From Dublin: 5-Day Tour to the Southwest with Accommodation
Day 1 Departing Dublin, the journey begins westward through the farmlands and peat bogs of Kildare and Offaly. The first stop is the historic Kilbeggan Distillery, where you can enjoy a sample of Ireland’s renowned whiskey. From there, the tour visits Clonmacnoise, a significant monastic site on the River Shannon, home to ancient churches, high crosses, and round towers. After lunch in a traditional village pub, the day ends in Galway City a vibrant hub known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food, and music scene. Day 2 The day begins with a coastal drive to the Burren, a unique limestone landscape rich in rare flora and early Christian heritage. After time to explore the area, 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. You then head to the incredible Cliffs of Moher, offering dramatic views and a fascinating environmental exhibition. Traveling south through County Clare, there's a brief stop at Lahinch beach before a ferry ride across the Shannon Estuary. The night is spent in Killarney, known for its warm hospitality, pubs, and traditional music. Day 3 Day three explores the scenic Dingle Peninsula. Starting at Inch Beach, the tour winds through countryside roads to the lively town of Dingle. The route continues to Slea Head, where you’ll find ancient forts, early dwellings, and breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands. Depending on weather, there's time for walking along beaches and cliffs. 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. Day 4 Explore the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, winding through valleys, villages, and the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, with views of Carrauntoohil. Visit Cahersiveen, Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace, and a ring fort near Portmagee, where you stop for lunch or visit the Skellig Experience on Valentia Island. Afternoon stops include Waterville, Coonmakista Pass, and Derrynane House, followed by scenic views at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View. A final walk to Torc Waterfall wraps up the day before returning to Killarney. Day 5 Heading east through West Cork, the group stops at Blarney Castle, with time to explore the grounds and, if you wish, kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. After lunch in the coastal town of Kinsale, known for its colorful streets and Charles Fort. The final stop of this tour is the incredible Rock of Cashel. Imposing, enormous, iconic. Perched dramatically on an outcrop of limestone, this remarkable cluster of medieval buildings is famous around the world. You have free time to explore here before we hop back on the bus and head for Dublin, where we arrive in the early evening.