Highlights of Ireland

Day 1 - The Causeway Coastal Route

Firstly meeting in the bustling Belfast city, your guide will bring you along on a drive of the renowned Causeway Coastal Route to get an authentic introduction to Ireland’s dramatic views. The driving route is 130 miles long and has many historical and cultural landmarks. You’ll stop for a delicious lunch along the way to get acquainted with your new friends. After lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a working sheep farm. As you step onto the farm, you’ll be greeted by the sights & sounds of the bustling agricultural operation that has been a way of life for many people for centuries. (L, D)

Day 2 - The Giants Causeway

Hiking along the Giants Causeway is a scenic and rewarding experience for hikers and geology enthusiasts. As you approach the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giants Causeway, you’ll see why it inspires several tales in Irish folklore. According to local legend, the Giants Causeway was created by two rival giants flinging rocks at each other across the sea. But the official scientific explanation attributes this site of thousands of basalt columns to ancient volcanic activity, formed some 50 million years ago. Leaving the Giants Causeway, you will begin your ramble to Dunservick. This route takes you along the stunning coastline of Northern Ireland, passing by rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. (B, L, D)

Hike Details: 5 miles/8km | approx. 4 hours.

Day 3 - The City of Derry

The city of Derry is awash with historical and cultural significance, and every trip there is complete with a walk along the city walls. Derry’s walls are one of Europe’s best-preserved examples of 17th-century fortifications, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s tumultuous past. A local guide will lead you along the walls to give you a unique perspective on their significance in different periods of history. Additionally, the Walls of Derry offer panoramic views of the city and the River Foyle. From the mural-filled city of Derry, you will travel to the countryside of Donegal, where you will be staying that night. (B, L, D)

Hike Details: 2 miles/3km | approx. 2 hours.

Day 4 - Folk Village at Glencolmcille

Start your day with a gorgeous coastal loop walk, stopping at historical monuments such as the Martello Tower and a Megalithic Tomb, and stopping at various viewpoints to witness the rugged coastline and sea cliffs across the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Notably, along this route is the Folk Village at Glencolmcille, which will give you a real insight into what life was like in Ireland in the 18th – 20th Centuries. From its thatched cottages to its authentic artefacts, this experience will give you a real sense of how our Irish ancestors lived. (B, L)

Hike Details: 6 miles/10km | approx. 5 hours.

Day 5 - Knocknarea & Strandhill

Knocknarea is a large hill steeped in mythology and folklore, with local legends suggesting it is the burial place of the warrior queen Maeve. Hiking to the summit of Knocknarea offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Carrowmore is a megalithic burial site which offers a fascinating glimpse of Ireland’s prehistoric past and a chance to marvel at our ancestors’ engineering and architectural achievements. Enjoy a tasty lunch in Strandhill, an area renowned for its surfing spots, with epic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. You are finishing your evening in Westport, a coastal town filled with stunning natural beauty and a vibrant cultural scene. (B, L, D)

Hike Details: 2.5 miles/4km | approx. 2 hours.

Day 6 - Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is steeped in religious and cultural importance, mainly tied to Ireland’s patron Saint, St. Patrick. It is said that St. Patrick retreated to Croagh Patrick to fast for the 40 days of Lent. Walking along the foot of Croagh Patrick, along the pilgrimage trail known as Tochair Phadraig, allows you to enjoy the tranquillity and a breath of fresh air away from the busyness of everyday life. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a burst of lively traditional Irish music in Westport, where you can relax with a pint by the warm fire or join in on the session. (B, L)

Hike Details: 5 miles/9km | approx. 5 hours.

Day 7 - Tour of Galway City

Galway City is loved by locals and visitors alike. It has the quaint feel of a rural town but all the facilities and culture of a large city. Begin your tour of Galway city by meeting a local historian who will gladly lead you through Galway’s historical landmarks, cultural hotspots and hidden gems. After a two-hour guided city tour, you can enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Afterwards, you will be taken to your comfortable accommodation in Co. Clare for a peaceful night’s sleep. (B, L, D)

Hike Details: 2 miles/3km | approx. 2 hours.

Day 8 - The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks along the Wild Atlantic Way and for good reason. The cliffs were formed over 320 million years ago and are consistently one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions due to their dramatic beauty and rugged nature. You may even have seen them before in films such as Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and also The Princess Bride. Beginning your hike from the rural town of Liscannor, you will venture along the cliffs and breathe in the sea air while taking in the impressive views along the cliff edge. On your way to Doolin, you’ll stop at O’Briens Tower and the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, which will allow you to learn about this region’s geology, wildlife, history, flora and fauna. Once you reach Doolin, you can relax in one of its many well-known bars and restaurants. (B, L)

Hike Details: 6 miles/10km | approx. 5 hours.

Day 9 - Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is full of breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks to explore. Your hike today brings you through a section of the Kerry Way, strolling past dense woodlands, fields of grazing livestock, and sparkling lakes toward Torc Mountain. Arriving at Torc Waterfall, one of Killarney’s hidden gems, you’ll be in awe at the sheer force of the water tumbling down from the mountain. End the hike with a visit to Muckross House, a 19th-century Victorian mansion set against Killarney National Park’s beautiful backdrop. (B, L)

Hike Details: 4.5 miles/7.5km | approx. 4 hours.

Day 10 - The Kerry Way

Continuing on the Kerry Way, you’ll follow the Old Kenmare Road hike, which is a place of tranquillity and solitude even during the busy summer season. This route was once the main road connecting Killarney to Kenmare in the 19th century. It cuts through the Killarney National Park, offering spectacular views of enchanting woodlands and dazzling lakes. This evening, you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner and drink together in a local restaurant, celebrating the week’s hiking achievements. If you’re lucky, you may even have the opportunity to enjoy some local traditional music. (B, L, D)

Hike Details: 6 miles/10km | approx. 5 hours.

Day 11 - Ross Castle & Departure

After breakfast, enjoy the most well-known historic site that Killarney National Park offers. Ross Castle overlooks Lough Leane and is surrounded by charming gardens. It dates back to the 15th century and is associated with many significant events, including the Nine Years’ War and the Williamite War. After exploring Ross Castle,  it’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, and our guide will drop you off at Killarney train station. (B)