Randolph Family's Exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Friday 23^rd May – Friday 30^th May 2025

Duration: 8 Days / 7 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.

Final Information

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Friday 23^rd May | Killarney National Park | Overnight: Killarney

Day 2 | Saturday 24^th May | Hike the Beara Peninsula with a Local Folklorist | Overnight: Killarney

Day 3 | Sunday 25^th May | The Cliffs of Moher | Overnight: Ennistymon

Day 4 | Monday 26^th May | The Aran Islands | Overnight: Ennistymon

Day 5 | Tuesday 27^th May | Exploring Galway City | Overnight: Galway

Day 6 | Wednesday 28^th May | Stories and Sheepdogs | Overnight: Galway

Day 7 | Thursday 29^th May | Return to Dublin

Day 8 | Friday 30^th May | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 23^rd May - Killarney National Park

Collect your rental car and make your way to the Kingdom. Kerry is an expanse of rugged, mountainous country that sweeps down to the world-famous Lakes of Killarney. Here, stretching across 10,000 hectares, lies Killarney National Park, with its unforgettable combination of mountains, lakes, woodland and waterfalls. Historic manor houses and abbeys make for an interesting visit, but Killarney is best explored via a private boat trip with a Kerryman skipper who has been sailing these lakes since he was a child with his family. Cruise the tranquil lakes with one of the most spectacular backdrops imaginable as you are overlooked by Ireland’s highest mountain peaks.

Accommodation Reservation Number: BK087402

Overnight: Killarney | The Brehon Hotel & Spa
Room Type: Superior Heritage Double/Classic Heritage Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 1 - Car Rental Pick Up Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: L2234369162
Pick Up Location: Dublin Downtown – South Circular Road | Pick Up Time: 10:00

Collect your rental car from Hertz this morning. Please give your name at the check-in desk. Gregory Randolph.

Day 1 - Hertz Dublin to Killarney Read More +

Hertz Dublin to Killarney- Driving Directions

Day 1 - Suggested Stops Read More +

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.

Cahir Castle– Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles. It stands proudly on a rocky island on the River Suir.

Muckross House & Gardens– Set in the heart of Killarney National Park, Muckross is known throughout the world for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions, including the magnificent house itself, craft workshops, Garden Restaurant and 1920’s style working farm.

Please check opening times before arriving.

Day 1 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend stopping for lunch in the town of Cashel at either Mikey Ryan’s or Bowes & Co.

Day 1 - Private Boat Tour of Killarney Lakes Read More +

Activity: Private Boat Tour of Killarney Lakes
Start Location: Ross Castle Killarney | Start Time: 15:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)87 269 4646 | Website: https://gapofdunloetraditionalboattours.com/

Meet a local boatman for a private tour of the Killarney Lakes this afternoon.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Celtic Whiskey Bar or Treyvaud’s.

Day 2 - Saturday 24^th May - Hike the Beara Peninsula with a Local Folklorist

Nestled between County Cork and County Kerry, the Beara Peninsula is the wildest of Kerry’s three peninsulas. With rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and winding coastal roads, this remote region is rich in local culture and natural beauty. Join Carina, a local folklorist and archaeology expert, for a guided hike through Beara. A writer and storyteller, Carina brings the history, culture, and dramatic landscapes to life, offering a unique insight into this captivating corner of South West Ireland.

Overnight: Killarney | The Brehon Hotel & Spa
Room Type: Superior Heritage Double/Classic Heritage Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - The Brehon Hotel & Spa to Dursey Cable Car Read More +

The Brehon Hotel & Spa to Dursey Cable Car- Driving Directions

Day 2 - Hike with Carina Beara Peninsula Read More +

Activity: Hike with Carina Beara Peninsula
Carina:
Start Location: Dursey Cable Car | Start Time: 11:00
End Location: Allihies Museum Cafe | End Time: 4:00 pm
Phone: +353 (0)87 646 1627 | Website: http://bearabaoitours.com/

Meet Carina for a full day on the Beara Peninsula.

Day 2 - Lunch Details Read More +

Carina will make a lunch recommendation for you today.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Bricin or Kitty O’Se’s.

Day 2 - Allihies Copper Museum to Brehon Hotel & Spa Read More +

Allihies Copper Museum to Brehon Hotel & Spa- Driving Directions

Day 3 - Sunday 25^th May - The Cliffs of Moher

Today meet Marie, a local who will lead you on a walk along Ireland’s Burren National Park, part of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Marie is passionate about the history, geology and heritage of this area and holds a wealth of knowledge on the surrounding landscape. After a short drive, visually stunning, the Cliffs stand at 702 ft at their highest point and stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic coast. Take in the views, stop by the visitor centre, and take the opportunity to snap some breathtaking photos.

*Please note part of the walking path of the Cliffs is closed due to erosion. We recommend a visit to the visitor centre, where there are safe paths to get that iconic photo!

Accommodation Reservation Number: 571166/571167/571168

Overnight: Ennistymon | Falls Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Brehon Hotel & Spa to Corofin Read More +

Brehon Hotel & Spa to Corofin- Driving Directions

Day 3 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend stopping in Bunratty for lunch, there’s either Durty Nellies or Mr. O’Regan’s Cafe

Day 3 - Guided Hike of the Burren Read More +

Activity: Guided Hike of the Burren
Marie:
Start Location: Ballard, Corofin, Co Clare V95NP8Y | Start Time: 14:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins

Phone: +353 (0)86 821 9441

Meet Marie for a guided hike around the Burren National Park

Day 3 - Suggested Stops Read More +

Cliffs of Moher– One of Ireland’s favourite visitor experiences, the Cliffs of Moher tower over the rugged West Clare coast.

Note opening hours. We recommend pre-booking.

Day 3 - Corofin to The Falls Hotel Read More +

Corofin to The Falls Hotel- Driving Directions

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend dining in your accommodation this evening.

Day 4 - Monday 26^th May - The Aran Islands

It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you will take to the water and ferry to The Aran Islands. The history of these islands goes back millennia and today Gaelic is still the daily spoken language of the inhabitants. The Aran islands seem to defy their size by all they have to offer: breathtaking scenery, mediaeval castles, cliffs and prehistoric forts are all to be found on this little group of islands.

Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands, is your destination today. The first port of call is a goat farm, here Gabriel, fisherman-come-goat farmer and island native will introduce you to his flock of extraordinarily cute goats. You’ll taste his award-winning cheese, but more importantly, you will leave with his wealth of knowledge on the island’s history, language and culture. We will make sure you don’t miss the incredible prehistoric cliff top fortress at Dun Aenghus as well as some hidden spots along the island’s shore.

Overnight: Ennistymon | Falls Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - The Falls Hotel to Doolin Pier Read More +

The Falls Hotel to Doolin Pier- Driving Directions

Day 4 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Doolin Ferry
Contact Number: +353 (0)65 707 5555

Outward Journey Departure Port: Doolin Pier | Outward Journey Departure Time: 11:00
Outward Journey Arrival Port: Inis Mor | Outward Journey Arrival Time: 12:00

Return Journey Departure Port: Inis Mor | Return Journey Departure Time: 16:15
Return Journey Arrival Port: Doolin Pier | Return Journey Arrival Time: 17:15

Doolin Pier, Call into Ferry office and say you are with Walking Connections.

Day 4 - Guided Day with Gabriel Read More +

Activity: Guided Day with Gabriel
Gabriel:
Start Location: Inis Mor Pier | Start Time: 12:00
Phone: +353 87 222 6776 | Website: https://aranislandgoatscheeseandfoodtours.com/

Spend the day with Gabriel showing off his beautiful island.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Pots Duggans or dining in your accommodation again this evening.

Day 5 - Tuesday 27^th May - Exploring Galway City

A labyrinth of cobbled streets, colourful shops and street performers, this city has a bohemian atmosphere. This afternoon if you’re interested head into the city to a small pub which holds a treasure trove of whiskey. Surely one of the most impressive collections in the country, chat with the owner as you indulge in an informal tasting.

For those not so interested in whiskey, head out to explore cobbled streets, shops filled with Aran sweaters, and the infamous Claddagh Ring, founded right in Galway’s Claddagh community.

*Those who need can catch a train back to Dublin this evening.

Accommodation Reservations Number: 99122/99123

Overnight: Galway | The G Hotel
Room Type: Superior King Rooms
Meals Included: None

Day 5 - The Falls Hotel to The G Hotel Read More +

The Falls Hotel to The G Hotel- Driving Directions

*We recommend parking in your accommodation and either walking or grabbing a taxi into the city centre. The front desk is happy to make a call on your behalf.

Day 5 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend Lil’ Bros , Rúibín, or Wylde Cafe

Day 5 - Suggested Activities in Galway Read More +

Whiskey Bars for tastings

Garavan’s– Known for their award winning Irish coffee’s this impressive collection and quiet pub is a great place to for an introduction to Irish whiskey.

O’Connell’s– Probably one of the most famous pub and popular pubs in Galway, this place has a serious whiskey tasting menu, not to mention great pints and world renowned pizza in the biergarten from ‘Dough Bro’s’ a recommendation for the whole group!

Other sights & options

Spanish Arch– Positioned on the left bank of the Corrib River, The Spanish Arch is one of Galways historical gems, dating back to pre-medieval times.

Galway Cathedral– Towering above Galway Town, a visit to Galway Cathedral mixed with a walk up the canals is worth it!

Shop Street & Quay Street- The heart of Galway with shops, pubs, and bustling full of life, unwind with a coffee or pint outside one of the many locations and enjoy the city.

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend McSwiggan’s Restaurant (upstairs), Nimmo’s on the Pier, or Il Vicolo.

For pubs we recommend, Taaffes, Tig Coílís, Tig Neachtains.

*We are happy to make a concierge booking on your behalf. Please let us know ASAP.

Day 5 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: May 27, 2025 | Rail Operator: Irish Rail
Departure Train Station: Galway Ceantt | Departure Time: 17:20
Arrival Train Station: Dublin Heuston | Arrival Time: 20:00

Tickets attached.

Day 6 - Wednesday 28^th May - Stories and Sheepdogs

After a leisurely breakfast, begin your journey north for the day. A visit to the famed Kylemore Abbey might be in store as you weave your way through the Twelve Bens. 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, return to your cosy hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner followed by plenty of pubs for a bit of the old traditional music.

Overnight: Galway | The G Hotel
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - The G Hotel to Sheepdog Demonstration Read More +

The G Hotel to Sheepdog Demonstration- Driving Directions

Day 6 - Sheepdog Demonstration Read More +

Activity: Sheepdog Demonstration
Start Location: Joyce Country Sheepdogs | Start Time: 12:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)94 954 8853 | Website: https://www.joycecountrysheepdogs.ie/

Meet the local farmer for a private sheepdog demonstration.

Day 6 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend stopping in the cafe in Kylemore Abbey for lunch or stop in Leenaun.

Day 6 - Suggested Stops Read More +

Killary Fjord– Head to Killary Harbour, a stunning fjord in the west of Ireland and in the heart of Connemara. This beautiful place forms a natural border between Galway and Mayo.

Kylemore Abbey– Located just over one hour from Galway City, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions. Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman, and liberal politician. Inspired by his love for his wife Margaret, and his hopes for his beloved Ireland, Henry created an estate boasting ‘all the innovations of the modern age’

Lough Inagh Viewpoint– A stunning viewpoint and incredible drive as you make your way back to Galway.

Day 6 - Connemara Loop Read More +

Connemara Loop-Driving Directions

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend, Cava Bodega, or Kai Restaurant.

*Reservation recommended.

Day 7 - Thursday 29^th May - Return to Dublin

After enjoying a relaxing morning in Galway, it is time to leave the west coast and return to Dublin. We do hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we once again have the opportunity to welcome to our shores.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - The G Hotel to Dublin Read More +

The G Hotel to Dublin- Driving Directions

Day 8 - Friday 30^th May - Depart

This morning, head to the airport, drop off your car and catch your flight home. Taking with you wonderful memories waving back from our shores.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Car Rental Drop Off Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Drop Off Location: Dublin Airport | Drop Off Time: 12:00

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More

6 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
Breakfast included most mornings
Rental Car from Day 1 – 8 Passenger Ford Tourneo or similar, picking up Dublin City and dropping off Dublin Airport
All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
- Private Sheepdog Experience
- Private Hiking Day on Cliffs of Moher
- Private 4×4 Experience on Inis Mor
- Private Boat Tour of Killarney
- Private Hiking through Beara Peninsula
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 – May in Ireland 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.

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

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.

Please note that some hotels and restaurants will add a discretionary service charge to your bill. This is to be paid entirely at your discretion and at your own expense.

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

Kit List – View Now
– View Now
Train Ticket Mark Randolph – View Now
Train Ticket Layla Riskin – View Now

Terms & Conditions Read More: Please see our booking terms here.