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

The adventure

The Emerald Isle — where lively tunes flow from cozy pubs, rolling green hills capture your soul, and tales of ancient legends are shared by local storytellers who bring history to life. Picture yourself spending eight unforgettable days in one of the world’s most enchanting lands, wandering along dramatic coastlines, exploring fairytale castles, and stepping into the rich past of historic manors and medieval sites. Revel in the vibrant spirit of Ireland’s people, soak up breathtaking landscapes, and savour every magical moment. This is Ireland at its finest — ready to give you memories (and maybe a few Irish dance moves) that will stay with you forever.

At a glance

Where you'll go

Day by day

Your journey through

Ireland

Showing Days 1-7

8-day itinerary

Day 1Rolling hills speckled with picturesque villagesDublinTravel 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.

Dublin

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.

Day 2Set off on a scenic journey through some…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.

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.

Day 3Let your interests and energy levels guide you…

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.

Day 4The views along the Ring of Kerry are…

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.

Day 5The Dingle Peninsula is said to be home…

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.

Day 6Leave County Kerry behind and cross over…Ennis

Ennis

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.

Day 7The capital of the County ClareEnnis

Ennis

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.

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