Tunney Family Adventure

Tunney Family

Thursday 6th June – Wednesday 19th June 2024

Number of Travellers: 10
Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights

Overview

Embarking on a multi-generational trip to Ireland is an extraordinary adventure that weaves together breathtaking landscapes, captivating history, and the warm embrace of Irish hospitality. As we traverse the Emerald Isle, our journey becomes a tapestry of shared moments, where grandparents, parents, and children alike are enchanted by ancient castles perched upon rugged cliffs, verdant valleys dotted with grazing sheep, and lively pubs resonating with traditional music. Together, we explore the bustling streets of Dublin, revel in the mystique of the Burren region, and delve into the rich mythology of the Ring of Kerry. Through storytelling, laughter, and cherished memories, this multi-generational odyssey in Ireland strengthens our family bonds and leaves an indelible imprint on each generation, forever connecting us to the spirit of this enchanting land.

Highlights

  • Feel the warmth of an Irish welcome from the moment you arrive
  • Explore Ireland’s bustling capital before making your way to the Wilds of the West Coast
  • Get under the skin of the regions you visit with some local people and authentic experiences

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 6th 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 5 star hotel in the city centre. Check-in is at 3pm however feel free to leave your bags, freshen up, or have a bite to eat.

Head out in the afternoon 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.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Friday 7th June - Trinity College & The Guinness Storehouse

This morning, begin your day by stopping by Ireland’s oldest University and home to The Book of Kells, Trinity College Dublin. Set on 46 acres of leafy squares, cobblestone walkways and historic buildings, you will join a public group walking tour of the campus before viewing the *Book of Kells and Old Library.

Afterwards, it’s time to indulge your senses in the world of Guinness with our exclusive private experience at the Guinness Storehouse. For the discerning connoisseur, this journey delves deep into the history and origins of the iconic stout. From the moment you step inside this historic establishment, you’ll be immersed in the rich heritage of Guinness, tracing its roots back to its founding by Arthur Guinness in 1759. Your expert guide will walk you through the intricate brewing process, sharing the secrets and traditions that have been passed down through generations. You’ll have the privilege of tasting various Guinness brews, savouring their unique flavours and gaining a profound understanding of what makes each pint truly exceptional.

* The Book of Kells is a self guided audio tour only as it is housed in a working library

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Saturday 8th June - Irish Dancing & Whiskey

This morning, your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. Leaving Dublin behind, your next stop is Galway, the capital of Ireland’s west. Known as the ‘town of the tribes’ the small centre of cobblestone streets and colourful store fronts is vibrant, fun and cosmopolitan. Discover the heart and soul of Ireland at a centuries-old pub, where you’ll witness an authentic Irish dancing session. Feel the energy in the air as talented dancers perform jigs and reels to the lively tunes of fiddles and bodhráns. Afterwards, head to the bar for a whiskey tasting experience. This fusion of traditional Irish dance and whiskey is an unforgettable celebration of Ireland’s heritage, promising lasting memories and an authentic Irish experience you won’t soon forget.

Your accommodation for the next three nights, Ballynahinch Castle, sits on its own 700 acre estate of woodland, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara. There is shooting, walking, fly fishing, horse back, falconry, hill walking, and a handful of villages to visit close by.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle
Room Type: Superior/Luxury
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 - Sunday 9th June - Hiking Connemara National Park

After breakfast, head into the wilds of Connemara. Spend your day with your guide discovering the delights of Connemara National Park. There are a myriad of different walks and trails to choose from and the picture postcard views you will experience today are some of Ireland’s most beautiful and yearned for landscapes. With over 2,000 hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and forests to roam in, your guide will ensure today was unforgettable. We suggest Leenane Hill, a little-known part of Galway that few other visitors get to experience. On the way up, enjoy beautiful views of Killary Fjord spilling out on one side while the wild bogs of Mayo extend out on the other. From the top of Leenane Hill, marvel at the 360-degree views over the beautiful and rugged MaamTurks Mountains, Mweelrea Mountain, and out across the fjord to the wild Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to finish your day with a  tour of the stunningly beautiful Kylemore Abbey and Gardens.

For those who don’t wish to hike, we recommend relaxing at the hotel enjoying the extensive gardens. We can pre arrange a fishing lesson if you would like to try your hand at fly fishing.

This evening, be sure to catch a trad session in one of the nearby villages.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle
Room Type: Superior / Luxury
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 13 km / 8 miles

Day 5 - Monday 10th June - Oyster Farm Tour

Venturing into the heart of Connemara National Park, Killary Fjord dominates the landscape as an important fishing source throughout history for the locals. The fresh tidal waters on this part of Ireland’s coastline make a perfect growing ground for oysters and shellfish from here are shipped worldwide, renowned for the flavour and texture. Today you will donn waterproofs and join an oyster farmer as he does his rounds, learning all about the process of oyster growing and a little bit about what life is like on Ireland’s west coast.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle
Room Type: Superior / Luxury
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 11th June - Gregans Castle

Saying goodbye to the Wilds of Connemara this morning, make your way down to Co. Clare. Spend today relaxing onsite at Gregans Castle Hotel. Take a stroll in the lovingly attended gardens with views of Galway Bay and the Burren Hills. Your guide will be on hand should you wish to explore further or simply read, snooze, rest and recharge.

Overnight: Clare | Gregans Castle
Room Type: Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wednesday 12th June - Sheep Dog Demo & The Burren

The Burren’s rocky alien landscape is said to be the inspiration for Middle Earth in JRR Tolkien’s world-famous Lord of the Rings trilogy – and today as you explore this other-worldly region, it’s easy to see why! You will visit a sheep farm where you’ll enjoy the opportunity to walk through this unique landscape. This tour will also include a walk to a prehistoric stone fort, with a worldly history which will be brought to life by the farm’s local guide.

Before leaving the Burren, your guide will take you to a trail in the National Park. Listen to birdsong and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air as you trek through this craggy terrain. Upon reaching the summit, your efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views no matter where you look.

Overnight: Clare | Gregans Castle
Room Type: Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 13th June - Adare Village to Dingle

Leaving Clare this morning you’ll make our way southwards to Dingle. En route, stop off in what is consistently voted Ireland’s prettiest village; Adare. Charming and quaint, this is a great place to stop, stretch the legs and browse the traditional thatched roofed cottages, tea houses and craft shops.

The Dingle Peninsula is known for many things – historic sites, fresh seafood, Hollywood filming locations, Irish speaking villages, and of course, for being the most colourful town in Ireland! After a short drive this morning, check into your boutique accommodation just outside town. Later on, explore Dingle town at your leisure. Browse the numerous craft and artisan shops, or immerse yourself in Dingle’s renowned pub scene, with stops at places like Dick Mack’s and An Droichead Beag for live music and Irish brews.

Overnight: Dingle | Pax House
Room Type: seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Friday 14th June - Slea Head

Today, prepare for an unforgettable outdoor adventure! Slea Head is the westernmost point of the Dingle Peninsula and promises an exhilarating experience. Don your boots and begin your journey. Along the way, keep an eye out for playful seals and a rich variety of birdlife as you hike along rugged coastal cliffs, sandy beaches and ancient ruins. At the end of the day, take in the panoramic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and the Blasket Islands as you stand in the heart of Ireland’s untamed beauty.

If you prefer not to hike today, Dingle is on your doorstep waiting for you to enjoy. Start your day at the local harbour where you witness local fisherman binging in their morning catch, adding to the lively bustle of the waterfront. Spend some time exploring the quaint Dingle town, packed full of charming cafes, delicious fresh food stops, award winning ice cream and plenty of gift buying opportunities.

As evening approaches, you make your way to one of the many traditional Irish music pubs, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy lively tunes and heartfelt performances. You find yourself tapping your feet to the rhythm of the fiddles and bodhráns, and perhaps even joining in on a spontaneous Irish jig.

Overnight: Dingle | Pax House
Room Type: Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 12 km / 7 miles

Day 10 - Saturday 15th June - Exploring Killarney National Park

After a leisurely breakfast, we leave the coast to explore Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown. Joined by a local guide, explore the park on a fantastic cycling tour where you will get to experience the real beauty of Ireland’s oldest and most spectacular national parks. Explore ancient woodlands and Torc Waterfall, admire stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney and learn about local myths and legends.

Your guide can join you if the group is all opting to cycle or can take those who wish to explore the park on foot at a more gentle pace with visits to Ross Castle where you will hear about the legend of O’Donoghue and his snow-white horse.

 

Check into your charming accommodation this evening, sitting down to a delicious, locally sourced dinner.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: Manor House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Ride Details: 26 km / 16 miles

Day 11 - Sunday 16th June - Seaweed Foraging & The Kerry Way

As you make your way into the southern part of the Ring of Kerry, the landscape becomes wilder and more rugged. At a secluded bay, meet a local foraging expert, gentleman and storyteller who will take you on a wander along the shoreline learning about life on Ireland’s West Coast. Have a toast and enjoy some seaweed nibbles including the flavoursome Duilleasc and Nori, the famous sushi roll wrapping. Afterwards, your guide will take you to hike part of The Kerry Way – one of Ireland’s long distance trails. You’ll spend the afternoon exploring a diverse range of scenery, from rugged mountains and deep valleys to coastal cliffs and serene lakes.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: Manor House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Monday 17th June - Lord Brandons Cottage to Killarney House

A day in the hills hiking is in store for you today as you hike from Lord Brandons Cottage to Killarney House. Beginning at Lord Brandons Cottage, an open air cafe, this is a stunning route that takes in a variety of sights and terrains as you make your way along. Take time to explore Torc Waterfall and the grounds of Muckross House on the way. There are a variety of stunning photo opportunities along this trail as well as an abundance of wildlife in the area so keep a look out. Enjoy some refreshments at the lovely Killarney House after your hike.

Anyone who wishes can stay behind and explore Killarney town unguided, take some time to browse the local shops, pick up a few mementos and enjoy the hustle and bustle of this lively spot.

Your guide will join you for dinner this evening to celebrate what we hope has been a memorable time in Ireland

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: Manor House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 20 km / 12 miles | 517 m / 1,696 ft elevation gain | Approx: 6 hrs

Day 13 - Tuesday 18th June - Dairy Farm Tour & Return to Dublin

This morning, visit a local working dairy farm for an immersive tour and cheese tasting. Meet the herd, chat about all things agriculture with John and finish with a spectacular tasting session of some fine, authentic Irish cheese, made right there on the farm.

This afternoon, its time to make your return to Dublin for your final night in Ireland. Your guide will say goodbye at your hotel and leave you to enjoy your final night in Ireland.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Wednesday 19th June - Depart

This morning a private transfer will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel and drop you to Dublin airport.

Farewell! We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we welcome the chance to have you travel with us once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 14
  • Most meals as indicated above, all breakfast, lunch & two dinners accompanied by your guide
  • Private transfer to and from Dublin airport to your hotel
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 3 to Day 13
  • Ground transportation from Day 3 to Day 13
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically;
  • Private Historical Walking Tour of Dublin
  • Entry to Trinity College & The Book of Kells
  • Guinness Storehouse Connoisseur Experience
  • Irish Dancing & Whiskey Tasting Experience
  • Private Oyster Farm Tour
  • Private Sheep Dog Demonstration & Fort Tour
  • Private Cycling experience in Killarney National Park
  • Private Seaweed Foraging Experience
  • Private Dairy Farm Tour
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • 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
Optional Upgrades Read More

Room upgrades are available upon request

Pricing Read More

Pricing is based on 10 people sharing 5 rooms throughout.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.