Irish Experience Tours brings you some of the top easygoing and active adventure activities that Ireland has to offer. We partner with the best in the business to ensure you get the most from your experience. Check out some of our most popular activities for small groups below.
If you have a specific activity or experience in mind, contact us and we will do our best to design a custom tour for your group. And remember, we cater for all levels of experience, so beginners and experts alike can enjoy what’s on offer.
Irelands National Parks
Over 650 km2 (160,000 acres) of Ireland is covered in national parks, forest areas and reserves. Our 6 national parks contain an amazing variety of unspoiled landscape and vegetation.
Irish Experience Tours explore and stay in, or right next to, no fewer than 5 national parks…
Killarney National Park
A truly special part of Ireland, Killarney National Park is a rugged wilderness area situated just outside the town of Killarney in County Kerry. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty packed with mountains (including the highest in Ireland – Carrauntoohil), lakes, woods, parklands and waterfalls. Visit the stunning Muckross House and witness Ross Castle at sunset. Take a trip through the Gap of Dunloe and see Lady’s View and The Black Valley. This area is steeped in history and has a unique geological profile. Activities include bike riding through the park, taking a boat around the lakes or taking a horse-and-cart ride through the Gap of Dunloe.
Connemara National Park
Connemara National Park is almost 3000 hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and forests, and it’s all yours to explore. Awesome views coupled with great hikes and walks give this area an unforgettable character. Activities include pony rides, nature trails, a multi-lingual exhibition on the Connemara landscape, and an excellent playground as well as loads more. The boglands give rise to unique flora and fauna throughout Connemara, making this an area well off the beaten track and not to be missed.
Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park in west Donegal is a beautiful and remote wilderness of mountains, lakes, waterfalls and a haunting (some say enchanted) oak forest in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains. The stunning Glenveagh Castle, a 19th Century mansion and gardens, is situated at the edge of Lough Veagh. This is a special conservation area and is protected. Walking trails and nature trails abound, so there is something for all ages and fitness levels. You can also go fishing and cycling in this magical spot.
Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains National Park
“The Valley of the Two Lakes” is a rough translation for one of Ireland’s most beautiful destinations, Glendalough. Renowned for its history, scenery, archaeology and wildlife, Glendalough in the mountains of County Wicklow is a truly remarkable area. Visit the ancient monastic city, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th Century, and see the outstanding 30m high round tower along with churches and stone crosses. Check out the visitors’ centre which will tell you everything about this hidden gem, including the best walks to take along this ancient glacial valley. The area has lots of other visitor sites and amenities nearby too.
The Burren National Park
The Burren National Park is located in the southeastern corner of the Burren and is approximately 1500 hectares in size. The Parkland was bought by the Government for nature conservation and public access. It contains examples of all the major habitats within the Burren: Limestone Pavement, Calcareous Grassland, Hazel scrub, Ash/Hazel Woodland, Turloughs, Lakes, Petrifying Springs, Cliffs and Fen.
The word “Burren” comes from the Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place. This is an extremely appropriate name when you consider the lack of soil cover and the extent of exposed Limestone Pavement. However, it has been referred to in the past as “Fertile rock” due to the mixture of nutrient-rich herb and floral species.
Walking & Cycling Trails
Great Walks and hundreds of trails will have you navigating a range of landscapes, from rugged mountain ranges and lush farmland and sandy beaches. Ireland’s walking trails traverse natural wonders and offer encounters with wildlife such as deer, hares, seals, and puffins.
No matter what your fitness level, Ireland has walks for anyone and everyone! Your driver guide will be able to advise you on your options and help you make any arrangements as necessary.
Cliffs of Moher Walk from Doolin Village, Clare
The pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the lush green countryside of County Clare on the other… this cliff walk is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Setting off from Doolin village on the Wild Atlantic Way, as you walk you will slowly see the awesome Cliffs of Moher (over 700 feet high) come into view. Though not physically demanding, this spectacular walking trail is not for the faint-hearted as you will need a head for heights.
Dunmore Head Walk – Dingle, Kerry
Dunmore Head is the most westerly point in Europe and arguably has the most dramatic scenery that Ireland has to offer. Located on the rugged Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Dunmore is marked with an Ogham stone commemorating the ancient pagan traditions of the past. This is a beautiful walk as you trek towards the edge of Europe from Couminole Beach and see the raw beauty of the Blasket Islands looking across the wild Atlantic – next stop New York.
Bray Head Walk – Valentia Island, Kerry
Walking to Bray Head along the coastline of Valentia Island, County Kerry is a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours. Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a UNESCO Heritage site and views of a Star Wars filming location (the Skellig Islands) make the Bray Head loop walk simply unmissable. The route is waymarked and family-friendly, and the Old Bray Head Tower is worth a look from a military and historical perspective.
Slieve League Walk – Donegal
At nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Walking the coastal paths of another glorious section of the Wild Atlantic Way reveals amazing views of Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo. Only experienced walkers should tackle the advanced route to the narrow “One Man’s Pass”. You have been warned!
Derrybawn Woodland Trail (The Orange Trail), Glendalough, Wicklow
Glendalough is a spectacular glacial valley famed for its monastic city and teeming with history, scenery and great walking trails. This walk begins with a steep ascent beside the picturesque Poulanass Waterfall and continues above the ancient glacial valley through larch and pine woodlands and oak forests over about 8kms. This is a highly recommended route.
Croagh Patrick, Mayo
Leading to the peak of Croagh Patrick Mountain, this walking trail is loved by hillwalkers and pilgrims alike. Located near the town of Westport in County Mayo, the summit is 762m above sea level and takes an average of two hours to ascend. Your reward will be magnificent views of Clew Bay and Mayo, and, depending on your beliefs, maybe even divine inspiration. Some pilgrims ascend barefoot though we do not recommend this.
Diamond Hill, Connemara
Diamond Hill is a scenic loop walk around the beautiful boglands, mountains and heaths of Connemara National Park. The route leads along a narrow ridge as you ascend the summit for excellent views of the Connemara coastline, the Twelve Bens mountain range, Kylemore Lough and the islands of Inishturk, Inishbofin and Inishshark.
Cong Forest Nature Trail
This route is a short nature trail around Cong village, and takes in Ashford Castle, now a luxury hotel that was converted from a Victorian castle. Nearby is ruined Medieval Cong Abbey where the last High King of Ireland resided. The Cross of Cong, an artistic Celtic Cross can be seen here. There are plenty walking routes in the area to suit all ages and fitness levels, and the natural environment and wildlife are second-to-none.
Ballintoy Harbour to Ballycastle – Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
Leaving Ballintoy village and awesome views of Sheep Island, this route takes you via the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a 20m suspension bridge from the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island where you can see as far as Scotland. The bridge was built to give salmon fishermen access to their nets during the season and taken in every autumn before the gales arrived. Part of the rugged Causeway Coastal Route, this walking trail is up there with the best (even if you skip the bridge walk).
Great Western Greenway – biking route/cycleway in Mayo
The Greenway in County Mayo is a walking and cycling trail (the longest in Ireland at 42kms) between the towns of Westport and Achill. It follows the route of a disused railway line between the two towns. The scenery here is unreal, with classy views of Clew Bay and Achill Island. We recommend this as a cycling route, but you can extend the trail by taking in the unspoilt beaches or stopping for a round of golf. Nearby are attractions like Croagh Patrick and Westport House.
Inagh Valley, Connemara – biking route/cycleway
Located around the stunning Connemara National Park, this cycleway passes Ballynahinch Lough on the way to the scenic Inagh Valley. Lough Inagh and the Twelve Pins Mountain range are on one side and the Mum Turk Mountain Range flank you on the other. This flexible route gives you the option to return to Clifden, or pedal onwards to Kylemore Abbey or Killary Fjord.
Sea-Kayaking in Ireland
Some say the best way to experience Ireland is from the water. Sea-kayaking with Irish Experience Tours provides a healthy mix of adventure and sightseeing and is an experience that you will not want to miss. You will get a good introduction to basic kayaking skills in beautiful and safe environments, and this activity is suitable for all levels of experience. More difficult tours are available for intermediate to advanced kayakers and come highly recommended – just ask your guide.
In Dingle, you can paddle with us around the harbour, exploring some of the many sea caves and hopefully seeing the famous Fungi the Dingle Dolphin – this really is one of the best water activities on offer and great fun in a group. More experienced kayakers can opt for a full-day kayaking tour and go from Ventry to Dingle (medium), or for a real workout go from Dingle to Inch (hard).
You can also kayak with us in Ireland’s only fjord, the rugged and beautiful Killary Fjord, as part of our unique 7-day Ultimate Tour. Tours are also available on the Lakes of Killarney, so why not get a unique view of Ireland from her seas, lakes and rivers and get kayaking on your next adventure tour.
Horse-Riding in Ireland
Imagine galloping along by the water’s edge on a deserted Ventry beach in the west of Ireland on horseback at dawn, with the wind in your hair and the sea spray from the Atlantic in your face. Sounds exciting? Well, you can make it happen with our awesome horse-riding adventures available on our 11 Day Tour.
If galloping sounds a little fast, don’t worry, as our tours cater for all levels of experience and age groups. Beginners can walk and trot gently up the foothills of the Dingle mountains at a leisurely pace to take in the sights. We will take the more experienced riders on the canter tracks to get the adrenaline pumping and the hearts racing.
Irish Experience Tours can also take you horse-riding in wild Connemara as part of our 10-Day Tour and our 6-Day Tour (ask about our special offers). Professional guides will lead you along the beach between the wild Atlantic and the 12 Bens Mountains. Again, don’t worry if you are not an experienced rider.
To totally slow it down and really relax, why not go for a peaceful horse-and-cart ride through the stunning Gap of Dunloe outside Killarney in the southwest. The views here are truly special and we guarantee you will not be disappointed. You can find out more about this option on our Kingdom Explorer Tour.
Bike-Riding (Cycling) in Ireland
When the weather is bright and fine, cycling has to be one of the most effective ways of directly experiencing the unmistakable charm of rural, natural Ireland. From narrow and winding country roads to the lush and rugged expanses of our national parks, to our dedicated greenways – these are just some of the routes on offer across our great island.
Cruising through Killarney National Park on a bike is a magnificent way to spend a few hours in one of the most beautiful locations in the country. Ride to Ross Castle at sunset, swing past the old copper mines and Dinis Cottage, or check out Muckross House and Gardens. This is a family-friendly cycle in a majestic setting that is accessible all year round. Killarney has many route options to take advantage of, with awesome sights like the Gap of Dunloe, The Black Valley, Molls Gap and Ladies View. For the more adventurous, why not tackle the legendary 170km Ring of Kerry? If that’s a bit too much by bike, let us drive you.
Other cycling options with Irish Experience Tours include Donegal’s Glenveagh National Park, a remote wilderness with a beauty that will stay with you forever once you witness it. Come and visit the castle on the edge of Lough Veagh and take in the wonderful surroundings from the saddle in this unforgettable part of Ireland.
Another gem of a cycling route is the Greenway in County Mayo, a pristine 42km stretch of the disused railway line between the towns of Achill and Westport. Along the route lie superb views of Clew Bay and Achill Island with many nearby attractions like Croagh Patrick and Westport House.
West Galway on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is another superb location for cycling. The Connemara Cycling Loop is a 150km route with several shorter loops en route if you prefer to take it easy. We recommend breaking up the route over three or four days and taking in the nearby attractions to make the most of your Irish experience tour.
Valentia Island in Kerry is up there with the best cycling experiences. Let us take you to the Kingdom of Kerry as you saddle up for an adventure of a lifetime. Explore the island on your bike with stunning views of the famous Skellig Islands (UNESCO World Heritage site and Star Wars filming location).
For a glimpse at the true Ireland, visit the Aran Islands with us by ferry, and cycle around the legendary Inis Oirr (the smallest and least inhabited island). This is a Gaelic-speaking wonder, full of jaw-dropping scenery, ancient low stone walls and local characters. According to many, this remote wonderland is best explored by bike.
Surfing and Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Ireland
If you’ve never heard of “Blue Flag” beaches, you should know they are only awarded to the most pristine, unspoilt stretches of coastline in the world, and Ireland is proud to have more than 80 such beaches. Many of these lie on the west coast of our rugged island, also famous for its surf and watersports. Irish Experience Tours bring you the best water activities on Ireland’s best beaches.
If huge waves are your thing, you need to get in touch with Irish Experience Tours and let us take you to some of the best spots in the country. For beginners, you can learn to surf on beaches like Inch on the Dingle Peninsula (County Kerry) as well as the unbelievable Lahinch in County Clare. Both are spectacular Blue Flag beaches and are suited to learning and experimenting, especially in summer, with patient instructors in safe environments. Group rates are available so get in touch with us for the best rates.
For those of you inclined towards flatter and calmer conditions, get on your boards and grab your oars and we’ll take you Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding. Dingle is a great spot for this activity, and again it is accessible to all. Beginners get longer, wider boards starting out.
Irish Experience Tours can also bring you boarding in wild Connemara on the west coast of Galway. SUP Boarding is a great way to see the sights in a relaxing and tranquil setting.
Eco Trips in Ireland
If you are an animal lover or a sea lover, you are in for the treat of a lifetime with these specialised trips. Come with us on an eco-tour in some of the most remote and striking areas on the Irish coastline. We use the best Irish wildlife tour specialists for the ultimate in nature experiences.
One of our most popular eco-tours is around Dingle Bay and the Blasket Islands where you can see an awesome variety of sea creatures like whales and dolphins, as well as loads of wild birds. Come with us and see the amazing puffins and incredible diving gannets in their natural habitat off the southwest coast.
Staying in County Kerry, the Skellig Islands Eco Tour is another highly recommended trip. Famous for its UNESCO heritage status from its monastic history, and as a Star Wars filming location, the Skellig Islands are home to the second-largest gannet colony in the world. Watching a gannet plunging into a shoal from a great height is a sight to behold. Other birds usually on display include puffins, terns, guillemots, herring gulls and cormorants.
Moving up the west coast, the Aran Islands Eco Tour gives you a fantastic perspective of the Cliffs of Moher as you take in the natural wildlife of the island’s ecosystems.
Stargazing in Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve
For something to see after the sun has set, why not get down to Kerry’s dark sky reserve. Kerry is one of only three gold-tier dark sky reserves on the planet, the only one in the northern hemisphere, and Ireland’s first. This means that on clear nights, the view of the night sky in this region is simply stunning due to minimal light pollution.
See the Milky Way in all her glory as well as many more astronomical sights like the Andromeda galaxy, star clusters and nebula. Constellations can be viewed showing many more stars visible to the naked eye than many other vantage points across the globe. So, if stargazing is in your sights, contact us and book your next group tour today.
Activity Prices
Great Western Greenway – Bike hire and bus shuttle to starting points €40pp
The World Class Great Western Greenway (Westport – Achill) is a 42km traffic-free cycling facility that primarily follows the line of the famous Great Western Midlands Railway, which closed in 1937.
Its development has been made possible by the agreement of local landowners who have allowed permissive access to users to pass through their lands.
The route offers gentle gradients and some of the most idyllic scenery in the West of Ireland. The route forms part of the National Cycle Network and is the longest off-road cycling experience in the Country.
Bike around Connemara loop – Bike hire and bike drop off /collection €50pp
West Galway and Connemara, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is a superb location for cycling.
This is a Gaelic-speaking wonderland full of jaw-dropping scenery, ancient low stone walls
and pretty, rural villages.
Many visitors and locals agree that this remote wonderland is best
explored by bike. Some popular loop tours include Errislannan Loop (14km), Sky Road Loop (16km),
Ballyconneely and Roundstone Loop (40km). Ranging from 1 to 3+ hours, there is something
for everyone. Cycling is truly a fantastic way to combine exercise and sightseeing in wild Connemara.
Kayaking Killary Fjord – €60pp
The amazing Killary Fjord is one of only three glacial fjords in Ireland. At 16km long, it forms a natural border between counties Galway and Mayo (something had to keep those two ancient rivals apart), and it is more than 45 metres deep at its centre.
Rugged, beautiful mountains rise dramatically skyward from every direction – Mweelrea Mountain towers at 814 metres on its the northern shore, the Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Bens to the rocky south.
Kayaking the Lakes of Killarney – €55pp
Kayaking in Killarney. Discover the hidden beauty of the Lakes of Killarney with a gentle kayak adventure exploring the incredible history of Ross Castle and experiencing the lakes unique wild nature.
This mesmerizing kayak tour is the best way to experience the Lakes of Killarney and offers you a real unique insight into the historical importance of Ross Castle. We will also delve into how its surrounding landscape was formed and observe its beautiful nature close at hand.
Kayaking Dingle Harbour – €50pp
Enjoy a half-day’s sea kayaking in Dingle Harbour, see Fungi the Dolphin at the mouth of the harbour and explore some of the many sea caves. This trip is available to all – beginners to advanced paddlers. Although not physically demanding, it provides a great introduction to sea kayaking, covering basic kayaking skills. Sunset kayaking can also be arranged. Experience the peaceful waters of Dingle Harbour and Dingle Bay at their most tranquil at the end of the day. It is not arduous but as well as visiting Fungi and sea caves, it also covers basic kayaking skills. Times dependent on time of Sunset.
Half-Day Rock Climbing at the Sea Cliffs in Dingle – €60
The sea cliffs of Dunsheane (Dun Seanna) are just 4km/ 2.5 mls from Dingle town, they over a variety of over 40 rock climbing routes, from easy rock climbs to extreme grades. There are plenty of beginner-friendly routes for us to do here, we start we the easy climbs and progress. It is an ideal location for Rock climbing and abseiling as it is south facing it is a great sun trap and dry’s very quickly after showers. There is a platform at the bottom which you abseil/rappel down to and then climb back up one of the many rock climbs. All the routes we do will be done with a top rope set up as our instructors as belayers. Run with min of 2 people.
Biking through Killarney National Park – €20pp
Muckross, in the heart of Killarney National Park is an ideal location for a days cycling. Leaving Killarney town, cycling along the Muckross road and over the Flesk bridge. At this point you can cross the road to the cycling path which will lead you directly into the National Park. Bear in mind that Jaunting cars and walkers also use this path.
The paths travels alongside the raod for about a kilometre, before veering right into the Yew Valley Wood and towards the 15th century Muckross Abbey. Take time at the abbey and explore the well-preserved ruins and vaulted cloister.
From here, travel on past Muckross Traditional Farms and the fine Victorian mansion that is Muckross House. Beyond Muckross House lies the famous Torc Waterfall. You’ll need to walk for 5-10 minutes from the road to see the waterfall.
Lakes of Killarney boat trip & Gap of Dunloe bike tour combo – €45pp
A great day out and one of the best ways to experience Killarney National Park. After picking up your bike at either Beech Road or Muckross you cycle through Knockreer Park to Ross Castle to arrive at the pier for approximately 10.30am. From here you will have a guided trip through Killarney Famous lakes via the long range to Lord Brandon’s Cottage. From there you leave the boats behind and cycle back to Killarney via the Black Valley and the famous Gap of Dunloe.
Leave the modern world behind you and begin your journey into the Gap of Dunloe. The road slowly rises into the gap at first before settling into a familiar undulating pattern. The Gap is guarded on both sides by the magnificent McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range. To the west is Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil. Soon will we arrive at the base of Strickeen mountain. Strickeen is a popular walking route that has a well-defined path that zig zags its way to the summit.
Learn to Play Gaelic Hurling – €20pp
The Ultimate Kilkenny Experience starts off with a 90 minute hurling tour. Learn about the most passionate, skillful & fastest game on the planet. Learn the skills and find out about the history of our national sport. You would be mad to visit Ireland and not try our unique and ferocious sport. You will learn about the history of Hurling and how it has evolved into the fastest field game in the world, that we see today. This is all done in a Hurling team’s dressing room in Kilkenny City, giving you that up-close, intense experience. Once you are up-to-date on the basics of the game, we take you on to the ‘field of dreams’ to try a few skills for yourself. This will be an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory of each guest.
Black Taxi Tour Belfast – €40 for 1 to 2 people – €15pp for 3 plus
Why not enjoy an escorted tour of Greater Belfast’s historical sites. Let our experienced driver take you on a journey back in time to explore the many places of interest. You choose what you want to see or simply leave it to the driver.
The political murals of the Falls and the Shankill tell their own graphic story of what has been called “The Troubles” in Ireland’s recent history. See the infamous Peaceline, a wall built to keep Nationalists and Loyalists apart and in the process divided the communities.
These Victorian buildings played a major part in the conflict in Ireland for over 160 years, convicting, imprisoning and even executing many of those in the war. These buildings have witnessed the uncovering of many ruthless killings and bombings and have seen many escape attempts.
Full Optional Activity Breakdown:
BELFAST
Black Cab Tour
£25.00
Guided tour of historic Belfast. Highly Recommended.
Titanic Experience
£18.50
Self-guided tour of the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience.
Bushmills Distillery Tour
£15.00
Guided walking tour of the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery.
Westport
Westport Bike Hire
€50.00
Bike the Great Western Greenway from Achill to Westport (optional distances)
Westport Clew Bay Cruise
€25.00
Cruise around Clew Bay and its 365 islands
Westport House
€20.00
Take a guided tour of the historical Westport House
Dingle
Dingle Sea Safari
€65.00
Rib Boat tour takes in the breathtaking majestic coastline of Dingle Bay.
Dingle Sea Kayaking
€55.00
Kayaking excursion around Dingle harbour and sea caves.
Dingle Horseriding
€55.00
Horse trek that takes you around the foothills of Ventry Bay.
Dingle Food Tours
€65.00
An exciting mix of tasting and sightseeing in Ireland’s No. 1 foodie town.
Dick Macks Brewery Tours
€25.00
Tours begin and end in the Taproom with a generous sampling of our latest beer.
Ring of Kerry
Skellig Islands Cruise
€50.00
Cruise around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. 2hr 30 mins
Killarney
Horse-Drawn Jaunting Tour
€20.00
A horse-drawn carriage ride around Killarney National Park.
Bike Rental for National Park
€20.00
Enjoy an exhilarating bike ride around the trails of Killarney National Park.
Ross Castle Tour
€5.00
Take a guided tour on the haunting Ross Castle.
Gap of Dunloe & Lakes Tour
€45.00
Catch an open boat up through the 3 lakes of Killarney and hike or bike down through the valley.
Kilkenny
St Canice’s Cathedral
€7.00
Self-guided tour of historic cathedral and round tower.
Smithwicks Brewery Tour
€25.00
Guided tour of Smithwick’s brewery in Kilkenny. Estd. 1710.
Medieval Museum
€7.00
Historic exhibition including a 13th-century chamber.
Ros Tapestry
€8.00/€7.00
Exhibition of a large-scale embroidered tapestry depicting Norman history
Kilkenny Castle
€8.00
Self-guided tour of 12th-century Kilkenny Castle.
Aran Islands
Aran Islands Boat Transfer
€45.00
Boat transfer to/from Aran Islands
Aran Islands Bike Hire
€25.00 to €45.00
Bike around the island at your own pace – ebikes are available
Aran Islands Bus Hire
€25.00
Bus around the island with a local guide