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9 Day Irish Experience Tour

Overview

Enjoy a lovely blend of adventure, cultural experiences, fantastic food offerings, Irish music, and a lot more across the island of Ireland. This is an all-in-one experience and gives a fantastic insight into the Irish way of life as well as its stunning beautiful scenery.

PRICES FROM:

  • €4,300pp based on 2-3 people in group

  • €3,450pp based on 4-7 people in group

  • €2,850pp based on 8 plus people in group


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Duration 9 days

Pace Active

Activities

  • 8 nights bed and breakfast in 4-star accommodation
  • all transport
  • fully guided
  • 3 course evening meal x 2
  • all activity equipment rental included
  • private music session
  • exclusive Rural Adventure farm experience
  • entrance fees as per itinerary
View additional details


Itinerary

Overview of a 9 Day Irish Experience Tour

DAY 1 - VISIT THE GARDEN OF IRELAND

Hiking, visiting a monastery, Guinness Lake and having a pint in the oldest pub in the world... click to find out more

DAY 2 - VENTURE TO THE WILD WEST & HIT GALWAY CITY

The iconic Cliffs of Moher, coastal castles and the vibrant Galway City... click to find out more

DAY 3 - EXPERIENCE THE RUGGED CONNEMARA

Hiking in a national park overlooking the Atlantic Coastline and visit a working sheep dog farm... click to find out more

DAY 4 – JOURNEY TO SLIGO ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Options to surf, ride horses on a beach, hike or just enjoy the Atlantic Sea Air... click to find out more

DAY 5 - VENTURE INTO IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS

Waterfalls, hiking and a distillery are a great combination... click to find out more

DAY 6 - UNCOVER A RURAL IRELAND

Adventure activities to help fully experience Ireland's Nature & History and visit our own farm... click to find out more

DAY 7 - CONNECT WITH THE TITANIC & BELFAST'S PAST

A Belfast political walking tour or the Titanic museum or just stroll the shop streets of the City... click to find out more

DAY 8 - EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF THE NORTH COAST

From Game of Thrones to Giant's Causeways and crossing a daring rope bridge... click to find out more

DAY 9 - EXPLORE IRELAND'S ANCIENT EAST

Travel along the East Coast returning to Dublin visiting quaint villages and a 6th century monastery... click to find out more


Day 1 VISIT THE GARDEN OF IRELAND

Sally Gap, PS I Love You Bridge & Lough Tay (Guinness Lake)

Drive along the Sally Gap in the Wicklow mountains famous for its wild beauty but also featured in several movies such as Braveheart and others. Stop off for a photo opportunity at the PS I Love You bridge along with getting a glimpse of possibly Ireland’s largest Pint of Guinness at Lough Tay (Guinness Lake).

Glendalough Monastery and walking trails

Travel further into the Wicklow mountains to visit the 6th century monastic ruins of Glendalough. Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic regions and has a great choice of walking/hiking trails to suit all levels. Also called the ‘Valley of two lakes’, Glendalough is known for its natural beauty and vibrant past from Monks in the era of Ireland’s saints and scholars to Viking raids.

Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey distillery & tour

Learn each step in the artisan craft of making the ‘water of life’(Irish whiskey translated from Irish) on the taster tour at Tullamore Dew whiskey distillery. With the help of expert guides, you both explore the production process and get the opportunity to savour the goods yourself.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 2 VENTURE TO THE WILD WEST & HIT GALWAY CITY

Visit the world famous Cliffs of Moher

Drive through the UNESCO geopark site of the Burren to visit the Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way, one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations and a must see when in this part of Ireland. The sharp drop-off at the cliffs to the ocean and the impressive views won’t be easily forgotten and a fantastic Instagram photo to share with family and friends back home.
On good weather days and if you are up for the challenge, you will have the option of walking from the quaint village of Doolin all along the cliffs to the visitor’s centre taking in the views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.

Everyone loves a Castle, especially Dunguaire Castle

Nearing Galway city, stop off at Dunguaire Castle in the fishing village of Kinvarra for a photo opportunity and short walk up to the castle walls. Folklore has it, if you stand at the front gate of this castle and ask a question, your question will be answered by the end of the next day.

Free time in Galway City

See the medieval city walls, Lynch’s Castle, the Spanish Arch and the narrow streets. Awarded the European capital of culture 2020, Galway is a real buzz to be in with its street musicians, excellent craft shops and lively atmosphere. Our guides will be able to give tips on where to find the hidden pubs where the locals play music in the evening. Get a real feel for the vibrant nightlife.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 3 EXPERIENCE THE RUGGED CONNEMARA

Enter deeper into a wild Ireland in the rugged Connemara

Admire sweeping views of boglands and misty mountains along with the well-known coastal Sky Road. Ravaged during the great potato famine of 1847-1851, Connemara is wild and open. Its stonewalled scenery has been a popular stage for several blockbuster movies.

Walking and hiking in Connemara National Park

Whether taking the shorter routes or going for the more challenging ones, this national park is abundant in satisfying walks full of gorgeous views. A favourite of ours is the fantastic Atlantic views on the top of Diamond Hill.

Stop off at Kylemore Abbey

Get an opportunity to view and photograph this iconic Abbey and hear the history of the Abbey’s beginnings in the 1840’s as a romantic gift, to becoming home to the Benedictine Community in 1920. Have an opportunity to visit the gift shop of local crafts, handmade chocolate and pottery.

Sheep dog demonstration at Killary Fjord

See traditional sheepdog farmer Tom herd his flock of blackhead sheep across the Connemara mountains overlooking Killary Fjord on the Wild Atlantic Way. A man and his best friend working together on a sheep farm and what a show they put on. Get a real sense of the years training and how the colly dog is an essential part of Tom’s life and work.

Experience the colourful Westport

Arrive in the little Georgian town of Westport well known for its great quality of life.
Sample some of the amazing fresh seafood and finish up at Matt Malloy’s pub, owned by the famous flute player, Matt Malloy, who plays with the well-known Irish group “The Chieftains”. Sit back with a pint of the black stuff and listen to the toe tapping rhythm of passionate Irish traditional musicians.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 4 JOURNEY TO SLIGO ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Free time to relax or a choice of options to get active in Sligo

After the drive from Westport to Co Sligo through the region where the movie “Wild Mountain thyme” was filmed and also the hit show “Normal People”, relax on the Sligo coastline or get active. A walk on the beach, explore the surf village of Strandhill, hike Knocknarea mountain, hit them waves with a 1 hr surf lesson or enjoy a horseback ride on a Wild Atlantic beach. The choices are endless.

- Surf lesson averages €25 per person as an optional extra
- 1 hr horseback riding on beach - €29 per person as an optional extra

Gleniff Horseshoe

A stunning 10 km (6 mile) single lane loop surrounded by spectacular mountain views & roadside streams, the Gleniff Horseshoe charm takes you back in time and away from it all. Enroute, stop off at the grave of WB Yeats, one of Ireland's most famous poets and have the opportunity to hear one of his poems along his graveside.

Eagles Rock

A short hike to view Eagles Rock, Ireland’s highest free-standing tower in an awe-inspiring landscape and a photographer’s dream.

Additional details

  • Inclusions
    • All taxes, fees and handling charges
    • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
    • Transport by private vehicle
    • Private tour
    • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 5 VENTURE INTO IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS

Glencar Lake & Waterfall

Enter your journey into Ireland's Hidden Heartlands with your first stop off at Glencar Lake & Waterfall. Enjoy the more relaxed rhythm and breath-taking views of this valley where lake and mountains meet. Stop off for a quick coffee at the Glencar TeaShed.

Hike the "Stairway to Heaven" to the Summit of Cuilcagh Mt

Enjoy a guided hike to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain on Ireland's very own Stairway to Heaven. Starting on a gravel road and then continuing onto a wooden boardwalk you then meet the stairway that brings you up the steep cliff to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain to take in the magnificent views as a well-deserved treat. The Path is part of the UNESCO Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.

Visit The Shed Distillery

Visit the home of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin and Drumshanbo Single Pot Irish whiskey and join "The curious journey of the curious mind" tour.
- Tour option is an additional €** per person

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 6 UNCOVER A RURAL IRELAND

Visit Erica's Fairy Forest

Enjoy a gentle stroll along the Dromore river though Halton's Amenity park until you get to Erica’s fairy forest. Let your imaginations run wild no matter what age you are.

Kayaking/Boating to Cloughoughter Castle

County Cavan, famous for its 365 lakes, one for every day of the year and what better way to uncover them other than a kayak or boat trip to Clough Oughter Castle. This is an enchanting castle built on a crannog (man-made island). Hear about the many tales of Irish Chieftains and battles that are linked to this monument. The castle ruin is part of the Marble Arch Geopark on Lough Oughter lake adjacent to the charming Killykeen forest park and is only accessible by water.

Rural Adventure Tours home farm experience

Travel to our organic home farmstead for a personal experience. Meet with friends and family who prepare a welcome meal. Marcus or one of our guides will lead in an outdoor acoustic music session around the fire (weather permitting) and tell stories of how the farm started. We also invite all our groups that visit our farm to plant a tree for environmental reasons while also leaving a part of your tour here always.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 7 CONNECT WITH THE TITANIC & BELFAST'S PAST

Arrive in Belfast City with a choice of 2 options

Tour Option 1 - Belfast political walking tour

Understanding Belfast's troubled history of the conflict with an honestly presented political tour by guides from both sides of this conflict. Meet Republican and Loyalist political ex-prisoners and discover a side of Belfast you won't find in the Tourist books. Walk the streets on both sides of the Peace Line and your guides will share their own personal stories and the conflict's effects on their communities while walking you through memorials and murals that show their troubled history.
- This option is included in Tour Price
- 3 hour walking tour

​ Tour Option 2 - Entry to the Titanic Museum

See the location where the Titanic was constructed and walk along the regenerated waterfront while getting the full experience in the new state of the art Titanic museum.
- This option is included in Tour Price

Free time in Belfast City

Enjoy a stroll around the City in your own freetime sampling what this great City has to offer in music, food, pubs and culture. Our guides will definitely pass on our favourite hotspots.
Titanic Museum / Free time in the City.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 8 EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF THE NORTH COAST

The Dark Hedges

Known to Game of Thrones fans as “The Kings Road”, on which Arya Stark travels after her escape from King’s Landing - this row of stunning gnarled 245 year-old beech trees intertwined over a country lane, attracts thousands of amateur photographers every year.

​ The famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

Get to see the rugged coastline from a different angle on the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The bridge links the mainland to a tiny island and is one of the main tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. Exciting and well worth it, though a daring crossing so better eat the porridge that morning.

Ballintoy Harbour

A quaint little harbour and charming cafe with spectacular views and tasty homemade treats. For Game of Thrones fans, this is the harbor where Theon Greyjoy returns home to the Iron Islands from Winterfell, and where he meets his sister Yara for the first time. It is also close to the location where Theon was baptized.

Giant's Causeway

A must see on this coastline - 40,000 interlocking hexagonal stone columns, formed as lava cooled down after a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. There is also the folklore legend that this causeway was created and destroyed by the famous giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill which your guide will tell you all about - we believe the giant story, of course.

Dunluce Castle

This castle, built on a cliff, is said to be the inspiration for Castle Greyjoy in Game of Thrones. It is a photographer's dream and well worth the stop. This is a short photo stop - we will not be entering the castle due to time constraints on this action packed day.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Day 9 EXPLORE IRELAND'S ANCIENT EAST

Stop off at Strandfield Farm Cafe & Carlingford Harbour

Farm cafe, florist and organic grocer based within the farm yard of Strandfield House with a quirky feel and great coffee, a real hidden gem. Enjoy beautiful views of the quaint village of Carlingford and Harbour while challenging yourself to eating some of their fresh oysters ( don't worry, we won't force you if you are not a fan).

Visit Monasterboice Monastery, Round Tower and stone carved High Crosses

Visit the Boyne Valley and its historic ruins of early Christian settlement dating back to the 6th Century, including its famous 35 metre round tower. Hear tales of notorious Viking raids and Irish monks trying to protect their lives and valuables. Also find two of Ireland's highest and finest stone carved High Crosses.

Additional details

Inclusions

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • 4 star accommodation with Full Irish breakfast included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Private tour
  • Live entertainment
  • Local guide
  • All activities as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks other than what is listed on itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Availability

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