Authentic and Iconic Ireland: From Dublin to the Wild Atlantic Way
Embark on a journey celebrating the spirit and splendour of Ireland, where iconic landmarks meet authentic experiences. On this 9-day itinerary, you’ll wander through vibrant cities, dramatic coastlines and serene countryside, uncovering stories that have shaped the destination’s past and present with immersive encounters, distinctive flavours and handpicked experiences showcasing Ireland at its most captivating.
Theme
Iconic Ireland, City explorer, Gaelic culture, Wild Atlantic Way, Self or Chauffer drive
Duration
8N/9D
Destinations
Dublin > Galway > Killarney > Wicklow > Dublin
Experience Highlights
Day 1 – A Spirited Welcome
- Begin your Irish adventure with one of Ireland’s most iconic attractions and most famous brewery, the Guinness Storehouse, culminating in a perfectly poured pint at the Gravity Bar.
- Spend the afternoon soaking up Dublin’s vibrant character and visit iconic sites such as Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, and discovering national treasures at the National Museum of Ireland.
- Overnight – Dublin
Day 2 – The Stories Behind the City
- Tailor your second day to your personal interests, as you embark upon a driver-guided tour of Dublin exploring celebrated landmarks including the Book of Kells at Trinity College, St Patricks Cathedral, and hidden corners which bring the city to life.
- Overnight – Dublin
Day 3 – Distilleries, Traditions & Westward Discoveries
- Enroute to Galway, pause for a tasting experience at Tullmore or Kilbeggan Distillery, savouring the craftmanship behind Ireland’s finest whiskeys. Alternatively, stop off and raise a glass in Sean’s Bar, the oldest pub in all of Ireland.
- Arrive in Galway and make the most of your free time to explore local sites such as Galway Cathedral or the Galway City Museum.
- Overnight – Galway
Day 4 – West Coast Wonders & Gaelic Heritage
- Day tour into Connemara – Enjoy a day tour into Connemara and capture the essence of Ireland’s wild west, with dramatic mountains, shimmering lakes, rugged boglands, and vibrant Gaelic heritage. You could watch a traditional sheepdog demonstration, or even visit an Oyster farm for freshly shucked oysters.
- Visit Kylemore Abbey, a neo-Gothic masterpiece nestled within 1000 acres of mountainside and wander through its enchanting Victorian walled gardens.
- Overnight – Galway
Day 5 – Wild Atlantic Way
- Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s most dramatic coastal wonder, where towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic creating cinematic landscapes which have appeared in Harry Potter.
- Step back in time at Caherconnell Stone Fort, a 1,000-year-old ring fort, and later on watch skilled sheepdogs in action during an authentic farm demonstration.
- Overnight – Killarney
Day 6 – Ireland's Most Iconic Route
- Journey along the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s most iconic route, with breathtaking panoramas, rugged coastlines and charming villages along its 179 km loop.
- On your journey be sure to stop off at Muckross House, a Victorian stately mansion set amidst lush gardens and serene lakes in Killarney National Park.
- Overnight – Killarney
Day 7 – Castles, Kings & Ancient Legends
- Travel east toward Wicklow, stopping off enroute at the Rock of Cashel, a legendary site of Kings and saints, rich in medieval history and architectural grandeur.
- Overnight – Wicklow Area
Day 8 – Discover Scenic County Wicklow
- Wander through Glendalough, Irish for valley of two lakes, a stunning glacial valley in County Wicklow home to ancient monastic ruins and serene trails.
- Explore Powerscourt Estate, boasting Ireland’s highest waterfall overlooked by the Great Sugar Loaf mountain, exquisite gardens, wooded valleys, and its own whiskey distillery for a refined tasting experience.
- Overnight – Wicklow Area
Day 9 – Farewell to the Emerald Isle
- Enjoy morning at leisure before departing from Dublin Airport.
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