Classic Ireland - 10 Days

Dublin - Rock of Cashel - Blarney Castle - Kinsale. Departing from Dublin, our first stop is the Rock of Cashel, home to the largest collection of medieval buildings in Ireland. Next, we head to Blarney Castle and the famous Blarney Stone, where you can test the legend that kissing it grants "the gift of the gab", the ability to speak confidently and persuasively.

Our adventure continues to the picturesque fishing village of Kinsale, a culinary paradise. We'll join up with a local, Barry, for a guided historical tour through Kinsale's narrow streets before dining at one of its standout restaurants (not included).

You're spoiled for choice with options for dinner: visit The Spaniard, a charming historic inn offering Spanish Ruby Ports and West Cork black pudding, or try Fishy, Fishy for a seafood feast.

Explore the scenic streets filled with silversmiths, galleries, and antique shops. As evening falls, enjoy music at The Armada bar or The Silent Banjo - both lively local favourites.

Total driving time: 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Meeting Point: The Ashling Hotel Dublin, 10 - 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8, D08 P38N at 08:00.

Kinsale - Kenmare - Killarney National Park - Dingle. Say goodbye to Kinsale as we set our sights on the Ring of Kerry. Make a stop in Kenmare, a charming village known for its treacle scones, Guinness breads, quirky shops, and unique curiosities. Ensure your phone is charged for capturing stunning images of Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall, and Ross Castle in Killarney National Park. The 15th-century Ross Castle is reputed to be haunted by the ghost of O’Donoghue Ross, the chieftain who allegedly met his end after falling from one of its windows.

The day continues in Dingle, where you'll find Inch, a beach with miles of sand to explore. Tóg go bóg é (take it easy) and browse the craft shops offering Irish flutes and seaweed cheeses. As evening approaches, visit Foxy John’s, a hardware store with a twist - it features a fully stocked bar, so the only DIY you'll be doing is ordering a drink. And don't forget about Dick Mac’s Leather Shop, which boasts a pub, a lively group of locals, and charismatic bartenders.

Total driving time: 2 hours and 45 minutes.

We begin our morning with a kayak excursion around Dingle Bay, including a chance to explore nearby caves. For those preferring to keep their feet on the ground, a hike up Mount Brandon offers stunning panoramic views of the bay and Castlegregory.

As we head to Slea Head Drive, we'll journey through Irish-speaking villages and visit famous Hollywood film locations. Afterward, we return to Dingle for the night.

Total driving time: 2.5 hours.

Dingle - Cliffs of Moher - Burren National Park - Doolin. Departing Dingle, we head north, enjoying breathtaking vistas of The Connor Pass and Castlegregory. Be prepared to be astounded by a traditional sheepdog demonstration with our friends at West Kerry Sheepdog, showcasing the remarkable skills of both the farmer and his canine companion.

We then take a brief ferry ride to County Clare, where we visit the world-renowned Cliffs of Moher and explore Burren National Park. The awe-inspiring cliffs are best appreciated in person, and a walk along their edge with the Wild Atlantic's roar provides a perfect setting.

Tonight, dive into the vibrant Irish music scene and experience the legendary craic. We'll spend the night in the charming village of Doolin, known for its colourful houses and lively atmosphere, or at Spanish Point, a spectacular coastal location. Let the music and laughter transport you as you enjoy an unforgettable evening in this enchanting region of Ireland.

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes.

Doolin - Inis Oirr - Burren National Park - Galway. Today begins with a trip to Inis Oirr, the smallest and most isolated of the Aran Islands, where it feels as if time stands still. Uncover its pristine white-sand beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages.

We then head back to the distinctive Burren National Park, a landscape like no other, to explore its limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and intriguing history. Finally, dive into the lively atmosphere of Galway, a city teeming with music, art, and delicious cuisine. Total driving time: 2 hours.

Galway - Connemara National Park - Westport. Spend your morning exploring Galway City at your leisure. Then, treat your taste buds to a delightful included walking food tour, where we can savour local delicacies and discover Galway’s rich culinary heritage.

Leaving the city, we then journey into the rugged beauty of Connemara, known for its dramatic mountains, sparkling lakes, and quaint villages. We arrive in Westport, a scenic town situated on Clew Bay, where you can visit historic sites and take in the stunning coastal views.

Total driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Westport - Donegal. Start your day with some leisure time to explore Westport, known for its lively Quay and the historic Westport House. Head north to County Sligo, a region rich in myths and legends. Marvel at Benbulben, a mountain shrouded in folklore, believed to be the final resting place of the mythical warriors Diarmuid and Gráinne.

The day ends at the stunning Lough Eske Castle, a historic landmark located just outside Donegal and beautifully restored to its original splendour. Enjoy an overnight stay in this picturesque and historic castle, surrounded by serene waters and ancient woodlands.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Donegal - Derry (Northern Ireland). After our night in a castle, we set off to discover the rugged beauty of the North West in the Hills of Donegal. We begin our adventure with a scenic drive over the Glengesh Pass, where we can marvel at the breathtaking Assaranca Waterfall. Explore remote beaches, hidden caves, and enjoy scenic panoramas before we continue through Donegal's hills to the Ardara Distillery, where we'll learn about the rich tradition of whiskey making and savour the "liquid sunshine," as famously described by Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.

Next, we visit Derry, Northern Ireland's second-largest city, rich in Irish history. Participate in a walking tour to learn about the Troubles, and spend the evening exploring Derry’s lively restaurants and vibrant cultural scene.

Total driving time: 3 hours.

Derry - Giant's Causeway - Belfast. This morning, we're off to the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. Discover the legend of the mighty giant, Fionn MacCool as we explore.

We then proceed to the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, for the final night of our tour. The rest of the day is at leisure. Consider a 'Black Cab' Tour; offering a personal perspective on this stunning city, which endured significant damage during the 'Troubles'. Listen to personal accounts of the conflict while exploring former political hotspots and viewing murals. Alternatively, you can explore independently, visiting bustling shops, the Ulster Museum, or the Parliament Buildings at Stormont.

Total driving time: 3 hours.

Belfast - Dublin (Republic of Ireland). On the final morning of the tour, we dive into the Titanic experience at Titanic Belfast and uncover the captivating stories of this world-renowned and doomed ship.

Visit the magical stone age passage tomb at Newgrange, adorned with intricate neolithic art. Depending on availability, Newgrange may be substituted with the equally impressive Knowth Neolithic site, featuring passage tombs and intricate carvings that offer a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past. If time allows, we will also stop at the Battle of the Boyne site, where we learn about this significant event in Irish history.

Our journey concludes back in Dublin, if time permits, your expert guide will offer recommendations for exploring the capital.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Drop Off Point: Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James, Dublin, Ireland, between 16:00 and 19:00.