Ireland - West Coast Sample Self Drive Itinerary
Duration:
7 Days /
6 Nights
Céad míle fáilte – or one hundred thousand welcomes – to Ireland’s capital, Dublin! Upon arrival, a private transfer will provide a smooth journey into the city and onwards to the hotel. There is no better introduction to Dublin than a private walking tour with a local guide so after a bite to eat head out to see the best of the city. Your guide is also a historian who will share the stories, characters, and events that have shaped Dublin through the centuries.
Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Meals Included: None
Kick off the morning with an unforgettable adventure on the River Liffey. After breakfast, meet an expert local guide for a thrilling couple of hours of kayaking through the heart of Dublin. Paddle past the city’s iconic landmarks and bridges, while enjoying live performances by Dublin’s musicians and artists beneath the famous Ha’penny Bridge. It’s a unique experience, offering a front-row seat to the magic of Ireland’s ‘Fair City,’ where history, culture, and music come together on the water. The rest of the day is free to explore the city, with plenty of recommendations provided.
Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a leisurely breakfast, 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
This morning, meet local fisherman Damien at Roundstone Harbour, a fourth-generation seafarer with a lifetime of experience. Explore Roundstone Bay by boat, keeping an eye out for resident seals, dolphins, and basking sharks. Pass the beautiful beaches of Ervallagh, Gurteen, and Dog’s Bay, heading towards the tranquil, deserted island of Inishlacken. Known for its stunning sands, crystal-clear waters, and panoramic views, Inishlacken offers the perfect spot for a bespoke picnic. Once a thriving community, the island is now home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, rabbits, and resident goats, sheep, and donkeys.
Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
County Clare on Ireland’s West Coast is home to the famed Cliffs of Moher and the lunar landscape of the Burren. Today stop at a traditional farm and meet Evelyn to try your hand at making some traditional Irish scones. Later, use the quiet of the afternoon to visit Ireland’s famed Cliffs of Moher, part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, a special region with outstanding geology. Visually stunning, the Cliffs Stand 702 ft at their highest point and stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic coast.
Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Burren striated, limestone landscape is said to be the inspiration for Middle Earth in JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy–and on a guided hike through this otherworldly region, it’s easy to see why! Meeting a local guide, set off to explore a place shaped by ancient seas and famous for its alpine wildflowers. The region is steeped in history as well, with over 2,500 historical monuments to be explored. Pause for lunch at a local tearoom with an option to visit the adjoining Burren Perfumery, the oldest working perfumery in Ireland.
Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, drive to Shannon or Dublin airport, drop off your rental car, and say farewell to Ireland’s West Coast.
The price of this trip is €5,885 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.
Please see our booking terms here.