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    Self Drive

    Kerry, West Cork & The Haven Coast


    Deposit From: €551€551
    Region: Ireland | South West – Cork & Kerry
    Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

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

      From: €2,140.00 Book Now

      Trip Overview

      Created by: Louise Kavanagh


      From Cork’s hidden inlets, a unique foraging expedition on the Ring of Kerry to the wilds of the Beara Peninsula and a paradisal garden, this trip explores the secrets of Ireland’s beloved southwest regions of West Cork and Kerry on the Wild Atlantic Way.

      Southwest Ireland has become a foodie hotspot in the last few years. Tickle your tastebuds on this Wild Atlantic Way culinary adventure through some of Ireland’s most delicious towns and villages, culminating in a visit to the vibrant town of Kinsale, the gourmet capital of Ireland. Though Cork and Kerry are some of Ireland’s most popular regions, we’ll take you off the beaten track to visit several of the most intriguing yet off-the-map locations favourited by locals.

      On our Self Drive trips, enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace as well as benefit from passionate, local guides on certain days (marked G) who will interpret the landscape and introduce you to the culture and history of Ireland. Leave the planning and reservations to us – we’ve identified the very best of each region to get a great sampling of the nature, history and culture of Ireland. Hikes and other outdoor activities are matched to your ability levels. The minimum group size is 2.

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      Day by Day
      Itinerary

      Day 1 – Killarney National Park Read Less

      Day 1

      Killarney National Park

      Killarney National Park is the most famous of Ireland’s national parks – and with good reason! Discover some of Killarney’s most breathtaking mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Historic manor houses and abbeys makes for an interesting visit but Killarney is best explored via its beautiful looped forested and mountain hikes or by heading out onto the lakes of Killarney in a traditional boat.

      Meals Included: None

      Day 2 – The Ring of Kerry & Kerry Coast Read Less

      Day 2

      The Ring of Kerry & Kerry Coast

      Into the southern part of the Ring of Kerry, the landscape becomes wilder and more rugged. At a secluded bay, join a foraging and foodie expert for a seaweed discovery and tasting walk to uncover the Kerry coast’s edible gems. Together, discover how to sustainably harvest these sea plants, learning how they earned their reputation as a super-food. Enjoy a few nibbles of seaweed yourself, including the flavoursome variety, Duilleasc, which sustained the monks on Skellig Island, the rock pinnacles rising dramatically from the sea on the horizon, or Nori, the famous Sushi roll wrapping.

      Meals Included: Breakfast

      Day 3 – The Beara Peninsula Read Less

      Day 3

      The Beara Peninsula

      The least visited of Kerry’s peninsulas, the Beara Peninsula is wonderfully wild. Along the way to an even wilder mountain pass, opt for the scenic rather than most direct route south which brings you to a paradisal island garden or even head over to an island accessed only by cable car.

      Day 4 – Wilds of West Cork Read Less

      Day 4

      Wilds of West Cork

      Crafters, artists and artisan food producers have long since retreated to West Cork, creating a fascinating cultural mix in a magical setting. Explore West Cork’s remote corners with an expert guide on a hike best suited to your fitness level, coupled with a visit to some artesian galleries and delicatessens that add vibrancy to the region. Be sure to sample some of West Cork’s tasty cheeses!

      Meals Included: Breakfast

      Day 5 – Colourful Kinsale Read Less

      Day 5

      Colourful Kinsale

      A foodie haven and the end of the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale is a bolthole for Ireland’s most culinary-minded and its pretty harbour with mystical sea views is an idyllic place for an adventure. Follow a jaw-dropping coastal route through southwest Ireland as you learn of pirate invasions, famine and conflict. A visit to 17th century star-shaped Charles Fort or a sunset stroll along a waterside walkway is a perfect end to your day’s touring.

      Meals Included: Breakfast

      Day 6 – Tastes of Kinsale Read Less

      Day 6

      Tastes of Kinsale

      Historically a medieval fishing port, Kinsale’s spectacular waterfront setting and candy-coloured houses, shops, and restaurants make for a glorious blend of old and new. Today you’ll embark on a delightful culinary journey where every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and local flavour. As your local guide regales you with stories of the town, enjoy fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, and vibrant produce sourced from nearby farms. On your final evening, enjoy a stroll through the village or a browse in the stores before heading back to your accommodation.

      Meals Included: Breakfast

      Day 7 – Departure Read Less

      Day 7

      Departure

      Today, say goodbye to the wilds of southwest Ireland and the southern expanses of the Wild Atlantic Way. From here, you may head straight to the airport or link it to our Ireland’s Ancient East itinerary. We will provide interesting stops such as ancient ruins, charming towns and breathtaking vistas along the way.

      Meals Included: Breakfast

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      Self Drive
      Kerry, West Cork & The Haven Coast

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

      Fields marked with * are mandatory

      The phone number field is not required but if you would like us to give you a call to help find the trip for you, then enter your telephone number including the country code.

      Book Now

      Price from: €2,140

      Trip Details

      Accommodation Read More

      This self drive trip features classic accommodations chosen for their excellent location, service and comfort. Expect small, comfortable and characterful lodgings. You will have the choice between cosy B&Bs or 3-star family-run hotels or guesthouses, with options and in towns or rural communities. Accommodation rooming is a choice of double or twin rooms, which are en-suite with a shower.

      Meals Read More

      Each morning, enjoy a homemade breakfast of your choice at your accommodation. We will provide local suggestions for lunches and dinners, to be taken according to your own preferences.

      Inclusions Read More

      This trip includes the following:

      • 7 days / 6 nights accommodation in hand-picked 3 and 4 star classic accommodations.
      • A detailed itinerary and map outlining your itinerary, accommodations and stops.
      • Breakfast every morning at your accommodation. (Meals included indicated as B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
      • The services of experienced and knowledgeable guides at various stages in the trip as stated in the itinerary. (marked G)
      • Suggestions of self-guided activities as stated in the itinerary.
      • Recommended stops, hikes and points of interest along the way
      • 24/7 hour in-country support

      This trip includes all accommodation, some guiding and activities as well as breakfast. It does not include drinks or any gratuities you may choose to leave.

      Grading Read More

      At Your Own Pace
      On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle, low-level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready.

      On the other days of the trip, you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

      Travel - Arrival and Departure Read More

      This itinerary is designed to start and finish at Dublin or Shannon Airport or to be joined up with our other self-drive trips such as Connemara, Dingle & the Cliffs of Moher or Ireland’s Ancient East. Detailed driving directions during the trip will be provided as part of your information pack.

      Optional Upgrades Read More

      Extend Your Stay

      Why not extend your stay in Ireland with another exciting week exploring the sunny southeast? Our Self Drive – Ireland’s Ancient East follows on from where you left off in Cork by continuing on to the vibrant capital of the rebel county, Cork City, east to the Viking city of Waterford, and north to the medieval Kilkenny Castle and through the beautiful Comeragh and Wicklow Mountains to the peaceful monastery of Glendalough. Simply ask your Adventure Consultant for more info on extending your tour.

      Car Hire

      Planning to hire a car here in Ireland? Make your life easier by leaving the car rental process up to us. Just tell us your preferences 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

      Difficulty Grades Explained

      At Your Own Pace
      On this adventure, you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Ireland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle, low-level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready.

      On the other days of the trip, you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

      Find Out More

      Trip Reviews

      Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 1 review(s) of Self Drive – Kerry, West Cork & The Haven Coast

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      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.

      SH

      Simon Howie

      Reviewed on 10/07/2023

      Age: 50 - 60
      Country: South Africa
      Trip Date: 22/06/2023
      Trips Taken: 1

      The Bottom Line

      The Bottom Line

      Wilderness Ireland turned our dream of visiting Ireland for a family holiday into reality. They took care of all the details, allowing us to focus on the wonderful history, scenery, people, and food! It was the trip of a lifetime and excellent value for money. Well done and thank you to the Wilderness Ireland team, especially Cathriona!

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