Ireland Self-Drive Adventure: West Coast

Day 1 - Céad míle fáilte - One Hundred Thousand Welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – a hundred thousand welcomes – to Ireland’s capital. On arrival, meet your private driver for a seamless transfer to your city-centre hotel. After settling in and enjoying a bite to eat, begin your adventure with a privately guided walking tour of Dublin. Led by a knowledgeable local historian, explore the highlights of this vibrant city while uncovering the stories, characters, and pivotal moments that have shaped it through the centuries. Afterwards, take some time to relax this evening, ahead of an exciting day of kayaking tomorrow.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Kayaking the River Liffey

After breakfast, meet an expert local guide for a fantastic couple of hours kayaking through the heart of Dublin. Paddle past the city’s iconic landmarks and enjoy live performances by Dublin’s musicians and artists beneath the famous Ha’penny Bridge. This is a lively and memorable way to experience the rhythm of Dublin. Later, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace, with tailored recommendations to guide you.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Stories and Sheepdogs

This morning, pick up your rental car and begin your journey west. If you wish, take the time to walk along the banks of the River Shannon, a waterway that divides the east from the west and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Hear about the drowned goddess who gave the river its name, visit a monastic monument, and learn about Viking raids. Later this afternoon, enjoy a visit to a working sheep farm. While you watch the brilliant sheepdogs work the flock, chat to the local farmer about a life spent on the rugged west coast. Tonight, arrive at your cosy hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner inspired by the seasons.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Inishlacken Island Landing Tour

Set out this morning from Roundstone Harbour with local fisherman Damien, a fourth-generation seafarer with deep ties to the Connemara coast. Cruise across the bay, passing the white sands of Ervallagh, Gurteen, and Dog’s Bay while keeping watch for seals, dolphins, and basking sharks. Land on the quiet shores of Inishlacken, a deserted island known for its clear waters, scenic views, and resident wildlife. Once a small but lively community, the island now offers a peaceful setting for a bespoke picnic and time to explore at your leisure.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Traditional Baking Experience

Spend today exploring County Clare, a region defined by its wild coastline and distinctive geology. Begin with a visit to a traditional farm to meet Evelyn, whose warm welcome and expert guidance will have you making classic Irish scones in no time. Later, travel through the limestone landscapes of the Burren en route to the Cliffs of Moher. Rising dramatically above the Atlantic, these iconic sea cliffs are part of a UNESCO Global Geopark and offer spectacular views out across the waves. This evening, settle into a charming country house set on the edge of the Burren, where understated luxury, fine food, and tranquillity await.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Hiking in The Burren National Park

Today’s adventure unfolds on foot, with a guided hike through the extraordinary landscape of the Burren. Said to have inspired Tolkien’s Middle Earth, this vast limestone plateau is marked by striated rock, scattered wildflowers, and sweeping views. Meet a local guide to explore this unique terrain, shaped by time and tides, and dotted with over 2,500 archaeological sites. After your walk, enjoy lunch at a nearby tearoom with the option to visit the adjoining perfumery – the oldest of its kind in Ireland – where scents are crafted using native plants and traditional methods.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Depart

This morning, make your way to Shannon or Dublin Airport and return your rental car. As you leave Ireland’s wild western shores behind, take with you the memories of quiet roads, warm welcomes, and landscapes rich in history and beauty.