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)
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
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
**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.
