A nine day self drive tour of our favourite places in Ireland, arriving and departing from Shannon Airport.
A vibrant schedule to hit the highlights of four cities! This energetic tour combines the hustle and bustle of Ireland's main cities with the relaxed atmosphere of West Cork and the freedom of Connemara.
| Day 1 |
Arrival at Shannon airport and collect your hire car. Drive south to Killarney via the quaint village of Adare. Explore the Killarney area, famous for its lakes and mountains and the National Park. Your town centre accommodation affords ample opportunity to explore – and walking distance from a wonderful world of shopping!
(Drive time 2 1/2 hours). |
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| Day 2 |
The fuchsia of West Cork…it’s beauty and simplicity symbolises all that is best about the area. Clonakilty was a centre for linen manufacturing in the 19th century - we recommend lunch in the quiet of An Súgán. Be sure to vist the Model Railway Village and see West Cork at your feet. Follow the coast via 13th century Timoleague Abbey to Kinsale, wonderfully located, snug between the waters of the harbour and the estuary of the Bandon river. For dinner, don’t miss the freshly caught fish!
(Drive time 3 1/2 hours). |
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| Day 3 |
Cork City is home to the wonderful Old English Market for the best of local flavour and Cork wit. Head east via the coast to the Jameson Distillery, home of Midleton whiskey. Be sure to volunteer for the tastings! The 12th century round tower remains of St. Declan overlook the seaside village of Ardmore. It’s a great place to be.
(Drive time 3 hours). |
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| Day 4 |
Drive through the Comeragh Mountains, stop at Kells Abbey – the most peaceful abbey remains imaginable - and into vibrant Kilkenny City. Take a walking tour with Tynan’s to feel the heart of this medieval place. In Dublin, your central hotel allows plenty of opportunity to explore the city.
Or follow an optional route via Waterford Crystal factory and watch the master craftsmen at work.
(Drive time 3 1/2 hours). |
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| Day 5 |
A free day to explore at will. We suggest a walk from the gates of Trinity College through Grafton St to Stephen’s Green. And of course coffee in Bewley’s, Dublin’s own and finest coffee shop. |
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Day 6
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Westward Ho! Through the midlands to the eclectic city of Galway. En route stop at Donadea Forest Park to see the 9/11 memorial inspired by a fire fighter who’s family emigrated to New York from the area. Visit 6th century monastic remains at Clonmacnoise, the Turoe Stone at Bullaun or Dartfield, Ireland’s only Horse Museum. Your accommodation is by the shores of Galway Bay and walking distance from the old city.
(Drive time 3 hours). |
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| Day 7 |
Connemara- wild and exciting countryside, dramatic loughs, lanes and landscapes. Visit Roundstone, Clifden, the Connemara National Park Centre and lunch at the Victorian Walled Gardens of Kylemore Abbey. Under the shadow of the Twelve Bens, drive through the haunting Lough Inagh valley back to Galway.
(Drive time 3 hours). |
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| Day 8 |
An option today to spend time in Galway and take a late drive to Ennis, a lovely market town, perfect for exploration by foot. Boutique coffee shops by antique alleys…
Optional drive to the Burren to explore by car and foot. This truly amazing landscape holds surprises in every nook and cranny; arctic flora, geological and Neolithic wonders and everywhere the moonscape of the limestone plateau.
(Drive time 2 hours or 4 hours if you visit the Burren). |
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| Day 9 |
Return to Shannon Airport and depart.
(Drive time 1 hour). |
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