Scott Dunn - Pennell Group - Irish Adventure

Day 1 - Monday 20^th April - Welcome to Ireland

Arriving in Dublin this morning, we pick up our rental car and transfer west from Dublin to County Clare, home to Ireland’s famed Cliffs of Moher. En route, we can visit the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise, founded by St Ciarán in the 6th century. The peaceful setting, with its rich history and well-preserved ruins, offers a lovely pause before continuing the journey. The site features a cathedral, round towers, high crosses, and early Christian grave slabs, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian heritage. Continue to Gregan’s Castle, a former retreat for poets and authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. We’ll arrive in time for a cool pint of Guinness by the fire before dinner at its award-winning restaurant.

rental car not included

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x2 Superior Double
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Tuesday 21^st April - 4x4 Experience on Inis Mor

Today, visit Inis Mór (Inishmore), the largest of the three Aran Islands. Enjoy exploring the island with the aid of off-road adventure vehicles driven by your local guides, Padraig and Aonghus. Learn about the unique Irish culture, traditions, and language of the islanders, the beautiful flora and fauna, and, of course, visit the filming site from the recent Banshees of Inisherin film. This experience is unique in that it provides the opportunity to visit parts of the island not readily accessible to those without both local knowledge and a 4×4 vehicle, making for a very memorable day.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x2 Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Wednesday 22^nd April - The Burren National Park & The Cliffs of Moher

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 walk through this otherworldly region, it’s easy to see why! Meeting a local guide and author, 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. Use the quiet of the evening to visit the Cliffs of Moher, the area is teeming with wildlife, and 20 different species of birds, including puffins, make this area their home. 

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x2 Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Thursday 23^rd April - Drive to Killarney

This morning, we make our way further south to the Kingdom of Kerry. The drive is just under 3 hours, and there are a couple of scenic stops to break up the drive time. We stop at Dromoland Castle to meet some feathered friends on an exhilarating Hawk Walk. Watch as these magnificent birds of prey swoop and soar with breathtaking speed and learn all about their fascinating habits. Other stops along the way include Adare Village, popular for its thatched-roof cottages and yummy lunch spots, and one of Ireland’s best-kept secret beach walks along the coast. We arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon and have a chance to catch a trad session in Killarney town this evening.

Overnight: Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel
Room Type: x2 Classic Doubles
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Friday 24^th April - Cycling Killarney National Park

This morning, cycle through the scenic landscapes of Killarney National Park, renowned for its mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Accompanied by an expert guide, enjoy the park’s beauty as you ride along quiet routes with views across glittering lakes and dramatic, wild scenery. Along the way, learn about the park’s biodiversity, including the vibrant heathers, bog cotton, and the rare Killarney fern. Spot birdlife such as the spotted flycatcher, the dipper, and the kestrel, and keep an eye out for red deer grazing in the meadows.

Overnight: Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel
Room Type: x2 Classic Doubles
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Saturday 25^th April - The Dingle Peninsula

Spend today exploring the Dingle Peninsula; there is much to discover. Strap on the boots and take to the hills and trails for a hike, grab some takeaway coffees and browse the local stores or take the famous Slea Head Drive route along the Wild Atlantic Way with ancient archaeological sites, like the Fahan Beehive Huts. The peninsula delivers breathtaking views around every corner. Be sure not to miss our personal favourite,  Dunquin Harbour ( pictured). Round off the day with some award-winning ice cream, and today is going to be a perfect day.

Overnight: Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel
Room Type: x2 Classic Doubles
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Sunday 26^th April - Local Characters & Local Cheeses

This morning we say goodbye to the south-west and hello to Ireland’s capital city, Dublin! En route, we stop at a local Buffalo farm in the lush green countryside where we take a tour of the land, meet the herd, chat about the cheese-making process with Dorothy, and partake in a special tasting experience using local produce and cheese made right there on the farm. Arriving in Dublin in the late afternoon, we drop back our rental car, and the rest of the day offers time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: x2 Superior Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Monday 27^th April - Historical Dublin

There is no better introduction to Dublin than a private walking tour with a local guide, so this morning, 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. The rest of our day can be spent exploring the city – St. Stephen’s Green is the perfect place for people watching with a coffee, or we can enjoy the buskers and musicians on Grafton Street before retiring to one of Dublin’s historical pubs for a pre-dinner drink.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: x2 Superior Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Tuesday 28^th April - Exploring Ireland's Fair City

Today offers time to enjoy the vibrant energy of Ireland’s Fair City. Dublin reveals itself best on foot or via the LUAS, the city’s light rail system. Many key sites lie within easy reach, with the real charm found in the quiet moments between them – wandering cobbled lanes, browsing independent bookshops, or pausing for a pub lunch. The afternoon is ideal for taking in a few of the capital’s cultural landmarks.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: x2 Superior Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Wednesday 29^th April - Depart

This morning, a private transfer takes us to Dublin airport and we say farewell to the Emerald Isle.

Meals Included: Breakfast