Ireland: Charming Villages, Traditional Tales & Hiking the Dingle Peninsula - 8 Days

Rolling hills speckled with picturesque villages, and a unique culture featuring a vibrant undercurrent of myths and music, the Emerald Isle will not disappoint. Say hello to Dublin before being whisked away, moving deeper into the its lush, green heart. You’ll stop at the Rock of Cashel before readying your sea legs for a ferry ride to Spike Island where you’ll be regaled in tales told by a local storyteller. Travel from Dublin to Cashel this morning. Witness the striking monument silhouetted against the sky, proudly standing since the 13th century. Stand where laymen once stood, in archways lined with centuries old frescoes, and imagine how life used to be in this incredible complex. Continue on to Cobh for lunch, then board the ferry for Spike Island, an important piece of Irish history, having served as a prison and military fortress. Said to be Ireland’s Alcatraz, Spike Island hosted thousands of prisoners before hosting thousands of likeminded tourists, eager to learn of its complicated history. Enjoy free time on the island before returning to the mainland for an optional dinner in the evening.

Set off on a scenic journey through some of Ireland’s most picturesque towns and villages, travelling from the heart of County Cork into County Kerry, and down the rugged Beara Peninsula. Once again witnessing all that gives the Emerald Isle its name, lush farmland, rolling hills, and the dramatic coastline overlooking the Atlantic, where every turn will provide another glimpse into quaint villages and sheer natural beauty. Travel to Bantry and stroll through the charming town centre and admire beautiful views of Bantry Bay. Next, visit Glengarriff, a quaint village nestled between the lush woodlands and striking coastal scenery. Continue on to Castletown-Bearhaven, a lively fishing town with a waterfront perfect for strolling and finding a place for lunch. Onward to Eyeries where you’ll find colourful houses and tranquil streets, then finish the day on the coast of Kenmare Bay to check into the hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Let your interests and energy levels guide you today as you discover the seascape and rugged shoreline of Kenmare Bay on your terms. Choose between 2 water-based activities, either paddling along the coast in a sea kayak or exploring the inlets and coves on a boat tour. Whichever option you choose will reward you with incredible views and bring you closer to the natural beauty of this remarkable part of the country. Choose to go sea kayaking with a local guide or take a boat trip along the shores of Kenmare Bay to soak in the scenery and look for marine life. Later, travel to the town of Kenmare for lunch at the Tom Crean brewery, named after the Irish Antarctic explorer. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon free to explore Kenmare or return to the hotel and enjoy the property's pools, trails and views of the ocean.

The views along the Ring of Kerry are spectacular and iconically Irish as you make your way to Killarney. Killarney National Park is famous for glassy lakes, historic castles and mansions, and rugged mountain landscapes with emerald woodlands. A hiker’s paradise when looking to be surrounded by unparalleled views. Today you will experience both the local history at the Muckross House, and the tranquil nature hiking to Torc waterfall. Travel along the Ring of Kerry to the Muckross House, a beautifully preserved 19th century mansion located in the heart of Killarney National Park, then head out on foot to hike through the lush woodlands toward the cascading Torc waterfall. Loop back around for lunch and free time for exploration in Killarney. Travel onward to Dingle where you’ll settle in the for the night.

The Dingle Peninsula is said to be home to the most scenic drive in the world. The Slea Head Drive takes you along the awe-inspiring coastline where you’ll witness steep cliffs and rocky shores broken up by sandy beaches, the landscape composed of soothing greens and crisp blues. As you can imagine, this area is also a popular hiking route for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in the impressive landscape. Enjoy the scenic drive along the coastal road to Reilig Dhún Chaoin. After arriving, you’ll walk to Blasket Island Interpretive Centre where you’ll hike a coastal loop trail called Lub na Cille with a local guide. Return to the Blasket Centre for lunch, then travel back to Dingle for a free evening and optional dinner out with the group.

Leave County Kerry behind and cross over into County Limerick, stopping in the charming village of Adare. The Irish government has designated Adare a heritage town due to its religious and medieval history, having been founded in the 13th century. It is considered Ireland’s “prettiest village” with thatched roof cottages and the River Maigue. Later, travel to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a 15th century fortress located in County Clare. Bunratty translates to “mouth of the Ratty River”, a fitting name given its proximity to the Shannon Estuary. Travel northeast from Dingle to the picturesque town of Adare and enjoy some free time to explore. Continue to Bunrutty Castle where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history then drive to Ennis to settle into the hotel and enjoy an included dinner with the group.

The capital of the County Clare, Ennis is a historic town originating in the 13th century, boasting a close proximity to both Inisheer and the Cliffs of Moher, which are ideal for exploring by bike and on foot. Inisheer is the smallest of the three Aran Islands located in Galway Bay, a comfortable ferry ride from Doolin Port and the Cliffs of Moher. The towering sea cliffs are believed to house otherworldly creatures, overlooking the formidable Atlantic. Travel from Dingle to Doolin Port and catch the ferry to the island of Inisheer. Set off on a bike tour to explore the sights then meet with a local islander to share tea and scones and learn about everyday life on the island. After returning to the mainland, join a local guide for a visit to the iconic and beautiful Cliffs of Moher. Travel back to Ennis for a farewell dinner with live traditional music and a final night out with the group.

The adventure finishes today, and you can depart at any time.