Self-Drive: Kerry, Cork and Kinsale

On arrival to Dublin collect your hire car and head to Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first and probably the most famous of the Emerald Isle’s national parks. We can recommend our favourite routes to discover the park’s forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Stretch your legs with a beautiful circular walk, suitable for all abilities, or enjoy the best of the area’s scenery by heading out onto the lakes of Killarney in a traditional boat. Continue to your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure in the quaint town of Killarney.
Accommodation in Killarney: Cahernane House Hotel (or similar)

Today relax or continue to explore the breathtaking scenery of Killarney National Park. At the end of the day enjoy an easy walk into Killarney town centre to discover the best restaurants and traditional pubs, Killarney is particularly known for its traditional Irish music. (B)
Accommodation in Killarney: Cahernane House Hotel (or similar)

This morning head into the southern part of the Ring of Kerry. As you leave the verdant greens of Kerry’s interior the landscape becomes a lot more wild and rugged. There are several guided trip options available from fishing and foraging to a guided tour taking in all the highlights of the Ring of Kerry including the Gap of Dunloe, Torc Waterfall and Moll’s Gap. We would recommend visiting the Gap of Dunloe where you can soak up the wonderful views of this wild landscape and also enjoy a boat trip through the stunning Lakes of Killarney National Park. Ensure you bring your camera with you to photograph the many panoramic views of the Kerry Coast. (B)
Accommodation in Killarney: Cahernane House Hotel (or similar)

After breakfast drive south via the Beara Peninsula. One of the least visited of Kerry’s peninsulas, Beara Peninsula is one of Ireland’s most beautiful locations dotted with colourful villages subtropical vegetation and Bronze Age remains. Continue further south to the peninsulas of West Cork via a stunning mountain pass. En route to the hotel in Bantry you may wish to take the passenger ferry across to Garnish Island and visit the world-renowned gardens which are laid out with some stunning specimen plants combined with beautiful walks. (B)
Accommodation in Bantry:  Seaview House Hotel (or similar)

Artists, crafters and artisan food producers have long made their home in West Cork having been inspired by the natural beauty and traditional culture of the region. Explore West Cork with an expert guide and discover some of the region’s more remote corners. With an abundance of hiking options, your guide will find a hike best suited for you, coupled with the opportunity to explore some of the artesian galleries and bespoke delicatessens that add colour to this region. The area is also home to some of the world’s best cheese! (B)
Accommodation in Bantry:  Seaview House Hotel (or similar)

Continue your journey on to colourful Kinsale, a historic fishing port in County Cork. With its picturesque harbour and mystical sea views, it is the perfect place to end your time on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.  Colourful Kinsale is a foodie haven and is known as the gourmet centre of Ireland. Take a stroll around the little streets and browse the art galleries, craft shops and food stalls. A visit to the 17th century star-shaped Charles Fort or a sunset stroll along a waterside walkway makes a perfect end to your day. (B)
Accommodation in Kinsale: Perryville House (or similar)

Today explore the tranquil waters of Kenmare Bay with an expert kayak instructor as you paddle alongside hidden coves and beaches whilst looking out for the wildlife that frequents these waters. Your guide will also fascinate you with tales of days gone by from smugglers to battles of old. Alternatively, you may wish to take a short guided hike along the Old Head, a beautiful headline that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean. During this walk you will witness the 17th century Old Head Lighthouse as well as the remains of the Lusitania passenger ship which was torpedoed during World War II by a German U-boat. On your final evening in Kinsale, enjoy some of Ireland’s best seafood at a restaurant overlooking the pretty harbour. (B)
Accommodation in Kinsale: Perryville House (or similar)