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    | Ballyfin Lake

    Sample Itinerary

    Castle & Manors of Ireland


    Region: West – Connemara, Burren & Aran Islands | South West – Cork & Kerry
    Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

    Accommodation: Luxury

    Grading: Your Own Pace

    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      Price: P.O.A. Make an Enquiry

      Trip Overview

      Created by: Patricia Doe


      Emerald slopes, ancient woodlands, and cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. Waterfalls thundering from mountain springs, and sandy beaches washed clean by salty blue water. Deep in the wilds of Ireland, historic castles and stately manors exude old-world charm – each unique in both style and setting.

      With your knowledgeable guide, embark on a trip that winds along the rugged west coast and into the rolling, green heart of the country. By day, enjoy exclusive activities, discover hidden treasures and immerse yourself in the vibrant, traditional culture. In the gentle press of evening, dine, drink and relax in the quiet sophistication of your luxury retreat. With a trip that will highlight the crowning jewels of the west coast, choose to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty that is Ireland.

      The below is an example itinerary but activities can be changed, added and upgraded. All aspects of the trip will be tailored to you.

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      Day by Day
      Itinerary

      Day 1 – Welcome to Ireland Read Less

      Day 1

      Welcome to Ireland

      On arrival in Dublin, meet your private guide and begin your journey south to the mountainous region of Kerry. On a route that weaves through the emerald hills, choose to enjoy some exclusive experiences along the way. Perhaps visit the Irish National Stud & Gardens to take a private tour, learn about how horse-racing is intricately linked to Ireland’s culture and society, meeting some of the fastest thoroughbreds in the world. Stop at the Rock of Cashel, where a local archaeologist will reveal the stories surrounding one of the country’s most iconic collections of medieval buildings. This afternoon, arrive at your luxury hotel and take your time to settle in, perhaps indulging in a spa treatment or taking a stroll around the peaceful grounds. If you don’t fancy the drive, choose to hop on a helicopter and transfer directly to your first accommodation instead.

      Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

      Day 2 – The Wilds of Kerry Read Less

      Day 2

      The Wilds of Kerry

      With peninsulas that stretch out into the Atlantic Ocean, old-growth forests and towering mountains, Kerry is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. With your guide, spend the day exploring the wilds of Kerry. Visit the lesser-known Beara Peninsula, discovering a peaceful landscape that is defined by its history. Spend time with a charismatic local expert, visiting Neolithic sites, taking a short hike among Beara’s copper mines, and visiting little-accessed archaeological digs. There is also the option to visit the Skellig Islands today – the most westerly sacred site in Europe. Bursting from the swirling Atlantic waves, these rocky pinnacles were once home to the monks of St. Fionan, whose settlement remains one of Ireland’s most impressive feats. As the golden light of evening begins to glimmer on the waves, return to your hotel to enjoy a delicious and traditional dinner.

      Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

      Day 3 – Killarney National Park Read Less

      Day 3

      Killarney National Park

      After a leisurely breakfast, leave the quaint town of Kenmare this morning and head north into Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown. The oldest national park in Ireland, woodland tracks wind up the sides of mountains and waterfalls pulse over lime-green moss. With your guide, hike the heather-lined trails of the Kerry Way or enjoy a mellow kayak tour of Killarney’s shimmering lakes. At lunch, enjoy a wonderful picnic by the banks of the river or on the shores of a quiet island. This afternoon, take a private tour of Ross Castle and hear about the legend of O’Donoghue and his beautiful white horse. After a Michelin-starred dinner in the gothic splendour of your manor hotel, take a stroll into the picturesque village of Adare to enjoy some live music and a pint in a traditional thatched pub.

      Overnight: 5 star | Adare Manor | Limerick

      Day 4 – Cliffs of Moher & The Aran Islands Read Less

      Day 4

      Cliffs of Moher & The Aran Islands

      This morning, depart Adare by helicopter and fly towards the striking Cliffs of Moher. From the sky, take the time to absorb their majesty above the white-capped waves of the ocean. As seabirds swirl like confetti, land on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands. A stronghold of Irish language and culture, explore the island the old-fashioned way by taking a horse and carriage tour, stopping to discover hidden gems along the way. This afternoon, meet a charismatic fisherman-turned-goat farmer and his inquisitive herd of Saanen and Nubian goats. Sample his award-winning goat’s cheese and hear his riveting stories of island life, perhaps even learning a cupla focal’ (a few words) in the ancient Irish language. Later, return to the mainland and transfer to your 800-year-old castle accommodation in the beautiful County Mayo.

      Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

      Day 5 – The Coast of Connemara Read Less

      Day 5

      The Coast of Connemara

      Windswept and austere, the exceptional barren beauty of Connemara has captured the imagination of writers and artists for centuries. With two mountain ranges and far-reaching blanket bogs, to the southwest, the land is broken up into a myriad of tiny islands and crescents of sparkling sand. With many miles of coastline, the ocean has always played an integral part in the lives of the locals. From the secluded village of Roundstone, join a lobster fisherman and sail to one of the many wonderful beaches in the bay. Enjoy a delicious alfresco lunch and if you’re feeling brave, perhaps an invigorating swim in the turquoise water. On your return to shore, take the opportunity to meet a local potter and try your hand at the art of pottery making. Chat about the local folklore and regional history, learning about the native Connemara ponies – a hardy and companionable breed unique to Ireland. Back at your castle hotel, enjoy a decadent afternoon tea, overlooking the stunning castle grounds. This evening, the chef will cook up your morning catch, so you can enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood and local delicacies.

      Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

      Day 6 – Galway & Hidden Heartlands Read Less

      Day 6

      Galway & Hidden Heartlands

      After tea and coffee and perhaps a stroll around the grounds, join your guide and head east into the Hidden Heartlands of Ireland. Meander your way through the rolling green hills, passing leafy pastures dotted with sheep, wildflower meadows and hedges that twitter with birdsong. First stop in the colourful and lively city of Galway, enjoying an insider’s tour with a local musician. After, continue on, perhaps pausing for a short walk to a viewpoint that looks out over the sweeping fields and sleepy villages below. You can also make this journey by helicopter, watching the pastoral heart of Ireland roll out far below and arriving in style at your final destination, an impeccably-restored Georgian manor house. Enjoy a royal welcome and a glass of champagne before a decadent picnic lunch, an experience redolent of a Jane Austen novel. This afternoon, take some time to relax, perhaps enjoying some clay pigeon shooting, a private falconry display or a horse and carriage tour of the estate.

      Overnight: 5 star | Ballyfin Demesne | Laois

      Day 7 – Homeward Bound Read Less

      Day 7

      Homeward Bound

      After a relaxed breakfast in the opulent rooms at Ballyfin, be transferred to your next destination, whether Dublin or Shannon airport, to begin your journey home. Alternatively, extend your stay with some time in Dublin City.

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      Sample Itineraries
      Castle & Manors of Ireland

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

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      Sample Itineraries
      Castle & Manors of Ireland

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      Trip Details

      Accommodation Read More

      The Park Hotel

      Experience the comfort of modern amenities and old-school elegance in this five-star, exceptional hotel, a bastion of Irish hospitality on the edge of Kenmare Bay.

      Adare Manor

      With flawless service, elegant opulence, and not to mention being home to one of Ireland’s best golf courses, Adare Manor is a majestic place to spend time and a difficult place to leave.

      Ashford Castle

      Ireland’s leading castle hotel, relish feeling close to nature in the wild Connemara region while also enjoying decadent comforts and unrivalled attention to detail at Ashford Castle.

      Ballyfin Demesne

      Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the emerald heart of Ireland, this spectacular Palladian manor emanates excellence and quiet sophistication.

      Grading Read More

      At Your Own Pace

      On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland guide who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of activities such as gentle hikes, cycles, yoga or surfing, to immersive cultural and heritage experiences. As this is a luxury trip, your travel designer will work with you to customise the trip and activities to suit your interests and ability levels. During your trip, your guide will tailor any activities to your group, ensuring that you can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

      Travel - Arrival and Departure Read More

      Arrive in Dublin, where your private guide will pick you up. At the end of your trip, your guide will return you to the airport, or you might wish to extend your stay with time in Dublin or beyond.

      Speak to an Expert

      Patricia Doe

      An avid cyclist and hiker, Patricia enjoys exploring Ireland’s wild landscapes every chance she gets u2013 she particularly loves the under-appreciated regions of Mayo, Connemara, Sligo and Donegal. Having spent nearly a decade in the hospitality industry, Patricia is an expert on Ireland’s luxury and unique accommodations. As Wilderness Ireland’s General Manager and head of the sales team, Patricia is ready to help make your Irish adventure spectacular.

      Ask Patricia a Question

      Difficulty Grades Explained

      At Your Own Pace

      On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland guide who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of activities such as gentle hikes, cycles, yoga or surfing, to immersive cultural and heritage experiences. As this is a luxury trip, your travel designer will work with you to customise the trip and activities to suit your interests and ability levels. During your trip, your guide will tailor any activities to your group, ensuring that you can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

      Find Out More

      Our holidays reviewed
      in your own words

      We had an amazing fun filled trip with two great guides. We also had great weather which was an added bonus. Wilderness Ireland is a good company to book a cycling adventure with.

      Mairi Maciver
      E-bike - Ireland's West Coast
      Reviewed on 19/09/2022

      Rated 4.93 out of 5 based on 2,271 reviews

      Read More Reviews
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