The Best of Ireland Drive & Hike

Arrive in Ireland’s much-loved capital—lively Dublin. Take time to explore such classic Irish landmarks as Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, the Temple Bar area and the Guinness Storehouse.

Set out on a lovely, easy drive through the gentle countryside to the charming town of Kilkenny. If you are itching to stretch your legs, then you can opt to walk to the cairn atop Fairy Castle in the Dublin mountains, following the Wicklow Way; a lovely national trail with panoramic views over Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Hills from the Three Stones.

Back behind the wheel, the 6th century the Monastic City of Glendalough in the Wicklow mountains is a fascinating stop en route to Kilkenny. As well as being Ireland’s smallest, Kilkenny is also known as the ‘Marble City’ thanks to its black polished limestone (‘marble’) that was quarried there. Wander the beautifully-preserved old streets and soak up the medieval culture—the city dates back more than 1,500 years.

Fairy Castle Walk: 9 km (6 miles); Ascent: 331m (1086ft) / Descent: 325m (1066ft)

After a delicious Irish breakfast, courtesy of your friendly B&B hosts set off to the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. The Rock dominates the surrounding plains and was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasion. This picturesque complex of medieval architecture boasts a remarkable collection of Celtic art, making it well worth a visit.

Continue your drive southwest and enter County Cork. Perhaps divert via Blarney Castle for a popular ‘rite of passage’ and kiss the Blarney Stone—said to bestow the gift of eloquence! Head to County Kerry and the charming small town of Killarney with its excellent bars and restaurants; it’s a great place from which to explore Killarney National Park and you’ll spend the next three nights here.

Today you’ve one of the most famous (and popular) touring routes in Ireland ahead of you—the Ring of Kerry. 179km of narrow, winding roads offer outstanding scenic vistas, including Ladies View and the Gap of Dunloe. Starting from Killarney you’ll explore the beautiful Inveragh peninsula, taking in the remote Black Valley and charming towns and villages of Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, and Glenbeigh. Return to Killarney.

If you would prefer to stretch your legs, see the choice of walks under Day 5 of the itinerary.

You’re spoilt for choice today with two suggested walks or the option to take a boat trip to the Skellig Islands.

The jewel in the crown of Killarney National Park is Muckross House and Gardens, a magnificent Victorian mansion with a serene lake and Torc waterfall. Perhaps take an optional 6-mile walk around this delightful area. ‘Jaunting cars’ (horse-drawn carriages) also run here from Killarney.

If you’d prefer to stretch your legs somewhere a little more remote, then opt to walk a section of the Kerry Way on the ‘Windy Gap’ hike, starting and ending at pretty Glenbeigh. The path offers wonderful views over Dingle Bay and the Caragh Valley and Lough, framed by Ireland’s highest peak; 3406ft Carantoohil.

Alternatively, depart early and drive 75km/1h15 to Portmagee, from where you can take an optional boat trip to the Skellig Islands (payable locally, seasonal, and weather-dependent). Established in the 6th century, the monastery on Skellig Michael was inhabited for around 600 years, and you’ll climb the 600 steep steps to reach it! The Skelligs and surrounding waters are home to Europe’s largest gannet colony, puffins, seals, and whales - this is a remarkable place.

Choice of walks

Kerry Way Loop Walk in Black Valley: 11 km (7 miles); Ascent: 126m (413ft) / Descent: 126m (413ft)

Windy Gap Walk from Glenbeigh: 11 km (7 miles); Ascent: 342m (1122ft) / Descent: 365m (1198ft)

Muckross Lake & Torc Waterfall (shortened version): 13 km (8 miles); Ascent: 132m (433ft) / Descent: 151m (495ft)

Muckross Lake & Torc Mountain Walk: 20 km (12 miles); Ascent: 549m (181ft) / Descent: 546m (1791ft)

You have a long and rewarding day ahead as you bid a fond farewell to County Kerry and make your way towards Limerick and then the coast of County Clare. Reaching the famed Cliffs of Moher you’ll enjoy views across the wild Atlantic Ocean to O’Brien’s Tower. Take time to explore and revel in the superb views along the cliffs to the distant Moher Tower on Hag’s Head. You can now check the Burren Way off your list of national Irish trails to have followed (albeit in part!) as the path by the cliffs follows the original route.

Choice of walks

Cliffs of Moher Loop Walk: 5 km (3 miles); Ascent: 83m (272ft) / Descent: 88m (289ft)

The Burren Loop Walk: 18 km (11 miles); Ascent: 439m (1140ft) / Descent: 439m (1140ft)

With the freedom of Ireland’s open roads (and footpaths!), the rugged beauty of County Connemara is the backdrop to your adventures today.

If you’re feeling active, then a lovely walk is ‘Máméan’; the Pass of the Birds, which looks onto the Twelve Bens of Connemara and the Inagh Valley. A tiny chapel, altar, and cave-like recess called St Patrick’s Bed are to be found at the pass, and many locals believe that St Patrick did indeed forge this pilgrim’s route.

If you’d prefer to take to the water, then the Aran Islands are located in the heart of Galway Bay. A ferry service (seasonal, weather dependent) operates from Ros a’ Mhíl on the mainland (approx. 35km/42 mins drive from Galway City).

Choice of walks

Máméan Pilgrim Path: 10 km (6 miles); Ascent: 229m (751ft) / Descent: 309m (1014ft)

Inishmore Island Loop Walk: 16 km (10 miles); Ascent: 98m (322ft) / Descent: 107m (351ft)

Cross the width of the country as you set off towards Dublin; this is a day filled with historic landmarks.

Your first highlight is the enchanting ancient monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise. Founded on the banks of the River Shannon in the 6th century by St Ciaran, this early Christian site comprises of multiple ruined towers and a cathedral.

A slight detour to Newgrange is certainly worthwhile; incredibly, these megalithic tombs predate Stonehenge, Mycenae and the Pyramids! It’s not long before you’re then back in the modern world and the bustling city of Dublin.