The world-famous Cliffs of Moher - Adare heritage town - Visit 'the Normans' exhibition - Photograph the Burren - Fun Irish music evening in lively Killarney

[9am] After a delicious breakfast fit for royalty, you'll have all morning free to enjoy the facilities of Ashford Castle.

[12.30pm] Onwards through Connemara to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery. We go to a unique secret spot to enjoy the Cliffs and are able to avoid all the tourist hordes.

Photostop at the unique geological formation of the Burren.

Comfort stop and relaxing stroll in the heritage village of Adare in County Limerick, enjoy the little but fascinating Norman exhibition.

[5.30 pm] Arrive in lively and charming Killarney, our home for the next two nights. A fun-filled evening of Irish music lies ahead. Free for dinner

Jaunting Car ride by the Lakes of Killarney - Killarney National Park - Muckross House & Gardens - Kenmare , the stone circle & Kissane Sheep farm - Group dinner in Killarney

A leisurely morning in Killarney, one of Ireland's most welcoming towns.

[10 am ] Begin the day with one of our favourite activities, enjoy a jaunting-car ride through the native woodland of Killarney National Park and trot by the lakes of Killarney. Always a highlight for our Tour-Guests

11.30 ] Tour Muckross House and Gardens.

[2.30 pm] Visit the idyllic old market village of Kenmare and the Kissane family sheep farm, enjoy a herding demonstration by their super-smart Border Collies, amidst the stunning scenery of the 'Black Valley' and the backdrop of Molls Gap.

[5pm] Back at our central hotel with some time to relax and/or enjoy the colourful and bustling shops before we meet for a delicious group meal.

'Welcome to Dingle' Walking Tour - 'Dingle Crystal' Workshop visit  - Private Falconry experience - Gourmet buffet dinner by private Chef at Milltown House

[9.30am] After breakfast we will take the 1 hour scenic drive to magical Dingle, one of Ireland's best loved fishing-villages.

[11am] Enjoy a 'Welcome to Dingle' walking tour, exploring all areas of cultural and historical significance and also meeting the local characters.
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Visit the Dingle Crystal workshop and observe Sean Daly at work (the former Master-cutter at Waterford Crystal).
[1- 2.30 pm] Free time in Dingle to find a nice lunch-spot and to enjoy the bustling streets and colourful shops.
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Then we'll checkin to our beloved Milltown House, right on Dingle Harbour, our historic landmark property is the former home of Hollywood star, Robert Mitchum and your home-from-home for the next 3 nights, offering some incredible Irish experiences. Beginning with a private falconry experience in our own School of Falconry, and a fine dinner cooked by our private Chef (all ingredients sourced within 10 miles of Dingle). Always a fun night (ps drinks included!)

Slea Head & the glorious beaches - Gallarus Oratory & the ancient ruins of Kilmalkedar- 'Hold a baby lamb' - Dingle Musical pub crawl - Harry Clarke's masterpiece stained-glass windows - Irish Whiskey tasting

[9am] Depart on our scenic scenic drive around the Dingle peninsula.

[9.30am] Hold some baby lambs at Aodhan's family farm, maybe even bottle-feed the wee rascals!

[11am] Visit the Blasket Islands interpretive centre to learn of the Gaelic heritage of the local people

[1pm] Visit Gallarus Oratory

[2pm] Explore the 12th century ruins of Kilmalkeadar Church. View the ancient form of Celtic writing called 'Ogham' on the historic standing stones.
[5.30pm] Irish whiskey tasting with our resident expert.
Free for dinner and/or the pub-music, many fine choices on offer in Dingle 

Today is your 'holiday from your holiday.' A chance to sleep-in or relax, or go for a stroll around the many little craft and gift shops in Dingle village. 

We offer the option to all meet up in the evening.

Free-time to shop, relax and wander the lively streets of Dingle - meet David Geaney, Irish dancer (subject to availablity) - Meet the locals at famous Dick Macks pub, perhaps have a belt made by the resident artisan craftsman.
note: Many tour-guests opt for a harbour cruise, short hike or a Dingle sea-safari.

An enjoyable and refreshing free-day to shop, relax and wander the lively streets of Dingle

Meet the locals at famous Dick Macks pub, perhaps have a belt made by the resident artisan craftsman.

The Rock of Cashel - The golden Vale of Tipperary - The full Guinness experience at Guinness Storehouse

[9am] Depart after a fine breakfast on Dingle Bay

[11am]: Rest stop in Newcastle West, home of the legendary Halla Mor (the great Norman banqueting Hall)

[12noon] Guided tour of the Rock of Cashel, following in the footsteps of St. Patrick himself. The Rock is where St. Patrick himself once preached and is one of Ireland's most glorious archeological sites. 

Stunning vistas, rich history and deeply inspiring.

[1pm] We’ll be providing some picnic snacks here with our compliments on the hallowed Rock of Cashel

[2pm] Depart for the Capital City.

[3.30pm] Arrive in Dublin 

[4pm] We’ll say our farewells in the iconic environs of The Guinness Storehouse and then drop you off at your desired location in Dublin city-centre, (we can also help you arrange a drop-off at Dublin Airport or to an airport hotel, after 6 pm approximately).

Go n-éirí an bóthar leat, may the road rise to meet you.

Do let us know if you have any questions. On behalf at all the team at 'Essential Ireland Tours' (both human & canine!) many thanks for choosing to enjoy our beloved Ireland with us. 

Is mise le meas (‘from me to you with respect’ in Gaelic)

Stephen McPhilemy

Chief Guide and Founder