Sandlin Family Irish Adventure

Sunday 1st June – Thursday 12th June 2025

Number of Travellers:  7
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 | Sunday 1st June | Welcome to Dublin | Overnight: Dublin

Day 2 | Monday 2nd June | Kilkenny Castle & Kinsale | Overnight: Kinsale

Day 3 | Tuesday 3rd June | Exploring Kinsale | Overnight: Kinsale

Day 4 | Wednesday 4th June | Buffalo Farm Tour & Cheese Tasting | Overnight: Kenmare

Day 5 | Thursday 5th June | Golf at Waterville & The Ring of Kerry | Overnight: Kenmare

Day 6 | Friday 6th June | Killarney National Park & Dingle | Overnight: Dingle

Day 7 | Saturday 7th June | Exploring the Dingle Peninsula | Overnight: Dingle

Day 8 | Sunday 8th June | The Cliffs of Moher | Overnight: The Burren

Day 9 | Monday 9th June | Inis Mor - The Aran Islands | Overnight: Ballyvaughan

Day 10 | Tuesday 10th June | Galway Food Tour | Overnight: Westport

Day 11 | Wednesday 11th June | Achill Island | Overnight: Wesport

Day 12 | Thursday 12th June | Depart

Highlights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 1st June - Welcome to Dublin

Arriving in Ireland today, a private transfer will pick you up from the airport and whisk you into the city to your boutique hotel. Check in and head out in the afternoon to enjoy a walking tour with a private guide through the rich musical heritage of Dublin. Led by a knowledgeable local, you’ll stroll through the street of Dublin and  discover the stories and songs of the city’s most impactful musicians. From traditional Irish music to the sounds of rock, pop, and beyond, Dublin has been a melting pot of musical creativity for centuries. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic landmarks and venues associated with legendary artists such as U2, Thin Lizzy, The Dubliners, and more, hearing tales of their rise to fame and the lasting impact of their music on the city. Back at your hotel, get settled and tonight enjoy dinner at one of Dublin’s many wonderful restaurants.

Overnight: Dublin | Brooks Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double, x1 Deluxe Twin, x1 Deluxe Triple
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Monday 2nd June - Kilkenny Castle & Kinsale

After breakfast this morning, your private guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel and after some short introductions, together you will transfer 3.5 hours south from Dublin to County Cork, but not before stopping into Ireland’s rolling green midlands! The vibrant Kilkenny is a stronghold of Ireland’s national sport, hurling. Ireland’s eastern seaboard was Europe’s centre for scholarly learning in the middle ages, as evidenced by the plethora of ancient monasteries, abbeys and churches in this part of the country. Kilkenny’s centre piece is the 11th century castle – a centre for Norman rule that has survived centuries of invasion and turmoil. Take a tour of the castle and enjoy some lunch in this medieval town before continuing on to the coastal town of Kinsale, a bolthole for Ireland’s most culinary-minded and its pretty harbour with mystical sea views is an idyllic place for an adventure.

Overnight: Kinsale | Actons Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Triple, x1 Classic Double, x1 Classic Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Tuesday 3rd June - Exploring Kinsale

Kinsale is a town with many sails or strings to its bow. Originally a Norman walled town which became a thriving fishing port, its Irish name is ‘Ceann tSáile’ which means ‘Head of the Sea’. Over time, finishing was usurped by tourism, helped by its incomparable beauty, mediaeval architecture and salty sea air. You’ll have a leisurely morning exploring the town famous for it’s brightly coloured storefronts and this afternoon your guide will take you to visit the star-shaped Charles Fort, a spectacular structure from the 17th century. It’s a great site to walk around and explore the castle-like structures. Along with the history surrounding the fort, one of the best parts is simply the views beyond the fort walls. You’ll be surrounded by amazing scenery. It’s a prime spot for panoramic views of the Irish coast, and if you’re lucky it will be a sunny clear day!

Overnight: Kinsale | Actons Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Triple, x1 Classic Double, x1 Classic Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 4th June - Buffalo Farm Tour & Cheese Tasting

This morning you’ll say goodbye to Cork and head onwards to the small town of Kenmare. En route, your journey takes you across rolling farmlands with stunning pastoral scenes. Stop at a working Buffalo dairy farm for an immersive tour and tasting and get up close and personal with a herd of Irish Buffalo! Meet the herd, chat about all things agriculture with John and finish with a spectacular tasting session of some fine Irish cheese, made right there on the farm. Kenmare is situated amidst the majestic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara. Check into your boutique hotel and you are free to explore this evening.

Overnight: Kenmare | The Landsowne
Room Type: x2 Deluxe Twin, x1 Deluxe Double, x1 Queen Room,
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 5th June - Golf at Waterville & The Ring of Kerry

This morning, make your way to Waterville House for a round of golf. This unique site location ensures a complete and unspoilt visual and audible environment– affording a unique tranquillity that is unmatched in golf.  On the drive back take in the magnificent coastal views before you as you meander through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes on the Ring of Kerry. From coastal cliffs to emerald-green valleys, navigate the winding roads as picturesque villages, lakes and mountains unfold before you. Your guide will take you to some of the best known spots along the Ring of Kerry, a route which covers the perimeter of the Iveragh Peninsula’s stunning coastline, beaches, mountains, and hidden lakes. Top your day off with a visit to the home of one of Ireland’s most famous revolutionary political figures.

Overnight: Kenmare | The Lansdowne
Room Type: x2 Deluxe Twin, x1 Deluxe Double, x1 Queen Room,
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 6th June - Killarney National Park & Dingle

Saying farewell to Kenmare this morning, stop for a visit to Killarney National Park, the jewel in the county’s crown. Joined by your guide, enjoy an engaging walk along the lakeside, relaxing with a picnic lunch and soaking up the beautiful views. Top of your time in the park with a visit Ross Castle and hear about the legend of O’Donoghue and his snow-white horse. Your final destination tonight is a bit further afield in the town of Dingle, famous for its buzzing traditional music scene, delicious seafood, and array of classic Irish pubs. Stop in for a whiskey this evening and enjoy some of the “craic agus ceol” (good fun and music) the town is renowned for.

Overnight: Dingle | Pax House
Room Type: x2 Comfy Sea View Rooms, x2 Terrace Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 7th June - Exploring the Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula hosts some of the richest collection of archaeological sites in Europe, ranging from standing stones and prehistoric monuments, as well as the peninsula’s renowned ancient clochains or beehive huts, which may be as much as 2,000 years old. Explore the peninsula today with your guide, stopping as you please for strolls along some of the longest stretching beaches and coastline trails Ireland has to offer. You’ll also visit a woodworking studio where a charismatic furniture maker and storyteller will show us some traditional carving techniques. Spend the rest of the day wandering around Dingle town or relaxing at your accommodation.

Overnight: Dingle | Pax House
Room Type: x2 Comfy Sea View Rooms, x2 Terrace Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Sunday 8th June - The Cliffs of Moher

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to the iconic and wonderfully picturesque Cliffs of Moher. Rising 700 feet from the crashing Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs are home to a myriad of seabirds and aquatic life, the cliffs have deservedly become the hallmark of Irish scenery. You can take in the panoramic views and enjoy a walk with your guide, away from the visitor centre crowds, as you walk atop a section of the cliffs. Checking into your 18th century manor house this evening, enjoy a delicious, locally sourced dinner onsite.

Overnight: The Burren | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x2 Classic Twin, x1 Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Monday 9th June - Inis Mor - The Aran Islands

Today you will get to fully immerse into the culture of Inis Mór – its history goes back millennia and today Gaelic is still the daily spoken language of the inhabitants. Take a ferry this morning from the nearby village of Doolin to explore the breathtaking scenery, mediaeval castles, cliffs and prehistoric forts which dot the sprawling island. Before you take your ferry back to the mainland tonight, pay a visit to Gabriel, fisherman-come-goat farmer and island native. Gabriel will introduce you to his flock of extraordinarily cute goats while regaling his wealth of knowledge on the island’s history, language and culture.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x2 Classic Twin, x1 Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 10th June - Galway Food Tour

This morning, you’ll make your way to your final stop of the trip, Westport, but not before stopping off in what is known as the ‘town of the tribes’, Galway! 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 Knockranny House Hotel for your final two nights.

Overnight: Westport | Knockranny House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double, x2 Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Wednesday 11th June - Achill Island

This morning, together with your guide you will leave the world behind as you head off to Achill Island for a day of exploration. Achill is the largest island in the country and encompasses dramatic land and seascapes which have provided inspiration for artists and writers for many years. Your walk today takes its name from the legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley, who had a castle nearby. Hike to the soothing melody of crashing waves before grabbing lunch at a local, cosy pub. This evening explore Westport’s traditional pubs, artisanal shops, and a bustling market square.

Overnight: Wesport | Knockranny House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double, x2 Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Thursday 12th June - Depart

This morning, your guide will drop you at the airport in time for your flight home. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our little island once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 12
  • Most meals as indicated above – breakfast each morning, 10 lunch
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 2 to Day 12
  • Ground transportation from Day 2 to Day 12
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically;
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Private musical tour of Dublin
  • Guide Tour of Kilkenny Castle
  • Entry to Charles Fort
  • Private Farm Tour & Cheese Tasting
  • Tee Time for 4 pax at Waterville Golf Links
  • Entry to Ross Castle
  • Private Woodworking Demonstration
  • Ferry to Inis Mor
  • Goat Farm Tour Experience
  • Private Galway Food Tour
  • Guided exploration of Kinsale, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher & Achill Island
  • Gratuities for included meals & activity providers
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • 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 the main driver guide
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
Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is €6,650 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Virtuoso

Sandlin Family Irish Adventure

Sunday 1st June – Thursday 12th June 2025