Coleman: Family and Friends Uncovering Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Day 1 - Thursday 26^th June - Arriving in Ireland

Arrive into Ireland this morning by way of Shannon. Have your private transfer collect you and bring you to Galway City where you’ll have the day to explore on your own.

Overnight: Galway | The Galmont
Room Type: Superior Twin

Day 2 - Friday 27^th June - Croagh Patrick

Have your guide meet you in Galway this morning and head straight for the imposing silhouette of the pilgrimage site, Croagh Patrick Mountain which dominates the surrounding countryside. On our way past, we’ll take a short hike in the shadow of the sacred mountain, following sheep tracks through heathery bogland along the final miles of the traditional pilgrimage route to the foot of Croagh Patrick.

Finish off your afternoon with a hands on Soda Bread making class! Enjoy an authentic, fun experience in making, baking (and eating!) traditional Irish soda bread and scones. Get an insight into Irish food culture and way of life, past and present.What better way to get to know Ireland than through its people and its food!

**Yeshwini will be collected by a separate transfer this morning and brought to the Westport Plaza Hotel**

Overnight: Westport | Westport Plaza Hotel
Room Type: Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3 - Saturday 28^th June - Clare Island, A Pirate's Hideaway

Welcome to Clare Island. In the 16th century, the wild north Atlantic coast of Ireland was ruled by Grace O’Malley, a formidable Gaelic pirate queen, who ruled the seas of Northern Europe. The little-visited Clare Island guards the entrance to Clew Bay, the Pirate Queen’s former stronghold. Explore the Pirate Queen’s castle, the jagged cliffs, pristine beaches and wondrous ruins of this magical place. Our hike follows an old green road past abbeys and Neolithic ruins before winding upwards to the dramatically situated lighthouse on the island’s northern cliffs.

Overnight: Westport | Westport Plaza Hotel
Room Type: Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Sunday 29^th June - Achill Island

After Lila and Yeshwini’s arrival this morning, spend the day exploring the stunning beauty of Achill Island with your guide leading the way. Start your adventure with a scenic loop walk, winding through breathtaking landscapes and coastal views that will leave you in awe. After immersing yourself in nature’s wonders, dare to dip your toes into the crystal-clear waters of Keem Bay, where the sand meets the surf in a truly serene setting.

Return to your to Westport this evening where you can unravel the details of the day while listening to some lively tunes.

Overnight: Westport | Westport Plaza Hotel
Room Type: Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 30^th June - Sheepdogs and Abbeys

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Riverside Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 1^st July - Horses and Beaches in Connemara

Taking in more of the rugged Connemara region today to take in one of Ireland’s most scenic lands. For those looking to try their luck with beach trekking along the beautiful Connemara beaches this morning, your guide will drop you in the capable hands of the equestrian centre. Those who aren’t trekking can remain behind in the luxury resort of Ballynahinch or head out with the rest of the group and enjoy a ramble along the beach. After the group will reconvene together for a picnic lunch.

The rest of the day is at your leisure, perhaps try a walk around the grounds of Ballynahinch or head into Clifden for a bit of shopping and family time.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Riverside Twin
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Wednesday 2^nd July - Roundstone Harbour and Deserted Island

This morning you’ll make your way to Roundstone Harbour to meet local man Damien, 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.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Riverside Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 3^rd July - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast