Escape to the South West 2025/2026

A short drive along the coast from Galway City lies the Burren, one of Ireland’s national treasures which you’ll be keen to explore.

The first stop is the charming village of Kinvara, where you get a chance to take in the dramatic Dunguaire Castle and discover its remarkable historical legacy. Next, we head to the Burren, one of Ireland’s most arresting landscapes: a patchwork of glacial limestone pavements, rare flora and ancient stone monuments. The Burren was also home to one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland. You’ll stop here to visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century ruined monastery that sits against a backdrop of the Burren Mountains.

We take a scenic detour to a very special place, the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a mysterious site overlooking the Burren for thousands of years.

After exploring ancient monuments, we head to Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses,” where you can visit its historic cathedral before enjoying lunch in a nearby charming village. Next, we stop at one of the world’s most iconic coastlines – the Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way. Stand atop soaring sea cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic and admire breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. In one unforgettable moment, feel the power of nature, the whisper of ancient legends, and Ireland’s raw beauty. And as you stand there, you’ll understand why this place appeared in the movies like The Princess Bride, Leap Year or Harry Potter.

Continuing south through County Clare, we hop on a ferry across the Shannon Estuary and we continue our journey to Killarney. This energetic, charming area will be your base for the next three nights, so take your time sampling the superb collection of traditional pubs and live music.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Killarney. (B)

Today, your tour explores the fabulous Dingle Peninsula, famous for its scenery and Gaelic culture. Your first stop is Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand stretching out into the Atlantic. Venturing down the narrow roads away from the beach leads you through the town of Dingle.

Next your driver will stop at the Fahan Beehive Huts, the distinctive shape of these stone houses will of course be familiar but the design of these early medieval celtic dwellings date back to 2000 BC. This remarkable example dates from 800 AD and still stand today in tribute to the skill of the islands stonemasons.

You continue towards Slea Head, an area loaded with ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings and some of the most incredible photo stops you will see on your tour.

Take in the views of the Blasket Islands, an ideal spot for panoramic photos. If the weather permits, enjoy a stroll around Dunmore headland with its beaches and cliff tops to fully embrace the stunning scenery before pausing for lunch. Next, visit the Gallarus Oratory, a 1,000-year-old marvel and the best-preserved church of its kind in Ireland. Standing within its ancient walls, you can only wonder at the lives of those who worshipped here centuries ago. Continuing towards Dingle, stop at the historic Kilmalkedar Church, a national monument along an ancient pilgrim path. This tranquil site invites reflection, its rich history woven with stories of faith and resilience.

Arriving back amidst the brightly coloured houses and jolly harbour of Dingle, you can spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying delicious seafood in this idyllic setting. In the evening, you head back to Killarney, with time for an evening stroll in the National Park that envelops the town.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Killarney. (B)

Today, you explore the Ring of Kerry, a spectacular route through some of Ireland’s most visually spectacular areas. You head out in the morning, navigating the roads about the valleys, towns, and villages, and through the foothills of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, home to Ireland’s highest mount, Carrauntoohil. You’ll have the option to stop and watch the Kells Bay Sheepdog Trails which your driver can help to arrange.

Next you join the scenic coast road through Glenbeigh on the way to Cahersiveen where you’ll visit the impressive Cahergal Stone Fort, a ring fort outside Portmagee. You can explore and discover the local legends that surround the fort while gazing out over the Atlantic.

You stop for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee. Alternatively, you can have a quick snack and head to the island of Valentia for a visit to the Skellig Experience to find about the ancient community of monks who lived on the rocky island. Later, there’s a photo stop in Charlie Chaplin’s “home away from home” at Waterville, before enjoying fine views at the top of Coomakista pass. Winding down from the peaks, you head to Derrynane House, home of the family O’Connell. Daniel O’Connell, ‘The Liberator of Ireland’, had a very strong bond with this place. Here, you can enjoy a walk in the scenic gardens or along the beach and explore the main house.

Continuing along the Ring, you stop at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. Stroll a short way from here to the Torc Waterfall before heading back to Killarney.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Killarney. (B)

We set off on your last day of this incredible tour of the southwest of Ireland and head towards Blarney Castle, ready to discover the legend of the Blarney Stone. You will be able to take a short comfort break if needed.

Driving through the stunning Cork countryside, you arrive in Blarney, home to the magnificent 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Nestled in lush green gardens, the castle feels like a scene from a fairy tale, complete with chilling dungeons to explore. Climb to the battlements for stunning views and imagine the approach of a medieval siege on the horizon. While the castle itself is impressive, its true claim to fame is the Blarney Stone. Legend has it, kissing the stone bestows the “Gift of the Gab,” granting eloquence. Over the years, writers, Hollywood stars, and world leaders have joined the ranks of those eager to enhance their conversational prowess. Will you be next?

You’ll stop for lunch in the historic port town of Kinsale. Here you’ll have time to eat and explore streets lined with colourful buildings that feel like stepping into a vibrant painting.

Perched on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale sits the Rock of Cashel, our next stop. One of Ireland’s most significant historical sites, it will leave you in awe with its mystery and magic. The surviving buildings hold many wonders including the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland. You’ll explore the monuments to be found here, a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, and a fifteenth-century Tower House.

As you head back to Dublin, you reflect on all the incredible sights and experiences from your journey through Ireland. From the rugged cliffs and rolling green hills to ancient castles and cozy village pubs, every stop along the way has left its mark.

As the city lights of Dublin come into view in the evening, you know this adventure will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. (B)