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    Hiking

    Kerry & Clare

    17 review(s)

    Next Trip: 6th - 12th Apr 2024 Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

    From €2,020 View Prices & Dates

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    Trip created by Louise Kavanagh
    View Louise's Profile

    Region: West – Connemara, Burren & Aran Islands;South West – Cork & Kerry
    Trip Type: Hiking
    Accommodation: Classic
    Max Group Size: 8
    Confirmed: When 2 Travellers Book
    Deposit From: €505.00 €505.00

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    Carbon Footprint: 144kg ? What does this mean?
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    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

    Download Itinerary

    Wander the lush green woodlands of Killarney, explore the wild mountains of Beara, feel the thrill of the Burren’s craggy open spaces and walk along the majestic Cliffs of Moher. This trip offers some of the best hiking in the iconic counties of Kerry and Clare. Combining coastal beauty with green forests, windswept hills, exposed limestone and cheerful towns and villages, immerse yourself in the hidden corners of Ireland’s central west coast.

    Dig into Irish culture, including Irish trad music and the island’s ancient history and taste Ireland’s fresh, local cuisine each night paired with your tipple of choice. Visit a local traditional Irish pub that houses Ireland’s most extensive whiskey selection. Wander through mediaeval castles, walk past thundering waterfalls, and meander down ancient green roads lined with traditional dry-stone walls. Hike the ancient hills of the Caha Mountains and enjoy a relaxing boat trip across the lovely lakes of Killarney.

    Trip Highlights

    • Walk the entire length of the Cliffs of Moher
    • Hike the iconic regions of Killarney and the Burren
    • Enjoy a boat trip on the lakes of Killarney & a walking tour of Galway
    • Explore varied landscapes from forests to hills, coasts and exposed limestone

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Day 1 - Killarney National Park

    Making your own way across the island, meet your guide in the vibrant town of Killarney. Southwest Ireland has become a foodie hotspot in recent years, and your trip starts with a welcome lunch. Nestled on Killarney’s doorstep is Ireland’s first national park, Killarney National Park. Delight in a short hike through the verdant woodlands and along the lakeshores of Killarney, keeping an eye out for the park’s herd of red deer and taking in the gorgeous views that make this region special. Step back in time to the Middle Ages at an imposing mediaeval castle, idyllically nestled on the shores of Lough Leane. (L, D)

    Hike Details: 5km / 3 miles | approx. 2 hours

    Day 2 - Along the Kerry Way

    One of Ireland’s most famous long-distance trails, your hike today winds along a stunningly beautiful portion of the Kerry Way. Starting at Muckross House, a gorgeous 19th-century mansion in the national park, follow the trail past fields of grazing cattle and glittering lakes towards Torc Mountain. Enveloped under a dense green canopy of trees is the stunning Torc Waterfall, one of Killarney’s most iconic gems. Up the mountain through the magical woodland, enjoy tantalising glimpses of the view through the trees before descending into the valley and along the shores of Muckross Lake along the Old Kenmare Road, an ancient cobbled path from bygone times. The Lakes of Killarney play an integral role in the region and a wonderful way to experience them is on the water. End the day with a relaxing boat trip across the lakes, gazing over the landscape you covered today on foot. (B, L)

    Hike details: 15km / 9 miles | approx. 5-6 hours

    Day 3 - Mountains of the Beara Peninsula

    Too often overlooked by visitors, the Beara Peninsula is a hiker’s paradise. Today’s hike heads deep within the hills, exploring the epic beauty of the Caha Mountains at the heart of the Beara Peninsula. At each turn, there is a new view to marvel upon, with panoramas over the hidden valleys, rocky slopes, sheep-dotted hills and far away lakes. Overlooking Beara’s winding mountain passes, rugged landscapes and mysterious monuments from thousands of years ago, the hills thrum with a wild and ancient beauty perfect for hiking. Enjoy a traditional music session this evening in one of Killarney’s many authentic pubs. (B, L)

    Hike details: 11-12km / 7 miles | approx. 4-6 hours

    Day 4 - The Wild Coasts of Black Head

    The Cliffs of Moher may be the best-known coast of Clare, but that’s not the only coastline that beckons hikers. In the northern corner of Clare, Black Head combines stunning coastal beauty with the wild, craggy landscapes of the Burren. A mixture of ancient green roads, quiet laneways and expanses of exposed limestone, Black Head calls to mind images of fantasy worlds. Indeed, J.R.R. Tolkien spent time visiting the Burren while writing The Lord of the Rings, and these otherworldly landscapes influenced locations in Middle Earth within his classic trilogy. Crossing these dramatic lunar-esque hills, it’s not hard to see why. (B, L)

    Hike Details: 11 km / 7 miles | approx. 3-4 hours

    Day 5 - Exploring the Burren

    Stroll along laneways and green paths edged with wildflowers, hedgerows and dry-stone walls. Walking under the shadow of the wild Burren hills, marvel at the rocky ridges of the Burren. The unusual exposed limestone geology of the region was formed millions of years ago when Clare was on the sea floor, leaving behind an impressive lunar landscape. The Burren is riddled with caves and caverns, learn about the rich geological history as you walk. Listen to the birdsong and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air as you walk through native hazel woodlands, finishing your walk at your hotel’s doorstep. Afterwards, head down into the quaint village of Ballyvaughan for dinner and a pint in a cosy pub. (B, L)

    Hike Details: 8 km / 5 miles | approx. 2-3 hours

    Day 6 - Hike the Cliffs of Moher

    Most visitors to the iconic and jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher only see one short section. But the best way to fully experience the magic of the Cliffs of Moher on foot is to hike the full length of the cliffs. From the Napoleonic tower in Liscannor in the south to the cheerful village of Doolin in the north, walk the cliff-side path where emerald fields roll out to one side, and cobalt-blue waters swirl at the base of the cliffs to the west. Falling some 300 feet and winding in and out, the Cliffs of Moher merit their celebrity status. In the evening, visit a pub with Ireland’s biggest whiskey collection – a well-deserved treat, and an amazing chance to taste Ireland’s many types of whiskey. (B, L, D)

    Hike Details: 12 km / 7 miles | approx. 3-4 hours

    Day 7 - Galway City

    In a country known mostly for its rural spaces, Galway is one of Ireland’s most beloved cities. But don’t take it from us – get the local perspective. This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of Galway with a cheerful local as he points out the history, culture and architecture of this cheerful and vibrant town. You’ll finish up at Galway Train Station where you can begin your homeward journey. (B)

     

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    Hiking
    Kerry & Clare

    To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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    Trip Dates & Prices

    Trip Dates for 2024AvailabilityStatusPriceBook
    6th Apr - 12th Apr 20246 places leftCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now
    27th Apr - 3rd May 20248 places leftUNCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now
    18th May - 24th May 2024Trip FullFULLY BOOKED€2,020
    15th Jun - 21st Jun 20241 place leftCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now
    13th Jul - 19th Jul 20247 places leftUNCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now
    3rd Aug - 9th Aug 20248 places leftUNCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now
    7th Sep - 13th Sep 20248 places leftUNCONFIRMED€2,020Book Now

    Trip Details

    Accommodation Read More

    After a day in the great outdoors, kick back by the fire in one of our hand-picked hotels for a night of relaxation before heading off to start your next day’s adventure. The accommodations on this trip are comfortable, family-owned hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses tucked into the Irish countryside in the extraordinary counties of Kerry and Clare. This trip features accommodations chosen for their excellent location, service and comfort. All accommodations provide breakfast.

    We do not charge single-person supplements to people booking on their own. However, you will be expected to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you specifically require a single room, you will have to pay the single supplement charge, which is subject to availability.

    Meals Read More

    Most meals are included in the price of this trip – see the itinerary for full details. Breakfast is provided each morning, as well as lunch and snacks throughout the trip. Dinner is provided on the first and final night of the trip. On other nights, you may choose to dine with the group or in a restaurant of your choosing.

    On this trip, we generally eat dinner as a group however if you would like to make alternative arrangements you are free to do so. Your guide can help you with recommendations and reservations as required. Local pubs and restaurants offer a wide choice of local dishes.

    Inclusions Read More
    • 6 nights accommodation in unique and cosy guest houses and hotels.
    • Most meals during the trip. (Meals included indicated as B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    • The services of an experienced and knowledgeable hiking guide/driver throughout.
    • Pickup and transport throughout the trip.
    • 7 days of hiking among the wild landscapes of western Ireland.
    • A guided walking tour of Galway city.
    • Entrance and admission fees as stated in the itinerary.
    Trip Grading Read More

    Green Graded 1-3

    Our green graded trips include shorter hikes, with few ascents, and are generally over smoother (but usually not paved) terrain. We include more cultural stops along the way and walk at a leisurely pace.

    Often our green graded trips include hikes in flatter coastal areas or in valleys, and will last around 2-4 hours each day. To help you decide if you are fit enough for this trip, ask yourself:

    Can you comfortably hike for 6 miles (10km), including some ascents, over generally good terrain?

    Travel – Arrival and Departure Read More

    Meet your guide at Killarney Train Station at 13:00 on Day 1 of your trip. At the end of your trip, your guide will drop you off at Galway Ceannt Train Station at 12:30 where you can continue your onward journey. If you’d like to arrange an extension before or after your trip, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

    Photo Gallery

    Make This Trip Private

    Fancy this trip just for your group? Get together with family and friends spend quality time exploring wild places. A private trip allows you to benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides but with the advantage of the flexibility to tailor the days to your group. Make the trip more or less challenging depending on your experience or choose to add in some optional extras like castle or distillery visits depending on your interests. The price of a private trip will depend on the number of travellers in your group. Let us know your prefered departure date and we'll take care of the rest.

    Speak to an Expert

    Louise Kavanagh

    Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of Ireland. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

    Ask Louise a Question

    Meet Your Guide

    Difficulty Grades Explained

    Green Grades 1-3

    Our hiking trips range from very straightforward low-level hikes to trips that include more challenging itineraries which will take you to a new mountain top each day.

    Our green graded trips include shorter hikes, with few ascents, and are generally over smoother (but usually not paved) terrain. We include more cultural stops along the way and walk at a leisurely pace.

    Often our green graded trips include hikes in flatter coastal areas or in valleys, and will last around 2-4 hours each day. To help you decide if you are fit enough for this trip, ask yourself:

    Can you comfortably hike for 6 miles (10km), including some ascents, over generally good terrain?

    Trip Reviews

    Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 17 review(s) of Hiking – Kerry & Clare

     

    Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

    That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

    LM

    Linda McFarland

    Reviewed on 02/10/2023

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    I would recommend this trip with some advice. Ask questions beforehand. Know what the terrain actually is before booking. Know in advance where you will be staying and scout out the area ahead of time. Overall, we had a wonderful time, saw lots of Ireland we would never have seen, but would have preferred a bit more leisurely experience.

    GS

    Gary Sanborn

    Reviewed on 25/09/2023

    Age: 70 - 80
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Our hiking trip in Counties Kerry and Clare (and Cork as it turned out) was an incredibly beautiful and wonderful experience, I'm very happy we found WI to make this trip and would definitely use WI again if we do anything similar in the future.

    KC

    Kathy Conroy

    Reviewed on 25/09/2023

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Caroline, an employee of Wilderness Ireland, while not on the “clock,” was a great asset to our group with her funny stories and lively personality.

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