Highlights of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: 8-day tour from Dublin

Highlights of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: 8-day tour from Dublin

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8 Days From

$5176

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Tour Overview

From Dublin’s lively cobblestone streets to the dramatic shores of the Wild Atlantic Way, this Ireland tour package takes you to the most legendary sites and incredible views in the country’s west. Here, ancient castles rise from green hills, waves crash against towering cliffs, and winding roads lead to colourful coastal villages where history and tradition thrive. You’ll walk the Cliffs of Moher before sailing beneath them, stand at the edge of Europe on the Dingle Peninsula and journey through the cinematic beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Along the way, take afternoon tea at the Rock of Cashel, sip whiskey at a distillery and – if you dare – kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to receive the gift of the gab. With your expert Tour Leader bringing the landscape to life and plenty of opportunities to soak up local culture, this is an adventure shaped by stories – both the ones you’ll hear and the ones you’ll take home to share. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Experience the Cliffs of Moher from every angle as you walk along their dizzying heights and sail beneath their towering walls on a scenic cruise.

  • Discover the remote Dingle Peninsula, with its rugged coastline, Gaelic heritage and artisan craft studios.

  • Toast your adventure with a whiskey tasting at Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery and an Irish coffee masterclass at its birthplace.

  • Feel the thrill of the open road as you journey along the Wild Atlantic Way and Ring of Kerry, where lakes shimmer and mountains rise dramatically.

  • Stay in carefully chosen boutique hotels and historic inns that are as much a part of the experience as the landscapes themselves.

Places You'll See

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

Irish West coast

Irish West coast

Dunguaire castle

Dunguaire castle

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Welcome to Dublin, Ireland

Mellows bridge, Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Wilder Townhouse

Welcome to your GeoCultura tour! Is there a better place to start than Ireland’s buzzy capital, Dublin? We don’t think so! This city has it all – castles, cathedrals, cobblestone streets and cutting-edge museums, wrapped up in that warm and welcoming Irish spirit.

Let’s kick things off this afternoon, with a private bus tour of the city’s main sights, including the monument-lined O’Connell Street, St Stephens Green and the Parliament Building. Then, we’ll visit EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. This place is fascinating, whether you have Irish ancestry or not.

Check in at The Wilder Townhouse, an elegant, red-brick boutique hotel and get to know the rest of your group over dinner.
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Day 2 : Westward Bound

Dunguaire Castle

Location: Lisdoonvarna

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Wild Honey Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll hop on board the private tour bus and make our way west, via some carefully chosen stops.

At Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery, you’ll see the stills, learn all about the whiskey making process and sip a few samples, too.

We’ll soak up the whiskey with some lunch, then head to our next hotel, stopping off to snap a few photos of pretty Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay along the way. If time allows, we’ll stop at Poulnabrone Dolmen, the country’s oldest dated megalithic stone monument – often called ‘Ireland’s Stonehenge’.

Round off the day with a well-earned group dinner at your hotel for the next two nights, Wild Honey Inn, Ireland’s only One-Michelin-starred pub.

Day 3 : Cliffs of Moher & Doolin Cave

Cliffs of Moher

Location: Cliffs of Moher

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Wild Honey Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today’s early start is worth it to make the most of Co. Clare’s awe-inspiring scenery.

First up, the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal landmarks. The Visitor Centre is the perfect introduction to the geological, human and natural stories behind these most extraordinary cliffs before your Tour Leader takes you on a guided walk to see them for yourself. Take in the view from O’Brien’s Tower, a Victorian folly marking the highest point of the cliffs.

Next, we descend into Doolin Cave, discovered by chance in the 1950s. Look for a church organ-like column hanging overhead – that’s nothing less than Europe’s largest stalactite!

We cap off the day with a boat cruise beneath the towering Cliffs of Moher. From this angle, the vertical cliff face looks impenetrable – but fans of Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince will know they’re not!

Day 4 : A journey through time

Bunratty Castle

Location: Dingle

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Castlewood House

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before you say farewell to Wild Honey Inn and journey southwest into Co. Kerry.

Our first stop is the 15th-century Bunratty Castle – Ireland’s most complete castle, surrounded by a ‘living village’ of shops, streets and farmhouses.

Next, we fast-forward a few centuries at Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum. Housed in the original terminal building, this little gem tells the history of transatlantic seaplanes in the early 20th century – the first commercial passenger flight on a direct route from USA to Europe landed at Foynes.

It’s also where Irish coffee was invented, which makes it the perfect place for our private group masterclass in crafting the smoothest, creamiest Irish coffee.

Onwards to Tralee, a colourful town with spectacular mountain views, and to Inch Beach. Don’t be fooled by the name; ‘Inch’ Beach is actually 3 miles (5km) of golden sand. Stretch your legs, breathe in the salty air or dip a toe in the ocean before we reach the South Pole Inn in Annascaul.

Behind two of history’s greatest polar explorers is a Kerryman. His name might be dwarfed by Scott and Shackleton, but the South Pole Inn gives Tom Crean the hero status he deserves. It’s the perfect place to toast the spirit of adventure before we settle into Castlewood House for the next two nights.

Day 5 : The best of the Dingle Peninsula

Slea Head

Location: Dingle

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Castlewood House

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we explore the most beautiful places on the Dingle Peninsula.

We start with a cobweb-clearing trip to Slea Head, a promontory with spectacular views along the coast, before heading to Dunquin. This tiny Gaelic village feels untouched by time. No wonder some say it encapsulates the essence of Ireland!

Next, the wild beauty of Clougher Strand, where we’ll spy evidence of Ireland’s surprisingly volcanic past. After, we’ll visit Louis Mulcahy Pottery and hear the story of how a competition win led Louis to gamble by moving his entire business across country from Dublin to Dingle.

Nearby Ballyferriter village is a stronghold of the Gaelic language. We’ll stop to browse the shops and admire the stained-glass windows of its tiny church.

Finally, weather-permitting, we’ll drive the dramatic, winding Conor Pass, pausing to see Conor Pass waterfall and spectacular views of the Owenmore Valley and the Brandon Mountains.

Back in Dingle, enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the town. If you like, nod along to some traditional Irish music in a local pub afterwards – your Tour Leader can recommend great places to drink and/or eat.

Day 6 : From wild Dingle to Killarney’s castles

Moll's Gap

Location: Killarney

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Loch Lein Country House Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wave goodbye to Dingle as we take one of the most scenic routes in Ireland: the legendary Ring of Kerry. Every twist of this 111 mile-long route unveils rugged coastline, deep forests and tumbling streams.

We’ll stop at Moll’s Gap for a panoramic view of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, before continuing to Ladies’ View, where Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting once swooned over the landscape (we think you will too!). A short walk takes us to Torc Waterfall, plunging through ancient woodland.

After lunch, we explore Muckross House, a grand Victorian estate with gardens that wouldn’t look out of place in a period drama. If time and inclination allow, clamber aboard a jaunting car for a traditional horse-drawn tour.

Our day ends at Loch Lein Country House Hotel on the shores of Killarney’s great lake, with the option to dine in the hotel.

Day 7 : Traditional crafts & the gift of the gab

Cork town

Location: Cork

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ballymaloe House hotel, Cork

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We start the journey back east with a visit to Kerry Woollen Mills, where traditional weaving methods have been passed down for over 300 years. It’s the perfect place to pick up an Irish wool scarf or Arran knit

Next, we stop at Blarney Castle. Built around 600 years ago, it’s most famous as the home of the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you kiss the Stone at the top of the tower, you’ll be granted the gift of eloquence. But if you don’t fancy the climb, the castle grounds are a delight to explore, with some of the tallest trees in Ireland.

After lunch, we drive to Ballymaloe House, one of Ireland’s most celebrated country house hotels. We’ll arrive by mid-afternoon, giving you time to explore the gardens and relax before a final feast at the hotel.

Day 8 : The grand finale

River Liffy

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Group afternoon tea

Our final day, but we’re going out in style. The Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most spectacular historic sites, is our first stop. This cluster of medieval buildings – including an ancient round tower, a cathedral and Ireland’s only surviving Romanesque frescoes – balances on a limestone outcrop.

A luxurious farewell awaits at Cashel Palace Hotel, where we’ll toast our new friends and incredible journey over afternoon tea in the elegant Queen Anne Room or on the sun-drenched garden terrace.

Then, it’s back to Dublin by early evening, in time for flights, onward travel or a final pint of Guinness in Temple Bar. Sláinte!

End of tour: drop-off in Dublin or at the airport

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    All accommodation costs for the nights stated, assuming two people sharing a double room. Single occupancy rooms are available for a surcharge of £511

  • Meals

    All breakfasts, 3 dinners and a splendid afternoon tea on the final day.

  • Guides

    The services of your two expert guides who will be with the group throughout the tour, staying at the same hotels.

  • Service charge

    All service charges and most gratuities

  • Transport

    All transportation costs when travelling from Dublin on the first day, and when returning to Dublin. Professional driver in comfortable, air conditioned vehicle with ample space for all guests and their luggage.

  • Entry fees

    Entry fees, local guide fees and activity fees, where arranged as part of the tour

What's Not Included

  • Additional Services

    Personal expenditures, any alcoholic drinks with meals, and extras at hotels such as laundry bills. Extra or optional activities not described in the tour are not included.

  • Insurance

    Travel insurance. Guests should carry their own health and travel insurance.

  • Meals

    Lunches not included

  • Air fares

    Air fares to Dublin not included.

Mode of Transport

Comfortable small coach, and passenger boat.

Accommodation

Stay in a series of well-reviewed hotels, each offering comfort, character and exceptional hospitality. Spend your first night at?The Wilder Townhouse, central Dublin; nights 2-3 at Wild Honey Inn, Lisdoonvarna; nights 4-5 at Castlewood House, Dingle; night 6 at Lock Lein Country House Hotel, Killarney (TBC); and your last night of this Ireland vacation package at Ballymaloe House Hotel, Cork. ...more ...less

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes, the tour price will include all the entrance fees for the planned visits in the itinerary.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    Yes, we are happy to discuss your arrival and departure needs and arrange accommodation for any additional nights before or after the tour. We can make these bookings for you and add to the final invoice.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    We ensure all solo travellers have a double-bedded room for their own use. The supplement for this tour is available for a surcharge of £450.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    No more than 10 places on this tour.

  • How much walking is involved?

    As you will be part of a small group (maximum 10 people) it's easy for us to adapt the itinerary, and any walks, to suit your mobility and fitness level. Sometimes guests choose to opt out of a short walk or only do part of it. If any of the group want a longer walk that can always be arranged. ...more ...less

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Detailed itinerary and joining instructions. We also ask about dietary requirements and any other information which you would like to share to ensure the tour meet your needs.

  • How do you choose the accommodation?

    In England, where distances between our tour stops are shorter, we choose hotels or Inns in small towns or villages, where it's easy for you to wander out to explore, when you have free time. In remote locations, with limited choice, we check out the options to ensure you won't be disappointed. We look for high standards of cleanliness, a warm welcome and an emphasis on good local food.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Please see our terms and conditions. We will always try and offer you an alternative date and tour.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Nick C   United Kingdom

The Geology of the Pyrenees, Spain

18-Sep-2024

Hard to imagine a better geoculture tour – quality leaders, quality geology and scenery, quality food, quality hotels and quality everything else, plus perfect September weather. Oriol also had the unique knack of drawing real time sketches on a whiteboard that brought out the essence of the geoviews such that a non-geologist could immediately absorb. In all the perfect tour for both the professional geologist interested in the broader picture and those just wishing to learn about geology and the geography it creates. The Pyrenees had it all in abundance. ...more ...less

Paul W   United Kingdom

The Geology of the Pyrenees, Spain

11-Sep-2024

Having now been on two GeoCultura tours I would recommend them to anyone with an interest in finding out about geology. The tour leader and his assistant were great. I cannot emphasise how good the tour leaders on both tours have been. It is what has made the tours for me. Their knowledge and the ability to impart it to someone who is not a geologist and make it understandable has been amazing. After all I come on these tours to be educated. The meals were spectacularly good. ...more ...less

Wayne M   United Kingdom

Dinosaur Short Tour, Canada

23-Jul-2024

Outstanding communication and organization prior to the tour and the knowledge and enthusiasm of the tour guide made the time well worth our while. Special thanks to Julie for her prompt responses to my questions.

Want a private tour?

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    Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method

  • Travel more exclusively

    Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group

  • Travel for a special occasion

    Celebrate an important event by only travelling with your friends or family

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jul 01, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$5176 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025
$5434 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    GeoCultura allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    GeoCultura allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform geocultura, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    GeoCultura requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of geocultura charges.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 10% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 65% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Highlights of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: 8-day tour from Dublin

8 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland

Visiting: Dublin, Lisdoonvarna, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Killarney, Cork

Tour operator:

GeoCultura

Tour code:

T?

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 12

Physical rating:

Leisurely

Age range:

15-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat, Vegans, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, Geology

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $5176 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 15-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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