McLeod Uncovering Family Heritage and Fun in Ireland Final Information

Saturday 14th June – Monday 23rd June 2025

Duration: 10 Days / 9 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.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Saturday 14th June | Welcome to Ireland | Overnight: Dublin

Day 2 | Sunday 15th June | Exploring Dublin On Your Own | Overnight: Dublin

Day 3 | Monday 16th June | Walking tour in Dublin city | Overnight: Dublin

Day 4 | Tuesday 17th June | Ancestry in Borrisokane | Overnight: Cork

Day 5 | Wednesday 18th June | Smugglers, Forts & Battles | Overnight: Cork

Day 6 | Thursday 19th June | Sea Kayaking & Seashore Picnic | Overnight: Cork

Day 7 | Friday 20th June | The Kingdom of Kerry | Overnight: Killarney

Day 8 | Saturday 21st June | Dingle Peninsula | Overnight: Killarney

Day 9 | Sunday 22nd June | Skellig Michael Eco Marine Tour | Overnight: Killarney

Day 10 | Monday 23rd June | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Saturday 14th June - Welcome to Ireland

Upon your arrival in Ireland this morning, a private transfer will be waiting to greet you at the airport and whisk you away to your boutique hotel in the heart of the city. As you’re arriving early, your accommodation has been booked for the night before. Feel free to check in and take some time to rest and refresh after your journey. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace — explore the city’s charming streets, discover hidden gems, or simply unwind and soak up the atmosphere.

Overnight: Dublin | The Spencer
Room Type: 2x Deluxe King
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Day 1 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend dining in your accommodation.

Day 1 - Suggested Stops Read More +

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.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend BANG Restaurant & Wine Bar, One Pico or Etto.

Day 2 - Sunday 15th June - Exploring Dublin On Your Own

Wandering solo through Dublin is like stepping into a story where every cobblestone and corner has a tale to tell. With no set schedule, you can linger over a strong coffee in a cozy café, lose track of time browsing quirky bookshops, or follow the sound of traditional music down a narrow street. From the quiet beauty of St. Stephen’s Green to the lively buzz of Temple Bar, the city unfolds at your own pace.

Overnight: Dublin | The Spencer
Room Type: 1x Family Suite/2x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Transfer Details Read More +

Day 2 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend for lunch Bunsen (there will be a queue) or Bloom Brasserie.

Day 2 - Suggested Stops Read More +

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.

Dublinia See Dublin from a new perspective as you travel back to the heart of the old city at Christchurch. Walk where Vikings walked, find out about Dublin’s rich past and even climb an original Medieval tower.

14 Henrietta Street When you enter 14 Henrietta Street you’ll experience over 300 years of city life in the walls of one address. By connecting to the personal stories of those who called 14 Henrietta Street home, the building’s hidden histories are revealed. See the house, hear its stories and discover the layers of Dublin history within its walls.

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.

Day 2 - 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, Toners or No Name.

Day 3 - Monday 16th June - Walking tour in Dublin city

Enjoy a delightful breakfast and a lovely morning as you get ready for the day ahead. Head out this morning to enjoy a walking tour with a local private guide through this vibrant capital city, with its mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the mediaeval to Georgian to modern. See the Georgian style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, as well as O’Connell Street, the site of the ‘1916 Uprising’ that led to Ireland’s independence in 1922. Your guide is also a historian who will bring the city to life with colourful tales of life in the city in times gone by.

The afternoon is to spend uncovering more of what Dublin has to offer!

Overnight: Dublin | The Spencer Hotel
Room Type: 1x Family Suite/2x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Historical Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Historical Walking Tour
Eoin Walsh:
Start Location: The Spencer Hotel | Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 87 9488236

Day 3 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend Bambino or Nancy Hands.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Delahunt, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud or Matt The Threshers.

Day 4 - Tuesday 17th June - Ancestry in Borrisokane

This morning meet your guide and venture westward, passing through the tranquil countryside, to the picturesque village of Borrisokane. It’s here that the heart of your Irish heritage comes alive. You’ll meet with a local genealogist who will guide you through the fascinating process of uncovering your family’s roots, adding a personal touch to your journey. After connecting with the past, continue south to the stunning Hayfield Manor. As a 5* property in Cork City, you are just on the doorstep to this lovely city, with a family friendly hotel to relax and unwind together.

Overnight: Cork | Hayfield Manor
Room Type: 3x Superior King/1x Superior Interconnecting
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 - Guide Details - Fionnuala Kennedy Read More +

Name: Fionnuala Kennedy
Contact Number: +353 (0)87 774 1061
Meeting Place: The Spencer Hotel Lobby | Meeting Time: 09:00

Meet your guide Fionnuala this morning in the lobby of your accommodation.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Day 5 - Wednesday 18th June - Smugglers, Forts & Battles

This morning, while listening to tales of conquests, wine smugglers and the town’s exotic local characters, we’ll head out along the coast with our guide. Set on the water’s edge, Charles Fort is one of the best-preserved examples of a 17th-century star-shaped fort and is associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. There are plenty of lookouts to climb to and tunnels to explore. We’ll all enjoy lunch in an award-winning local Irish pub.

Overnight: Cork | Hayfield Manor
Room Type: 3x Superior King/1x Superior Interconnecting
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Isaac’s Restaurant (fine dining), Elbow Lane (modern) or Paradiso (vegetarian). We also recommend stopping in Mutton Lane Inn for a pre or post-dinner drink.

 

*We are happy to make a concierge booking on your behalf.

Day 6 - Thursday 19th June - Sea Kayaking & Seashore Picnic

Kinsale was often targeted by pirates over the centuries, and today, we’ll kayak along the seashore to discover where the pirates once landed. With the water lapping quietly at the side of our kayaks and the seabed slowly passing by underneath the surface, enjoy this wonderfully relaxing way to travel. Your expert guide will provide guidance to everyone and set the standard of the trip to best suit your family. Weather permitting, we will all enjoy a picnic on the seashore.

Overnight: Cork | Hayfield Manor
Room Type: 3x Superior King/1x Superior Interconnecting
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend dining on site of your accommodation at Perrott’s or take a recommendation from your guide.

 

*We are happy to make a concierge booking on your behalf at Perrott’s.

Day 7 - Friday 20th June - The Kingdom of Kerry

This morning, we transfer to the Kingdom of Kerry, stopping en route at the Toy Soldier Factory. The whole family will have the opportunity to make and paint their own figures, be it a model soldier, fairy, chess piece, animal or dozens of other choices. This is a great activity to get the whole family involved and come away with your very own creation. Afterwards, we’ll continue onto the famous Ring of Kerry to enjoy its panoramic vistas, arriving at our next accommodation in the heart of the Kingdom.

Overnight: Killarney | Aghadoe Heights
Room Type: 2 x Superior King Rooms Aghadoe Suite inter-connecting with Lakeview Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Bricin or Celtic Whiskey Bar.

*We are happy to make a concierge booking on your behalf.

Day 8 - Saturday 21st June - Dingle Peninsula

Head out on a scenic adventure to the stunning Dingle Peninsula. Start the morning with a relaxing beginner’s horse trek for the kids, as they head out onto the shores of Dingle Bay, taking in the breathtaking coastal views. For those interested, they can use this time to visit Sacred Heart University’s Campus in Dingle Town.

Afterward, take a leisurely drive around the iconic Slea Head, where you’ll encounter panoramic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs. With plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the peninsula, you’ll make your way back to Killarney in the evening.

Overnight: Killarney | Aghadoe Heights
Room Type: 2 x Superior King Rooms Aghadoe Suite inter-connecting with Lakeview Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Details Read More +

We recommend dining in your accommodation this evening.

* We are happy to make concierge bookings on your behalf.

Day 9 - Sunday 22nd June - Skellig Michael Eco Marine Tour

Today, we shall follow Kerry’s rugged coast to the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula where we’ll catch a boat on the Atlantic Ocean. Rising dramatically out of the crashing Atlantic are the jagged pinnacles of the Skellig Islands.* In ancient times, Skellig Michael was home to monks seeking solitude. At the island’s summit 714 ft (218m) above sea level, a remarkably well-preserved 6th-century monastic settlement clings to the steep slopes. However, today they are more well-known as part of a galaxy far, far away; this was the filming location for Star Wars Episodes VII and VIII. Get up close to these islands to encounter both the diverse island wildlife as well as the ancient historical sites. We’ll enjoy a celebratory final dinner together tonight.

*Please note that the Skellig boats only run weather-permitting from May to September.

Overnight: Killarney | Aghadoe Heights
Room Type: 2 x Superior King Rooms Aghadoe Suite inter-connecting with Lakeview Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Day 10 - Monday 23rd June - Depart

This morning your guide will bring you from your accommodation and bring you back to Dublin City or airport depending on your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary.
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 2 to Day 8 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day.
  • All Ferry  or Boat Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Geneology research and guided Borrisokane with a local expert.
    • Public Entry to Charles Fort
    • Private Sea Kayaking
    • Premium Toy Solider Experience
    • Public Dingle Bay Horse Trekking
    • Private Skellig Michael Eco Tour
  • 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
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if specifically stated in the inclusions.

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – [insert month] in [insert country] can be a very wide range of weather, and very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Edit details below as appropriate depending on the activities they are doing.  Also add in about any dress code for dinners/ theatre / specific activities (e.g Jacket & tie for dinner on Day 7 at XXX / Wellies for hike on Day 6 etc)

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in Scotland)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners
  • For Sea Kayaking
    • Swimming costume/trunks
    • Wetsuit socks, waterproof socks or warm wool socks
    • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet
    • Non-cotton moisture-wicking base layer top
    • Non-cotton quick-dry leggings or trousers
  • For canoeing
    • Swimming costume/trunks
    • Wetsuit socks, waterproof socks or warm wool socks
    • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet
  • For Mountain Biking
    • Padded Cycling shorts for comfort
    • Leggings or similar (not loose wide pants)
    • Gloves for comfort

If they have kayaking, canoeing, biking you’ll need to add in some extra bits and for any proper hiking add hiking poles.

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

Tipping Guidelines

We don’t generally recommend a set amount. We would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations. Choose what you think reflects this and you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

Transfer Notes

Please note that the transfer company reserves the right to amend the pick up times and / or locations due to local traffic incidents such as road closures, diversions and volume of traffic.  They will communicate any changes with the clients directly on the day or the day prior.

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

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch

Email Liz

Accommodation

Spencer Hotel

Excise Walk | Dublin |
D01 X4C9 | Phone: +353 (0)1 433 8800
Web: thespencerhotel.com

Hayfield Manor

Perrott Avenue, College Road | Cork | Co. Cork |
T12 HT97 | Ireland
Phone: +353 21 4845900
Web: hayfieldmanor.ie

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

Lakes of Killarney | Parkavonear | Killarney |
V93 DH59 | Co. Kerry
Phone: +353 (0)64 663 1766
Web: aghadoeheights.com

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Meet Your Guide

Fionnuala Kennedy

Contact Number: +353 (0)87 774 1061

For me, days spent in the hills and wilds of Ireland are about being immersed in that place. I love being up high and being able to read the landscape. If you know what to look for it can reveal so many stories; of human lives past, of glaciers and oceans long gone, and of wildlife very much alive. I love to try and interpret these stories.

Several years working in outdoor education and as an archaeological guide has led to a fascination with our history, heritage and folklore, something which only deepens with time. And then there’s history and botany and geology and astronomy… sometimes there’s just too much that’s interesting.

Along the way, I’ve had an assortment of other jobs, from growing trees to growing vegetables, and from teaching music in schools to playing tunes in McLynns pub in Sligo on Friday nights.

Full Web Bio

Virtuoso

McLeod Uncovering Family Heritage and Fun in Ireland Final Information

Saturday 14th June – Monday 23rd June 2025