of this incredible tour of the southwest of Ireland and head towards Blarney Castle, ready to discover the legend of the Blarney Stone. You will be able to take a short comfort break if needed.

Blarney Castle and joining third part of the tour

Driving through the stunning Cork countryside, you arrive in Blarney, home to the magnificent 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Nestled in lush gardens, the castle feels like a scene from a fairy tale, complete with chilling dungeons to explore. Climb to the battlements for stunning views and imagine the approach of a medieval siege on the horizon. While the castle itself is impressive, its claim to fame is the Blarney Stone. Legend has it, kissing the stone bestows the "Gift of the Gab," granting eloquence. Will you join those eager to enhance their conversational prowess? After the visit, you change the bus and meet up with the new group on your third part of the tour.

Midleton (Jameson) Whiskey Distillery and journey to Kinsale

It's now time to glide along the beautiful coastline south of Cork before arriving in Kinsale. This charming little fishing village is your overnight stop, with all its local restaurants and lively pubs. Enjoy your free evening whilst exploring the narrow streets and brightly coloured houses. You continue onto Midleton Whiskey Distillery, also once known as Jameson. Here you have a chance to learn the history, find out how the drink is made, and taste a little yourself. If whiskey isn't quite your think you cant take a short walk to Choctaw Native American monument in Bailic Park. Pontoon walkway. It's now time to glide along the beautiful coastline south of Cork before arriving in Kinsale.

Free evening in Kinsale

This charming little fishing village is your overnight stop, with all its local restaurants and lively pubs. Enjoy your free evening whilst exploring the narrow streets and brightly coloured houses.

Cobh and Titanic History

Leaving Kinsale in the morning, you make your way to the historic port town of Cobh. This was the last port of call for the Titanic on its ill fated maiden voyage in 1912. There is a chance for you to explore more about this heartbreaking history at the visitor experience. Alternatively, you can spend your time exploring the rows of colourful houses, or at the Cobh Heritage Centre, which also explores how Cobh became an embarkation point during Ireland's mass migrations to America, Canada and Australia to name a few. A must see for those exploring their own ancestry in Ireland.

Dungarvan

Next, we head east along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO Geopark famed for its beauty and intricate histories. Your next stop is Dungarvan, a charming harbour town offering wide, inviting sandy beaches. The history here is as deep as the coastline, tracing back to the Stone Age, with archaeological finds of ancient settlements and even woolly mammoth remains. Over the centuries, this area evolved, bearing the mark of many eras, including the impressive 13th-century Anglo-Norman Dungarvan Castle. Take time to savour an early lunch and soak in the surroundings, where every step connects you to the stories of ancient peoples, Norman knights, and coastal settlers.

Waterford via Copper Coast

You continue until you reach Waterford, Ireland's oldest city founded by Regnall, Viking adventurer and pirate, a grandson of Ivor the Boneless. Today Waterford has managed to preserve this fascinating history while also being a hub for shops, eateries and local pubs. You have free time here to decide how you would like to spend the afternoon. In the late afternoon, you travel north from Waterford to Kilkenny.

Free evening in Kilkenny

Welcome to your home for the evening! This town is a vibrant place with a thriving pub and restaurant culture. After spending the evening here you're certain to understand why people voted it Ireland's friendliest city.

Explore the vibrant city of Kilkenny

Kilkenny has many attractions to offer you for your morning, including ancient ruins, stunning gardens, and sacred religious sites. You might consider a visit to Kilkenny Castle, host to exquisite collections and artifacts from its 800 year history. After your morning of exploring this vibrant city it's time to meet your guide again and head off to discover more of Ireland's beauty, history and warmth.

Wicklow Mountains and Lunch in Hollywood

You then head north into the Wicklow Mountains, where you'll be impressed by the National Park's steep granite mountains. You make a stop in Carlow, often referred to as "The Dolmen County," a name inspired by the iconic Brownshill Dolmen. This remarkable 6,000-year-old megalithic portal tomb is famed for its massive capstone, believed to be the heaviest in Europe, weighing over 100 metric tonnes. A short drive later you arrive in Hollywood for a pub lunch.

Glendalough

You follow the winding paths to Glendalough, site of an awe-inspiring 6th century monastic city with numerous churches, crosses and a well preserved stone tower. Founded by St Kevin the site is no stranger to myths and legends with some believing the saint himself banished a monster that lived in the lake. Regardless of the truth St Kevin chose a perfect location for this hub of early Christian learning, sitting nestled amongst hills and valleys formed by Ice Age glaciers. You bid farewell to this moving place and begin your scenic drive back to Dublin.

Return to Dublin via The Sally Gap

Your guide will take you the scenic road back to Dublin including the breathtaking Sally Gap pass. You'll maybe enjoy some surprise diversions to enjoy some view points and beauty spots on the road with so many astonishing sights to see. You arrive back in Dublin brimming with stories of Viking pirates, ancient tombs, perilous voyages and an understanding of the lives of Irish people over hundreds of years of history.