Explorer-X Journeys Western Coast

Day 1 - Welcome to Ireland

Fáilte go hÉireann, welcome to Ireland.

Arriving in Ireland today, a private transfer will pick you up from the airport and whisk you into the city to your boutique hotel in the city centre. Check in will not be available till later today unless you have opted to book a pre night however, fell free to store your luggage, freshen up, grab a bite to eat, and head out into Dublin’s vibrant streets to start exploring.

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.

We have some great restaurants to recommend to you for this evening with everything from fine dining to pub grub catered for.

Overnight: Dublin | Number 31
Room Type: Plush
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Dublin's Fair City

Kick off your day with a unique journey through Dublin’s rich brewing history at the Guinness Storehouse. Begin with the exclusive Connoisseur Experience, where you’ll explore the world of Ireland’s most iconic stout in a private tasting session led by an expert. Discover the secrets behind the brewing process, and indulge in the artistry of Guinness in the heart of the Storehouse, all while savoring a personalized pint at the Gravity Bar, with breathtaking views over the city.

Afterward, meet your local historian for a walking tour that takes you deep into Dublin’s storied past. Stroll through the vibrant streets of the city as your guide shares captivating tales of Dublin’s cultural heritage. The day culminates in a visit to some of the city’s most infamous and beloved pubs, where you’ll uncover the rich history and lively atmosphere that makes Dublin’s pub scene legendary.

Overnight: Dublin | Number 31
Room Type: Plush
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Ireland's Sport Culture

Spend a relaxing morning at your leisure, exploring Dublin at your own pace. Take time to explore world-class museums, cozy cafés, or simply enjoy the city’s buzzing atmosphere.

In the afternoon, take your Dublin experience to the next level with a private Gaelic Games session. Step onto the field for an introduction to the traditional Irish sports of hurling and Gaelic football, guided by expert coaches who will teach you the skills and techniques behind these fast-paced, thrilling games. Spend a final evening in Dublin, before we head off to explore Ireland’s incredible countryside!

Overnight: Dublin | Number 31
Room Type: Plush
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Dublin to the Wild West of Ireland

Pick up your rental car in Dublin and drive across Ireland to the charming town of Westport. Enjoy the leisurely journey as you pass through quaint villages and bustling towns. Upon arrival in Westport, check into your centrally located hotel, just a short walk from the town’s lively pubs, shops, and historic sites. It’s the perfect base to explore this picturesque town on the edge of the Atlantic.

Overnight: Westport | The Wyatt
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Children of Lir Loop Hike

Start your adventure in the stunning, rugged beauty of North Mayo, where you’ll meet your local guide for a memorable hike along the Children of Lir Loop. As you walk, you’ll come across ancient stone structures and enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic, really soaking in the history and untouched beauty of this remote part of Ireland. After the hike, head to Westport, the liveliest town in the area, where you can relax in a cozy pub, sip on a drink, and enjoy some live music to end the day on a perfect note.

Overnight: Westport | The Wyatt
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Cycling The Great Western Greenway

Overnight: Westport | The Wyatt
Room Type: Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Connemara, Kylemore, and beautiful Ballynahinch

Start your day by driving through the stunning landscape of Connemara in your own car, with a scenic stop at Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Take time to explore the Abbey’s beautiful gardens and historic interiors, all set against the backdrop of the impressive mountain scenery.

Afterward, continue on to Clifden, the lively heart of Connemara, where you can wander through its charming streets, enjoy a coffee, or browse the local shops.

From Clifden, make your way to the luxurious Ballynahinch Castle, your 5-star destination for the evening. Nestled in 450 acres of lush woodland, this historic castle offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and natural beauty, providing a peaceful and unforgettable retreat. This evening we would recommend dinner at Ballynahinch’s Owenmore Restaurant, which overlooks the salmon river and the wooded estate.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Inishbofin Island

Embark on a morning ferry ride to Inishbofin Island, a remote island which is a distillation of the best of Connemara. Today’s walk is led by an archaeologist who will lead you along Bronze and Iron Age ruins, a crumbling Cromwellian fort and beautiful Atlantic scenery with jagged cliffs and white sand beaches. We recommend stopping for a local seafood lunch on the island before returning to the mainland in the evening, where you can sample some of Clifden’s renowned Irish traditional music.

Overnight: Connemmara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Superior

Day 9 - The Burren

Leaving the wild and rugged Connemara behind this morning, head further south towards County Clare, home to the famed Cliffs of Moher and the lunar landscape of the Burren. You’ll stop en route at a traditional farm where you will meet Evelyn and try your hand at making some traditional Irish scones. Continue to the quaint and colourful Doolin, known throughout the country for its Irish music sessions. Tonight we recommend settling in front of the fire at O’Connor’s and listening to a few tunes.

Overnight: Doolin | Fiddle + Bow Hotel
Room Type: Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Cliffs of Moher

Today you’ll meet local man Cormac, who will lead you on a walk along Ireland’s famed Cliffs of Moher, part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, a special region with outstanding geology. Visually stunning, the Cliffs Stand 702ft at their highest point and stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic coast. Cormac is passionate about the history, geology and heritage of this area and holds a wealth of knowledge on the surrounding landscape. Take in the views, stop into the visitors centre, and most of all, take a family selfie for those at home before heading back to Doolin.

Overnight: Doolin | Fiddle + Bow Hotel
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - The Aran Islands

It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you and your guide 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: Doolin | Fiddle + Bow Hotel
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Back to Dublin

Depart from Doolin in the morning and drive through the scenic Irish countryside as you make your way back to Dublin. Upon arrival, drop off your rental car and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore Dublin’s vibrant streets, perhaps visiting iconic landmarks like Trinity College or the Jameson Distillery, or simply relaxing in one of the city’s charming cafés.

Whether you choose to wander through the historic areas of Temple Bar or shop along Grafton Street, the afternoon is yours to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of Ireland’s lively capital before the end of your journey.

Overnight: Dublin | Number 31
Room Type: Plush
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.