Ireland: Castles, Culture, and Hiking

Arrive at the Shannon Airport by 12 p.m. today, where we’ll meet our Irish guide and set off for Doolin and the stunning Cliffs of Moher! Along the way, we’ll visit the historic Caherconnell Fort. If energy allows, we’ll take a short walk to soak in the fresh Irish air before checking into our hotel for the evening.

Next on the agenda: a delicious Irish dinner—the first of many—and perhaps a visit to a local Irish pub to enjoy some live music before settling in for a good night’s sleep.

Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in County Clare
Daily Activities: Walking tour at Cliffs of Moher, and Caherconnell Fort
Travel: Driving (1 hour)

Today, we’ll explore the remarkable karst limestone landscape of the Burren, one of the largest of its kind in Europe. This unique area spans 100 square miles of jagged limestone where Arctic, Mediterranean, and Alpine plants thrive side by side. In fact, 70% of all of Ireland’s flora can be found here. We’ll begin the day with a morning hike through this fascinating landscape, taking in its incredible natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we’ll dive into Ireland’s history and culture with a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. To conclude the day, we’ll step back in time with a four-course medieval feast at the Bunratty Medieval Banquet, held in the historic castle. While dining, we’ll be entertained by the world-famous Bunratty Castle Singers—a truly memorable experience.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in County Clare
Daily Activities: Hiking (2-3 hours)
Travel: Driving (1 hour)

The day begins with a fabulous Irish breakfast—black pudding, anyone? Our morning is filled with ocean breezes and breathtaking vistas as we hike from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher. This trail traverses one of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, following the edge of the cliffs from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center. Along the way, we’ll enjoy incredible views of the dramatic cliffs and the surrounding sea.

Upon reaching the Visitor Center, we’ll explore their fascinating exhibits before boarding our shuttle and stopping for lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit one of Ireland’s beloved family-run businesses: The Burren Perfumery. This small-scale, locally staffed company offers a unique glimpse into traditional craftsmanship. You’ll have the chance to tour their blending rooms, herb garden, and tearoom—and perhaps treat yourself to some of their delightful organic cakes.

Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Hotel in County Clare
Daily Activities: Hiking (5 miles)
Travel: Driving (45 minutes)

After another hearty Irish breakfast, we’ll catch a ferry in Doolin to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. These rugged islands, formed from karst limestone, have supported fishing and farming communities for over 5,000 years. The islands are part of a Gaeltacht region, where Irish (distinct from Gaelic) is spoken as a first language, preserving a rich cultural heritage.

The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes, and upon arrival, you’ll have the option to rent a bike and explore the island on two wheels or discover it on foot. Highlights include an old shipwreck, a medieval church ruin, and a three-story tower house built within a stone fort. Of course, a stop at the local pub offers a warm Irish welcome with food and drink.

After a few hours soaking in the island’s remote beauty, we’ll board a high-speed ferry to Rossaveal, where we’ll reunite with our Irish guide and vehicle, along with any group members who opted not to visit the island. We’ll then continue to Clifden. If we arrive with time to spare, we’ll enjoy a leisurely walk around this charming little village.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Clifden
Daily Activities: Varied, depending on activity choices on the island
Travel: Driving (2 hours)

Today promises to be a treat as we visit Connemara National Park, located at the foot of Diamond Hill. This breathtaking area is home to the Twelve Bens, a dramatic mountain range of rocky peaks.

We’ll have a few activity options, with one favorite being a hike up Diamond Hill. For those seeking a rewarding challenge, the upper, steeper loop offers 360-degree views from the summit, where you can look out over the ocean to Inishturk and Inishbofin, as well as across the striking Connemara landscape to the Twelve Bens. For a more relaxed experience, the shorter, less strenuous lower loop provides a scenic nature walk, along with time to visit the tearoom at the lovely Visitor Center.

After our hike, we’ll take a short drive to visit Kylemore Abbey, one of the most romantic destinations in Ireland. The grounds feature a chapel modeled after Norwich Cathedral and beautifully maintained Victorian walled gardens—a perfect way to round out the day.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Clifden
Daily Activities: Hiking (2 hours)
Travel: Driving (2 hours)

Our day begins with a fascinating sheepdog herding demonstration on a working sheep farm. These remarkably intelligent dogs are trained from birth, and we’ll have the opportunity to watch them skillfully guide sheep in a stunningly picturesque setting.

Next, we’ll immerse ourselves in the history of this incredible landscape with a walk along the Famine Trail that follows the shores of Killary Harbour. Part of our route includes the famine relief road, constructed by starving Irish laborers during the Great Famine of 1845–1849 in exchange for food. Along the trail, we’ll see haunting reminders of this devastating time, including the ruins of famine villages and old “Lazy Beds,” an ancient method of planting potato crops.

The Great Famine, caused by the widespread potato blight, had the most devastating impact in Ireland, where the population relied heavily on potatoes for survival. The famine not only caused immense human suffering but also strained relations with British governance, ultimately fueling the Home Rule movements that led to Irish independence.

We’ll conclude this memorable day with a scenic cruise through the Killary Fjord, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. As we sail between the Twelve Bens and Maam Turk mountains in County Galway and the Mweelrea mountains in County Mayo, we’ll see mussel and salmon farms thriving in the fjord’s sheltered waters. Keep an eye out for dolphins, who are known to frequent the area near the fjord’s mouth!

Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Hotel in Clifden
Daily Activities: Hiking (2-4 hours)
Travel: Driving (1.5 hours)

Leaving Clifden, we’ll journey to the charming village of Cong. Our first stop will be Cong Abbey, a historic Augustinian abbey surrounded by serene beauty. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a walk through the enchanting forest on the grounds of Ashford Castle. Following our walk, the group will have time to explore Cong, with an opportunity to enjoy lunch in one of the local pubs or cafés.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Clonmacnoise, a remarkable ancient monastic site founded by St. Ciaran in the mid-6th century. This historic site, which once served as a renowned center for religion and learning, features a cathedral, seven churches, and other fascinating ruins. Scholars and pilgrims from across the ancient world once traveled here, leaving behind a rich legacy.

After exploring Clonmacnoise, there will be some free time to relax or take in the surroundings before regrouping for dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Athlone
Daily Activities: Hiking (1-2 hours)
Travel: Driving (2 hours)

This is the day we all dread—the end of our incredible journey. But before we return to Dublin, we’ll make the most of the morning with one final hike and some sightseeing! After packing up and leaving Athlone, our guide will surprise us with her choice of a memorable walk to bid farewell to Ireland’s stunning landscapes.

Once we arrive in Dublin, our Irish guide will say goodbye, and we’ll check into our hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore the vibrant city at your own pace. Whether you’d like to visit iconic landmarks, shop, or enjoy a cozy café, your AGC guide will help you plan and navigate the city.

In the evening, we’ll come together for one last dinner, reminiscing about the adventures we’ve shared and celebrating our time in Ireland.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Mullingar
Daily Activities: Hiking (2 hours)
Travel: Driving (1 hour)

This morning, it’s time to bid farewell to Ireland as we head to the airport or embark on our next adventure. You are free to schedule your return flight for any time today. If you’d like to extend your stay, Dublin has plenty to offer, with endless sights and activities to explore. Either way, we hope you leave with wonderful memories of your time in Ireland. Safe travels!

Included Meals: Breakfast