Wild South: 7-Day Tour of Ireland

Mizen Head Peninsula

Rise and shine for an adventure along the wild and spectacular coastline of Cork and climb over mountain passes to reach the majestic setting of Killarney.

Along the way we will stop off at a Stone Age tomb called the Altar Wedge Tomb, which sits dramatically on the waterfront overlooking Toormore Bay. We continue our journey towards one of Ireland’s most southerly point, Mizen Head. You have the option of visiting the Mizen Head Signal Station* or take a stroll along the golden strand of Barleycove beach.

After we have satisfied our hungry souls, we will make our way over the mountainous terrain that separates Cork and Kerry before arriving in the picturesque town of Killarney. It is home to Ireland’s first national park with spectacular glistening lakes, beautiful nature, great food and a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

*Mizen Head Signal Station only available from Mid-March to October.

The Ring of Kerry and Valentia Island

Today’s adventure takes you off the beaten track to unlock the real beauty of the world famous Ring of Kerry. Considered one of the most beautiful destinations to explore in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry offers dramatic landscapes of wild rugged coastline, golden beaches, glistening lakes, picturesque villages and spectacular mountain ranges.   

Even better, we will take you on an incredible tour of the spectacular Valentia Island where you can delve into its incredible history and heritage, explore its magical setting on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and if you are lucky get a glimpse (weather permitting) of the dramatic Skellig Islands (Star Wars famed).

After a well-earned bite to eat, we slowly make our way back to Killarney stopping off at many spectacular viewing points to learn of their historical importance and the opportunity to take that picture that will ensure an everlasting memory of paradise.

Dingle and Slea Head

Dingle is our destination today, as we explore this dramatic and beautiful peninsula that is littered with archaeological and historical wonders. Our first stop off is at Inch beach, famous for being the place where an inch is actually three miles long and where we take a short stroll along its golden sands and watch long rolling waves that come crashing ashore.

Once aboard we head due west to the edge of Europe, also known as Slea Head. Feast your eyes on breathtaking scenery of wild rugged coastline, golden beaches and the magnificent Blasket Islands. We continue our journey around this rich and vibrant peninsulas exploring its vast Gaelic culture and learning a cupla focal (some words) in Irish along the way. We will also visit Dingle town, a picturesque fishing town that is famed for Fungi the dolphin who has been a local for almost 30 years, before making our return journey to Killarney.

Discover Killarney

Before departing for Doolin that afternoon, you have the opportunity to relax, discover Killarney town or take an adventure exploring Killarney’s National Park and Lakes.

At midday, we will visit Muckross Park which is home to beautiful gardens and a 15th Century Franciscan Friary called Muckross Abbey which is one of the major ecclesiastical sites found in the Killarney National Park.

That afternoon after a bite to eat, we make our way north along the edge of Europe to the spectacular setting of the Cliffs of Moher, where we will overnight in the vibrant coastal village of Doolin and a chance for you to experience great traditional music sessions, fantastic seafood and of course meet the locals.  

The Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Burren

This morning we make our to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. This ‘must see’ wonder of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher, stretches for almost 10 KM and will capture your eyes and imagination as you gaze out in awe of its impressive setting.

Take the opportunity to explore the fantastic interpretation centre that will show you how this marvelous creation was shaped by nature’s hand and learn about its unique geological makeup.

Afterwards, we will have lunch in the surf town of Lahinch before heading on a tour exploring the dramatic landscape and history of the wild Burren. Experience its unique ecosystem and the spectacular Poulnabrone wedge tomb, which dates back to the Neolithic period.

That evening take the opportunity to sample Doolin’s famed culinary delights and lively atmosphere.

Discover Galway and Transfer to Dublin

This morning we depart Doolin heading north towards Galway, the Bohemian capital of Ireland. Along the way explore the remarkable moon-like terrain of the wild Burren and the Atlantic waves that roll into jaws of Galway Bay.

Take the opportunity to soak in Galway’s vibrant streets, sample its wide variety of food offerings or take a tour exploring its unique historical places of interest.

In the afternoon, we take the road back east, crossing the River Shannon on route to the fair city of Dublin where are tour comes to an end. We really hope you have had an amazing time exploring some of Ireland’s most unique destinations and remember Ireland is now forever your home away from home.

Arriving back toThe Ashling Hotel, Parkgate Street, Arran Quay, Dublin 8 at 6pm