Castelain Family's Irish Adventure - Final Information

Wednesday 3rd July – Sunday 14th July 2024

Number of Travellers: 5
Duration: 12 Days / 11 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, 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.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Wednesday 3rd July | Being your adventure in Westport | Overnight: Delphi

Day 2 | Thursday 4th July | Cycle the Great Western Greenway | Overnight: Delphi

Day 3 | Friday 5th July | Magestic Killary Fjord & Sheep dog Experience | Overnight: Connemara

Day 4 | Saturday 6th July | Inishbofin Island | Overnight: Connemara

Day 5 | Sunday 7th July | Galway Food Tour | Overnight: Clare

Day 6 | Monday 8th July | Hiking in The Burren National Park | Overnight: Clare

Day 7 | Tuesday 9th July | Cliffs of Moher | Overnight: Killarney

Day 8 | Wednesday 10th July | Ring of Kerry & Dingle | Overnight: Killarney

Day 9 | Thursday 11th July | Hiking Killarney National Park | Overnight: Killarney

Day 10 | Friday 12th July | Drive to Dublin & Guinness Storehouse | Overnight: Dublin

Day 11 | Saturday 13th July | Dublin walking tour, Trinity College & Heinrietta Street | Overnight: Dublin

Day 12 | Sunday 14th July | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Wednesday 3rd July - Being your adventure in Westport

Arriving today pick up your rental car and head westward to Westport. Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of Clew Bay and embraced by the rolling hills of County Mayo, Westport stands as a charming gem along the Wild Atlantic Way. Westport’s heart beats with a lively atmosphere fuelled by its traditional pubs, artisanal shops, and a bustling market square. Surrounded by lush landscapes, including the iconic Croagh Patrick looming in the distance, this will be your home for the next two nights. You might like to arrive in town early to explore the colourful streets and visit some fantastic shops and artisans!

Overnight: Delphi | Delphi Lodge Hotel
Room Type: Family Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 1 - Car Rental Pick Up Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K8962350268
Pick Up Location: Dublin Airport | Pick Up Time: 19:00
Phone: 00353 - 53 915 2552

Please see car rental travel voucher included in attachments below.

Day 2 - Thursday 4th July - Cycle the Great Western Greenway

Part of a project to restore abandoned railway tracks, the Great Western Greenway was refurbished as a car-free cycling track. Today you’ll meet an expert biking guide and pedal past rushing waterfalls, ancient ruins, megalithic tombs and scenic bridges on a canvas of coastal and mountain views as you learn how this fascinating prophecy came to be true. Enjoy as much of the 42 km Great Western Greenway as you’d like as we’ll arrange a return transfer back to town.

Overnight: Delphi | Delphi Lodge Hotel
Room Type: Family Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Westport Greenway Biking Read More +

Activity: Westport Greenway Biking
Guide: Katie Gordon
Start Location: Westport Bike Hire, James St., Westport, Co. Mayo, F28 DY94 | Start Time: 09:30
Phone: 00353 874748735

Your wonderful guide, Katie, will meet you at Westport Bike Hire for a days cycling and exploring.

Day 2 - Lunch Details Read More +

Your guide, Katie, will advise of some lunch spot options along the greenway today.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

For dinner in Westport, we recommend:

The Pantry & Corkscrew for fine dining or Sage restaurant

Day 3 - Friday 5th July - Magestic Killary Fjord & Sheep dog Experience

Leaving Westport behind, feast your eyes upon the breathtaking shores of one of Ireland’s only three fjords before heading to the expanses of Connemara. Once described as “a savage beauty” by author Oscar Wilde, explore the wild, windswept region.  A visit to local sheep farm offers a unique, immersive journey into the world of sheep farming along Ireland’s scenic Killary Fjord.  Afterwards, we recommend a stop at a neo-gothic abbey before hiking in the Connemara National Park. Tonight dinner is included at your accommodation.

Overnight: Connemara | Cashel House Hotel
Room Type: x2 Garden Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 - Killary Sheep Farm Read More +

Activity: Killary Sheep Farm
Owner: Tom Nee
Start Location: Killary Sheep Farm | Start Time: 11:15
Phone: +353 (0)87 298 8051 | Website: https://killarysheepfarm.com/

Meet Tom, the farmer at Killary Sheep farm for a private experience of farming life in Ireland.

Day 4 - Saturday 6th July - Inishbofin Island

After a hearty breakfast you will transfer 40 minutes to the village of Cleggan to catch your ferry to Inishbofin. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and seals along the way! Today you will be joined by an experienced guide for a walk around this fascinating island. Highlights include rugged cliffs, blowholes, Bronze and Iron Age ruins and the crumbling Cromwellian fort where ‘Don Bosco’, the infamous Spanish pirate was stationed in the 16th century.  Head back to Cashel House for some down time. Tonight dinner is included at your accommodation.

Overnight: Connemara | Cashel House
Room Type: x2 Garden Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Inishbofin Island Discovery Limited
Contact Number: +353 (86) 171 8829 / +353 (87) 366 7185

Outward Journey Departure Port: Inishbofin Ferry Ticket Office in Cleggan Village. (Located on left, opposite village shop) | Outward Journey Departure Time: 11:30

Return Journey Departure Port: Inishbofin Ferry port | Return Journey Departure Time: 17:00

Please see booking voucher in attachments.
Note: Please present this voucher at Inishbofin Ferry Ticket Office in Cleggan Village. (Located on left, opposite village shop).

Day 4 - Guide Details - Pearse O'Toole Read More +

Name: Pearse O'Toole
Contact Number: 00353 86 0215412
Meeting Place: Cleggan Pier | Meeting Time: 11:00

Your guide for the day, Pearse O’Toole, will meet you at Cleggan Pier and take the ferry to the island for a days exploring and learning.

Day 4 - Lunch Details Read More +

There are a number of lunch options available on the island, your guide will advise based on your preferences and timings to best suit the day.

Day 5 - Sunday 7th July - Galway Food Tour

Galway is the capital of Ireland’s west. Known as the ‘town of the tribes’ the small centre of cobblestone streets and colourful store fronts is vibrant, fun and cosmopolitan. What better way to spend an afternoon here than a delectable food tour? Stop off in the city and tantalise your taste buds with a delightful journey through Galway’s culinary scene. From artisanal cheeses, craft beers, to handcrafted chocolate, this will be a true feast for the senses. Afterwards, make your way to County Clare and the quaint village of Ballyvaughan.

Overnight: Clare | Monks
Room Type: x1 Apartment, x1 Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Galway Food Tour Read More +

Activity: Galway Food Tour
Start Location: Outside McCambridges, 38 Shop Street, Galway H91 T2N7. | Start Time: 14:00
Phone: +353 (0)86 733 2885

Meeting point outside McCambridges, 38 Shop Street, Galway H91 T2N7.

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

For dinner tonight in Ballyvaughan we suggest:

– Dining at your accommodation at Monks Seafood
– Wild Honey Inn (Michelin Star Dining Pub)

Day 6 - Monday 8th July - Hiking in The Burren National Park

The Burren’s rocky alien landscape is said to be the inspiration for Middle Earth in JRR Tolkien’s world-famous Lord of the Rings trilogy – and on your guided hike through this other-worldly region, it’s easy to see why! Home to a plethora of unique wildflowers, you will learn about the human history of the area dating back thousands of years. Stop in a botanical cafe and perfumery for lunch – it’s the oldest perfumery in Ireland! This evening enjoy whiskey tasting in a 6th generation traditional Irish whiskey bar.

Overnight: Clare | Monks
Room Type: x1 Apartment, x1 Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Guide Details - Michael Killeen Read More +

Name: Michael Killeen
Contact Number: +353 (0)86 895 4545
Meeting Place: Gortlecka crossroad in Kilnaboy in the Burren National park -52.99707753108233, -9.037086729124972 | Meeting Time: 10:00

Meet your guide Michael at Gortlecka crossroads today for a day in the Burren.

Day 6 - Directions Read More +

https://maps.app.goo.gl/TmYjusBddf6iCbu56

Day 6 - Whiskey Tasting Read More +

Activity: Whiskey Tasting
O'Loclainn's Irish Whiskey Bar: Margaret
Start Location: O'Loclainn's Irish Whiskey Bar | Start Time: 18:00
Phone: +353 87 6728739

Day 7 - Tuesday 9th July - Cliffs of Moher

Start your day off at Ireland’s most-famous cliffs, the Cliffs of Moher, before the crowds arrive, enjoying a walk along the dramatic cliff edge on a background of coastal panoramas. Leaving County Clare behind, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you cross the mouth of the mighty River Shannon.

 

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x1 Superior Double, x1 Junior Suite Triple
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Some dinner options in Killarney:

– Bricin
– Cronins Seafood
– The Mad Monk
– The Tan Yard

Day 8 - Wednesday 10th July - Ring of Kerry & Dingle

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ireland on the Ring of Kerry drive, where stunning coastal vistas, charming villages, and historic landmarks await. Marvel at the rugged landscapes, serene lakes, and lush greenery that define this iconic route. Make unforgettable memories as you explore one of Ireland’s most scenic and picturesque journeys. This evening experience the thrill and tradition of Irish culture with a captivating Irish dancing demonstration that brings the spirit of Ireland to life!

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x1 Superior Double, x1 Junior Suite Triple
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Private Irish Dancing Read More +

Activity: Private Irish Dancing

Start Location: The Atrium, Cahernane House Hotel | Start Time: 20:30

Day 9 - Thursday 11th July - Hiking Killarney National Park

This morning head over to Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown. Today the park encompasses 26,000 acres of mountains, woodlands, lakes, waterfalls and history. Enjoy Kerry’s most breathtaking scenery on your doorstep. A local guide will meet you here and together you will visit the mediaeval tower house at Ross Castle, visit Torc Waterfall and take hike around the woodlands. A day spent in Killarney National Park will always be memorable.  This evening enjoy a sunset kayak around the breathtaking lakes of Killarney and soak up the stunning scenario to finish your day on a high note.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x1 Superior Double, x1 Junior Suite Triple
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Guide Details - Katie Gordon Read More +

Name: Katie Gordon
Contact Number: 00 353 874748735
Meeting Place: Ross Castle | Meeting Time: 09:30

Meet Katie at Ross Castle this morning for a day exploring the national park.

Day 9 - Ross Castle Read More +

Activity: Ross Castle

Start Location: Ross Castle | Start Time: 16:00
Phone: 00 353 874748735

Your guide, Katie, will take you for a tour of Ross Castle.

Day 9 - Sunset Kayak Read More +

Activity: Sunset Kayak

Start Location: Ross Castle Bottom Car Park/Killarney (Eircode V93V304) | Start Time: 18:00 | Approx Duration: 3 hrs
Phone: +353 (0) 86 860 45 63

Please arrive 10 minutes early.

Please note we are based in the second/bottom car park at Ross Castle; which is a little more discreet. Look for a kayak trailer and orange kayaks.

Please note we have a no alcohol policy and a no smoking policy while on session; and also we meet alongside a busy car park – which needs to be watched, especially if you have kids/teens with you.

There will be two instructors on the water, we have two double seaters available to use, we usually recommend to have the youngest ones in the doubles with the parents. The others will be in singles but can be towed with a rope by our instructors.

Please Bring: Warm HatShorts/Swimwear/Leggings (For Under Wetsuit)Shoes (That May Get Wet)TowelWaterSun Hat/Sun Cream.

You will be changing outdoors so it may be useful to be wearing your swimwear under your clothes on arrival.

Day 10 - Friday 12th July - Drive to Dublin & Guinness Storehouse

After breakfast, make your way to Dublin. En route, dive right into wonder of ancient Ireland with a stop at the Rock of Cashel, an immaculately preserved cathedral overlooking the sweeping landscape below. Continue on, check into your hotel and this evening you will visit the Guinness Storehouse. You’ll be immersed in the rich heritage of Guinness, tracing its roots back to its founding by Arthur Guinness in 1759. Tonight, enjoy dinner at one of Dublin’s many award winning restaurants.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: 1x Superior King room interconnecting to 1x Superior Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Guinness Storehouse Read More +

Activity: Guinness Storehouse
Start Location: St. James's Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H | Start Time: 17:00
Phone: +353 (0)1 408 4800

Please see tickets in attachments below.

Day 10 - Suggested Stop Read More +

The Rock of Cashel Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, The Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland.

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

See suggested Dublin restaurants in attachments.

Day 11 - Saturday 13th July - Dublin walking tour, Trinity College & Heinrietta Street

On a private walking tour of Dublin you’ll learn about the fascinating history of this vibrant city and visit Trinity college where the Trinity Experience will immerse you in the rich history and vibrant culture of Trinity College Dublin with rare manuscripts and Ireland’s literary heritage.  In the afternoon visit 14 Henrietta Street, a social history museum of Dublin life, from one building’s Georgian beginnings to its tenement times.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: 1x Superior King room interconnecting to 1x Superior Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Private Walking Tour of Dublin Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour of Dublin
Historical Insights Ireland Ltd:
Start Location: Merrion Hotel Lobby | Start Time: 10:00
Phone: +353 (0)87 688 9412

Day 11 - Trinity College & Book of Kells Read More +

Activity: Trinity College & Book of Kells
Start Location: Trinity College | Start Time: 12:00

Please see tickets in attachments below.

Day 11 - 14 Heinrietta Street Museum Read More +

Activity: 14 Heinrietta Street Museum
Start Location: 14 Heinrietta Street | Start Time: 16:00
Booking Reference: 143554559

See tickets in attachments below.

Day 12 - Sunday 14th July - Depart

This morning, drop your rental car at the airport and it’s time to head home. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Car Rental Drop Off Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K8962350268
Drop Off Location: Dublin Airport | Drop Off Time: 19:00
Phone: 053 915 2552

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 12
  • Breakfast each morning, dinner both nights at Cashel House Hotel
  • Car Rental from Day 1 to Day 12
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically;
  • Bike Hire
  • Guided Biking on the Great Western Greenway
  • Private sheep farm experience
  • Private Tour on Inishbofin
  • Ferry Tickets
  • Private whiskey tasting experience
  • Private Galway Food Tour
  • Private Hiking Guide in The Burren
  • Private Hiking Guide in Killarney National Park
  • Entry to Ross Castle
  • Private Irish dancing experience
  • Sea-kayaking activity in Killarney
  • Private Guided history walking tour of Dublin
  • Access to Trinity college
  • Entry to the Guinness Storehouse
  • Entry to 14 Heinrietta Street
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 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 activity providers or day guides
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
Important Additional Information Read More
  • 24/7 Support Contact Number General Info - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Dublin - PDF: View Now
  • Car rental information - PDF: View Now
  • Inisbofin Ferry Tickets - PDF: View Now
  • Guinness Storehouse - PDF: View Now
  • Book of Kells Experience - PDF: View Now
  • 14 Heinrietta Street Museum - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

Delphi Lodge

Tawnyinlough | Leenaun | Co. Galway |
H91 R5Y6 | Ireland
Phone: +353-95-42222
Web: delphilodge.ie

Cashel House Hotel

Cashel | Connemara | Co.Galway |
Ireland
Phone: +353-95-31001
Web: cashelhouse.ie

Monks Stay Ballyvaughan

The Pier, Lisnard | Ballyvaughan | Co. Clare |
H91 W9TN | Ireland
Phone: +353 65 707 7059
Web: monks.ie/stay-new

Cahernane House Hotel

Muckross Road | Killarney | Kerry |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)64 663 1895
Web: cahernane.com

The Merrion Hotel

Upper Merrion Street | Dublin | Co. Dublin |
D02 KF79 | Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 603 0600
Web: merrionhotel.com

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Virtuoso

Castelain Family’s Irish Adventure – Final Information

Wednesday 3rd July – Sunday 14th July 2024