FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT BILL WALSH
Phone 910-263-4425 OR email knbbeached@aol.com
BOOKING DEADLINE NOVEMBER 1, 2026
(YOU WILL DEPART THE U.S. ON MAY 5TH FOR AN OVERNIGHT FLIGHT AND ARRIVE IN DUBLIN ON MAY 6TH)
With Benny’s Ireland Vacations, experience the best of the Emerald Isle on an unforgettable 12-day escorted tour through Ireland’s vibrant cities, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
Beginning in Dublin, journey through the scenic west to Westport, Galway, Dingle, Killarney and Cashel while discovering some of Ireland’s most iconic attractions, including the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, the stunning Dingle Peninsula, The Rock Of Cashel and premier Dublin sites and attractions.
Along the way, immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich history, vibrant culture, traditional hospitality, and remarkable natural beauty, creating lasting memories of an extraordinary Irish adventure.
BENNY'S IRELAND VACATIONS INC.
Phone +1 772-571-3132
https://bennysirelandvacations.com
benny@bennysirelandvacations.com
Florida Seller of Travel, Registration Number ST40279
HIGHLIGHTS
*Westport *Achill Island *Explore Galway and Connemara *Killary Harbour
*Galway Cathedral *Kylemore Abbey *The Cliffs Of Moher *The Burren Region
*The Dingle Peninsula Through the Countryside *Inch Beach *The Beehive Huts *Slea Head Drive
*The Ring of Kerry *Muckross House and Gardens *Molls Gap, Kate Kearney's Cottage and The Black Valley *Ross Castle
*Killarney and The Ring Of Kerry *Killarney to The Gap Of Dunloe & The Black Valley
*Galway City *Galway and the Connemara National Park
*Dublin City *Guinness Brewery *EPIC *Trinity College Dublin & the Book of Kells
*Dublin Castle *St. Patrick's Cathedral *Temple Bar *The Phoenix Park
INCLUDED SERVICES
11 Nights 4 Star Hotel accommodation, B&B
Westport - 3 Nights
Galway - 2 Nights
Killarney - 4 Nights
Dublin - 2 Nights
11 Full Irish Breakfast Meals at your Hotel
4 Dinners (3 Courses) at your Hotel in Westport, Galway, Killarney & Dublin
TRANSPORT
Private Drive/Guide service for 12 Days
Airport Transfers upon arrival and departure
ENTRY PASSES TO THE FOLLOWING
1/ The Guinness Storehouse
2/ EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum
3/ The Cliffs of Moher
4/ Kylemore Abbey
5/ Trinity College & The Book of Kells
*FLIGHTS ARE NOT INCLUDED
(YOU WILL DEPART THE U.S. ON MAY 5TH FOR AN OVERNIGHT FLIGHT AND ARRIVE IN DUBLIN ON MAY 6TH)
Important Information:
While you may be assured that Benny's Ireland Vacations, Inc. is fully Bonded and Insured, you may find that you are unable to fulfill your travel plans due to unforeseen circumstances. To protect you in such cases, Travel Insurance is strongly recommended.
It is an individual's choice of whether or not they choose to secure this type of protection, but most noteworthy, Benny's Ireland Vacations recommends this protection to all travelers.
>>CLICK HERE FOR THE SECURE LINK TO ALLIANZ GLOBAL
ALLIANZ GLOBAL ASSISTANCE / Travel Insurance with 24-hour emergency assistance while travelling.
Thursday, May 6, 2027
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Thursday, May 13, 2027
Friday, May 14, 2027
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Monday, May 17, 2027
Located in County Mayo on Ireland’s scenic west coast, Westport is one of the country’s most charming and vibrant towns. Known for its Georgian architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and picturesque setting at the edge of Clew Bay, Westport seamlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Planned in the 18th century by the Browne family of Westport House, the town was designed by famed architect James Wyatt. The result is a unique layout, featuring the beautiful Octagon, stone bridges over the Carrowbeg River, and elegant streets that make strolling through Westport a delight. Westport is a gateway to adventure.
Just beyond the town lies Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, where pilgrims and hikers alike climb for sweeping views and spiritual reflection. The Great Western Greenway, a 42-kilometer cycling and walking trail, begins here, tracing a path through some of Mayo’s most breathtaking landscapes.
But Westport isn’t just about scenery—it’s alive with music, food, and culture. Pubs echo with traditional Irish tunes, artisan shops showcase local crafts, and festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from food to folk music. The nearby Westport House, a stately home and family attraction, offers a glimpse into the area's aristocratic and colonial past.
Achill Island, situated off the rugged coastline of County Mayo along Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way, offers more than just breathtaking views—it offers a deep dive into over 5,000 years of history and culture. From ancient stone structures to windswept landscapes shaped by generations, Achill stands as one of Ireland’s most historically rich and naturally dramatic destinations. The earliest evidence of life on Achill dates back to the Neolithic period.
Scattered across the island are remnants of early human habitation: megalithic tombs, standing stones, and fortified enclosures. These archaeological sites suggest that Achill was a center of human activity long before recorded history, serving as both a place of settlement and spiritual significance. As Ireland transitioned into the early Christian era, Achill remained a notable outpost.
Monastic settlements began to flourish in the early medieval period, particularly under figures like St. Colmán, who founded a monastery on Inishbiggle, a small neighboring island. These religious sites not only provided spiritual guidance but also helped preserve early Irish culture and literacy during a time of European upheaval.
The 19th century brought a dark chapter in Achill’s history. Like much of rural Ireland, the island was devastated by the Great Famine (1845–1852). With crops failing and food supplies vanishing, Achill's already fragile communities faced starvation and mass emigration.
A powerful visual reminder of this era is the Deserted Village at Slievemore. Located on the slopes of a mountain bearing the same name, this haunting collection of abandoned stone cottages tells the story of over 100 families who once lived there. Many left in desperation, some for mainland Ireland, others for distant shores, and some never returned.
Despite these hardships, Achill’s resilience has become one of its defining traits. The island has not only survived but adapted, preserving its unique identity while embracing change. Achill’s legacy includes not just tragedy, but fierce independence. In the early 20th century, it played a quiet but symbolic role in Ireland’s nationalist movement. Echoes of rebellion and self-determination remain part of its cultural DNA. Adding to the folklore and allure is the legacy of Gráinne Uaile (Grace O’Malley), the famed 16th-century pirate queen.
While she is more closely linked with nearby Clare Island, her influence and legend stretch to Achill, where tales of her defiance, maritime battles, and leadership still ripple through local lore. She sailed these waters with courage and cunning, embodying the spirit of a people shaped by the sea.
Today, Achill Island is celebrated as much for its natural splendor as for its rich history. Its landscapes are among the most dramatic in Ireland: towering sea cliffs, rolling boglands, and sandy Blue Flag beaches like Keem Bay—a secluded horseshoe cove framed by steep cliffs and emerald hills.
These features draw travelers seeking both solitude and adventure, whether through hiking, surfing, or simply absorbing the Atlantic's raw energy. But what truly sets Achill apart is its living culture. The island remains a stronghold of Irish language, music, and tradition. Visitors often encounter locals speaking Gaeilge, sharing songs handed down through generations, and keeping ancient customs alive in a modern context.
Achill’s festivals, storytelling sessions, and musical gatherings offer immersive experiences into Ireland’s soul. After a day exploring Achill’s mystique, return to Westport.
Your day begins in the vibrant town of Westport, a lively cultural hub nestled at the foot of Croagh Patrick. Known for its Georgian architecture, traditional pubs, and colorful shopfronts, Westport offers a perfect launching point for a day of discovery across rural Mayo.
Leaving town, you head south along the N59, passing through a landscape that quickly becomes more rugged and mountainous. The road winds its way through valleys and alongside lakes, gradually revealing the wild beauty of Connemara and south Mayo. After about an hour’s drive, you arrive at the majestic Killary Harbour—Ireland’s only fjord. Straddling the border between Counties Mayo and Galway, Killary Harbour is a dramatic and peaceful inlet surrounded by high hills and green pastures. On a calm day, the water mirrors the clouds above, while sheep graze on the hillsides and mussel farms float quietly in the fjord.
You might choose to stop at Leenane, a picturesque village at the head of the fjord, where you can enjoy a coffee or explore the Killary Sheep Farm or Aasleagh Falls, a nearby waterfall perfect for photos and a short walk. This region offers panoramic views and a feeling of timelessness—where stone walls, winding lanes, and rugged terrain connect you to Ireland’s wild and ancient landscape.
After soaking in the scenery at Killary Harbour, begin your journey northeast toward Tourmakeady (Tuar Mhic Éadaigh), traveling along peaceful roads that cut through the Partry Mountains and the shores of Lough Mask.
This stretch of the drive is particularly quiet and unspoiled, offering beautiful lake views and rolling farmland. Tourmakeady is a small, Irish-speaking village nestled between mountains and lake, rich in history and culture. The area is part of the Gaeltacht, where the Irish language is still spoken in everyday life.
A stop at the Tourmakeady Waterfall and Nature Trail offers an easy and rewarding walk through woodland, leading to a charming waterfall hidden in the trees. This trail is peaceful and often uncrowded, making it perfect for a short break to enjoy the natural surroundings.
The village itself is modest but steeped in local tradition. This was also the site of a notable ambush during the Irish War of Independence, and local monuments honor that chapter of history. Tourmakeady is a place where Ireland’s past and present coexist quietly, surrounded by serene countryside.
Continuing your route, the road curves gently toward Killavally, offering dramatic views of Lough Mask on one side and mountain peaks on the other. You’ll likely pass scattered farms, grazing sheep, and small bogs—a landscape both wild and cultivated over centuries.
Your next stop is Killavally, a rural area that lies between Tourmakeady and the outskirts of Westport. It’s a landscape dominated by rolling hills, stone fences, and wide skies, where you’re more likely to pass tractors than traffic.
Killavally is a quiet farming region, and although there are no major tourist attractions, its charm lies in the authenticity of rural Irish life. If time allows, take a detour toward Killavally Church, a peaceful country parish where locals gather for Mass. The surrounding roads offer occasional viewpoints of Lough Mask and Croagh Patrick, often visible in the distance. Continuing on, you arrive at Knockroosky, a small townland just outside Westport.
Here, you’ll find the Westport Country Lodge Hotel, a popular stop for refreshments and a quiet moment before returning to town. Knockroosky is known locally as a gateway to Croagh Patrick, and you may catch glimpses of pilgrims making their way toward the sacred mountain, especially in summer months.
As you complete the loop and return to Westport, you’ll have experienced a full day of scenic contrast—from the maritime drama of Killary Harbour, through the wooded tranquility of Tourmakeady, the pastoral calm of Killavally, and the mountain backdrop of Knockroosky.
The route is ideal for travelers seeking quiet beauty, hidden corners of Irish life, and the peace that comes from time spent in nature and history-rich villages.
This morning you will explore the Connemara region. Connemara is a land of lakes and rivers, bogs and mountains. A land of small villages where Gaelic is still the spoken language and where little has changed little since the beginning of time. It is without a doubt the wildest and the most romantic part of Ireland.
Connemara is a vast peninsula bordered by the arid and rocky coastline of Galway Bay in the south ~ a land characteristic for its stone walls and thatched cottages. On its northern shore the land is harsher and more secret, with spectacular views of the Ocean and the beautiful fjord of Killary Harbour, as well as the steep mountains overlooking numerous lakes and large bog areas. Connemara is a real paradise for Nature lovers and those in search of strong emotions.
Kylemore Abbey is located in the Kylemore Pass in Connemara. A Mitchell Henry built the House in 1868, after having spent his honeymoon in the area.
The architecture is best described as neo-gothic and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period. One of Kylemore Abbey’s most famous features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church. Today, the abbey is home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns.
They bought the house in 1920, having fled their convent in war-torn Belgium in 1914. They established a private school for young girls, which today is the renowned Kylemore Abbey International School for young girls.
Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor centre, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants.
Called the "Capital of Connemara," Clifden is a gem on Ireland’s west coast and a perfect destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, culture, and authentic Irish charm. Surrounded by some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes - rolling hills, rugged coastlines, boglands, and the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range.
With colorful shopfronts, friendly locals, artisan stores, and a relaxed pace, Clifden is an excellent place to unwind with a perfect blend of natural wonders, history, music, food, and friendly culture!
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and framed by the majestic Errisbeg Mountains, Roundstone was established in the 1820s by Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo. The village's name, derived from the Irish "Cloch na Rón" meaning "Rock of the Seals," reflects its maritime heritage and is nestled in the heart of Connemara, County Galway.
A picturesque fishing village renowned for its natural beauty, artistic heritage, and vibrant local culture. Nearby historical sites include the ruins of a 15th-century Dominican Priory.
Offering visitors an authentic experience of Ireland's rich heritage...An Spidéal (Spiddal) is a charming seaside village in County Galway, nestled along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. As part of the Gaeltacht area, it's a vibrant hub for Irish language and culture.
Traditional Irish music thrives in An Spidéal, with local pubs hosting regular live sessions. Enjoy an evening of traditional music and craic in this vibrant city!
Galway, a delight with its narrow streets, old stone and wooden shop fronts, good restaurants, and busy pubs.
The city has attracted a bohemian crown of musicians and artists which add so much to its character.
We recommend to pop by the beautiful Cathedral, built in 1965, the Salmon Weir Bridge and along the trout stream to the Collegiate of St Nicholas of Myra, which was built in 1320. The Collegiate is close to Nora Barnacle’s house (Mrs. James Joyce) and to the famous Lynch window from which the English language receive the word to Lynch (hang).
Continue on along Shop Street to see the splendor of the rich merchants’ houses during the time that they controlled the commercial life of the City, Lynch’s house being an excellent example. Pass by the Eyre Square, the accepted centre of Galway City. On the western side of the square is Browne’s doorway which is all that remains of a mid-17th century merchant’s house.
The square also has a statue to Padraig O’Conaire, a noted Irish writer and a curious rusted metal sculpture representing the famous Galway Hooker, a boat which is unique to Galway. Galway, the largest county in Connaught, is celebrated in song and story throughout the world and takes centre stage on Ireland’s western seaboard.
A spectacularly beautiful county, it is a medley of contrasts - the wildest and remotest of countryside teamed with one of Europe’s most vibrant and popular cities. Drawn as if by a magnet, visitors come again and again, captivated by this most special of Irish counties. Galway City at the mouth of Galway Bay is both a picturesque and lively city with a wonderful avant-garde culture and a fascinating mixture of locally owned speciality shops, often featuring locally made crafts.
Indeed local handcrafts are a feature of the entire region including hand knits, pottery, glass, jewellery and woodwork. The city has many relics of its medieval past and is worth taking time to explore. It has changed considerably over the last number of years and features a fascinating juxtaposition of new and ancient architecture. The centre of the city is conveniently compact enough to ramble around comfortably.
Anyone who knows the song ‘Galway Bay’ will be familiar with the Claddagh, previously a fishing village of thatched cottages, now an area just outside the city centre. Here is the birthplace of the world famous Claddagh ring, a souvenir many bring home, just to keep a little piece of Galway with them always.
Today, you will explore the Burren region. The Burren, part of which forms the 100 square km Burren National Park, is a unique place. It is a Karst limestone region of approximately 300 sq. km, which lies in the North West corner of Co Clare.
It is composed of limestone pavements, which have been eroded to a distinctive pattern. This pavement is criss-crossed by cracks known as grykes in which grow a myriad of wild flora and under which are huge caves and rivers which suddenly flood when it rains.
The Burren contains dozens of megalithic tombs and Celtic crosses as well as a ruined Cistercian Abbey dating back to the 12th century. You will discover small villages abandoned during the famine period and green roads on which you can walk for miles without ever seeing a car.
The flora on the Burren is a mixture Arctic and Mediterranean and rare flowers such as gentian, orchids and bloody cranesbill are the rule rather than the exception. The Burren is truly an exceptional part of Ireland.
Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara.
To the south of the cliffs is Hag’s Head and was once the site of a castle. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O’ Brien’s Tower. Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru (he who defeated the Vikings in battle), built a Tower at the cliffs in order to enjoy some tea with his lady friends. The Tower is adjacent to the sea stack, Breanan Mór, which stands over 70 metres above the foaming waves and is home to some of the Burren’s wildlife.
Continue to Killarney via Killimer - Tarbert Car Ferry (20 minute crossing, every half hour) & The Conor Pass.
The Dingle Peninsula, located in West Kerry, is one of Ireland’s most captivating regions—renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, ancient history, and deeply rooted Gaelic culture. As the northernmost of the Kerry peninsulas, it boasts a rugged charm and a sense of timelessness that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler who visits.
One of the defining features of the Dingle Peninsula is its cultural heritage. The area is part of Ireland’s Gaeltacht, where the Irish language is still spoken daily, and traditional music, crafts, and customs are preserved and celebrated. This living link to Ireland's past gives the region a unique authenticity and vibrancy.
At the heart of the peninsula lies Dingle Town (An Daingean)—a bustling fishing village that manages to feel both lively and intimate. With its narrow streets, colorful shopfronts, and working harbor, Dingle is the ideal place to explore local life. The town offers a wealth of artisan shops, seafood restaurants, and traditional pubs, where live music fills the air most evenings.
It's not just a tourist destination—Dingle is a community, and its charm lies in its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The road around the peninsula, especially the section that forms the famous Slea Head Drive, is considered one of the most spectacular coastal routes in Europe. As you navigate its winding paths, the landscape reveals an ever-changing canvas of ocean views, mountains, and historic ruins.
Heading west out of Dingle, the Slea Head Drive takes you into the most visually stunning and historically rich part of the peninsula. The route climbs through the Slieve Mish Mountains before hugging the coastline in a jaw-dropping display of cliffs, bays, and green pastures framed by the wild Atlantic Ocean.
One of the highlights of this route is the prehistoric Dunbeg Fort, dramatically perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic. Dating back to around the 8th or 9th century BC, the fort features multiple stone defensive walls, remnants of a house and a beehive hut, and even an underground passage. Its position and construction showcase the ingenuity and resilience of Ireland’s early inhabitants.
Dotted along the same route are the famous beehive huts, or clocháin—circular dry-stone buildings used by early Christian monks. These ancient structures were built without mortar and are marvels of engineering that have withstood centuries of Atlantic weather. Their beehive-like shape gave them their name and continues to captivate archaeologists and visitors alike.
Nestled on the scenic Dingle Peninsula in the heart of the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region), Ballyferriter (Baile an Fheirtéaraigh) is a charming and culturally rich village that offers a deep connection to traditional Irish life. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and overlooking Smerwick Harbour, Ballyferriter is a peaceful base for exploring the area's ancient history, creative arts, and breathtaking coastline.
The village is home to a strong Gaelic identity, where Irish is spoken in daily life, and local traditions, music, and folklore thrive. A visit to Ballyferriter offers not just scenic beauty, but an authentic taste of Ireland’s linguistic and cultural heritage. One of the highlights of the area is a stop at Louie Mulcahy Pottery, just outside the village. Louie Mulcahy is one of Ireland’s most renowned ceramic artists, and his workshop and gallery have become a must-visit destination for lovers of fine craft.
Visitors can browse a beautiful collection of handmade pottery—from delicate porcelain to robust stoneware—each inspired by the natural tones and textures of the Dingle landscape. The studio also offers pottery demonstrations and even the chance to try your hand at the wheel in the “have-a-go” area.
The surrounding region is rich in archaeological sites, with ancient stone forts, Ogham stones, and early Christian ruins scattered throughout the landscape. Nearby beaches and coastal walks offer spectacular views of Mount Brandon, Three Sisters, and the Atlantic Ocean. Ballyferriter and Louie Mulcahy Pottery together reflect the unique spirit of West Kerry—where creativity, tradition, and nature meet in perfect harmony.
Your last essential stop is Inch Beach, a long and dramatic stretch of golden sand extending over 3 miles into Dingle Bay. Framed by mountains and battered by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, this beach is a favorite among surfers, sea anglers, and nature lovers. The sheer scale and wild openness of Inch Beach make it feel otherworldly, especially under changing skies or at sunset.
Inch Beach is also steeped in cinematic history. It famously appeared in classic films such as Ryan’s Daughter and Playboy of the Western World, and to this day, its hauntingly beautiful backdrop continues to inspire filmmakers and photographers alike. Whether you're there for a brisk seaside walk, a coffee from the surf café, or just to breathe in the Atlantic air, Inch Beach leaves a lasting impression.
The Ring of Kerry is considered one of the finest drives in the world. From rugged cliffs to golden beaches, small villages and pastures green to peat bogs and picturesque mountain ranges. This peninsula illustrates all that is beautiful, wonderful and wild in our beloved motherland.
The variety of attractions makes this one of the most diverse and interesting drives that one is likely to experience in their travel adventures. From ancient stone forts to landscapes carved out of rock by the Ice Age, from sparkling lakes to winding mountain passes our day trip shall be a highlight and shall ensure lasting memories of the beautiful Kingdom of Kerry.
Depart Killarney For Killorglin
Pass through Killorglin, the home of the ancient Celtic festival Puck Fair. Dating back to 1613., this is one of the oldest festivals in the world where a goat is crowned king of the village and placed on a pedestal for 3 day in August each year. People come from far and wide to pay homage to the king goat and enjoy the festivities of street stalls, music, and much more. This section of the tour takes you along part of the famous "Ring of Kerry" driving route.
Dingle Bay
We enjoy a scenic drive along some parts of the famous Dingle Peninsula. We stop for photos en route with amazing views of Dingle Bay, Skellig rocks, Inch beach. This ideal setting is perfect for panoramic photographs admits the Wild Atlantic Way.
Waterville
Picturesque little village overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay with its own beautiful beach, famed by the Skellig Rocks with their early Christian monastery. A regular visitor, Charlie Chaplin loved Waterville and hence the statue in his honor, unveiled in 1998. It is also home to one of Ireland's finest golf clubs and most famed footballer Mick O'Dwyer and Mick O'Connell.
Sneem
We take a stop in the charming village of Sneem. This is one of Ireland's most colorful and charming villages. With two squares and a beautiful bridge in the middle of the village, this is where the River Sneem meets the currents of Kenmare Bay. It was also the regular holiday choice or Charles de Gaulle.
Killarney National Park
One of the most beautiful and admired national parks in the world, Killarney National Park was the first of its kind established in Ireland in 1932. With magnificent views of the Lakes of Killarney and Black Valley, the park gives you an opportunity to enjoy a walk in this amazing landscape and spend time strolling along the lakes.
Torc Waterfall
Torc Waterfall is a 18m high waterfall which cascades through the wooded Friers Glenn. We take a stop at this magnificent natural site of beauty. Enjoy a short walk , and maybe even see the red deer which are well known inhabitants of the Killarney national park . The waterfall has a public hiking path that stretches to the top of Torc Mountain.
OPTIONAL - Visit Muckross House (EUR 10.00 P.P)
Muckross House & Gardens
Visit Muckross House and Gardens, one of Ireland’s most beautiful and historic estates, located in the heart of Killarney National Park. Explore the magnificent 19th-century Victorian mansion, once home to the Herbert family, and admire its elegant rooms, fascinating history, and spectacular views.
Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, including the renowned rock garden and traditional walled garden, while enjoying the surrounding mountains, lakes, and lush scenery of Killarney. Muckross House offers a wonderful blend of Irish history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Return To Your Killarney Hotel
After a glorious day on the Ring of Kerry, we will return you to your hotel in Killarney.
Tucked between the towering MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain Range in County Kerry, the Gap of Dunloe is one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. This narrow mountain pass stretches for about 11 kilometers, carving a dramatic path through steep glacial valleys, rugged rock formations, and serene loughs (lakes).
It’s a journey as much through nature as through time—untouched, timeless, and strikingly Irish. Formed during the last Ice Age, the Gap of Dunloe was shaped by retreating glaciers, leaving behind a landscape of raw beauty. Along the route lie five small lakes—Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough—connected by the River Loe.
OPTIONAL - Jaunting Car & Boat Ride throught the Lakes Of Killarney (EUR 85.00 P.P)
Each body of water adds to the mystical atmosphere, often shrouded in morning mist or glowing under late-afternoon sun. Traditionally, visitors explore the Gap by walking, cycling, or riding in a horse-drawn cart known as a "jaunting car." Motor traffic is discouraged to preserve the tranquility of the pass. Along the way, sights such as the Wishing Bridge—where local legend says wishes made here come true—add a layer of folklore to the experience.
The Gap of Dunloe is more than just a geological wonder; it’s a place where Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage come together, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and take in one of the country’s most photogenic and peaceful landscapes.
Beyond the Gap of Dunloe lies the Black Valley, a secluded and breathtakingly remote area that feels worlds away from modern life. Known for its isolation, the Black Valley was one of the last places in Ireland to receive electricity and telephone lines, finally connected in the 1970s.
This remoteness is what gives the valley its unique character—wild, unspoiled, and deeply tranquil. The valley is surrounded by the same dramatic mountains that shape the Gap of Dunloe, and its landscape is defined by rolling boglands, forested glens, mirror-like lakes, and narrow country lanes. Sheep wander freely, streams gurgle beside mossy stone walls, and every bend in the road reveals a new postcard-worthy scene.
It’s a haven for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking solitude in nature. Popular among cyclists and walkers on the Kerry Way, the Black Valley offers a true wilderness experience. It forms part of the famous Ring of Kerry but remains less crowded than other stops, making it a perfect detour for those who want to experience the raw, untamed side of Ireland.
The valley’s name, some say, comes from the deep shadows cast by the surrounding mountains or perhaps from the darkness of its past—there are tales of hardship and isolation, especially during harsh winters. Yet today, the Black Valley offers visitors a rare kind of peace, where silence is broken only by the sound of birdsong, rushing water, and the occasional bleat of a distant sheep.
To the east of the Gap of Dunloe and Black Valley lies one of Ireland’s crown jewels: The Lakes of Killarney. Set within Killarney National Park, these three lakes—Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake—are surrounded by ancient woodlands, castle ruins, and mist-draped mountains.
Together, they form one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse areas in the country. Lough Leane, the largest of the three, borders the town of Killarney and is home to Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house steeped in legend and history. From here, visitors can take boat tours or rent kayaks to explore the tranquil waters. The lake is dotted with small islands, including Innisfallen, home to the ruins of a 6th-century monastery.
Further south, Muckross Lake lies near Muckross House and Gardens, a beautifully preserved 19th-century estate offering insight into Ireland’s aristocratic past. Surrounding the lake are oak woods and scenic walking trails that allow for leisurely exploration of the park’s flora and fauna. At the highest elevation lies Upper Lake, often considered the most picturesque.
This lake is nestled in a more remote, rugged area of the park, and is often reached via the “Gap of Dunloe Boat Tour”—a traditional and thrilling way to experience the area, passing under old stone bridges and along quiet, tree-lined shores. The Lakes of Killarney are not just beautiful; they are alive with biodiversity.
Red deer, native to Ireland, roam freely, and the park is a haven for birdlife, rare plants, and pristine freshwater ecosystems. Together, the Gap of Dunloe, the Black Valley, and the Lakes of Killarney form a connected landscape that is both a natural wonder and a cultural treasure—one that invites awe, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the timeless spirit of Ireland’s southwest.
OPTIONAL - Visit The Rock Of Cashel (EUR 10.00 P.P)
The highlight of the drive is a visit to the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland's most iconic historic landmarks. Perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop, this remarkable medieval site features a round tower, a Gothic cathedral, a Romanesque chapel, and ancient Celtic crosses.
Once the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster, the Rock of Cashel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and provides a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's rich history and heritage.
After exploring the Rock of Cashel, the journey continues through the heart of Ireland toward Dublin. As the landscape gradually changes from rural countryside to the bustling capital, you'll arrive at your Dublin hotel with time to settle in and begin discovering the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Along the way, you'll experience the contrast between Ireland's tranquil inland scenery and its lively urban center, making this travel day an enjoyable blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Dublin is a vibrant capital where centuries of history blend seamlessly with a lively modern culture. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as Trinity College, where the famous Book of Kells and the magnificent Long Room library attract visitors from around the world.
Other highlights include Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the elegant Georgian streets lined with colorful doors. Along the banks of the River Liffey, visitors can explore museums, galleries, and historic sites that tell the story of Ireland's rich heritage and literary legacy.
Beyond its historic attractions, Dublin is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, traditional pubs, and thriving food and entertainment scene. The lively Temple Bar district offers live Irish music, street performers, and bustling cafés, while the Guinness Storehouse provides an interactive journey through the history of Ireland's most famous stout, ending with panoramic views of the city.
Whether strolling through the expansive Phoenix Park, shopping along Grafton Street, or enjoying the warmth of Irish hospitality, Dublin offers an unforgettable mix of culture, history, and contemporary charm.
After a final full Irish Breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport for your Flight home.
After a final full Irish Breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport for your Flight home.