Self-Drive: Explore the West Coast of Ireland

7 days from £1925 per person

The breathtaking west coast of Ireland has been inspiring writers, artists and musicians for generations. On this self-drive tour discover some of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes from Connemara National Park to the Dingle Peninsula. From Dublin start your journey in Connemara where you can explore the beautiful landscapes of the national park before continuing to colourful Galway. Visit Burren National Park which is home to a diverse range of wildflowers in spring as well as the Cliffs of Moher, noted for their outstanding geology and panoramic views. Finish on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula which is known for its beauty spots including the abandoned Blasket Islands. Ireland’s west coast is not only famed for its breathtaking landscapes but is also dotted with rural communities which are rich in Irish tradition and culture.

Dublin – Connemara – Galway – Burren National Park – Cliffs of Moher – Dingle Peninsula – Dublin

Itinerary Highlights

Discover the beautiful landscapes and Neolithic and Iron Age sites of the Connemara National Park during a guided hike.

Stand atop the iconic 700ft high Cliffs of Moher, which are home to the largest colony of nesting seabirds on mainland Ireland

Explore the remove Blasket Islands in the Dingle Peninsula which are famed for its rich literary heritage and unique cultural writings.

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Explore the West Coast of Ireland

Day 1 Dublin to Connemara – 285kms

On arrival in Dublin pick up your hire car and drive cross country to County Galway and the Connemara National Park. Today’s route will take you through some dramatic valleys and along the shores of the beautiful Killary Fjord – one of only three in Ireland. You may wish to stop at Kylemore Abbey and stretch your legs in the country’s largest walled garden or take a hike through the picturesque national park. End the day at the coastal town of Clifden which is known as ‘the capital of Connemara’. (B)
Accommodation in Clifden: Foyles Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Connemara

After breakfast meet a local expert archaeologist at your hotel and take a hike to discover the ancient mysteries that surround the Connemara landscape. Your guide will bring the Neolithic and Iron Age sites to life as he captivates you with stories along your hike. Your walk will bring you to the remote and rugged island of Inishboffin, where you will hear tales of pirates and invasions while you explore. Perhaps end your day sampling some local fresh seafood or cosying up in a traditional pub. (B)
Accommodation in Clifden: Foyles Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 Connemara to Galway – 78kms

Continue your drive south to Galway, one of Ireland’s most vibrant and engaging cities which was announced as the City of Culture in 2020. Explore the cobbled streets with its preserved historic thatched cottages, browse the quaint shops and brightly painted pubs and enjoy some of the country’s best and freshest food. During the afternoon you may wish to visit the green-domed Galway Cathedral and the Spanish Arch, an archway built into the old city walls in the 1700s. Continue to the quaint village of Doolin where you will stay for the next two nights. (B)
Accommodation in Doolin: Doolin Inn (or similar)

Day 4 Burren National Park

The Burren means a rocky place and is renowned for its rocky limestone lunar landscape - it is said that the landscape of the Burren was the inspiration behind JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. In spring and early summer, the Burren is home to one of the highest diversities of wildflowers in Europe, including 40 species of orchids. Spend the day with a local guide who will suggest several different routes that best suit your ability whilst making the most of the Burren’s lunar landscape. (B)
Accommodation in Doolin: Doolin Inn (or similar)

Day 5 Cliffs of Moher to Dingle – 302kms

As you set off in the morning stop to take a walk along the 700ft high Cliffs of Moher noted for their dramatic Atlantic Ocean views. The Cliffs of Moher are also home to the largest colony of nesting seabirds and, if you are lucky, you may also spot puffins nesting on the cliffs. Leaving County Clare behind, keep your eyes peeled for wild dolphins as you cross the River Shannon and continue your drive south through North Kerry. There is a little-known beach en route that offers the opportunity for a great walk. Alternatively, head straight to Dingle – a pretty fishing port on the magical Dingle Peninsula. Dingle is known for its quality food and restaurants, interesting shops and galleries and vibrant street life. Some pubs even double as shops so why not enjoy a drink while doing your shopping at the same time! (B)
Accommodation in Dingle: Emlagh House (or similar)

Day 6 Dingle and the Blasket Islands

There is no better way to explore the Dingle Peninsula than by boat so today spend your day in the company of a local guide who is passionate about wildlife. Your cruise will take you around Slea Head to circle past the Blasket Islands, a now-abandoned archipelago of six rugged islands off the tip of the Dingle Peninsula. From the hard life lived by the fishing and farming community emerged a traditional Irish community with a rich literary heritage and Gaelic culture. If conditions are right, there are good opportunities to see some of the wonderful sea life that this area has to offer including whales, seals and porpoises. (B)
Accommodation in Dingle: Emlagh House (or similar)

Day 7 Dingle to Dublin – 346kms / Depart Dublin

Depending on your departure time from Dublin you may be able to spend some more time in Dingle before heading to the Dublin airport. Alternatively, head to Dublin where we can arrange an extension stay in Ireland’s historic capital city. You could also extend your stay in Kerry by combining this itinerary with our Kerry, West Cork, and the Haven Coast itinerary. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Hotel accommodation and taxes
Car hire

What's not included

Any International flights
Any Domestic flights
Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

This is a self-drive journey and, as such, you will be largely under your own arrangements and travelling at your own pace. On certain days you will be joined by a local guide who will discuss the day’s options with you and suggest walks depending on your level of fitness or the weather. On days without a guide, you will be self-guided and are free to make your own arrangements. Guided and self-guided days are detailed in the itinerary and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

This itinerary includes car hire with the vehicle based on a Ford Focus (or similar).

For flexibility, international or domestic flights are not included in the price of this itinerary. However, we will be delighted to talk through the different options available to you and, should you wish, also make the neccessary flight bookings.