Field Notes from Ireland: A Women’s Hiking Adventure Full of Castles, Culture & Connection

After every adventure, our guides reflect on the moments that made each journey special—and this one through Ireland was no exception. In this post-trip letter, AGC guide Kaitlyn Shinney captures the laughter, wonder, and beauty of Ireland: Culture, Castles and Hiking, a women-only adventure across the Emerald Isle in May 2022.

Whether you're considering joining this trip or reminiscing from the last one, we invite you to walk back through the magic of Ireland with us.

From Shannon to the Sea: A Grand Irish Welcome

It all began at Shannon Airport, where our group gathered to embark on an unforgettable journey. With a picnic in Kinvarra Harbor beside 16th-century Dunguaire Castle, we got our first taste of Ireland’s timeless charm. The castle, framed by Galway Bay, lives up to its title as one of Ireland’s most photographed—and we understood why.

Our day continued with a sheepdog demonstration at Caherconnell, where border collies Lee, Lynn, Rose, and Jess wowed us with their precision and partnership. We settled into the cozy Doolin Inn and strolled to McGann’s Pub for dinner, passing curious cows and capping the night with live music and the soft hum of the uilleann pipes as rain drummed on the roof.

Hiking the Burren: Where Rock Meets Rare Blooms

Our first hike led us into the Burren—a breathtaking karst landscape where Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean flora coexist. The Spring Gentian, with its trumpet-shaped blue flowers, was a showstopper. We were lucky enough to spot a few among the limestone terrain, reminding us of the quiet magic in Ireland’s rugged places.

After hiking, we changed and headed to Bunratty Castle for a medieval banquet. A harpist greeted us in the Grand Hall before we descended to feast by candlelight. We learned about ancient Sheela na gigs carved into the walls and left with full bellies and a bagpiper's song echoing behind us.

Cliffs, Islands, and the Atlantic’s Wild Edge

A clear Thursday morning welcomed our hike along the Cliffs of Moher. The solitude of the trail made the sweeping views even more powerful. After lunch at the Visitor Center, we explored the Burren Perfumery—where scent, science, and nature blend—before enjoying treats in the tea room.

When it came time to ferry to the Aran Islands, the sea showed us its strength, but our journey to Inishmore was smooth. We scattered to explore—some by bike, others by foot or horse-drawn carriage. Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort towering 300 feet above the ocean, was a highlight none of us will forget.

Boglands, Diamond Hills, and Abbey Gardens

We woke in Clifden to a white horse greeting us at the Wild Atlantic Way sign. Our guide Edel took us into the bog to learn the ancient tradition of turf cutting. The earthy smell of peat and stories of “turf wars” added texture to our understanding of Ireland's rural life.

Later, we hiked Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park and strolled the peaceful grounds of Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian walled garden—moments of serenity and connection surrounded by green hills and still waters.

Famine Trails and Fjord Views

In Leenane, we hiked the historic Famine Walk, where the land remembers the hardship of the 1800s potato blight. Ireland gave us every kind of weather that day—sun, sprinkles, gusts, and grey skies.

A boat tour of Killary Fjord followed, giving us a different perspective on the landscape and the mussel farms below the surface. That night, we dined at Darcy Twelve, where even vegan travelers found delicious options.

From Castles to City Streets: A Grand Goodbye

Before heading east, we made a quick stop in the storybook village of Cong to stretch our legs and snap photos of Ashford Castle. Then, onward to Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic site along the River Shannon, where the weather gave us its best for a final round of photos.

In Dublin, we toured the Whiskey Museum and wandered cobbled streets before our final overnight at the elegant K Club chateau—a fitting end to a trip that blended heritage, adventure, and sisterhood.

Reflections from the Trail

“This trip was absolutely wonderful in almost every way... Our two outstanding guides, Kaitlyn and Edel, were upbeat, competent, and just a joy to be around... they pulled us all together in every way. We felt we were in great hands without being coddled or micro-managed.”

– Mary H., 2022 AGC Ireland Traveler

Join the Adventure: Ireland Awaits

From stone castles and sweeping cliffs to quiet trails and cozy pubs, Ireland leaves its mark on every traveler. This journey is more than a hiking tour—it’s a shared experience of laughter, learning, and lasting connection.

Whether you’re drawn by the landscapes, the history, or the chance to connect with other adventurous women, this trip delivers an unforgettable slice of Ireland.

👉 Explore Upcoming Departures of Ireland: Culture, Castles & Hiking