This 11-day Ireland adventure is an easy round trip from Dublin, putting you behind the wheel to see the sides of the Emerald Isle that interest you.
Set out from Dublin and head for the Wild Atlantic Way along the northwest coast. The scenery here inspired Yeats, and will do the same for you as you visit Parke’s Castle and perhaps try a traditional seaweed bath. Walk along the towering sea cliffs of Slieve League, or take a cruise to admire them from the sea. Visit the Drumclife Churchyard, Yeats’ final resting place, or scale Knocknarea Mountain for unbeatable views of the region.
Venture out to the largest Stone Age monument in the world at Ceide Fields at Ballycastle and learn about the prehistoric people of this region. Take a driving tour of Achill Island, including a village that has been deserted for almost a century. Then tour the heritage town of Westport, perhaps stopping in for a pint at Matt Malloys pub.
Cruise along Ireland’s only fjord, located just outside Leenane. Then stop in and admire Clifden and Kylemore Abbey before choosing a lunch spot (Connemara Smokehouse is a frequent winner). Enjoy some evening entertainment at Trad on the Prom. The next day, set out for Clare, following the Black Head coastal route and the famous Cliffs of Moher. You can even opt or a Dolphin Discovery trip.
Board the Shannon car ferry bound for Tarbert, perhaps stopping at the Foynes Flying Boat Museum. This is also the birthplace of Irish coffee, so feel free to indulge. You’ll never taste one more authentic. Roam the nature reserve of Dingle Peninsula and learn about the culture of the Blasket Islands. Overnight in Kerry, then spend the day exploring more of the region, or the town itself.
After nine days exploring the ‘real’ Ireland, return to Dublin. The capital is still Ireland’s cultural centre, so perhaps enjoy dinner and a show at a venue like The Irish House Party or Merry Ploughboys. Catch your onward flight the following day, or stay to explore more of this colourful city.
