Small-group tours from Dublin by Irish local tour guides

On our small-group tours from Dublin led by Irish local tour guides, we take you through centuries of Irish history and to some of the most stunning natural highlights that southern Ireland has to offer. Discover the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, and the Dingle Peninsula.

You also get the chance to visit Cahir Castle, admire the impressive Rock of Cashel and overnight in Ireland’s Ancient East on this heritage tour of Ireland led by Irish local tour guides. This ten-day itinerary is packed full of Irish cultural experiences, including two nights in Connemara, Dingle and Killarney. This gives guests plenty of spare time to head off on their own journeys of discovery.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Enjoy a sheepdog demo on a working Irish sheep farm.
Opt to take a boat trip around the amazing Skellig Islands.
Feel the magic and see stunning sights on the world-famous Ring of Kerry.
Travel back in time with visits to both Cahir Castle and the Rock of Cashel.
Discover the lively tribal city of Galway & it’s buskers
Opt to experience the Gaelic-speaking island of Inis Mor by bike, bus or pony & trap.
Visit the impressive Cliffs of Moher with an optional scenic hike.
Discover Irish crafts and “the craic” in Dingle, a harbor town of great charm and superb traditional pubs.
Explore the ancient woodlands of Killarney National Park.
Visit the ancient settlement of Glendalough.
Embrace the art of Irish storytelling led by your Irish local tour guides.
Walk in the footsteps of witches on the medieval mile in Kilkenny City
Catch fantastic live Irish music performances and meet friendly locals.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

10 Full days on tour
Overnights: Clifden x 2, Killarney x 2, Dingle x 2, Westport x 1, Doolin x 1, Kilkenny x 1
Services of a highly-trained and professional Irish Experience tour guide
9 delicious and hot filling Irish breakfasts
10 Full days in a luxury touring vehicle
Guided tour of Killarney National Park
Experience traditional Irish music sessions in local cosy pubs
Sheep Dog demonstration in a locally run family farm
Entrance fee to Glendalough, Rock of Cashel, Westport House, Kylemore Abbey, Cahir Castle and Cliffs of Moher
Ferry journey across the River Shannon
Leisure time to pursue independent interests
Easygoing walks or activities for all levels of fitness (optional)
All relevant taxes

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

Lunch and dinner

Food and Drinks

Gratuities (optional)

Flights

Travel Insurance (Can be booked via Nomads HERE)

Dublin Accommodation pre or post tour

Any flexible and optional activities named below

Wild Irish Experience (10 Days)

Dates & Availability	From EUR €1999

ITINERARY:

DAY 1: DUBLIN TO WESTPORT REGION

Leave the capital and enjoy the scenic journey to Ireland’s most beautiful region of Westport, in the West of Ireland.

This morning as we drive 3 .5 hours across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, your driver will keep you entertained by easing travelers into a gentle exploration of some of the country’s untouched terrain. Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands encompass a region full of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.

After arriving in Westport and checking -in, spend the rest of the day wandering the town’s colorful streets, visiting friendly pubs and cafes and craft shops. Or opt to do the following;

Choose to climb Croagh Patrick – Ireland’s Holy Mountain – a 3.5-hour climb from 3pm to 7 pm
Or hire a bike and discover the amazing Great Western Greenway from Achill Island to Westport – 45km – 4 pm to 8 pm (can also be made shorter)
Although you will be visiting Westport House the next day, you can still head for a ramble around the grounds and gardens. Its riverside location sits amid manicured gardens and offers incredible views overlooking Clew Bay and up towards Croagh Patrick – Ireland’s Holy Mountain.
Opt to take a 90 mins cruise, and explore the World Famous Clew Bay; its 365 islands, seal colony, and Inishgort Lighthouse, the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick & John Lennon’s Island.
There’s an endless number of pubs in Westport. From tourist favorites, like Matt Molloy’s, to often-missed spots, like Toby’s, there’s a pub to tickle every fancy.
The next morning, after a full Irish breakfast, you will be brought on a wonderful tour of one of Ireland’s most scenic regions – Connemara..

Overnight in Westport

DAY 2: WESTPORT TO CLIFDEN

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to meet your guide and head out for a tour of the Connemara Region

Enjoy a guided tour of Westport house. Explore historic Westport House one of County Mayo’s best-loved attractions with beautiful parklands, lakes, and a fascinating history of Westport House that goes back to the 1500s when the famous Pirate Queen of Connaught, Grace O’Malley, built one of her castles here.
Visit the foot of the ‘Holy Mountain’ – The epic pyramid-like figure of Croagh Patrick looms over Westport and boasts stunning views of Clew Bay.
Stop by the National Famine Memorial to pay your respects to the many people who died in the “Coffin Ships” that set sail from Ireland in the desperate hope of escaping to a better life.
Drive through the breathtaking Doolough Valley and learn of its tragic and haunting past
Before lunch, we’ll drive through the scenic Delphi Valley to the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, and the village of Leenane.
Speaking of lunch, how does a feast of mussels – plucked straight from the local fjord – sound…?
Continue our journey to Clifden via Sky Road arguably the most beautiful corner of the Connemara region, with some of the most rugged and varied scenery in the county.
Listen to toe-tapping Irish music in local iconic bars with Irish music playing seven nights a week in season

Overnight in Clifden

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

DAY 3: FULL DAY CONNEMARA

We spend another day and night in the wilderness of Connemara, so you don’t need to repack your suitcase. Just relax and enjoy.

Meet your guide and head out for a tour of the Connemara Region

Drop by Connemara National Park for an optional gentle hike around Diamond Hill for phenomenal views of Connemara.
Visit Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s most beautiful buildings, and wander Kylemore’s wonderful landscaped gardens.
Discover the picture-postcard beauty of the Inagh Valley & Sky Road.
Arrive back in Clifden by the late afternoon to soak up this quaint town’s colorful atmosphere in the heart of Connemara.
Accommodation tonight is once again in Connemara

Overnight in Clifden

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

DAY 4: GALWAY CITY, THE BURREN REGION & DOOLIN (ARAN ISLANDS)

Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way with your driver/guide via Galway Bay & The Burren Region

From Clifden, we continue our journey through the lush rolling hills and patchwork farmland as we traverse the famous lake of the Connemara Region towards Galway City.
For several hours you can soak up the famous colorful atmosphere around the tribal city of Galway – the busker music, the cobblestone lanes, the contemporary flair that blends well with its medieval past, and of course, the oysters..
After lunch it’s time to explore the lunar landscape of the Burren and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Your first photo stop is at the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle on the outskirts of Kinvara. One of the most photographed castles in the whole of Ireland.
Then it’s on through the glacial-karst landscape of the Burren and past Corcomroe Abbey.
You will follow the Coast Road with views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, making a short stop to walk on the lunar-like landscape of the Burren
Arrive in Doolin village in the late afternoon with plenty of time to visit the local craft shops, colorful cafes, and lively pubs.

*At an extra expense, it’s also possible to spend a whole day on the Gaelic-speaking island of Inis Mor. You’ll be dropped off at Rossaveal in County Galway to catch a 40 min boat trip to the island (€40 return). On the island, you can choose to explore the island by bus with a local guide or by bike. (€20 to €25). You will return on a 60 min boat trip to Doolin in County Clare, where you’ll be met at the pier by your driver/guide.

DAY 5: THE MIGHTY CLIFFS OF MOHER & KERRY FARM TOUR

From the mighty cliffs to the magical kingdom as we move from Clare to Kerry.

Don’t look down, it’s the 700ft high Cliffs of Moher – a must-stop on this small group tour of Ireland.
Watch out for dolphins as we take a ferry across the mighty mouth of the Shannon – the longest river in Ireland or Britain!
Enjoy a spectacular sheepdog demonstration on a locally run farm.
Drive over Ireland’s highest mountain road, The Conor Pass.
Roll into bustling Dingle just in time for a creamy pint of Guinness.
Overnight in Dingle.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

DAY 6: DISCOVER DINGLE & STUNNING SLEA HEAD

This morning you will meet up with your professional driver/guide, where jaw-dropping scenery and knife-edge drops are guaranteed on a leisurely drive around Slea Head.

After lunch is yours to design. Relax with downtime in Dingle. Or partake of the following options:

By boat discover the historic Dingle Bay (Tour Option – €15-20 per person).
Take a guided craft tour of a working Irish crystal studio.
Sample craft Irish whiskey and gin at Dingle Distillery (Tour Option – €15 per person).
Stroll Dingle’s streets for a quirky mix of craft studios, lively pubs, fantastic food, and traditional Irish music.

The average driving time today is 1 hour 30 minutes.

DAY 7: RING OF KERRY & COASTAL ISLANDS

Today we’re touring the scenic Ring of Kerry route, circuiting the Iveragh peninsula from Dingle to Killarney

Explore 1400 years of history on a boat trip around the Skellig Islands (Tour Option – €40 per person). Seasonal departures: May to September.
Get a taste of local Irish culture, history, and ice cream on Valentia Island.
Discover Derrynane, historic home (Tour Option – €5 per person) and golden sand beach.
Your accommodation is the centrally-located at the edge of Killarney National Park

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

DAY 8: KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK

Explore Killarney at your leisure

Take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride around Killarney National Park (Tour Option – €15 per person).
See the magical 1,000-year-old yew tree growing at the heart of ruined Muckross Abbey.
Catch traditional Irish music and outstanding local food in picturesque Killarney.
Scenic, short hike to Torc Waterfall.
Admire charming 19th century Muckross House Gardens.
Your accommodation is the centrally-located at the edge of Killarney National Park

The average driving time today is 1 hour.

DAY 9: CAHIR CASTLE , ROCK OF CASHEL AND MEDIEVAL KILKENNY

This morning after a hearty breakfast we depart Killarney for Cahir Castle.

Our morning drive takes through the heart of North Cork. Passing through many colourful small towns and villages, and lush Irish countryside.
Cahir Castle, on the river tSuir, is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved medieval castles. It has featured in productions like Excalibur and The Tudors.
Tour the epic Rock of Cashel with its stunning natural setting and historic architecture.
Arriving in the medieval city of Kilkenny, you will have the opportunity for a self-guided walking tour around the medieval mile. Meet the witch Dame Alice Kyteler, rhymes, taverns, crime, punishments and much more.
Enjoy some free time in Kilkenny to explore the medieval mile, craft studios, cafés and numerous quaint independent shops.
Sample Ireland’s famous nightlife and musical culture in Kilkenny.

Overnight in Kilkenny

Drive time today is 3 hours approx

DAY 10: MEDIEVAL KILKENNY & ANCIENT GLENDALOUGH

Before we say goodbye to our small group tour of Ireland, there’s still time for some of Ireland’s top highlights, your tour takes in some amazing sights on the journey from Kilkenny to Dublin.

Discover the delights of Kilkenny– One of Ireland’s oldest city.
Enjoy some free time in Kilkenny to explore the medieval mile, craft studios, cafés and numerous quaint independent shops.
Take a self-guided cathedral tour at St. Canice’s (Tour Option – €7 per person).
Cross the wilderness of Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Explore the 6th-century monastery of Glendalough.
Disembark your tour vehicle back at the Ashling Hotel in Dublin between 5-6 pm

This is where your easygoing experience of Ireland comes to an end – we hope you had a blast!

The average driving time today is 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Wild Irish Experience (10 Days)

Dates & Availability	From EUR €1999

Frequently asked questions

It’s very important to us that you have all your questions answered about our 10-Day Wild Irish Experience Tour. We’ve collected some of the questions we get asked most often and answered them below. Or visit our general FAQ page here for more answers!

And if you still can’t find the answers you need, give us a call or send us an email and we’ll help you out!

What time and where do the tours depart from?

All of our tours depart from Jurys Inn Hotel, Parnell Street Dublin

Our pick-up times from the Hotel are at 8.45 am.

All of our tours arrive at the Ashling Hotel, 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8

Our drop-off times at the Hotel are at 6.30 pm approx.

Or if you book a tour with a train transfer on the last day, to Dublin Heuston, Heuston Station, St John’s Rd W, Dublin

Our arrival times at the train station are 6.30 pm. (You can choose an earlier arrival time by train if you wish)

How Do I Get From Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre/Tour Start Point??

Please click on link below

DUBLIN AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE

Which accommodations do you recommend near to start/drop off point?

The tour will depart at 8.45 am at Jurys Inn on Parnell Street, Dublin City Centre, and end at 6.30 pm approx at The Ashling Hotel OR Heuston station.

Hotel/B&Bs near pick-up point:

Point A Hotel, The Wynns Hotel, Tom, Dick & Harriet’s Acc, The Kingfisher Townhouse, The Charles Stewert B&B, Cassidys Hotel, Parkway B&B, Academy Plaza Hotel, Holiday Inn Express City Centre, The Gate Hotel, Castle Hotel, The Belvedere Hotel, The Maldron Hotel (Parnell Square), Temple House North Great apartments and Halfpenny Bridge Holiday Homes.

Hotel/B&Bs near the drop-off point:

Ashling Hotel, Phoenix Park Hotel, Maldron Hotel Smithfield, McGettigans Townhouse, Generator Quality Hostel, Hilton Hotel Kilmainham, The Hendrick Smithfield

Third-party websites such as Booking.com, Trivago, b&bireland.com or Hostelworld (which also has B&Bs) offer very competitive rates that are more often than not, better than any tour operator rates.

What is the accommodation like? Where will we stay?

Depending on which accommodation package you choose; You will stay in a variety of accommodations all carefully selected to ensure that each place offers a new experience.

B&B/Guesthouse Accommodation

B&Bs in the Republic of Ireland are rated on a 2-5 scale, and all meet the Fáilte Ireland minimum standards. B&Bs in Northern Ireland are not rated under a star system but are

inspected by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and so are of a satisfactory level of comfort and service. Guesthouses on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-4 scale.

We only use 3 to 4 stars.

You’ll find here 3 types of accommodation that we use.

Townhouse

The choice of townhouse B&Bs runs from detached, and semi-detached to large period houses in a

city, town, or village. Many are in an ideal location for city visits and shopping, they are often close to train and bus services.

Country home

Country homes are those in a rural setting. They offer a wide selection of premises such as Georgian residences, modern bungalows, and traditional Irish homes.

All with modern amenities, facilities, and adequate garden and green surrounds

Historic houses

Historic houses are private houses of significant historical and architectural merit and character.

They are based in towns and rural settings.

Most guest accommodation includes a private bathroom with a bath and/or shower. TV with remote control and tea/coffee facilities.

Hotel classification

Hotels on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-5 star scale. We only use 3 to 4 star

3 stars

This ranges from small family-run hotels to larger city hotels. Every guest room will have a private bathroom. 3-star restaurants prepare food to high standards in a relaxed atmosphere.

4 stars

This includes contemporary hotels and period houses to the highest standards with all modern comforts. Accommodation is luxurious, with suites available. These hotels also house

restaurants that dish out excellent food and service.

Are private rooms available?

All rooms are private with a private bathroom – twin room, double room, single room and family rooms

A twin room is a room with 2 single beds, whilst a double room has 1 large bed suited for two people. Both rooms are designed for double occupancy. A single room is a single bed, designed for single occupancy.

How old are the people on your tours?

We get a pretty wide range of age groups on our tours, anywhere from people in their 30s to 70s. In any case, we reckon it’s more about attitude than age, which is why social dynamics usually work so well. If you love the idea of getting out into the most incredible landscapes on the island of Ireland, with your feet on the ground rather than looking out of a coach window all day, and you enjoy your creature comforts — we know you will love our trips!

Do you need any outdoors experience for these trips?

You certainly don’t need any technical outdoor experience to enjoy your Irish Experience trip. If you enjoy being out and about in the outdoors and are a generally active person who enjoys hobbies like walking, cycling, golf, tennis, or dancing then you will have no problems at all with the walks and activities on your trip. Remember all walks and activities are optional.

If your trip has kayaking as an option on it there’s no need for you to have ever been kayaking before. The kayaking is suitable for beginners and you will be in double sea kayaks, which are very stable. A specialist kayak guide will teach you everything you need to know before you head out and will be with you out on the water.

If your trip has biking on it you will need some biking experience to complete the bike ride on your trip. The trails we bike on are undulating gravel tracks that are rated as “easy” trail rides but you’ll need to have done some biking before to comfortably and safely take part in the bike rides. The activities on our trips are very flexible and many of our guests opt to walk instead of bike. The trails we bike on are shared walking/biking trails so you’ll be able to enjoy a walk with your guide if you prefer.

The same goes for horse riding as an option on your trip. Beginner or advanced rider, fast-paced jaunt or relaxing leisure trek, there’s something to suit you. There’s no pressure to go fast. Relax and take in the scenic locations. More experienced riders may be offered the chance to canter or even gallop. All of our horseback riding experiences are fully guided and safety-approved. Our trusted suppliers are local, family-operated businesses. They have the utmost concern for animal welfare.

Do I bring a suitcase or backpack?

Either is fine, it’s up to you! We ask that you bring only one large backpack/suitcase (25kg) and a day pack. If you are going to be travelling with a lot more than 25kg, then please let us know.

Are there any laundry facilities along the way for the longer tours?

Laundry facilities can be accessed during the two-night stays in Westport, Killarney, Dingle, and Clifden.

Your guide will advise you on where best to access laundry facilities

Is a deposit required and when is the balance due?

All multi-day tours have a €150 deposit.

The final payment of the remainder is due 30 days before the departure date or on the date of booking if within 30 days of the departure date. Failure to pay the remainder within 3 days of this payment notice may result in the booking being canceled.

Please see our terms and conditions for full deposit and payment details

What happens if I need to cancel?

We take a €150 deposit and this is fully transferrable! We will transfer your deposit to any other trip or trip date as long as we have availability

Our cancellation policy is:

Following your payment of part or all of the Fees, if you cancel your Tour:
(a) more than 30 days prior to the start date of the Tour, the Deposit is non-refundable (can be deferred to another tour).
A full refund (excl. deposit); and
(b) within 30 days from the start date of the Tour, the Deposit is non-refundable (cannot be deferred to another tour). No refund.
If you cancel on the start date of the Tour or any time thereafter (including by leaving the Tour) or you do not show up for the Tour, you will be liable to pay the Fee in full and no refund will be made to you. We will notify you as soon as possible if we need to suspend or reschedule a Tour.

Additional information

Departure Point	8.30am: Jurys Inn, Moore St Plaza, Parnell St, Store Street, Dublin, Ireland
End Point	17.30pm: Ashling Hotel, 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8
Group Size	2 Min 16 Max

OPTION 1:

B&B (Bed and Breakfast or Guest House)

The real Irish B&B experience is the opportunity to stay in a local family-run business. You will be greeted with the warmest of Irish welcomes. They are great value for money, with a real small hotel experience.

Private rooms – single, twin, double and family rooms available
3* and above rating
Small, locally run and independently owned accommodation
Low-cost, quality private accommodation
En-suite guaranteed
Breakfast provided

OPTION 2:

Original Irish Hotels

House Hotels & Irish Country Hotels, we work with a collection of unique owner-run hotels located in Ireland’s most outstanding destinations. Open the door to the magic of unmissable moments with Ireland’s leading collection of independent hotels.

Private rooms – single, twin, double and family rooms available
3* and 4* rating
On-site amenities
Breakfast provided
En-suite guaranteed

Please note:

B&B Single Supplement – is mandatory for solo travellers – Solo travellers must pay extra to have their private room.

B&B – Twin/Double Room Share – is automatically included when 2 travellers book together

What do twin/double and single mean?

Are family rooms available?

We always try to accommodate your needs. For any special requests, please contact us at info@irishexperiencetours.com or call us on +353 (0)86 160 6604

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at the time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurrence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

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

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 available

Aran Islands Bus Hire

€25.00

Bus around the island with a local guide

DINGLE

Dingle Sea Safari

€65.00

The Rib Boat tour takes in the breathtaking majestic coastline of Dingle Bay.

Dingle Sea Kayaking

€55.00

Kayaking excursion around Dingle harbor 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 Irelands’ 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 of the haunting Ross Castle.

The 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.

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or colleagues, our Private Trips are a great way to see the island of Ireland.

You get the same amazing Irish Experience itineraries—that are continually being refined and improved for you to enjoy with traveling companions of your choosing.

Your group will be supported by a team of creators who work closely with local activity & accommodation providers, to ensure you have a seamless experience.