The Douville & Hughes Irish Adventure

Bernard, Kaki, Patty & Richard

Wednesday 7th May – Thursday 15th May 2025

Number of Travellers:  4
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

Picturesque coastal towns and villages, green pastoral fields, soaring cliffs, wild barren landscapes, the crash of the ocean, the laugh of a local. Ireland is romantic, and authentic, a home away from home where both old and modern seem to cohabit seamlessly on a small island in the middle of the sea. Packed with history and tradition your days are spent exploring Ireland’s famous and off-the-beaten-track sites of natural, cultural, and ancient interest. A world-renowned food scene means your evenings are spent dining in style, and with the promise of a pub just around the corner, music and laughter are never far away. Your trip to Ireland will surprise and delight you, but the people of Ireland will stay with you long after your journey has taken you home.

On Trip

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of your stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen, and there are times when you may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent.Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly on the appropriate country’s office number – see the useful phone numbers at the bottom of the document in the drop down section.Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:00

Out of Office Numbers: for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call, message or Whatsapp the Out of Office Hours Number for the appropriate country

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Wednesday 7th May | Céad míle fáilte | Overnight: Dublin

Day 2 | Thursday 8th May | Ireland's Fair City | Overnight: Dublin

Day 3 | Friday 9th May | Heading South | Overnight: Kenmare

Day 4 | Saturday 10th May | Golf on the South West | Overnight: Kenmare

Day 5 | Sunday 11th May | Exploring the Ring of Kerry | Overnight: Kenmare

Day 6 | Monday 12th May | Heading North | Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus

Day 7 | Tuesday 13th May | The Cliffs of Moher | Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus

Day 8 | Wednesday 14th May | Dromoland Castle | Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus

Day 9 | Thursday 15th May | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Wednesday 7th May - Céad míle fáilte

Céad míle fáilte, or one hundred thousand welcomes, to Ireland’s capital, Dublin! A private transfer will pick you up from the airport at 9.15 am and whisk you into the city to your 5-star hotel. Check-in is at 3 pm; however, feel free to leave your bags, freshen up, or have a bite to eat. Today is open for you to explore more and Dublin is best explored on foot or using public transport such as the LUAS, our light rail system. Many of Dublin’s highlights are within walking distance, and indeed, you will discover it is in the act of wandering from one to another where you will soak up Dublin’s authentic atmosphere. Enjoy a local pub lunch and spend the rest of your afternoon taking in some of Dublin’s sights.

Booking ref: 35274443, 35297294

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: x2 Westbury King
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Dublin Chauffeurs
Booking Reference: Douville & Hughes
Pick Up Location: Arrivals Hall at Dublin Airport | Pick Up Time: 09:15 | Approx Duration: 30 mins
Phone: +353 87 233 8396

Justin or one of his drivers will meet you at arrivals at Dublin Airport. Please do not be alarmed if you are delayed, as they have your flight details. Delta 0044 (DL 0044).

Day 1 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend having lunch at your hotel. Each room has a €100 F&B voucher to use before you depart.

Day 1 - Suggested Stops Read More +

The GPO The GPO Museum is an immersive, interactive and engaging experience telling the story of the 1916 Easter Rising and Modern Irish History.

The Jeanie Johnston One million Irish people fled Ireland during the famine. 2,500 took a gruelling voyage on the Jeanie Johnston. Take a journey back in time, get an insight into life on board a Famine ship and hear the stories of the people who made the arduous voyage.

Marsh’s Library Marsh’s Library is a beautifully preserved library of the early Enlightenment. It was built with money provided by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh, an academic and book lover with a strong belief in the public utility of education and learning.

Book of Kells Experience View the Book of Kells, Long Room and Gaia in the Old Library, and embark on an immersive journey in the new digital exhibition.

Little Museum of Dublin A unique look at Dublin’s history with a one-of-a-kind guided tour.

Please check the opening hours for the dates you’ll be visiting.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend The Winding Stair, Sole Seafood & Grill or The Boxty House (a modern take on traditional Irish food). For pubs, we recommend Doheny & Nesbitt’s, The Hairy Lemon or No Name.

Day 2 - Thursday 8th May - Ireland's Fair City

Exploring Dublin on foot is like strolling through a living storybook, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. You can wander down cobblestone streets, pass by colourful Georgian doors, and stop by iconic landmarks like Trinity College and St. Stephen’s Green. The lively pubs along Temple Bar offer a burst of music and conversation, while quieter spots like Phoenix Park provide peaceful escapes. There’s something about Dublin’s compactness that makes it feel intimate—every turn reveals a new layer of culture, charm, and character. We’ll give you all of our favourite recommendations for a day well spent.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: x2 Westbury King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Suggested Stops - Dublin Read More +

Little Museum of Dublin A unique look at Dublin’s history with a one-of-a-kind guided tour.

EPIC Museum You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold here, but you will discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world.

Kilmainham Gaol For over 100 years, Kilmainham Gaol held thousands of men, women and children for crimes that ranged from minor offences to being involved in some of the most momentous events in Irish history.

Dublin Castle Constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland.

National Gallery of Ireland At the corner of Merrion Square West and Clare Street, the recently renovated National Gallery is a treasure trove of permanent and temporary art exhibitions. Highlights include Ireland’s National Portrait Collection, the Yeats Archive and stained glass by Harry Clarke.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral As the largest cathedral and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Ireland, Saint Patrick’s has been at the heart of Dublin and Ireland’s history and culture for over 800 years.

Please check the opening hours for the dates you’ll be visiting.

Day 2 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend Bloom Brasserie, The Pig & Heifer or Shaka Poke.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend BANG Restaurant & Wine Bar, One Pico or Etto. For pubs, The Temple Bar is a nice photo opportunity but is aimed toward tourists (it is also super expensive). Try The Brazen Head or Toner’s instead.

Day 3 - Friday 9th May - Heading South

Meeting your private guide in the lobby of your hotel, this morning you journey south to the the Kingdom of Kerry. As we journey, our route takes us through lush countryside with stunning views around every corner. Optional stops along the way include the Rock of Cashel, an immaculately preserved cathedral overlooking the sweeping landscape below. We continue to the quaint and colourful town of Kenmare, nestled between the Caha Mountains and the McGillicuddy Reeks and sitting at the head of Ireland’s longest bay. Dinner will be hosted tonight by your guide, for a chance to chat about the week to come.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x2 Superior Deluxe Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3 - Guide Details - Duncan Warner Read More +

Name: Duncan Warner
Contact Number: +353 (0)87 191 4911
Meeting Place: The lobby of The Westbury | Meeting Time: 09:00

Duncan will meet you in the lobby of your hotel.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Falls Restaurant | Location: Sheen Falls
Reservation Time: 19:45

Dinner is included tonight.

Day 4 - Saturday 10th May - Golf on the South West

Golf is synonymous with Ireland as its coastal rolling sand dunes and coarse grass make for some of the world’s most renowned links courses. Today we have booked a tee time for four at Killarney Golf Club. Located in Killarney National Park, surrounded by the lakes of Lough Leane, it is a Six-Time Host Venue to the Irish Open and home to two 18-hole championship courses.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x2 Superior Deluxe Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Killarney Golf Club Read More +

Activity: Killarney Golf Club
| Start Time: 13:00

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

In Kenmare town, we recommend No. 35, The Lime Tree, Mulcahy’s, or O’Donnabhain’s. For pubs, we recommend P.F. McCarthy’s or Crowley’s.

Day 5 - Sunday 11th May - Exploring the Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is right on your doorstep and one of the most popular and scenic regions Ireland has to offer. Today we drive the famous route, taking in stunning coastal views, rugged mountains, and charming villages, or we can opt for a private experience to learn about the area’s rich history and folklore. Your guide will facilitate stops to view dramatic landscapes, ancient stone forts, and quaint towns. For a more active experience, there are plenty of hiking and cycling routes, offering up-close encounters with nature and breathtaking panoramas at every turn.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x2 Superior Deluxe Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend The Stables Brasserie at Sheen Falls tonight.

Day 6 - Monday 12th May - Heading North

Today, we leave the wild and rugged southwest behind, making our way farther north to Clare. Your guide will facilitate a couple of stops on the way. On arrival, spend time enjoying the activities and experiences that Dromoland Castle has to offer.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: x2 Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend dining at Dromoland Castle for two nights. They offer casual dining at The Fig Tree and fine dining at the Earl of Thomond. We are happy to make reservations for you in advance.

Day 7 - Tuesday 13th May - The Cliffs of Moher

As we enter the Burren landscape, we quickly notice its otherworldly attributes. With endless lines of karst limestone rock dominating fields and covering hillsides, the area is said to have been an inspiration for JRR Tolkien’s world-famous Lord of the Rings trilogy. We head to the musical village of Doolin, where we hop on a Zodiac for an up close and personal exploration of the Cliffs of Moher. Far from the tourist crowds, learn the mythology and wildlife of this iconic site.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: x2 Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Zodiac Tour Read More +

Activity: Zodiac Tour
| Start Time: 10:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs

Day 8 - Wednesday 14th May - Dromoland Castle

As residents, you’ll have unlimited access to complimentary boating and fishing equipment, in case you’d like to row out into the well-stocked Dromoland Lough and see about catching yourself some dinner. For another, winding across the massive Dromoland Castle estate, their magnificent championship course plays over 6,824 yards for men and 5,242 for ladies. Gently rolling hills, ancient trees, and deceptively winsome wildflower meadows conspire to conceal unexpected hazards, then open up in a blaze of glory to reveal breathtaking vistas of the Castle towers and County Clare’s untamed landscapes in the distance.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: x2 Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dromoland Castle Golf Course Read More +

Activity: Dromoland Castle Golf Course
| Start Time: 10:00

Day 8 - Falconry Experience Read More +

Activity: Falconry Experience
| Start Time: 15:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Booking Reference: The Hughes Couple

Day 9 - Thursday 15th May - Depart

This morning, your guide will take you to Dublin Airport in time for your flight home. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Emerald Isle once again.

Estimated departure time: 7 am for a 1.15 pm flight

Your guide will discuss your departure time with you the night before.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 8 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 3 to Day 9 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Golf at Killarney Golf Club
    • Private Zodiac Tour
    • Golf at Dromoland Castle
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Ireland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

EU: +353 (0)71 9344650
US: 888 351 4257

Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+353 (0)86 873 7223

Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Westbury Hotel

Balfe Street | Dublin | Co. Dublin |
D02 CH66 | Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 679 1122
Web: doylecollection.com/hotels

Sheen Falls Lodge

Kenmare | Kerry |
V93 HR27 | Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)64 664 1600
Web: sheenfallslodge.ie

Dromoland Castle Hotel

Newmarket On Fergus | Co Clare |
V95 ATD3 | Ireland
Phone: +353-61-368144
Web: dromoland.ie

Meet Your Guide

Duncan Warner

Contact Number: +353 (0)87 191 4911

As Wilderness Ireland’s Head of Guides, I am fortunate to have found a profession that combines my appreciation for the natural environment and the fun of meeting like minded people.

For the last ten years working in the outdoors, hiking, biking and kayaking has enabled me to enjoy the experience of journeying yet at the same time providing constant opportunities to stop and take it all in.

Favourite Place to Play
West coast of Ireland – so many ways to experience it and a lifetime of places to visit. Connemara, Mayo, Galway and Clare are particular regions I love to explore!

Not a lot of People Know This
but…I sneeze when I eat chocolate (I end up sneezing a lot!).

Virtuoso

The Douville & Hughes Irish Adventure

Wednesday 7th May – Thursday 15th May 2025