Trails & Traditions: An Intergenerational Irish Escape

Sunday 10th August – Tuesday 19th August 2025

Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights

Overview

Picturesque coastal towns and villages, green pastoral fields, soaring cliffs, wild barren landscapes, the crash of the ocean, the laugh of a local. Ireland is romantic, and authentic, a home away from home where both old and modern seem to cohabit seamlessly on a small island in the middle of the sea. Packed with history and tradition your days are spent exploring the island of Ireland’s famous and off-the-beaten-track sites of natural, cultural and political interest. A world-renowned food scene means your evenings are spent dining in style and with the promise of a pub just around the corner, music and laughter are never far away. Your trip to Ireland will surprise and delight you but the people of Ireland will stay with you, long after your journey has taken you home.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 10th August - Céad míle fáilte - One Hundred Thousand Welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – or one hundred thousand welcomes – to Ireland’s capital, Dublin! Upon arrival, a private transfer will provide a smooth journey into the city and onwards to the hotel. There is no better introduction to Dublin than a private walking tour with a local guide so after a bite to eat 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.

*Please note your accommodation is booked from the previous night to allow the kids to get a rest once you land.

Overnight: Dublin | The Davenport Hotel
Room Type: 2x Double, 1x Double +Cot, 1x Triple +Cot
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Monday 11th August - Ireland's Fair City

Set out on a relaxed exploration of Dublin, a capital city with a charming village feel. With many highlights within easy walking distance, the real joy is in wandering—discovering cobbled lanes, quiet squares, lively pubs, and layers of history.

This afternoon, choose how you’d like to experience the city’s culture.Beer and whiskey lovers might tour the iconic Guinness Storehouse for a pint with panoramic views, and visit the original Jameson Distillery on Bow Street for a guided tasting experience.

For a more whimsical option, hop aboard a vintage Routemaster bus for afternoon tea, jazz, and a tour of Dublin’s landmarks—from St. Patrick’s Cathedral to Georgian Dublin—all hosted by a lively guide.

This evening, gather again to enjoy a locally sourced dinner at one of Dublin’s vibrant restaurants.

Overnight: Dublin | The Davenport Hotel
Room Type: 2x Double, 1x Double +Cot, 1x Triple +Cot
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Tuesday 12th August - The History of Galway

This morning, you’ll meet your private guide and begin your journey westward, leaving the city behind as you make your way toward Ireland’s wild and scenic Atlantic coast.

Galway is the capital of Ireland’s west. Known as the ‘town of the tribes’, the small centre of cobblestone streets and colourful storefronts is vibrant, fun and cosmopolitan. Enjoy a free afternoon to soak up the vibrant charm of Galway City at your own pace. Wander through its colorful, cobbled streets lined with quirky shops, artisan cafés, and lively pubs. Pop into local galleries, catch a street performance in the Latin Quarter, or stroll along the scenic Salthill Promenade overlooking Galway Bay.

Overnight: Galway City | The Heron's Rest
Room Type: Townhouse 16 and 16A
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 13th August - Coastal Cliffs and Countryside

Set out on a breathtaking journey south to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic and stretching for nearly 14 kilometers along Ireland’s rugged western coast. Along the way, pause at the famed Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house once home to the legendary King Guaire of Connacht. Set dramatically on the shores of Galway Bay, the castle has long been a gathering place for poets and writers of the Irish Literary Revival. We’ll stop in for a spot of lunch in home of traditional music, Doolin before making our way along Galway’s shimmering bay back to town.

Overnight: Galway City | The Heron's Rest
Room Type: Townhouse 16 and 16A
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 14th August - Stories and Sheepdogs

After a leisurely breakfast, set off on a guided journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara. Your expert guide will accompany you for the day, sharing local stories and hidden gems as you travel north through the majestic Twelve Bens. One of the highlights of the day will be a visit to the iconic Kylemore Abbey, a neo-Gothic masterpiece built in the 19th century as a romantic gift and later home to Benedictine nuns who established an international girls’ school there. Nestled beside a tranquil lake and surrounded by lush woodland, it’s one of Ireland’s most photographed landmarks.

In the afternoon, experience life on the rugged west coast with a stop at a working sheep farm. Watch the skilled sheepdogs in action and enjoy a chat with the local farmer about daily life in this remote corner of Ireland. This evening, return to your cosy accommodation, then head out to a nearby pub or two to soak up some traditional Irish music and warm hospitality.

Overnight: Galway City | The Heron's Rest
Room Type: Townhouse 16 and 16A
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 15th August - Traditional Baking Experience

Departing from Galway this morning we’ll venture south down to the quaint village of Kenmare. Along the way we stop in County Clare on Ireland’s West Coast is home to the the lunar landscape of the Burren. Today stop at a traditional farm and meet Evelyn to try your hand at making some traditional Irish scones.

We’ll call into a local perfumery for a bit of lunch before making our way further south to the serene shores of Kenmare Bay and the fabulous Sheen Falls Lodge. Check in to their premier lodges, where the whole family can sprawl out in the comfort of your own personal lodge.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: Bay Villas
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 16th August - Falconry on the Dingle Peninsula

Today, journey through the stunning Dingle Peninsula, a region where the Irish language and traditions remain deeply rooted. Your tour reveals a rich tapestry of ancient sites, including Iron Age forts, beehive huts, and historic churches, each telling a story of Ireland’s past. The day culminates at Slea Head, Europe’s westernmost point, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Before leaving, enjoy an exciting Hawk Walk, where you’ll watch these magnificent birds of prey swoop through the skies and learn about their fascinating behaviours.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: Bay Villas
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Sunday 17th August - Sheen Falls Lodge and Kenmare

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure on the stunning grounds of Sheen Falls Lodge, where a variety of exceptional activities await. Choose to relax with a soothing treatment at the award-winning spa, embark on a guided nature walk through the surrounding woodlands, try fishing on the nearby river, or explore the picturesque town of Kenmare in a horse-drawn carriage. For a more leisurely afternoon, indulge in traditional afternoon tea in the elegant library or unwind by the fire in the lounge. Whatever your preference, we’re happy to arrange bookings in advance to help you make the most of your day.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: Bay Villas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9 - Monday 18th August - Blarney Castle and Dublin City

Set off from the charming town of Kenmare and begin your journey eastward to Dublin, with a memorable stop at the legendary Blarney Castle. Here, you’ll have the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone—said to grant the gift of eloquence—while exploring the stunning gardens and historic grounds of this iconic Irish landmark. After soaking up the castle’s rich history and enchanting atmosphere, continue your journey through the picturesque Irish countryside, arriving in Dublin ready to experience the vibrant energy of Ireland’s capital city.

Overnight: Dublin | The Davenport Hotel
Room Type: 2x Double, 1x Double +Cot, 1x Triple +Cot
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 19th August - Depart

This morning, a private transfer will collect you from the hotel and provide a smooth journey to Dublin Airport for the flight home. We wish you a safe journey onwards and hope you leave your time in Ireland with many stories to tell.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 9 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guides from Day 3 to Day 9 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guides on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Walking Tour
    • Vintage Tea Bus Tickets
    • Guinness Storehouse Tickets
    • Jameson Distillery Tickets
    • Cliffs of Moher Entrance
    • Private Sheepdog Demonstration
    • Kylemore Abbey Entrance
    • Private Bread Making Experience
    • Private Falconry Experience
    • Blarney Castle Entrance
  • 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 guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • A 25% 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.
  • Activities are only private if so specified.
Pricing Read More

The total group cost of this itinerary, based on 10 pax sharing throughout, is52,024 in total and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.