V2: Coasts, Caves & Culture

Day 1 - Saturday 5^th July - Arrive in Dublin

Arriving this afternoon, a private transfer will greet you at arrivals and take you directly to your centrally located hotel.

Take some time to unwind and settle in before stepping out to explore Dublin at your own pace.

We recommend visiting The Little Museum of Dublin, just a stone’s throw from your accommodation. If you have extra time, hop in a cab and head over to Marsh’s Library, a hidden gem brimming with history. End your day with a delicious meal at one of the city’s charming local restaurants.

Overnight: Dublin 2 | The Alex Hotel
Room Type: Twin Room
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Sunday 6^th July - Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle

This morning after breakfast, your Wilderness guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel.

After a brief introduction, you’ll head south. Take your time travelling through Ireland’s hidden heartlands. Stop and visit the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most iconic collections of medieval buildings. Perched on a precipice of limestone in the Golden Vale, it offers over 1,000 years of fascinating history and folklore.

Continuing on your journey to County Cork, we stop at the Blarney Castle which is home to the world-famous Blarney Stone, a historic artifact believed to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle was originally built by Cormac McCarthy, the King of Munster, and has played a significant role in Ireland’s history. As you explore the castle grounds, you’ll wander through lush gardens, ancient stone ruins, and take in breathtaking views from the top of the castle tower.

After checking into your hotel in Kenmare, you’ll enjoy a meal with your guide this evening, chat through your next few days of adventure and have a toast to your exciting trip ahead.

Overnight: Kenmare | The Lansdowne Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Monday 7^th July - Bullrock Light house & The Allihies Copper Mines

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a thrilling journey to Bull Rock Lighthouse, one of Ireland’s most fascinating maritime landmarks, perched off the rugged Beara Peninsula in County Cork.

Kick off your day with an exclusive private boat trip around the stunning Dursey Island, home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins, kittiwakes, and razorbills, who nest along the dramatic cliff edges, offering a true spectacle of nature in action.As you make your way toward Bull Rock, you’ll pass by the Calf Rock and Cow Rock, two smaller but equally captivating islets. The waters around you are teeming with life, so you might even get a chance to spot some sea creatures along the way!

Later dive into Ireland’s industrial past at the Allihies Copper Mine Museum, set in the charming village of Allihies. Housed in a restored church, the museum showcases fascinating exhibits on the region’s once-thriving copper mining industry. Explore the Mining Trail, where you’ll discover historic engine houses and mining relics against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic. It’s a captivating glimpse into the lives of the miners, making it a must-see for history and nature lovers alike!

Overnight: Kenmare | The Lansdowne Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Tuesday 8^th July - The Ring of Kerry

Today, you’ll embark on a  journey to the southern shores of the Iveragh Peninsula, home to the legendary Ring of Kerry. Here, you’ll meet one of our favourite locals, John – a fisherman, foraging expert, storyteller, and a true Irish gent. He’ll guide you along the shoreline, sharing fascinating tales of life on Ireland’s wild west coast. From lonely monks to 18th-century civil rights activists to mythical heroes, John’s stories bring the region’s rich history to life in the most captivating way.

Afterward, take your time to explore the Ring of Kerry, stopping at picturesque bays, charming harbours, and stunning points of interest along the way. Don’t miss a visit to Valentia Island, where you can explore the Valentia Island Lighthouse, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the iconic Skellig Islands. It’s a day of adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery that you won’t soon forget!

Overnight: Killarney | The Lake Hotel Killarney
Room Type: Lakeview Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Wednesday 9^th July - The Burren and The Cliffs of Moher

This morning, you’ll depart KIllarney and head to Co.Clare. Explore the fascinating Burren landscape – fissured plateaus of limestone and shale, vast in their captivating and barren beauty. Accompanied by your local guide, wind your way over the stark rocky terrain, past prehistoric tombs and through wildflower grasslands. Stop at a local perfumery located in the heart of the Burren and browse their handmade perfumes, soaps, lotions and candles, all made from natural and organic ingredients before siting down for Lunch at their tearoom cafe.

Later, visit the striking Cliffs of Moher, absorbing their majesty in a quiet, secluded spot away from the crowds. Home to thousands of seabirds, including razorbills, fulmars and puffins, the cliffs are alive with activity above the crashing waves far below.

This evening we recommend dinner in a local restaurant followed by some drinks of your choice in a local pub. If you’re lucky you might even catch a trad fest!

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Monks Stay Ballyvaughan
Room Type: Courtyard Twin

Day 6 - Thursday 10^th July - Exploring The Aran Islands

Today, immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Aran Islands—three rugged, remote gems that once played a vital role in ancient Ireland’s trade networks. Now, they stand as a living testament to traditional language, culture, and music, offering a fascinating blend of history and natural wonder.

Inis Mór, the largest of the islands, boasts a prehistoric semi-circular stone fort, a relic of its storied past. The best way to explore its scenic landscapes is by E-bike, with your guide leading you through a journey that spans ancient ruins, breathtaking vistas, and the unforgettable Inis Mór Wormhole.

The Inis Mór Wormhole, also known as the “Poll na bPeist”, is a striking natural wonder located on Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. This incredible geological feature is a perfectly round, deep chasm in the limestone rock, which leads to a natural pool below. The Wormhole is a stunning sight, with its unique shape and crystal-clear water that creates a mesmerising visual effect, especially when the tide is high.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Monks Stay Ballyvaughan
Room Type: Courtyard Twin

Day 7 - Friday 11^th July - Transfer to Sligo & Oweynagat Cave

Today, you’ll transfer to Sligo, but not before a couple of intriguing stops along the way.

To break up the journey, we’ll visit Oweynagat Cave in County Roscommon, also known as the “Cave of the Cats.” Steeped in mythology and legend, this ancient cave is one of Ireland’s most mysterious and captivating sites, making it a must-see on your trip.

If time and energy permit, we’ll also stop at the Caves of Keash. This unique collection of caves, nestled in a picturesque landscape, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. In Irish folklore, these caves are linked to mystical tales and believed to be gateways to the Otherworld, a theme rich in Celtic mythology.

In the evening, you’ll check in to your modern 4-star hotel in the heart of Sligo town, where you can relax and unwind. To round off the day, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a drink of your choice.

Overnight: Sligo | The Glasshouse Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Saturday 12^th July - Carrowkeel Passage Tombs & Head for Belfast

This morning your guide will take you out to the lesser known Carrowkeel Passage Tomb, located in County Sligo, it is a fascinating prehistoric site dating back over 6,000 years. Part of the Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery, it features 14 well-preserved passage tombs with narrow passages leading to central chambers, some of which are aligned with solstices.

This afternoon, you’ll journey towards Belfast, where, after your travels, you’ll enjoy a delightful dinner with your guide. It will be the perfect opportunity to reminisce about the incredible memories you’ve made throughout the week. Afterward, your guide will escort you to your centrally located hotel for check-in. Bid farewell to your Wilderness guide before spending your final evening as you wish—whether that means unwinding at your hotel or embracing all the vibrant energy Belfast has to offer.

Overnight: Belfast | The Hilton
Room Type: Double Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Sunday 13^th July -

This morning after breakfast, your private transfer will collect you from your hotel and bring you to Belfast Airport. We wish you a mighty farewell and hope you have made many fond memories with us.