From Dublin: 5-Day Tour to the Southwest with Accommodation
County Roscommon, Dublin
Explore the highlights of southwest Ireland on a 5-day tour that will bring the scenic landscape to life. Meet the locals in traditional pubs, sample fresh seafood, walk on the Atlantic beaches of the Dingle Peninsula, and explore prehistoric ruins.
Highlights
- Walk the cliff top trails of the Cliffs of Moher
- Explore the limestone landscape of The Burren
- Drive the 100-mile Ring of Kerry
- Learn about the monks of Skellig Michael
- Visit the family home of Daniel O'Connell
Description
This 5-day tour departs from Dublin and covers Ireland’s scenic west and southwest coastlines, historic sites, and cultural landmarks, suitable for travelers interested in nature, history, and local heritage.
Day 1: Travel west through Kildare and Offaly’s farmlands and peat bogs to Kilbeggan Distillery for a whiskey tasting. Visit Clonmacnoise, an important monastic site on the River Shannon, with ancient churches and round towers. After lunch in a traditional pub, arrive in Galway, known for its food and music.
Day 2: Drive along the coast to The Burren, a unique limestone landscape rich in rare plants and early Christian history. Visit Kilfenora’s ancient cathedral and have lunch in a local village. Explore the Cliffs of Moher with access to an environmental exhibition, then stop briefly at Lahinch beach before crossing the Shannon Estuary by ferry. Overnight in Killarney, noted for its pubs and traditional music.
Day 3: Explore the Dingle Peninsula, starting at Inch Beach and passing through countryside roads to Dingle town. Continue to Slea Head to see ancient forts and dwellings, with views of the Blasket Islands. Weather permitting, enjoy walks along beaches and cliffs before returning to Dingle for seafood. Head back to Killarney with time for a stroll in the National Park.
Day 4: Drive the Ring of Kerry, passing valleys, villages, and the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains including views of Carrauntoohil. Visit Cahersiveen, Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace, a ring fort near Portmagee, and the Skellig Experience on Valentia Island. Continue through Waterville, Coonmakista Pass, and Derrynane House. Stop at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, ending the day with a walk to Torc Waterfall before returning to Killarney.
Day 5: Travel east through West Cork to Blarney Castle, with time to explore the grounds and optionally kiss the Blarney Stone. After lunch in Kinsale, known for its colorful streets and Charles Fort, visit the Rock of Cashel. Explore this cluster of medieval buildings before returning to Dublin in the early evening.
Includes
- Transportation by 16-seat Mercedes minicoach
- Driver/guide service
- 4 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
- Admission to Cliffs of Moher
Excludes
- Meals
- Refreshments
- Visitor attraction entry fees (except Cliffs of Moher)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Important Information
- Drop-off in Dublin on day 5 is approximately 7:30 PM
- Tour limited to 16 passengers for a more personalized experience
- Please bring suitable clothing and footwear for country walks
- Minimum age to participate is 5 years
- Luggage limit: one piece per person up to 14 kg (31 lbs), similar to an airline carry-on (approx. 55cm x 45cm x 25cm) plus a small bag for personal items
- Accommodation in small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs with en suite rooms; B&Bs may require a 20–30 minute walk to local amenities. Notify if stairs are an issue, as lifts are not available.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, book early and prepare for varying weather by bringing waterproof and comfortable walking shoes. Morning departures and early evenings offer good light for photography at outdoor stops.
