Legends of The Southwest

Day 1 – Meet the Ghosts of Kinsale

Our first stop on our family adventure is the historical fishing town of Kinsale. Famous as the gourmet capital of Ireland, this colourful town is brimming with activity from art galleries to elegant yachts. Our accommodation is in a central location overlooking the sea. This evening, we’ll have a unique introduction to the town via a ghost tour led by local actors. You’ll learn about Kinsale’s vibrant history while meeting the colourful characters of Kinsale’s past as they come alive during an entertaining evening stroll through Kinsale. (L, D)

Day 2 – Smugglers, Forts & Battles

This morning, while listening to tales of conquests, wine smugglers and the town’s exotic local characters, we’ll head out along the coast with our guide. Set on the water’s edge, Charles Fort is one of the best-preserved examples of a 17th-century star-shaped fort and is associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. There are plenty of lookouts to climb to and tunnels to explore. We’ll all enjoy lunch in an award-winning local Irish pub. (B, L)

Day 3 – Sea Kayaking & Seashore Picnic

Kinsale was often visited by pirates over the centuries and today we’ll kayak along the seashore to where the pirates once landed. With the water lapping quietly at the side of our kayaks, and the seabed slowly passing by underneath the surface, enjoy this wonderfully relaxing way to travel. Your expert guide will provide guidance to everyone and set the standard of the trip to best suit your family. Weather permitting, we will all enjoy a picnic on the seashore. (B, L) 

Day 4 – The Ring of Kerry & Toy Factory

This morning, we transfer to the Kingdom of Kerry, stopping en route at the Toy Soldier Factory. The whole family will have the opportunity to make and paint their own figures, be it a model soldier, fairy, chess piece, animal or dozens of other choices. This is a great activity to get the whole family involved and come away with your very own creation. Afterwards, we’ll continue onto the famous Ring of Kerry to enjoy its panoramic vistas, arriving at our next accommodation overlooking the glittering Kenmare Bay. (B, L)

Day 5 – Fairies in the Woods

Today, take the time to enjoy your location in your own time. Your accommodation is perfectly set up for children, with activities galore and so much to explore. There’s a nature trail treasure hunt to complete, a playground to visit, an indoor play zone and of course the miniature fairy houses to find hidden in the woods. Parents can choose to enjoy the spa or any of the other activities on offer. Your guide will be on hand to assist with bookings, take people for a walk in the hills or go foraging along the seashore. (B) 

Day 6 – Skellig Michael

Today, we shall follow Kerry’s rugged coast to the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula where we’ll catch a boat on the Atlantic Ocean. Rising dramatically out of the crashing Atlantic are the jagged pinnacles of the Skellig Islands.* In ancient times, Skellig Michael was home to monks seeking solitude. At the island’s summit 714 ft (218m) above sea level, a remarkably well-preserved 6th-century monastic settlement clings to the steep slopes. However, today they are more well-known as part of a galaxy far, far away; this was the filming location for Star Wars Episodes VII and VIII. Get up close to these islands to encounter both the diverse island wildlife as well as the ancient historical sites. We’ll enjoy a celebratory final dinner together tonight. (B, L, D)

*Please note that the Skellig boats only run weather-permitting from May to September.

Day 7 – Departure

This morning we shall say goodbye to the wild, rugged coasts of West Cork and Kerry and transfer back to Killarney Train Station where you can transfer back to Dublin or stay on to explore Killarney National Park. If you prefer we can leave you to your chosen finishing point, be it the airport or Dublin City. (B)