Ireland: Best of the West

Day 1 - To the West

Arriving in Dublin Airport via the private terminal (including fast-tracked immigration), meet your private guide and hit the road westwards. There are plenty of opportunities to stop along the way – perhaps a private behind-the-scenes tour of the National Stud where some of the world’s best racehorses are bred, or a stop at the imposing Rock of Cashel where you can meet a local archaeologist who will introduce you to the thousands of years of history that surround this ancient site. Of course, it’s possible to helicopter directly to the Park Hotel if you prefer, or spend a night or two exploring the city of Dublin.

Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

Day 2 - Kerry and the Southwest

After breakfast, we will customise the perfect day to allow you to enjoy this most beautiful corner of Ireland. Meet a local folklorist to explore the Beara region – a lesser- visited peninsula just to the south. Enjoy a short hike to the picturesque stone circle at Gleninchiquin set on a stunning lake backdrop and uncover little-accessed archaeological sites that bring the area’s rich history to life. Alternatively, explore the mellow waters of Kenmare Bay by kayak right from your hotel. Paddle to a boathouse where your personal chef will cook you a bespoke meal featuring the catch of the day straight from the fishing boat at its moorings.

For guests who prefer a more energetic day, ask us about the fantastic road cycling and more challenging hikes in this area. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the monastic island of Skellig Michael is another option for those of adventurous spirit.

Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

Day 3 - Killarney National Park

We leave behind the quaint town of Kenmare and head north and into the heart of Kerry. Killarney National Park is the jewel in Kerry’s crown and we aim to arrive in style. Hiking the Old Kenmare Road, an old military route through awe-inspiring mountain scenery we arrive on the lakeshore where you are met by a traditional wooden boat. On board, enjoy an insider’s tour of the Lakes of Killarney where you will stop at a quiet island. Enjoy a fantastic picnic packed with local produce on a mesmerising backdrop of long-abandoned monastic ruins while listening to the quiet lapping waters on the lake shore. After a Michelin-starred dinner at your hotel this evening, why not wander into the village for a traditional Irish music session?

Overnight: 5 star | Adare Manor | Limerick

Day 4 - The Cliffs of Moher & Aran Islands

Start the day on a high with an incredible scenic helicopter journey. Taking off from Adare Manor you will head towards the Atlantic, first flying along the Cliffs of Moher. Best seen from the air, you will get an unrivalled sense of the full height and majesty of the cliffs. Landing on the Aran Islands, you will be met by a horse and carriage – the traditional way of getting around on the island. Meet up with a fisherman-turned-goat farmer for a visit to his farm where you’ll sample award-winning goats’ cheese and listen to your host regale you with stories of life growing up on this remote outcrop. You might even learn a ‘cupla focal’ (a few words) in Gaelic, still the main language spoken on the islands.

Some guests may prefer to travel around the island by mountain bike instead of horse and carriage – a perfect way to explore the little-visited corners of this amazing island.

Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

Day 5 - Connemara National Park

The rugged and remote Connemara landscapes have captured the imagination of writers and artists for centuries. Today we will fully customise your experience as we head west to explore. Guests could enjoy a hike in the hills overlooking Galway Bay culminating a visit to a traditional Connemara oyster farm. Pull on your waterproofs and head out with the farmer to harvest oysters or simply sit back with a pint of Guinness (the traditional oyster accompaniment in Ireland) or a glass of champagne and enjoy these treats fresh from the sea. Spend the afternoon with a potter, crafting a souvenir from local clay before heading back to Ashford Castle for their unrivalled afternoon tea.

Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

Day 6 - Hidden Heartlands

Heading eastwards this morning you will explore Ireland’s often overlooked Hidden Heartlands. Think rolling green pastures and flower-laden hedges – picture postcard Ireland for sure. Along the way, stop at a distillery where some of Ireland’s best whiskey has been distilled for centuries. A behind-the-scenes tour with the distiller is a fantastic introduction to the ‘uisce beatha’ or ‘the water of life’. As always, you can helicopter directly to your next hotel where we have arranged a picnic lunch redolent of Jane Austen novels. You will spend tonight in an impeccably-restored Palladian mansion and we highly recommend a house tour with the butler before heading off to explore the estate.

Overnight: 5 star | Ballyfin Demesne | Laois

Day 7 - Depart

After a leisurely breakfast, a transfer of 1.5 hours brings you to either Dublin or Shannon Airport. Alternatively, charter a helicopter to an airport of your choice to begin your journey home.