A nine day self drive tour of the Burren and Kerry regions before crossing the midlands to the capital. Arrival to Shannon Airport and departure from Dublin Airport.
Explore some highlights of Ireland including the barren Burren plateau, the breathtaking coast road of the Ring of Kerry, Killarney renowned for its beauty and famed for the splendour of its scenery, the thoroughbred County of Kildare and eclectic Capital City of Dublin.
| Day 1 |
Arrival at Shannon airport and collect your hire car. From Shannon, drive through the historic town of Ennis to the Burren Interpretative Centre at Kilfenora, the spa town of Lisdoonvarna and on to the coastal fishing village of Doolin. Enjoy an evening trip to see the world famous Cliffs of Moher and a traditional music session at McGann’s pub in Doolin. Overnight in Doolin.
(Drive time 2 hours) |
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| Day 2 |
Explore the Burren 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. Or for sheer exuberance take the Aran Island cruise to the base of the towering cliffs before stopping on Inis Oirr for lunch in the island pub. Overnight in Doolin. |
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| Day 3 |
From county Clare cross the Shannon River by car ferry to Kerry. Through the market town of Tralee to the Iveragh Peninsula and the famous Ring of Kerry, with breathtaking views of Dingle Bay. Visit a 5th century ring fort near Caherciveen and experience the crashing Atlantic at Ballinskellings Bay.
(Drive Time 4 hours) |
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| Day 4 |
Visit the lovely Valentia Island, site of the first Atlantic Telegraph. A back road tour through the most beautiful scenery. A good walk takes you to top of Geokaun hill on the island, just to see the Atlantic at its best!
Or take a boat trip of a lifetime to the World Heritage Site of 5th century monastic remains on the remote Skellig Rock. Nearby Little Skellig is home to 20000 pairs of breeding gannets, as well as puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes and storm petrels. Quite a sight and smell! And on your return boat trip there’ll be fresh mackerel on the barbecue! |
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| Day 5 |
Cross the interior of the Iveragh Peninsula via the Ballaghoisheen Pass. Desolate, wild scenery and a lovely descent to the welcoming town of Killarney. Visit the National Park Centre and 19th century Muckross House. Enjoy the view of the world renowned Lakes of Killarney from one of the 365 windows and decide for yourself which you like best! Your town centre accommodation affords ample opportunity to explore – and walking distance from a wonderful world of shopping!
(Drive Time 2 hours) |
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Day 6
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Leaving the mountains of the southwest, drive inland to Birr Castle & Demense Co Offaly, fabulous gardens, cream teas, and home to Ireland’s earliest telescope. Visit the world renowned Newbridge Silverware & Jewellery and maybe treat yourself to a unique piece!
(Drive Time 4 hours) |
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| Day 7 |
Visit the National Stud & Japanese Gardens at Kildare and meet the daddy of your next flutter! The gardens are unique and well worth a visit. Dublin is just an hour from here and your central hotel allows plenty of opportunity to explore the city.
(Drive Time 1.5 hours) |
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| Day 8 |
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 9 |
Return to Dublin airport and depart.
(Drive time 1 hour). |
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