☘️February - December☘️

Arrive/Depart: Dublin Airport

GROUP RATES AVAILABLE - PLEASE CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US 

Highlights/Services & Notes 

Trinity College

Guinness Storehouse

Old Jameson Distillery

Rock of Cashel

Bantry House & Gardens

Star Outdoors – Kenmare Bay Cruise & Salmon Factory Tour

Foynes Flying Boat Museum

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre

Kylemore Abbey

Strokestown Park & Famine Museum

Harbour Queen Ferry on day 4 to Garnish Island

Services

10 nights’ accommodation at good standard 3/4* hotels, all rooms with private bath or shower

Full Irish Breakfast at hotel each day, day 2 – 11 inclusive

Lunch at Sammy’s Restaurant on day 5 (2 courses, includes tea /coffee)

Lunch at Paudi O’Se’s on day 6 (2 courses, includes tea /coffee)

Lunch at Durty Nellies on day 7 (2 courses, includes tea /coffee)

Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle

Musical Pub Crawl in Dublin on night 2

Irish Coffee at Foynes Flying Boat Museum on day 7

Modern Motor-coach with driver/guide x 11 full days (9.00am -5.30pm daily)

Step on English speaking guide x 1 half days on day 1 for Panoramic Tour of Dublin City

1 piece of porterage per person in and out of each hotel

Service charges and taxes at existing rates

Hotels or Similar

4* The Gresham Hotel, Dublin - 3 Nights

4* The Trident Hotel, Kinsale - 1 Night

3* Kenmare Bay Hotel, Kenmare - 1 Night

4* Benners Hotel, Dingle - 2 Nights

4* Old Ground Hotel - Ennis - 1 Night

4* Meyrick Hotel, Galway - 1 Night

4* Westport Plaza Hotel - 1 Night

Notes

All services and prices will be subject to availability at time of definite booking.

All prices quoted for options apply only where options are pre-booked before group's arrival. Prices apply with minimum 12 participants per option.

☘️ The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500-kilometer (1,550-mile) driving route along the Atlantic coast of Ireland. 

☘️ It is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding its way through counties Kerry, Cork, Clare, Limerick, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal, and Derry. 

SELF DRIVE TOUR OPTION & FAMILY GROUP RATES AVAILABLE - PLEASE CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US

Welcome To Ireland

Arrive at Dublin Airport and meet our driver/guide and transfer into the City for sightseeing. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Dublin City, discovering the north and south side of the River Liffey.

This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe.

The south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde’s House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops.

Not so far from St. Stephen’s Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College, where the famous Book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library. The university is facing the medieval district where Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found.

Visit Trinity College 

TrinityCollege was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st on grounds confiscated from an Augustinian priory and is the oldest University in Ireland. The Campanile, erected in 1852, was built on what is believed to be the centre of the monastery. Built to further the education of the ruling Anglo-Irish families, restrictions were imposed to prevent Catholic from attending courses. These restrictions were not fully lifted until the 1970’s. Trinity however admitted women in 1902, earlier than most British universities.

Most of the main buildings off the main square were built during the Georgian period, some of which replaced older buildings. Within its walls, you will be able to admire Parliament Square and its 18th Century edifices. Trinity College has had many famous students such as Jonathan Swift and Samuel Beckett who later became a lecturer in French at the university. The Inter-denominational Church is very much worth a visit, should it be open during our visit. 

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dublin.

The Guinness Storehouse

This morning we visit the world famous Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness.

Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion.

The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once the tour has finished our group is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy their pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse.

Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, “Five” at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce. Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford.

This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home. Visit to Old Jameson Distillery.

The Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield Village is located in the heart of Old Dublin. This old barley storehouse, once the centre of Distilling in Dublin, was renovated in 1998 and converted into a museum where all the secrets of Irish whiskey’s distillation will be revealed. An audio-visual show will introduce the history of this spirit and it is followed by a guided visit which will take our group through the various stages of whiskey distilling from grain intake to malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, maturation and finally bottling.

The visit culminates in the Jameson bar with an opportunity for all to taste the signature Jameson drink. During the visit a number of volunteers are selected to take part in a tasting session to compare a Jameson whiskey with a Scottish Whisky and American bourbon. Participants will receive a Diploma for their achievement.

This afternoon we will enjoy the Musical Pub Crawl A great way to experience the Dublin pub scene and the rich heritage of Irish music is to venture on the Musical Pub-Crawl. The tour will be led by two professional musicians who will perform tunes and songs, while telling the story of Irish Music. The tours normally start in St John Gogarty’s Pub in Temple Bar this can be changed to suit our groups requirements. Lasting 2 hours approximately the group will have plenty of time to enjoy the music while enjoying a drink (in each pub of course!). This evening join a session in Temple Bar.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dublin

The Rock Of Cashel

This morning depart Dublin for Cork via Tipperary Visit to Rock of Cashel. Possibly the most photographed site in Ireland, the Rock of Cashel towers over the town of Cashel from its perch on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster. St. Patrick visited the rock in 450, while Brian Boru was crowned the first high King of Ireland here in the tenth century.

Granted to the church in the twelfth century, by the O'Brien clan, today the impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque chapel and high crosses. The Vicars Choral has been recently restored and its basement houses a small museum of artefacts found on the site.

One of the leading visitor attractions in Ireland, in 2011 it was visited by Queen Elizabeth II on her historic first visit to the Republic of Ireland. A guided tour is strongly recommended. Continue onto to Kinsale in Co. Cork, Check into our hotel. Spend an evening enjoying music in The Spaniard Inn.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a picturesque historic port town located at the mouth of the River Bandon in County Cork, known for its colorful buildings, narrow winding streets, and rich maritime history. It’s one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations, especially loved for its vibrant culture, gourmet food scene, and stunning coastal scenery.

Highlights & Attractions

Charles Fort: A star-shaped 17th-century fort built to protect the harbor. Offers stunning views and insight into Kinsale's military past.

James Fort: Located on the opposite side of the harbor from Charles Fort, this 1607 structure predates Charles Fort and provides a fascinating contrast.

Kinsale Harbour: A beautiful spot for sailing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view of boats bobbing on the water.

Desmond Castle: A tower house built around 1500, which has served various purposes—including as a customs house, prison, and now a wine museum.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Kinsale

Bantry House

This morning we depart Kinsale for Kerry via Skibereen & Bantry in West Cork Visit to Bantry House & Gardens (please note this is only open April – October). Bantry House is the ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry. The title lapsed in 1891 but the House is still owned and lived in by the direct descendant of the 1st Earl of Bantry, Egerton Shelswell-White and his family.

It has been open to the public since 1946. The House has an important collection of art treasures mainly collected by the 2nd Earl of Bantry on his Grand Tour.

The treasures include a unique collection of French and Flemish tapestries, furniture, and carpets and objects of art. The Garden is laid out in the Italian style over seven terraces, with the house sitting on the third terrace.

A Parterre was created facing south surrounding a wisteria circle which again surrounds a fountain. From there rise the famous Hundred Steps, a monumental staircase built of local stone, set amidst azaleas and rhododendron.

From the top garden at the top of the stairs, stunning views over Bantry Bay await the visitor. Bantry House hosts a number of events including classical and traditional music festivals, food festivals, outdoor theatre, and is a popular location for filming. A small cafe is open in the house during the season.

Garnish Island

Continue along the Beara Pensinsula to Glengarriff and take a short ferry ride to Garnish Island. Visit to Garnish Island (Ferry & Garnish Island only running from April – October). The Harbour Queen Ferries provides a regular service to the Gardens of Ilnacullin on Garnish Island. Ferries depart from Glengarriff Pier every 30 minutes during the season (April 1 – October 31).

The ferries are purpose built enclosed waterbuses which will whisk you to the island in safety and comfort. Garinish is a unique Island that plays host to a multitude of plant variations, and the blanket of Summer colouring which covers the Island creates a rainbow of colour.

The Island has a wonderful history and its unusual micro climate allows a range of exotic subtropical plant species to flourish. There are a number of walks and interesting buildings on the Island.

On route to the Island you will enjoy the magnificent views of the bay and also pass Seal Island with its colony of harbour seals. The seals are very photogenic and are happy to pose for photos! Continue on to Kenmare in County Kerry for an evening of entertainment. 

Kenmare

Kenmare (Irish: An Neidín, meaning “the little nest”) is a picturesque and peaceful heritage town located at the head of Kenmare Bay, where the Ring of Kerry meets the Ring of Beara. Nestled between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Caha Mountains, Kenmare is a haven of natural beauty, rich history, and warm Irish hospitality.

Character & Atmosphere

Kenmare is known for its tidy streets lined with brightly painted buildings, artisan shops, cozy cafés, and gourmet restaurants. It has a welcoming, small-town charm and is especially loved by those seeking a quieter, more authentic Irish experience while still enjoying easy access to major scenic routes.

Key Attractions & Activities

Kenmare Heritage Centre: Offers insight into the town’s history, including the impact of the famine, lace-making, and local legends.

Stone Circle (Druid's Circle) 

A mystical Bronze Age stone circle located within walking distance of town, believed to have been used for rituals over 3,000 years ago.

Holy Cross Church

A beautiful neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century with stunning stained glass windows.

Food & Drink

Kenmare has earned a strong culinary reputation, with many award-winning restaurants emphasizing local, organic, and seafood-based cuisine. You’ll find excellent fine dining options as well as traditional pubs serving hearty Irish fare.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Kenmare

The Star Outdoors

This morning we will explore the scenic area of Kenmare. Visit to Star Outdoors for the Kenmare Bay Experience Cruise on Kenmare Bay - See seals, castles and get history of salmon from hatching on Kenmare River to Ocean & back. (Duration approx. 45 minutes) Salmon Smokery Tour – Demonstration & including tasting (Duration max 30 minutes).

Lunch - Buffet of local Kenmare Bay fish products from mussels to white fish options, local meat products such as corned beef, black pudding etc, local cheeses, honey, brown bread. Alcoholic and soft drinks, Tea / Coffee can be added at a supplement per person. (Duration 1 hour) Total time for full experience can be from 2 to 2.5 hours. 

Moll's Gap and Ladies View

Depart Kenmare for Dingle Peninsula via Ring of Kerry Enjoy a short stop at two of the Ring of Kerry’s most spectacular beauty spots Molls Gap and Ladies’ View- Molls’ Gap is a spectacular photographic viewing point on the famous Ring of Kerry Tour. The visitor is presented with a magnificent view of Death Valley. 

Close by is the famous Ladies View viewing point with gives a different perspective of this magnificent countryside, with the 3 Lakes of Killarney all surrounded by the Kerry Mountains.

Ladies View received its name from Queen Victoria, who was so impressed with the view that she insisted that her ladies-in-waiting should also visit here.

Inch Beach

Continue onto Dingle Peninsula for lunch at Sammy’s Restaurant on Inch Beach - a long beach bordered by dunes and made famous by David Lean’s movie “Ryan’s daughter,” admire the Iveragh Peninsula and Rossbeigh Beach. 

Dingle Peninsula

This afternoon we will explore the Dingle Peninsula Some of the finest coastal scenery to be seen in Ireland can be found in West Kerry, on the Dingle Peninsula, the most northern of the Kerry Peninsulas.

This peninsula is famous for its Celtic, pre-Christian monuments and Christian churches. It is also a ‘Gaeltacht' (Irish speaking) area, where the Irish language and traditional ways of life are preserved. 

Dingle town itself is a thriving fishing town and offers plenty of opportunity for shopping or simply savouring the atmosphere of a typical country Irish town with its plentiful pubs, narrow streets and busy harbour. The road around the Peninsula is truly spectacular. It passes through a chain of Mountains, called Slieve Mish.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment in Dingle. 

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dingle

The Dingle Peninsula

Free days coaching to explore the Dingle Peninsula starting with Slea Head- From Dingle, drive around the coast to Slea Head. Here the blue of the marine landscape surrounds the Blaskets Islands, deserted since 1953. In the distance are the two rocky Skellig islands, where the ruins of an early Christian Monastery can be found. The Dingle Peninsula will charm you with its villages painted in bright colours and will bewitch you with the dramatic beauty of its landscapes.

The road between Dunquin and Slea Head is dotted with beehive huts, forts and church sites. Prehistoric Dunbeg Fort is on a cliff top promontory with a sheer drop to the Atlantic and has four outer walls of stone. Inside are the remains of a house and a beehive hut as well as an underground passage.

Beehive huts are circular stone buildings shaped like a beehive which was lived in by the Kerry monks. Lunch at Paudi O’Se’s Continue around the peninsula exploring some of Ireland’s nicest & picturesque local shops, pubs, cafes etc. Return to our hotel in Dingle. 

Free Day in Dingle.

There is so much to do in town! You can take the day leisurely visiting the local shops, restaurants, or make a point of seeing just how many of the towns 52 Pubs you can visit in one day! But, don’t wear yourself out as you will not want to miss the evening craic at the local Sessions!

About Dingle

Sitting on the west coast between the emerald green folds of Slievanea mountain and the flinty-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Dingle is a place that feels both wild and warm-hearted, far-flung and friendly.

It’s spectacular natural beauty is ripe for exploring, but it’s the town’s quiet moments that often stay longest in the memory: chats with locals about the mercurial weather, traditional pubs warmed by open fires and plates of super-fresh seafood served outside in the tang of the sea air.

“The quality of life in Dingle is very good,” says Bec Hoban of Outwest clothing store. “Things are nice and slow, the madness and the rushing you get in big cities isn’t really a thing here! People say hello to you in the street and wish you well.”

Since the 1960s, Dingle has drawn people from all over the world: adventurers, artists, musicians, drop-outs and curious travellers. Some stay and make their homes here. Some leave but feel compelled to return.

But this mix of global influences, Irish language speaking traditions, farmers, fishermen and locals make Dingle feel simultaneously up-to-the-minute and gloriously down-to-earth.

There are hip coffeeshops, local brewhouses, artisan ice cream emporiums and even a surf store, but they meld perfectly with a raft of jolly-coloured houses, old-style hardware store pubs, fishing boats, music shops, knitwear stores and Irish craft galleries.

“Even though Dingle will never lose its history, it puts its own twist on things – it’s innovative,” says Micheál Flannery of The Fish Box, “there’s amazing food and amazing cafés here – it really has it all.”

Connections to the sea

In Dingle itself, there’s lots to keep you occupied for a day or two. Try the Dingle Boat Tours for a quick one-hour tour around Dingle Harbour.

You’ll get to see what the guides describe as “the only Irish-speaking all-girls boarding school in the world”, but you’ll also hear about the history of Dingle itself, as well as tales of the much-missed dolphin, Funghie – a long-time resident of Dingle Harbour.

For a more substantial experience at sea, book in for a Catch and Cook food experience with the Dingle Cookery School, or the fast-paced, uber-exhilarating Dingle Sea Safari.

The town itself is a gorgeous place to wander with its brightly coloured buildings, friendly locals and hilly streets. “One of the best things you can do in Dingle is just grab a coffee in the morning and have a walk around,” says Micheál Flannery.

Lovely little art and craft galleries abound, but make sure to pop into An Díseart, where a set of glorious Harry Clarke stained windows can be viewed for a small donation in the chapel.

The best pubs in the world?

It’s hard to find a bad pub in Dingle. And on a rainy day, there are few things nicer than pulling up a stool beside the fire and waiting for the music to start.

A good place to kick off? Make it Dick Mack’s – it’s got a young, lively crowd and is usually packed to the rafters, but on a quiet day you can really appreciate the beauty of the 19th century front bar with its polished wood and long counter. The brewhouse here also runs brewery tours, with samplings of their latest beer.

Over on Main Street, Foxy John’s is equally popular with a half-pub, half-hardware feel and live music. There’s a definite change of pace at Curran’s pub across the road – which dates back to 1871. Sitting here with the afternoon light spilling onto the flagstones while the locals chat around you is a moment to cherish.

Overnight, B&B in your Dingle Hotel

Foynes - Flying Boat Museum

Today we will depart Kerry towards County Clare. En route to Clare, stop in Limerick for a visit and Irish coffee at Foynes Flying Boat Museum From 1939 to 1945 Foynes was the centre of the aviation world for air traffic between the United States and Europe.

Located 35 km west of Limerick city on the Shannon estuary, the Foynes Museum recalls this era with a comprehensive range of exhibits and graphic illustrations.

The museum features the original Terminal Building including the authentic 1940's cinema; the Radio and Weather Rooms, complete with transmitters, receivers and Morse code equipment. The exhibits feature an introduction to the first transatlantic passenger service from Foynes during the war years and the only full sized replica B314 flying boat.

Irish Coffee was invented in Foynes. Chef Joe Sheridan made the first in 1942 to warm up some damp and miserable passengers. Since then Irish Coffee has become one the most popular welcoming drinks in the world. Continue onto County Clare for Lunch at Durty Nelly’s – One of Ireland's most famous pubs!

This afternoon visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. 

Bunratty Castle is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. Built in 1425 and plundered on many occasions, it was authentically restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings and tapestries capturing the mood and the style of the times.

The castle hosts evening medieval banquets and takes the participants back to the time that the castle entertained its visitors with fine food, wine and song. Within the grounds of Bunratty Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century life is vividly recreated. Set on 26 acres, the impressive park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting.

Meet and chat with the Bean an Ti (Woman of the House) and various street characters including the Policeman and Schoolteacher. Enjoy the tastes, scents, sights and sounds of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and of course the pub! Music in local pub in Ennis. 

Ennis

Ennis (from the Irish Inis, meaning "island") is a lively market town located on the River Fergus in County Clare, in western Ireland. Known for its narrow medieval lanes, strong musical heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, Ennis serves as a cultural and commercial hub for the region.

Ennis and Irish Music

Ennis is often called the traditional music capital of Ireland. The town is famed for its live traditional Irish music sessions, which take place nightly in many local pubs.

Ennis has a perfect blend of history, culture, music, food, and proximity to Ireland’s natural wonders, all in a walkable and welcoming town.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Ennis

The Cliffs Of Moher

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.

Doolin

Continue onto Doolin for lunch and a pub session. Doolin is a charming small seaside village on the north-west coast of County Clare ~ set against the rugged Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the spectacular bare limestone landscape of the Burren. Traditionally a fishing village, Doolin is now renowned world-wide as the traditional music capital of Ireland.

The Burren

This afternoon we 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. Continue onto Galway for an evening of music in a local pub. 

Galway

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.

Galway Cathedral

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).

Shop Street & Eyre Square

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 center 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 center 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 specialty shops, often featuring locally made crafts. Indeed local handcrafts are a feature of the entire region including hand knits, pottery, glass, jewelry 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 center 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 center. 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.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Galway.

Connemara

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.

Kylemore Abbey

Connemara is a real paradise for Nature lovers and those in search of strong emotions. Visit to Kylemore Abbey 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.

This afternoon we will depart Connemara towards Westport in County Mayo, through the coastal town of Clifden Enjoy and evening of Music in Matt Molloy’s pub in Westport! 

Westport

Westport, located in County Mayo on Ireland’s west coast, is a charming Georgian town known for its tree-lined streets, colorful shopfronts, and welcoming atmosphere. 

Nestled at the foot of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, and along the scenic Clew Bay, it’s a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling the Great Western Greenway, and exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. With lively pubs featuring traditional music, excellent local cuisine, and a rich heritage, Westport offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and small-town warmth.

Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Westport.

Strokestown Park & Famine Museum

We will depart Westport for Dublin via County Roscommon. Visit to Strokestown Park & Famine Museum. Strokestown Park was built by Thomas Mahon MP (1701-1782) on lands which had been granted to his grandfather, Nicholas, in the latter half of the 17th century for his support in the British colonial campaign.

It was the family home of the Mahon family until 1979. The house provides a fascinating glimpse into the Anglo-Irish ascendancy. Many rooms are on show including a schoolroom and a child’s bedroom, complete with 19thcentury toys and mirrors. The Famine Museum is located in the original Stable Yards of Strokestown Park House.

It was designed to commemorate the history of The Great Irish Famine of the 1840's and in some way to balance the history of the 'Big House'. Whereas the landlord class had the resources to leave an indelible mark on the landscape, the Irish tenants lived in poverty and nothing of a physical nature has survived to commemorate their lives. 

Continue to Dublin to enjoy an evening of music at a local pub.

Overnight, bed & full Irish Breakfast at our hotel in Dublin

After a final full Irish breakfast we depart for Dublin Airport for our group’s departure flight home.