THE ULTIMATE IRELAND Trip by Overland Ireland

Destination
Starts at

Dublin

Destination
Ends at

Dublin

Destination
Duration

10 days

Destination
Group Size

Maximum 15

Destination
Physical Rating

easy Information

Destination
Style

discovery Information

About your trip

Start your tour with an iconic Irish experience - kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle. Legends say you will receive the treasured 'gift of the gab' and will be able to talk your way out of all sorts of trouble throughout the rest of this unforgettable 10 day tour of Ireland! Look forward to exploring everything our stunning little country has to offer — from kayaking to the magnificent sights at the Ring of Kerry. And for the full Ring of Kerry tour check out our Ireland to Island Tour! We can’t tell you EVERYTHING you can expect in the itinerary below, so we’ll just say this, be prepared for a strange mixture of weather and to create memories that will last a lifetime. We’ll take care of the rest... 

**Please note that for this itinerary, we are unable to offer twin-share rooms. So if you are travelling on your own, you must book a single room. The cost for the single is USD1650.

Trip Highlights

  • See if you can get the gift of the gab by kissing Ireland's iconic Blarney Stone before visiting the Rock of Cashel and its medieval castle.
  • Experience some of Ireland's most dramatic and breathtaking scenery with visits to stunning places like the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park, home to amazing vistas like Ladies' View and Moll's Gap. 
  • Learn about the strong connection between man and his best friend with a traditional sheepdog demonstration. 
  • Take a deep dive into the fascinating history of the world's most famous ship and hear the stories of those who helped to build it in Belfast. 

Your Itinerary

  1. Day 1 From Dublin To Tipperary To Cork To Kinsale

    Starting Time: 8 AM Ashling Hotel Dublin
    10 - 13 Parkgate St., Stoneybatter, Dublin 8, D08 P38N, Ireland

    Leave the bright lights of our capital behind and get ready to experience the REAL Ireland.

    Our first stop will bring us to the Rock of Cashel. Here, you will get to visit the medieval round tower, chapel, cathedral, and castle steeped in 1,000 years of history. Be blown away by the beauty of your first castle experience.

    We continue our route south to county Cork. Our visit to County Cork begins with the obligatory kiss of the Blarney Stone where you will be bestowed with the 'gift of the gab'. You will also
    have time to explore Blarney Castle and the gardens, before enjoying a delicious local lunch.

    Our first day ends with a night in West Cork’s stunning harbour town of Kinsale. Kinsale is renowned for its award winning restaurants and dramatic scenery. Seafood lovers will be spoilt for choice. Have our local friend Barry show you around this town known for its castles, forts, galleries, shops, and arts and crafts.

    Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight at Kinsale

    Activities Included
    • Rock of Cashel visit
    • Blarney Castle visit
  2. Day 2 From Kinsale To Kenmare To Killarney National Park, To Dingle

    Our route out of Kinsale will bring us towards the Ring of Kerry. Our first stop is the beautiful heritage town of Kenmare. Our visit to Killarney National Park includes stops at stunning overlooks like Molls’ Gap and Ladies’ View before a tour of Ross Castle where you will discover what life was really like behind the stone walls. Let a guide bring these castle stories to life!

    The day ends in the celebrated, cozy coastal town of Dingle. The evening is yours to experience the atmosphere in Dingle’s famous quirky pubs, and fantastic restaurants, and to stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions.

    Total Driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Dingle

    Activities Included
    • Killarney National Park visit
    • Ross Castle visit
  3. Day 3 From Dingle To Slea Head

    A special start to the morning as we adventure out on a kayaking adventure around Dingle Bay to explore the sea caves. If kayaking is not your thing, we will take you on a walk up to Eask Tower where you will be rewarded with views of the Great Atlantic on either side of the Dingle
    Peninsula.

    And if some retail therapy is what you’re after, you can also choose to take some time out and visit the local shops. It’s your holiday, do it your way! Your expert guide will take you on a breath-taking trip along the Slea Head Drive — expect amazing scenery, beehive huts, and beautiful harbours for those all-important Instagram photos.

    Spend a second evening really getting to know Dingle and find more hot-spots for food and entertainment. The best thing is you do not have to re-pack your bags. Just relax and enjoy!

    Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Dingle

    Activities Included
    • Kayaking at Dingle Bay OR walk up to Eask Tower
    • Slea Head Drive
  4. Day 4 From Dingle To County Clare

    Your Ultimate Irish Experience continues as we leave Dingle and travel north, taking in spectacular views of The Connor Pass and Castlegregory along the way. Prepare to be awestruck at a traditional sheepdog demonstration. The skill of the farmer and his furry friend will leave you flabbergasted. This is one of our guest’s favourite experiences on tour.

    Next, we take the short ferry ride to County Clare, home of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher and take in the Burren National Park. From sheepdog demonstrations in Co.Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher, we are spoiled for natural beauty. The cliffs in their wonder need to be seen to be
    appreciated.

    Your Overland Ireland guide will take you off the beaten track and point out secret passages that you won’t find on the typical tourist route. Tonight spend the evening indulging in some Irish music and craic! You will stay overnight in either Doolin, with its colourful houses and buckets of
    charm, or Spanish Point, a spectacular coastal location.


    Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Doolin or Spanish Point

    Activities Included
    • Sheep Dog Trials Show
    • Cliffs of Moher visit
  5. Day 5 From Clare To Galway

    Wake up fresh and continue your tour along the Wild Atlantic Way. Sail to Inis Orr, the smallest and most off-the-beaten track, of the Aran Islands where time seems to stand still.

    Explore white-sand beaches, ancient ruins and charming villages. Then, journey to the Burren National Park, a landscape unlike any other, with its limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and fascinating history. Finally, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Galway, a city brimming with music, art, and delicious food.

    Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Galway

    Activities Included
    • Visit to Inis Orr - Aran Islands
    • Burren National park visit
  6. Day 6 From Galway To Westport

    Enjoy the freedom to explore Galway City at your own pace in the morning, uncovering hidden gems, and exploring the many shops on offer.

    Indulge your taste buds on a delicious walking talking taste tour, savouring local delicacies and learning about Galway’s culinary heritage. Then, venture into the rugged beauty of Connemara, with its dramatic mountains, sparkling lakes, and charming villages. Finally, arrive in Westport, a picturesque town nestled on Clew Bay, where you can explore historic sites and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

    Total driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Westport

    Activities Included
    • Galway Walkin', Talkin', Tasting Tour
  7. Day 7 Westport To The Hills Of Donegal

    Start the day with some free time to explore the charming town of Westport, with its vibrant Quay and historic Westport House. Then, hit the road and venture north to County Sligo, where dramatic landscapes await.

    Then, journey to County Sligo, a land of myths and legends. Stand in awe of Benbulben, a mountain steeped in folklore and said to be the resting place of the mythical warriors Diarmuid and Gráinne.

    Conclude your day at the breathtaking Lough Eske Castle, a historic landmark that has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay in this fairytale setting, surrounded by tranquil waters and ancient woodlands.


    Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Donegal

    Activities Included
    • Benbulben Mountain visit
    • Lough Eske Castle visit
  8. Day 8 Donegal To Derry

    Now it is time to explore the North West: the Hills of Donegal. We continue our Ultimate Tour and embark on a magnificent drive over the Glengesh Pass. Discover remote stunning beaches, hidden caves and amazing views all round.

    Continue your exploration of the gorgeous hills of Donegal Hill at the newly established Ardara Distillery. Learn about the tradition of whiskey and even have a taste of what Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw described as “liquid sunshine”.

    Our next stop is Derry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, which is steeped in rich Irish history. We provide a walking tour of the city, helping visitors to learn about the Troubles. Derry is also here where we will spend the evening. Enjoy the amazing restaurants Derry has on offer.

    Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Derry

    Activities Included
    • Ardara Distillery visit
    • Guided Walking tour of Derry
  9. Day 9 Derry To Belfast

    Today will be both a test of mental strength and a celebration of your soul. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most anticipated experiences in this small group tour of Ireland and it never disappoints.

    The Causeway Coastal Route is breathtaking, to say the least. If you have the nerve, cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge and feel the exhilarating air beneath your feet.

    The opening of the bridge is weather-dependent but we can take a visit to Dunluce Castle and hear great tales of battles fought won and lost in the middle ages.

    This evening, you’ll be arriving in the vibrant city of Belfast, where history and culture come alive! Take a leisurely stroll through the Cathedral Quarter, known for its stunning street art, cozy pubs, and tasty dining options.


    Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops

    Accommodation

    Overnight in Belfast

    Activities Included
    • Carrick-a-rede rope bridge visit OR Dunluce castle (Depending on weather)
  10. Day 10 Belfast To Newgrange To Dublin

    On this final morning, get ready for the full Titanic experience at Titanic Belfast. Prepare to be moved by the wonderful stories told about the world’s most famous ship.

    Last but not least, we will visit the magical stone age passage tomb at Newgrange, richly decorated with neolithic art. On some dates, depending on availability, Newgrange is substituted for the fascinating Knowth Neolithic site, home to impressive passage tombs and intricate
    carvings, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past and the rituals of its early inhabitants.

    Another alternative this morning is a visit to the site of The Battle of The Boyne where you can learn the history of one of the most pivotal battles in Irish history.

    All good things must come to an end! We will say our fond farewells in Dublin City. If you have some time left in Ireland and would like to spend some time in Dublin your expert guide will arm you with great recommendations for things to see and do in the capital.


    Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops

    Return Time: 5PM - 6PM Dublin

    Accommodation

    Titanic Experience Newgrange visit OR Knowth visit OR Battle of the Boyne visit

What's included

  • 8 nights in boutique hotel accommodations and local guest houses, along with a 1-night stay in a castle
  • Professional, qualified Irish tour guide
  • Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Guided walking tour of Derry
  • Great breakfast
  • Transport to all locations by air-conditioned mini coach
  • Blarney Castle entrance
  • Entrance fees to national parks
  • Ferry crossings
  • Titanic experience
  • Sheep dog trials show
  • Self-guided Aran Island trip
  • Newgrange, Knowth, or Battle of the Boyne
  • Carrick-a-rede rope bridge
  • Giants Causeway experience
  • Slieve League
  • Galway Walkin’, Talkin’, Tasting' tour
  • Rock of Cashel
  • Kinsale walking tour
  • Ross Castle
  • All taxes

What's not included

  • International Flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel Insurance
  • Hotel Transfers (unless otherwise stated in the Included Activities section above)
  • Lunch and dinner
  • Gratuities
  • Private room upgrade for solo travellers

Customer Reviews

Accommodation

Notes

**Please note that for this itinerary, we are unable to offer twin-share rooms. So if you are travelling on your own, you must book a single room. The cost for the single is USD1650.

Important Info

  • At Overland Ireland, we include as much as we possibly can in your tour price. This means you can enjoy your experience without worrying about unexpected charges or hidden surprises. You can see that the list of inclusions is packed full of goodness, covering everything from transport  and entry fees to optional kayaking and various accommodation options. It’s important to note that if an activity or experience cannot go ahead because of weather conditions or any other reasons beyond our control, we do not issue refunds. If you have any special dietary requirements, please fear not. We will make sure you are looked after.
  • Our tours are not wheelchair accessible. Unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible. This is due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators.

Additional Info

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Of Booking

Any cancellation must be notified in writing by the person who made the booking. If you cancel your holiday:


- more than 61 days prior to the start of your holiday, you will only be charged your deposit.

- between 60 and 31 days, you will be charged 50% of the holiday cost.

- less than 30 days before the start of your holiday or on or after the commencement of the holiday, you must pay the full holiday price plus any insurance premium paid.

Terms & Conditions

For full details, see our Booking Terms & Conditions.