South West Ireland Uncovered
Take in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Dublin
Day 1 Dublin
Dublin - Galway. Welcome to Ireland! Departing Dublin, we drive west through the rural landscapes of County Kildare and Offaly, passing farmland and peat bogs. Our first stop is Kilbeggan Distillery, we can take a moment to unwind with a taste of their renowned whiskey.
After a tasty tipple (or two!) we journey onwards to the stunning ruins of Clonmacnoise Abbey, on the banks of the River Shannon. This holy site boasts an impressive collection of ancient stone crosses, churches, and remarkable round towers, giving you an insightful glimpse into Ireland's rich spiritual history.
There is free time for you to tuck into a traditional pub lunch in one of the pretty nearby villages before we head to our accommodation for the evening in Galway. Galway boasts plenty of excellent restaurants and bars, as well as quaint seafront views.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.
Accommodation: Ashgrove, Desota House B&B or similar
Day 2 The Burren & Shannon Estuary
Day 2 The Burren & Shannon Estuary
Galway - Kilfenora - Killarney. Just off the coast of Galway City lies the Burren, one of Ireland's iconic landmarks. As one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland, it boasts broad limestone pavements and rare flora. After exploring the area, we head to Kilfenora, known as the "town of the crosses". We can see the ancient cathedral and enjoy lunch independently in the area.
Our next stop is the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. There is time for us to hike the dramatic cliff trails here and see seabirds soaring through the clear air. The nearby environmental exhibition provides insights into the unique ecosystem.
We then drive through County Clare, taking in the famous golf course before arriving at picturesque Lahinch Beach. From here we board a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney, a lively town and home for the next three nights. Killarney is known for its traditional pubs and live music - the perfect place for a Guinness or two!
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 3 The Dingle Peninsula
Day 3 The Dingle Peninsula
Killarney - Dingle Peninsula - Killarney. Heading out for a day's activities from Killarney, we travel to the magnificent Dingle Peninsula. We stop first at Inch Beach, where we can stroll along the extensive sands.
Passing through Dingle town, our next stop is Slea Head. Here we admire the ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings amidst breathtaking views of the nearby Blasket Islands. If the weather is favourable, we will have the opportunity to explore the beaches and cliff tops to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
We then return to Dingle to spend a few hours at leisure. We recommend you savour some of the town's famous seafood! In the early evening, we make our way back to Killarney.
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 4 Wild Ireland & Derrynane House
Day 4 Wild Ireland & Derrynane House
Killarney - Carrauntoohil - Portmagee - Waterville - Derrynane House - Killarney. Today we take in the best of South West Ireland's wild side, exploring the popular Ring of Kerry route. The day starts with a visit to Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain. Snap some photos before we head along the picturesque coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen.
There is free time for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee, and there is also the opportunity for travellers to head to Valentia Island for the Skellig Experience. This waterfront centre showcases the history of the ancient community of monks who made the rocky islands their home.
Our tour continues to Waterville, where we make a short stop at Charlie Chaplin's "home away from home" before enjoying stunning views at the top of Coonmakista pass. We then visit Derrynane House, home to the O'Connell family. Daniel O’Connell was known as the "The Liberator of Ireland". This Irish nationalist led Ireland's Roman Catholic majority in the first half of the 19th century. He had a strong attachment to Derrynane House, and you will understand why after exploring its scenic gardens or exploring the main house.
We make our way back to Killarney, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, from where we can make the short walk to admire Torc Waterfall.
Please note: On some departures of this itinerary, days 3 and 4 are switched. All inclusions and sights visited remain the same.
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 5 Blarney Castle
Day 5 Blarney Castle
Killarney - Blarney Castle - Kilkenny - Dublin. We begin our eastward journey back to Dublin. Driving through the mountainous region of West Cork, we admire the Lee Valley and arrive at Blarney Castle. There is time to explore the grounds and if you would like to kiss the famous Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence, then you are welcome to do so!
Continuing to Cahir, we can see the unique island castle before arriving in Kilkenny, a vibrant city that boasts an impressive ancient castle, a thousand-year-old round tower, and a remarkable National Craft Centre. There's time to explore at leisure or enjoy a final Guinness before we arrive back in Dublin and our Irish adventure comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:30 - Dublin Nassau Street Drop Off, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Accommodation
On this tour, you will stay in bed and breakfast properties (B&Bs). These are usually smaller residential properties, with just a handful of guest rooms. You’ll have a bedroom, bathroom and often, access to a communal dining room for breakfast. Rooms will always be clean and comfortable, with a private bathroom. Bathrooms are usually en-suite, but on rare occasions, access may be via a communal hallway. This means that the bathroom will still be private and only for your personal use, but it is not en-suite (located in the room). You will need to leave the room to use the bathroom.
This informal B&B is located 1.2 km from the city centre and a 15-minute walk from Galway railway station. The simple, contemporary rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, tea and coffee-making facilities, and en suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of a computer, as well as a full Irish breakfast and a continental breakfast buffet served in the modern dining room.
Just a 5-minute walk from the town centre and a 10-minute walk from Killarney train station, this modest guesthouse offers straightforward accommodation. The unfussy rooms include en suite bathrooms, tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. A full breakfast is provided, and additional amenities include a drying room for gear and clothing, as well as a garden.
Tour Reviews
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 daysTake in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.Handpicked52233Vinny was great. He made the trip into a bigger experience. Fun man, winning personality. Keep him onboard, I would definitely do another trip with him as the tour guide!
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 daysTake in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.Handpicked52233Really nice to be on a small group tour. If you are wanting lots of information as you go along this may not be the tour for you. But, if you’re after some places where big buses can’t get to and a more personal and unique experience, then this is the tour for you. I also loved that we stayed in the same hotel for three nights, it was great to not have to unpack and pack all The time and got to know the staff at the pub where we stayed.
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 daysTake in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.Handpicked52233Collum, the tour guide, was informative, funny, and made everyone feel cared for. The Murphy Hotel in Killarney was excellent because the entire staff was excellent and the food good ... and the music delightful!
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 daysTake in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.Handpicked52233I really enjoyed the tour - Michael our guide was very friendly, kept us all informed and was flexible to suit everyone's requirements - we packed in a lot into the time with beautiful countryside, history and culture. He drove a lot of miles!!!! We had a small number on our tour - 7 overall - which was perfect and allowed us to get to know each other Great accommodation - clean and well appointed, with very good breakfasts. My only reservation is that for the price which amounted to £280 per day I might have expected more things to be inclusive - we paid for all meals and entry fees Another suggestion - would be good to give everyone more information about the places we visited - like the distillery - we were able to take advantage of the onsite tour guide at the monastery which was lucky- would be good to have restaurant recommendations, and places to see traditional music. The tour notes were good to a point but would have been good to have a little booklet with more information Overall an excellent holiday and I would recommend it!!
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 daysTake in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.Handpicked52233We had a nice tour!
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