The Ireland High Life Self-Drive Tour

Switch on your Paddy the Pocket Pilot App – our virtual tour-guide, and off you go! Your first stop after leaving the bustling capital behind is Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains, perched centrally in Ireland’s Ancient East. You will be taken on a tour of one of the most important monastic sites, learn about Ireland’s history, folklore and be impressed by the St. Kevin’s Round Tower, built in the 6th century. After your introduction to Irish history, travel south to the Rock of Cashel. Take some jealousy inducing photos at this famous Irish medieval landmark. This afternoon and evening, you will make yourself at home at the luxurious Hayfield Manor in Cork City. You will have an endless choice of places to eat and be entertained this evening, or simply relax and enjoy the lavish surroundings of the manor house.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a trip to Blarney Castle and Gardens. You simply MUST kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the gift of the gab (the ability to tell a good yarn). Take the time to roam the beautiful gardens. Enjoy lunch in Kenmare, nestled perfectly between the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula. Onwards to Killarney. Visit some spectacular views at Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall and Ladies View before exploring Killarney National Park. This afternoon you will jaunt – horse and carriage. If you are feeling energetic you can cycle this 100 km stunning estate taking in Muckross House and Ross Castle. The evening is yours to spend wandering around the wonderful shops, pubs and eateries in Killarney – The Capital of Kerry! You will stay at the magnificent four-star Lake Hotel, where you will receive a traditional Irish welcome with stunning surroundings.

Rise and shine early and start your ultimate road trip along Ireland’s most famous ring road – The Ring of Kerry. Take your time and take yourself on a journey through 10,000 years of Irish history. This drive will take your breath away. We will give you tips on how to get off the beaten track and direct you to all the hidden gems along the route. You might even bump into our friend selling Poitín (Irish Moonshine) but don’t tell anyone you’ve met him! This evening you will drive into the famous harbor town of Dingle, home to one of our most famous Irish legends – Fungie the Dolphin. Finish off a perfect day at the Dingle Whiskey Distillery. There you will sample their award-winning whiskey and gin and get an education on the history of whiskey production around the world. This evening is yours to absorb the atmosphere in Dingle’s famous quirky pubs and fantastic restaurants. Why not sit in Foxy John’s hardware store, order yourself a drink and strike up a conversation with a colourful local! Stay at the award-winning Heaton’s Guesthouse and get excited about their wonderful breakfast feast tomorrow morning.

Leave the South West behind and take yourself northwards to the Cliffs of Moher. Your cliffs experience will take you by foot across its stunning natural features, with the powerful Atlantic Ocean waves crashing below. The cliffs are one of the most spectacular natural features in Ireland and are sure to leave you lost for words. We will send you on a wonderful route off the beaten track. After your invigorating cliffs experience, it is time to unwind, live like a King and Queen in the celebrated Dromoland 5-star Castle.

This morning, take your time to enjoy the activities and estate at Dromoland or take a short drive to Bunratty Castle for a folk and heritage tour. Your departure from county Clare is the start of your bustling, Bohemian Galway adventure. Galway, voted European Capital of Culture 2020 and will not disappoint. Expect an electric atmosphere with entertaining street performers and plenty of “craic” (fun) in this much celebrated town. Our friends in Galway will take you on a gourmet historical tour of the city. Tonight you will be staying a stone’s throw away from the lively hotspots at the historical Hardiman Hotel on Eyre Square.

Your next stop on tour is Kylemore Abbey in the heart of Connemara. The rugged landscape of Connemara come hail, rain or shine is guaranteed to take your breath away. Spend time roaming the abbey and the Victorian walled garden on this 1000-acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and the majestic Connemara National Park. We recommend a quick trip for tea and cake in Clifden town or even a delicious seafood lunch. Ballynahinch Castle awaits you. Let them serve up a sumptuous afternoon tea in one of their luxurious rooms. Once you park up at this hidden gem, you will not want to leave.

This morning, you will challenge yourself to a hike up Ireland’s holiest mountain – Croagh Patrick. It was made famous by St. Patrick himself. At the top you will be treated to panoramic views of Clew Bay. If hiking is not your thing, why not grab a bike and cycle along the Greenway route to Achill Island or have a relaxed walking tour of Westport Town. Your last night of your trip will be your finest. Presidents, celebrities, sports heroes throughout history have been drawn to the fabulous Ashford Castle Hotel. This really is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Ireland, teeming with rich history and heritage. What a way to finish off your whirlwind tour of Ireland. There are never-ending activities to enjoy on the estate like falconry, boat trips, archery, horse-riding or even their award-winning Spa!

All good things must come to an end. Journey back to Dublin’s fair city at your leisure today with a stop at the 6th century monastery Clonmacnoise. If you have a little time left in Dublin before you fly home, we will arm you with fantastic things to see and do in the Capital city and surroundings. Let Paddy the Pocket Pilot guide you back to Dublin and make some reservations for you.