8 Day Emerald Explorer Small Group of tour of Ireland

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Dublin- Glendalough- Kilkenny
3 stops
1
Sally Gap
Your 8-day Ireland adventure begins as we depart Dublin along Ireland’s Ancient East, travelling the scenic Military Road through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains. Along the way, soak in the dramatic views of rolling hills, deep valleys and shimmering lakes that make this region so unforgettable.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Glendalough Monastic Settlement
Our first stop is the historic Glendalough Monastery, nestled in a glacial valley surrounded by two peaceful lakes. With your expert local guide, you will explore the monastery’s ancient ruins and walking trails while taking in its tranquil, picture-perfect scenery.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
3
Kilkenny Castle
Next, we visit Kilkenny Castle for a guided tour, one of Ireland’s most impressive and best-preserved castles. Step back in time as you wander through its grand halls, elegant rooms and fascinating art collections.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Blarney to Killarney
3 stops
4
Cahir Castle
“It’s a long way to Tipperary…” as the song goes, but just a short and scenic journey from Kilkenny to the impressive Cahir Castle. Dating back to the 13th century and standing proudly on a rocky island in the River Suir, this magnificent fortress offers fascinating insights into Ireland’s medieval past.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
5
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Next, we travel to one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, Blarney Castle and Gardens. Here, you will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and receive the famed “gift of the gab.” Take time to wander through the castle’s stunning gardens, explore its mysterious dungeons and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by lush scenery.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
6
Killarney
This evening, we arrive in the lively town of Killarney, the beating heart of the Kingdom of Kerry. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening filled with traditional music, great food and warm Kerry hospitality, a true highlight of your 8-day Ireland adventure.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
The Kerry Experience
3 stops
7
Killarney National Park
We begin the morning exploring Muckross House and Gardens, a magnificent 19th-century Victorian mansion set within Killarney National Park. Take a stroll through the lush gardens or enjoy a coffee overlooking the lakes before continuing on foot to the nearby Torc Waterfall, one of Kerry’s most photographed natural gems.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
8
Gap of Dunloe
Next, experience the breathtaking Gap of Dunloe, a glacial mountain pass carved between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain Range. Take time to enjoy the dramatic scenery and capture stunning photos of one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes. Guests who wish may choose to take a traditional jaunting car ride through the valley (optional, not included).
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
9
Dingle
From here, we continue west toward the colourful harbour town of Dingle, travelling through some of Kerry’s most scenic countryside. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Dingle’s charming streets, famous seafood restaurants and lively pubs filled with traditional music.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Dingle Peninsula
4 stops
10
Dingle
This morning, we set off on one of Ireland’s most breathtaking routes, the iconic Slea Head Drive. With every turn, the Dingle Peninsula reveals something new: sweeping Atlantic views, windswept cliffs, ancient stone huts and tiny coves carved into the coastline. It is the kind of place where you will want to keep your camera close, and your eyes wide open.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Slea Head Drive
We will stop at some of the peninsula’s most unforgettable viewpoints, from the Beehive Huts to Gallarus Oratory, Dunquin Pier and the golden sands of Coomeenoule Beach. Your guide will share stories, local legends and favourite hidden spots along the way, making this an experience you will remember long after the tour ends.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
12
Dingle Distillery
In the afternoon, we return to Dingle for a special treat, a guided tour of the renowned Dingle Distillery, home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated craft spirits. Discover how their award-winning whiskey, gin, and vodka are made and enjoy a tasting that captures the true spirit of the peninsula.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
Dingle
Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening in Dingle’s colourful harbour town. Browse local craft shops, sip a creamy Guinness, listen to traditional music drifting from cosy pubs, or simply wander the waterfront as the sun sets over Dingle Bay.
8 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Dingle to The Cliffs of Moher
4 stops
14
Conor Pass
Embark on a scenic journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, starting with a breathtaking drive through the Conor Pass and crossing the River Shannon into County Clare.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
15
Late morning, we journey north and cross the River Shannon by ferry, a short, scenic crossing that offers beautiful coastal views and a chance to spot seabirds along the way. As we arrive into County Clare, the landscape transforms into the dramatic limestone beauty of the Burren.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
16
Cliffs of Moher
After a lunch stop in the lively seaside village of Lahinch, it’s time for one of the true highlights of the tour, the Cliffs of Moher. Rising 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, these world-famous cliffs are an unforgettable sight. Stroll the cliff paths, take in the sweeping views and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air, this is one of Ireland’s most iconic moments.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
17
Spanish Point
This evening, we make our way to the beautiful coastal village of Spanish Point, where we will stay for the night. Known for its long sandy beach, ocean views and peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Enjoy cosy pubs, delicious local seafood and the warm West Clare hospitality that makes this region so special.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Burren National Park to Galway
3 stops
18
This morning begins with a truly memorable Irish experience: an Irish Farm Safari with our friends at the Burren Farm Experience. Your local hosts will share their 200-year family history and guide you across their 500-acre working farm in the heart of the UNESCO-recognised Burren. You will get to walk, taste and explore your way through one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes, learning how traditional farming thrives in this wild, stony region.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
19
The Burren
Discover The Burren National Park, a unique landscape in county Clare, characterized by its limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and ancient monuments. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that have adapted to thrive in this challenging environment.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
20
Galway
Spend the afternoon wandering Galway’s colourful cobbled streets, lively pubs, boutique shops and buzzing cafés. Soak up the city’s creative energy and enjoy dinner in one of its award-winning restaurants. Tonight, you will stay right in the heart of Galway City, surrounded by its famous nightlife, music scene and unforgettable West of Ireland atmosphere.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
The Connemara Experience
6 stops
21
Connemara
Wake up in Galway City and get ready to explore the rugged beauty of Connemara, a land of shimmering lakes, soaring mountains and timeless Irish culture. Our adventure begins as we travel through the Galway Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region), passing Lough Corrib, Ireland’s largest lake. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the language, traditions and landscapes that make this part of Ireland so special.
Admission ticket free
22
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Next, we visit the iconic Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens, set on a 1,000-acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and framed by the peaks of Connemara National Park. Stroll through the elegant gardens, learn about the Benedictine nuns who still call the abbey home and enjoy lunch in the onsite café.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
23
Leenane
Afterwards, we pause in the picturesque village of Leenaun, where you can admire sweeping views over Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord - a truly unforgettable sight.
Admission ticket free
24
Killary Sheep Farm
The highlight of the afternoon is a traditional sheepdog demonstration in the heart of Connemara. Watch a skilled farmer and his clever dogs work in perfect harmony to herd sheep across the hills, an authentic Irish experience that guests consistently rank as one of their favourites.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
25
Cong
Our scenic return to Galway brings us through the charming village of Cong, made famous by the classic film The Quiet Man starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
26
Galway
This evening, return to Galway City for your final night of the tour. Celebrate an unforgettable week with dinner, drinks and perhaps one last session of traditional Irish music!
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Clonmacnoise and Irish Coffee!
2 stops
27
Galway
After a final night in the vibrant city of Galway, your last day begins with a delicious and engaging Walk, Talk & Taste Tour. Led by a passionate local guide, you will explore the city through its stories, streets and flavours, wandering historic lanes, hearing fascinating tales of Galway’s past and sampling some of the region’s finest local food along the way. It is a wonderful way to experience the heart and soul of the City of the Tribes.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
28
Dublin
Following the tour, we bid farewell to the west and begin our journey back to Dublin, travelling east through Ireland’s ever-changing countryside. Arriving in the capital later in the day, it is time to say slán as your Irish adventure comes to an end, filled with unforgettable landscapes, shared moments and memories to treasure.
4 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• There is free time on this trip
• Driving time average 2.5 hours per day
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• It is recommended to pack lots of light layers, a raincoat, and sunscreen

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