Land of Saints & Scholars - 7 day tour

Dublin - Galway. Welcome to Ireland! Departing Dublin, we drive west through the rural landscapes of County Kildare and Offaly, passing farmland and peat bogs. Our first stop is Kilbeggan Distillery, we can take a moment to unwind with a taste of their renowned whiskey.

After a tasty tipple (or two!) we journey onwards to the stunning ruins of Clonmacnoise Abbey, on the banks of the River Shannon. This holy site boasts an impressive collection of ancient stone crosses, churches, and remarkable round towers, giving you an insightful glimpse into Ireland's rich spiritual history.

There is free time for you to tuck into a traditional pub lunch in one of the pretty nearby villages before we head to our accommodation for the evening in Galway. Galway boasts plenty of excellent restaurants and bars, as well as quaint seafront views.

Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.

Accommodation: Ashgrove, Desota House B&B or similar
Overnight: Galway

Galway - Kilfenora - Killarney. Just off the coast of Galway City lies the Burren, one of Ireland's iconic landmarks. As one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland, it boasts broad limestone pavements and rare flora. After exploring the area, we head to Kilfenora, known as the "town of the crosses". We can see the ancient cathedral and enjoy lunch independently in the area.

Our next stop is the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. There is time for us to hike the dramatic cliff trails here and see seabirds soaring through the clear air. The nearby environmental exhibition provides insights into the unique ecosystem.

We then drive through County Clare, taking in the famous golf course before arriving at picturesque Lahinch Beach. From here we board a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney, a lively town and home for the next three nights. Killarney is known for its traditional pubs and live music - the perfect place for a Guinness or two!

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Overnight: Killarney  |  Breakfast

Killarney - Dingle Peninsula - Killarney. Heading out for a day's activities from Killarney, we travel to the magnificent Dingle Peninsula. We stop first at Inch Beach, where we can stroll along the extensive sands.

Passing through Dingle town, our next stop is Slea Head. Here we admire the ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings amidst breathtaking views of the nearby Blasket Islands. If the weather is favourable, we will have the opportunity to explore the beaches and cliff tops to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

We then return to Dingle to spend a few hours at leisure. We recommend you savour some of the town's famous seafood! In the early evening, we make our way back to Killarney.

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Overnight: Killarney  |  Breakfast

Killarney - Carrauntoohil - Portmagee - Waterville - Derrynane House - Killarney. Today we take in the best of South West Ireland's wild side, exploring the popular Ring of Kerry route. The day starts with a visit to Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain. Snap some photos before we head along the picturesque coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen.

There is free time for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee, and there is also the opportunity for travellers to head to Valentia Island for the Skellig Experience. This waterfront centre showcases the history of the ancient community of monks who made the rocky islands their home.

Our tour continues to Waterville, where we make a short stop at Charlie Chaplin's "home away from home" before enjoying stunning views at the top of Coonmakista pass. We then visit Derrynane House, home to the O'Connell family. Daniel O’Connell was known as the "The Liberator of Ireland". This Irish nationalist led Ireland's Roman Catholic majority in the first half of the 19th century.

We make our way back to Killarney, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, from where we can make the short walk to admire Torc Waterfall.

Please note: On some departures of this itinerary, days 3 and 4 are switched. All inclusions and sights visited remain the same.

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Overnight: Killarney  |  Breakfast

Killarney - Blarney Castle - Kinsale. Leaving Killarney, we head east to Blarney Castle. There is ample time to explore the castle grounds and take a leisurely walk through the woods. For the adventurous, there's the opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and gain the renowned gift of eloquence.

Next, we visit the Jameson Whiskey Distillery, where we learn about the origins of the drink, the distillation process and even sample a taste for ourselves. In the afternoon, soak in the stunning coastline while en route to the charming fishing village of Kinsale, where we spend the night.

Please note: After the distillery visit, we change tour guides, and you will have a new guide for the rest of your trip.

Accommodation: Friars Lodge B&B, White House or similar
Overnight: Kinsale  |  Breakfast

Kinsale - Cobh - Waterford - Kilkenny. In the morning, we depart Kinsale and head towards Cobh, a historic port town. It is well known for being the last stop of the Titanic on its maiden voyage, which ended in tragedy.

Continuing, we travel along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO-listed Geopark renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich histories. We stop in Waterford, the oldest city in Ireland, which was built by the Vikings during the 9th century. You can visit the Waterford Crystal factory to appreciate the exceptional craftsmanship, explore the fascinating museums or stroll around the Viking Triangle. Later in the day, we drive to Kilkenny, a bustling town with a thriving restaurant and pub scene. Spend the evening here to experience the warmth and hospitality that earned it the title of Ireland's friendliest city.

Accommodation: Bregah House, Bridge View B&B or similar
Overnight: Kilkenny  |  Breakfast