Luke's Irish Birthday Adventure!

Day 1 - Tuesday 18^th March - Dublin to Cork -Visit Charles Fort and Discover Kinsale

Céad Míle Fáilte- A thousand Welcomes

Arriving at Dublin airport, your guide will be on hand to greet you and together you will travel south to the once capital of Ireland, Cork.

We head straight for the coast, to the picturesque little town of Kinsale. With its sheltered harbour, waterfront cafes and bars and a foodie scene known around the world, Kinsale is the perfect introduction to Ireland.

This afternoon, stretch your legs on a stunning Scilly Walk taking in the views as you go. Visit the unique star-shaped military Charles Fort and dine in the bright yellow Spaniard Pub.

Overnight: Kinsale | The Trident Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 - Wednesday 19^th March - Kinsale Harbour Cruise & Food Tour

Experience the charm of Kinsale from a unique perspective with a leisurely harbour cruise this morning. Departing from the heart of this historic town, the cruise offers a relaxing journey through one of Ireland’s most picturesque natural harbours. As you glide along the water, enjoy stunning views of the colourful town, the 17th-century Charles Fort you visited yesterday, and the rugged coastline dotted with hidden coves and beaches.

Your knowledgeable guide will share stories of Kinsale’s rich maritime history, from its days as a bustling trading port to its role in the famous Battle of Kinsale. Keep an eye out for local wildlife — seals, seabirds, and occasionally dolphins are known to frequent the bay.

After your scenic harbour cruise, dive into Kinsale’s reputation as Ireland’s “Gourmet Capital” with an indulgent afternoon food tour. Led by a local foodie guide, this walking tour takes you through the charming streets of Kinsale, stopping at some of its best-loved eateries, artisan shops, and hidden culinary gems.

Overnight: Kinsale | The Trident Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Thursday 20^th March - Kinsale to Dingle via Killarney National Park

Depart Kinsale in the morning and embark on a scenic drive towards Killarney National Park — a perfect midway stop on your way to Dingle. The route takes you through rolling countryside, and charming villages, and offers glimpses of Ireland’s wild beauty as you approach County Kerry.

Spend the day exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Killarney National Park, Ireland’s oldest national park, known for its lush woodlands, towering mountains, and sparkling lakes. Wander through the picturesque grounds of Muckross House & Gardens or take a short hike to the cascading Torc Waterfall, surrounded by ancient oak forests.

In the afternoon, unwind with a serene Lake Boat Cruise across the famed Lakes of Killarney. Departing from Ross Castle, the cruise offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and islands, and the castle’s striking silhouette reflected in the water. Along the way, your guide will share tales of local folklore, the park’s rich history, and its diverse wildlife — from red deer to soaring birds of prey.

After the cruise, continue your journey westward, following the winding roads towards the Dingle Peninsula. The drive offers stunning coastal views, with the mountains gradually giving way to the rugged Atlantic coastline, setting the perfect tone for your stay in the colourful seaside town of Dingle.

Overnight: Dingle | Dingle Skellig Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Friday 21^st March - Iconic and Ancient Dingle

Immerse yourself in the rich history and wild beauty of the Dingle Peninsula with a day exploring its ancient sites, followed by an evening soaking in the town’s vibrant music scene. Begin at the iconic Gallarus Oratory, a remarkably preserved 9th-century stone chapel, before visiting the nearby Kilmalkedar Church, home to Ogham stones and medieval relics. Continue along the scenic Slea Head Drive to explore the cliffside ruins of Dunbeg Fort and the distinctive Beehive Huts (Clocháns), once used by monks and farmers. Take in sweeping views of the Blasket Islands and delve into island life at the Blasket Centre, before enjoying a relaxed lunch in the nearby village of Ballyferriter.

Return to Dingle town in the late afternoon and spend time wandering its colourful streets, filled with artisan shops, galleries, and harborside charm. As evening falls, dive into Dingle’s legendary music scene — pop into a traditional pub like O’Sullivan’s Courthouse or Dick Mack’s for live sessions of Irish folk music, where fiddles, bodhráns, and tin whistles fill the air. Whether you join in a spontaneous sing-along or simply enjoy a pint while soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect end to a day of history, culture, and local flavour.

Overnight: Dingle | The Dingle Skelligs Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Saturday 22^nd March - Medieval Galway City

Depart Dingle in the morning, heading northeast through the scenic landscapes of Counties Kerry and Limerick, where rolling hills and patchwork fields give way to the vibrant city of Galway. Along the way, consider a brief stop in Adare, often called Ireland’s prettiest village, known for its thatched cottages and medieval ruins.

Arrive in Galway by early afternoon and dive into its rich martial past with a dedicated Military History Tour. Explore key sites like the remnants of the city’s medieval walls, the Spanish Arch, and the historic Lynch’s Castle, while learning about Galway’s strategic role during the Norman Invasions, the Nine Years’ War, and the Irish War of Independence. The tour weaves together tales of sieges, rebellions, and the city’s evolving defences, offering a deeper understanding of Galway’s place in Ireland’s turbulent history. Wrap up the late afternoon with a stroll through the Latin Quarter or along the lively Salthill Promenade before settling in for the evening.

This evening you’ll be on the edge of the bustling and bohemian city of Galway. Venture out to explore the cobbled streets with buskers playing on the corner Ireland’s lively culture spilling onto the streets. Your guide will take you to some local spots for music and dinner.

Overnight: Galway | The Hardiman Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Sunday 23^rd March - Stories and Sheepdogs

After a leisurely breakfast, begin your journey towards the rugged region of Connemara. Here you will visit a local working sheep farm and meet Tom, his local and intelligent dogs and their flock of fluffy white sheep. Watch the brilliant sheepdogs work the flock, taking the sheep from the mountain to their pen with nothing but some whistle and hand commands and chat to Tom all about a life spent on the rugged west coast.
Later today, we enjoy some of Conemaras wild landscapes with an afternoon hike or if preferred, take a visit to Kylemore Abbey, nestled in the heart of Connemara, where you can explore the stunning Victorian gardens and learn about the abbey’s fascinating history, from its origins as a private estate to its time as a monastery. Wander through the elegant interiors and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake for an unforgettable Irish experience.

Tonight, arrive back into Galway for another evening in the city of tribes.

Overnight: Galway | The Hardiman Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Monday 24^th March - Cliffs of Moher & Falconry at Dromoland Castle

Depart Galway and journey south through the rolling landscapes of County Clare, passing charming villages and rugged countryside. We stop at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, where towering sea cliffs offer panoramic views of the Atlantic and the Aran Islands beyond. Continue your drive to the majestic Dromoland Castle, where centuries of history meet luxurious comfort in a fairytale-like setting.

Your guide will say goodbye to you at the castle leaving you to enjoy the rest of your trip unguided.

This afternoon meet the Falconry team at Dromoland for an unforgettable falconry experience. Get up close with majestic birds of prey as expert falconers guide you through the ancient art of falconry, giving you the chance to interact with the birds and watch them in flight.

Finish your day with a relaxing evening at the castle, where you can enjoy its luxurious surroundings, dine in style, and unwind with the timeless elegance of this historic estate.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergue | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Tuesday 25^th March - Dromoland Castle to Dublin

Enjoy your morning onsite at Dromoland, perhaps taking advantage of the exquisite spa, we highly recommend the Amber and Quartz Crystal Bed with massage or partaking in more adventurous activities such as archery and stand-up paddle boarding. There are so many activities to enjoy here and fun for all.

Later this afternoon, a private transfer will collect you from the castle and take you to your Dublin where you can check in and explore the city. The main pedestrain shopping districts are right on your doorstep, but with your hotel tucked away, your relaxation is still guaranteed.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Wednesday 26^th March - A Day in Dublin

This morning, 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 excellent suggestions for dinner this evening with everything from local fish and chips to traditional pub food to fine dining available in the city.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: Classic Twin

Day 10 - Thursday 27^th March - 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.

Meals Included: Breakfast