After leaving Dublin, you begin your journey by traveling to Glendalough in the Wicklow mountains, a central location in Ireland’s Ancient East. Here, you tour one of the country’s most significant monastic sites, learning about Ireland’s early history and folklore. You see St. Kevin’s Round Tower, which dates back to the 6th century, and explore the surrounding historical grounds.

Once you have finished walking through Glendalough, you continue to Brooklodge & Macreddin Village, also set in the Wicklow mountains. At this stop, you experience a culinary highlight at the Food Village, where you can sample dishes made with wild, organic, and locally sourced ingredients in a scenic rural setting.

After your meal, you travel south to the Rock of Cashel. Here, you have time to take photos of the medieval cathedral and castle, a well-known Irish landmark with dramatic architecture and historic significance.

Later in the day, you arrive in Cork, where you spend the evening. You have the opportunity to explore the city and compare its atmosphere to Dublin’s.

Glendalough is renowned for its early medieval monastic settlement, which played a central role in Ireland’s religious history.

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

You start your day in Cork with a visit to Blarney Castle and Gardens. Here, you have the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone, a tradition said to grant eloquence, and spend time exploring the expansive gardens surrounding the historic castle.

After leaving Cork, you drive into County Kerry. Your midday stop is in Kenmare, a picturesque town located between the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, where you can enjoy lunch and take in the old-world charm of the area.

Continuing your journey, you travel to Killarney, where you visit scenic spots including Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall, and Ladies View. You then enter Killarney National Park. During your time in the park, you have the option to take a horse and carriage ride or, if you prefer, cycle around the 100 km estate, viewing landmarks such as Muckross House and Ross Castle.

The evening is free for you to explore Killarney’s shops, pubs, and restaurants at your own pace.

Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago, is one of Ireland’s most visited historic sites and is famed for its legendary stone.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

Begin your day early as you set out on the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s most iconic scenic drive. You travel at your own pace, taking time to explore sites and viewpoints along the route, which showcases 10,000 years of Irish history and dramatic landscapes. Along the way, you receive tips for off-the-beaten-track stops and may encounter local traditions, such as meeting a seller of Poitín, a traditional Irish spirit.

You spend the day stopping at notable locations throughout the Ring of Kerry, allowing you to fully experience the natural beauty and historical significance of this region.

In the afternoon, you arrive in the harbor town of Dingle, known for its rich folklore and as the home of Fungie the Dolphin, a local legend.

Later, you visit the Dingle Whiskey Distillery. Here, you sample award-winning whiskey and gin and learn about the history of whiskey production both in Ireland and globally.

The evening is yours to enjoy Dingle’s unique atmosphere. You can visit its well-known pubs and restaurants, including the option to relax in Foxy John’s, a combination hardware store and pub, where you can converse with locals.

The Ring of Kerry is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a route famous for its rugged coastlines and deep cultural heritage.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

You depart from the southwest and head north toward the Cliffs of Moher. Your route takes you over the scenic Conor Pass, offering panoramic views, before you cross by ferry from Kerry to County Clare.

Upon arrival at the Cliffs of Moher, you explore this renowned natural landmark on foot. You experience the dramatic cliffs and the powerful Atlantic waves below, taking in one of Ireland’s most impressive natural features.

After your visit to the cliffs, you continue to Doolin, a fishing village recognized as the home of traditional Irish music. Here, you have the evening to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.

The Cliffs of Moher rise up to 702 feet above the Atlantic and have been featured in numerous films and legends.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

This morning, you drive a short distance to Bunratty Castle, where you take part in a folk and heritage tour that introduces you to the traditions and daily life of historic Ireland.

After departing County Clare, you travel to Galway, a city known for its vibrant and artistic culture. Galway was named European Capital of Culture in 2020 and is celebrated for its lively streets filled with performers and a welcoming atmosphere.

During your time in Galway, you join a gourmet historical tour, sampling local foods while learning about the city’s culinary and cultural history.

You stay overnight close to Galway’s city center, allowing easy access to its bustling nightlife and attractions.

Bunratty Castle, originally built in the 15th century, is one of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval fortresses and features an adjoining folk park.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

You travel from Galway into the heart of Connemara, where your main stop is Kylemore Abbey. Here, you explore the abbey itself as well as the Victorian walled garden, all set on a 1,000-acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and surrounded by the rugged scenery of Connemara National Park.

After your visit, you have the option to stop in Clifden for tea and cake or enjoy a seafood lunch, experiencing local flavors in a small town setting.

For your overnight stay, there is an option to upgrade to Ballinahinch Castle, allowing you to experience a night in a historic castle environment.

Connemara is renowned for its wild, unspoiled landscapes and is a stronghold of Irish language and traditions.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: Local guest house

This morning, you set out for Westport, where you can choose to hike up Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain, known for its connection to St. Patrick. At the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views over Clew Bay. If hiking does not appeal, you have the option to cycle along the Greenway route to Achill Island or take a relaxed walking tour of Westport Town.

Later in the day, you travel to Ashford Castle Hotel. Here, you have time to explore the castle’s estate and can participate in a variety of on-site activities, including falconry, boat trips, archery, horse riding, or visiting the award-winning spa.

You spend the night at The Lodge at Ashford or at a guesthouse in Cong village, a location known for being the filming site of "The Quiet Man" starring John Wayne.

Croagh Patrick has been a pilgrimage site for over 1,500 years, attracting thousands of visitors annually on Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Luxury Accommodation: The Lodge at Ashford Castle

Today, you make your way back to Dublin at your own pace. Along the route, you stop at Clonmacnoise, a 6th-century monastery situated on the banks of the Shannon River. Here, you see the ancient ruins and learn about its role as a center of learning, where scholars produced notable Celtic art and illuminated manuscripts over a span of 600 years.

If you arrive in Dublin with extra time before your departure, you receive recommendations for additional sights and activities in the capital and its surroundings.

Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites and was a significant hub for religion, learning, and craftsmanship during the medieval period.

Meals: Breakfast