The O'Connell's Irish Adventure

Carol & Mike O'Connell

Monday 1st September – Monday 15th September 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 15 Days / 14 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 the island of Ireland’s famous and off-the-beaten-track sites of natural, cultural and political 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.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 1st September - Welcome to Dublin

Landing at Dublin airport this morning, you’ll travel through with ease with VIP services, and a private chauffeur will whisk you into your 5-star hotel in the city centre. Your room is held for you so check-in will be available straight away. Drop your bags, freshen up, or have a bite to eat. Dublin has been described as a ‘city with a village feel’; as you explore its cobbled streets and historical monuments, it will be easy to see why.  The city 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. This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Dublin’s many award-winning restaurants before ending the night in a cosy pub.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: x1 Westbury King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Tuesday 2nd September - The History & Literature of Dublin

This morning, uncover the hidden gems of Ireland’s oldest university with a historical tour of Trinity College Dublin. Led by an expert Trinity guide, explore the campus, learn some of Trinity’s colourful history, and hear of its illustrious alumni. Set on 46 acres of leafy squares, cobblestone walkways, and historic buildings, Trinity is Ireland’s oldest University and home to The Book of Kells – an ancient manuscript revered for its exquisite illustrations and profound religious significance. You have time to explore Dublin yourselves before an evening literary pub crawl, which has been rambling the streets of the capital since 1988. Professional actors tell you the story of the gin palace, the long hall and the spirit Grocer while quoting from the works of Joyce, Behan, Wilde and many more as you visit some of Dublin’s most well-known establishments.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: x1 Westbury King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Wednesday 3rd September - The Rock of Cashel

This morning your private guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel and after some short introductions you will start to make your way south into the countryside travelling through Ireland’s hidden heartlands. Dive right into the wonder of ancient Ireland with a stop at the Rock of Cashel, an immaculately preserved cathedral overlooking the sweeping landscape below. After lunch, it’s a further 1.5-hour drive to your destination – the harbour village of Kinsale in County Cork. Historically a medieval fishing port, its spectacular waterfront setting, and candy-coloured houses, shops, and restaurants, make it a glorious blend of old and the new. A quaint little spot with a wonderful foodie scene. This evening your guide will join you for a welcome dinner to discuss the adventure ahead.

Overnight: Kinsale | Actons Hotel
Room Type: x1 Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 - Thursday 4th September - Old Head

Experience a round of golf today at Ireland’s most dramatic course, Old Head. Old Head Golf Links is built on a 220-acre diamond of land jutting out over two miles into the Atlantic Ocean. With half of the holes carved into the clifftop, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views. Afterwards, your guide will pick you up and lead you on a short walk to the spectacular ruins of Charles Fort, one of the largest star-shaped forts in Europe overlooking the harbour mouth.

Overnight: Kinsale | Actons Hotel
Room Type: x1 Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Friday 5th September - Exploring Cobh

This morning make your way to Cobh, the last stop the Titanic made before she set sail for America. Here you will meet a local guide, author and historian Michael for a fascinating guided walking tour, which will bring you through the streets and environs of Cobh, revealing locations and incidents directly connected to the Titanic and many other aspects of Cork Harbour History & Irish Heritage. Leaving Cobh, stop at the nearby Midelton for a tour of the famed distillery, home to Ireland’s finest and best-loved Whiskey brands such as Jameson, Redbreast, Midleton Very Rare, Powers, Spot Whiskeys and more.

Overnight: Kinsale | Actons Hotel
Room Type: x1 Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Saturday 6th September - Traditional Cottage Visit

This morning you will bid farewell to Kinsale and make your way to “The Kingdom” of County Kerry, with your first destination being a traditional farming cottage, where the hosts will teach you the long-standing craft of Irish soda bread making, baked over the open fire, traditional butter and Poitin (Ireland’s version of Moonshine) making (and tasting)! You’ll learn to appreciate what the simple country lifestyle in rural Ireland was like before electricity and modern conveniences. The farm is located on the Ring of Kerry, on an immensely rich site that includes the ghostly ruins of a family dwelling from the era of the Great Irish Famine. You’ll then check into Sheen Falls, situated amidst the majestic landscapes in Kenmare, along the Ring of Kerry.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Sunday 7th September - Waterville Golf Links & The Ring of Kerry

This morning, your guide will escort you to Waterville House for a round of golf. This unique site location ensures a complete and unspoilt visual and audible environment– affording a unique tranquillity that is unmatched in golf. Afterwards, you’ll meet back up with your guide and spend the rest of the day stopping along our favourite hidden-gem beaches, visiting the birthplace of Ireland’s most prominent rebel figure, and admiring the dramatic rapidly changing landscapes.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Monday 8th September - Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is the most famous of Ireland’s national parks – and with good reason, as it is flourishing with breathtaking mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Historic manor houses and abbeys make for an interesting visit but Killarney is best explored via the water with a private boat trip across the lake. After your invigorating boat tour, your guide will lead you through the grounds and gardens of Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion set upon the shores of the glistening lake. Time and energy levels allowing, it’s only a short walk up to the base of the serpentine Torc Waterfall winding its way from the mountainside and into the lush canopy of trees.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Tuesday 9th September - The Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula hosts some of the richest collection of archaeological sites in Europe, ranging from standing stones and prehistoric monuments, as well as the peninsula’s renowned ancient Clochains or beehive huts, which may be as much as 2,000 years old. Explore the peninsula today with your guide, stopping as you please for strolls along some of the longest-stretching beaches and coastline trails Ireland has to offer. You’ll meet some feather friends along the way on an exhilarating Hawk Walk. Watch as these magnificent birds of prey swoop and soar with breathtaking speed and learn all about their fascinating habits. Following your time with the birds, your final destination is the Gothic splendour of Adare Manor, situated on 840 acres of pristine parkland with a Michelin-starred restaurant, golf course and spa among some of the on-site activities.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Wednesday 10th September - Unwind at Adare Manor

Spend the day enjoying your surroundings at Adare Manor partaking in some of the onsite leisure activities this luxurious hotel resort has to offer. You’ll settle into a beautifully appointed carriage for a meandering exploration of some of the 840 acres of pristine parkland. Your tour takes in some sweeping views of the lush countryside, memorable points of interest and fascinating and engaging tales of Adare’s long history. This afternoon, you’ll play your third round of golf on the award-winning Golf Course at Adare Manor. The new course has been created in harmony with the outstanding natural beauty of its surroundings: lush, softly rolling terrain, mature tree scaping, and the sweeping banks of the River Maigue.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Thursday 11th September - The Cliffs of Moher

This morning your guide will transfer you to the Old Course at Lahinch. With the golf course running in and out of the town, comparisons can be drawn to the world-famous Old Course of St. Andrews. Later, you’ll stop at a little gem of a cottage on an Irish farm and meet passionate owner Caitriona, who will take time to welcome you, share the local history of the Cliffs of Moher and treat you to the rich flavours of handmade fudge made by Caitriona herself. Sip a coffee or tea as you soak up the unrivalled views and enjoy the moment. You’ll drop by the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most impressive natural sites and take an afternoon stroll for some photo opportunities. The area is teeming with wildlife and 20 different species of birds, including puffins, make this area their home.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Friday 12th September - Galway City

Today you’ll track further north, arriving in Galway City. A labyrinth of cobbled streets, colourful shops and street performers, this city has a bohemian atmosphere. You’ll enjoy lunch here with your guide before exploring on your own for a couple of hours. A short walk will take you to the Spanish Arch and the picturesque Claddagh area, where you can enjoy views of Galway Bay. Galway is home to lively streets like Quay Street and Shop Street, filled with charming pubs, restaurants, and boutiques. We recommend sitting outside one of Galway’s famous pubs, like The Quays or Tigh Neachtain, to enjoy people-watching with a pint and traditional Irish music in the background. The accommodation for the next two nights is the historic 800-year-old Ashford Castle in the beautiful County Mayo – once owned by the Guinness family. Nestled between the shores of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, Cong is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history and its connection to pop culture.

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: x1 Corrib Lake Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Saturday 13th September - Deserted Island Landing Tour

This morning you’ll meet local man Damien at Roundstone Harbour, a fourth-generation fisherman who has been around the sea all his life. As you explore Roundstone Bay by boat, look out for the resident seals, dolphins & Basking sharks! You’ll pass by the stunning beaches of Ervallagh, Gurteen & Dog’s Bay as you make your way to the deserted Island of Inishlacken. With its panoramic views, picturesque unspoilt beaches & pristine waters, this deserted island is the perfect place to stop off for a bespoke picnic lunch!  Inishlaken has long been a centre point for writers, poets & artists because of its unique setting. A once largely populated island with its own schoolhouse & lots of quaint cottages, the population dwindled & the last of the island’s residents left for the mainland. But where man has left, nature has flourished and the island is now home to a large variety of insects & birds, rabbits, resident goats, sheep & donkeys. This evening your guide will join you for a farewell dinner onsite at Ashford Castle and a toast to a wonderful Irish adventure!

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: x1 Corrib Lake
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 14 - Sunday 14th September - Ballyfin

Leaving the west coast behind today you will head to Ireland’s green and rolling midlands. The gently rolling hills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains rise from the central plains of Ireland, forming a natural link between the counties of Laois and Offaly. The area is picturesque, peaceful, gloriously multi-coloured, and one of the least explored in Ireland. The final accommodation on your Irish adventure is Ballyfin Demesne, where stone walls enclose 614 acres of parkland, a lake and ancient woods, delightful garden buildings, follies and grottoes. You’ll say goodbye to your guide, check in and get settled before enjoying an exclusive picnic experience with some excellent locations to choose from, such as the grotto, temple, the water cascade, the top of the tower or by the lake. Dinner is also included on-site this evening.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 15 - Monday 15th September - Depart

This morning, a private chauffeur will meet you at Ballyfin and transfer you to Dublin Airport, about a 1 hour journey. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 15 (and pre-night in Dublin to ensure early check-in)
  • Most meals as indicated above, breakfast each morning, 12 lunch, 3 dinner
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 3 to Day 14
  • Ground transportation from Day 3 to Day 14
  • All guided experiences and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically;
  • VIP assistance on arrival & departure
  • Private arrival & departure airport transfer
  • Private Tour of Trinity College & Entry to the Book of Kells
  • Private Literary Pub Crawl
  • Entry to The Rock of Cashel
  • Tee Time at Old Head Golf Course
  • Private Historical Walking Tour of Cobh
  • Private Mideltion Distillery Tour
  • Private Traditional Cottage Visit
  • Tee Time at Waterville Golf Links
  • Entry to Derrynane House
  • Private Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour
  • Entry to Muckross House & Gardens
  • Private Falconry Experience
  • Private Horse & Carriage at Adare Manor
  • Tee Time at Adare Manor
  • Entry to The Cliffs of Moher
  • Private Deserted Island Landing Tour
  • Private Picnic Experience at Ballyfin
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • Tips for activity providers and accommodations
  • 24-hour 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
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision
Optional Upgrades Read More

Room upgrades are available on request.

Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is26,820 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.