Ireland's Wild West Coast

2026

Number of Travellers: 14
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Overview

Set off on an epic journey through Ireland’s untamed landscapes, vibrant villages, and rich cultural heritage, exploring the rugged beauty of the west coast. This adventure combines thrilling outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and surfing, paired with authentic experiences that dive deep into Ireland’s traditions. Explore the serene lakes of Killarney, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, and the timeless Gaelic culture of the Aran Islands.

Highlights

  • Experience Ireland’s heritage through hurling in Kilkenny, traditional pubs, and the Gaelic culture of the Aran Islands.
  • Explore the scenic lakes of Killarney, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, and the unique Burren landscape, while spotting dolphins, seals, and whales along the way.
  • Enjoy a sea safari in West Cork, kayak along Clare's rugged coast, and surf at Lahinch Beach, one of the world’s top spots.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Kilkenny Hurling

Meet your group in Dublin City centre. After a welcome meeting you will hit the road west with your guide. En route we stop at a village pub in County Kilkenny, which has been in the same family for generations. Here you’ll try your hand at hurling, one of Ireland’s national sports and the lifeblood of this part of Ireland while learning a little about the cultural and social importance of the Irish pub.

Overnight: Lakes of Killarney | Killeen House Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 - Exploring the Lakes of Killarney

This morning we will meet a local boatman for a trip around the Lakes of Killarney. Hear the myths and legends of Killarney National Park, with the stunning backdrop of Ireland’s highest mountains. We will stop on a hidden island to explore ancient monastic ruins before hiking back to town from Muckross House.

Overnight: Lakes of Killarney | Killeen House Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 5 km / 3 miles

Day 3 - West Cork Wildlife

Heading south from Killarney we cross into West Cork into beautiful Bantry Bay. Fresh sea air awaits as we head out into the bay on a zodiac. We will visit sea caves and scan the water for dolphins, porpoises, seals and the many bird species that frequent the bay. Depending on the season, we may spot humpbacks and minke whales, transient visitors to these waters.

Overnight: Lakes of Killarney | Killeen House Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 - Cliffs of Moher

Continuing our exploration of Ireland’s west coast, we leave the mountains of Kerry behind as we journey to Clare. We take a small local ferry across the mouth of the river Shannon, an estuary that is home to Europe’s largest pod of dolphins. Making our way slowly north, we will stop to explore en route. We top the day off with an evening visit to the Cliffs of Moher where epic panoramic views await.

Overnight: Lahinch | Lahinch Coast Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - The Burren

The Burren is a vast limestone landscape known for its unique rock formations, diverse plant life, and ancient archaeological sites. Here millennia of human history exist alongside rare flora and fauna. Our first port of call is the local smokehouse where we get to sample some of the goodies and learn a little more about the process. After a delicious local lunch, we hit the waters of North Clare by kayak. We explore the rugged coastline, including small inlets and tidal islands, as well as the underwater beauty that the crystal clear water affords.

Overnight: Lahinch | Lahinch Coast Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - The Aran Islands

From the small seaside village of Doolin we take a short ferry to the smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oírr,  a small, rugged outcrop where stone walls crisscross the land, and a strong Gaelic culture thrives. Here we will hop on bikes to explore the island’s furthest reaches including ancient ring forts, shipwrecks and the lonely lighthouse.

Overnight: Lahinch | Lahinch Coast Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - West Coast Surf

Early risers can take a stroll down to the beach for a surf lesson. This part of Ireland is world-renowned for its quality waves and Lahinch beach is a perfect spot for beginners and improvers. After breakfast we make our way to our last stop- Galway City. The capital of the west is yours to explore this afternoon. Meet back with the group for a final dinner after which we will find a traditional music session in one of the city’s many fun pubs.

Overnight: Quay Street | Leonardo Hotel Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 - Slán Abhaile

After breakfast, plan your onward journey back to Dublin, the airport or stay on in the west for further exploration.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 7 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Kilkenny Hurling Experience
    • Killarney Lakes Boat Trip
    • Bantry Bay Sea Safari
    • Cliffs of Moher
    • Burren Smokehouse Experience
    • North Clare Sea Kayaking
    • Aran Island Bike rental
    • Surf Lesson
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 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 guides
Notes Read More

If travelling to the UK or Northern Ireland pre or post trip please take note of the below:

There is a new legislation as of January 8th 2025, if traveling to the UK (including Northern Ireland) from the US, Canada, Singapore or Australia then travelers should have electronic travel authorization (ETA) which is now a requirement. There is more info HERE and how to apply.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch

Tel: +35391457898

Email Róisín Murray

Accommodation

Killeen House Hotel

Lakes of Killarney | Co. Kerry |
V93 WR04 | Phone: +353 64 66 31711
Web: killeenhousehotel.com/en

Lahinch Coast Hotel

Lahinch | Co. Clare |
V95 VP9H | Phone: +353 (065) 7081100
Web: lahinchcoasthotel.ie

Leonardo Hotel Galway

Quay Street | Galway City |
H91 E8D7 | Phone: +353 91 566444
Web: leonardo-hotels.com/galway

Virtuoso

Ireland’s Wild West Coast – V1

2026