Begin the day with a tour of the historic and divided neighbourhoods of West Belfast, see the infamous 'Peace Wall' and the political wall-murals and street-art.

Free for lunch.

Afternoon and evening is free time for shopping, sightseeing and for dinner

Onwards to the majestic Giants Causeway with a photo-stop above the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, epic scenery and Scotland in view across the channel.

1pm appointment at the world-famous Giants Causeway.

Late afternoon visit to Dunluce Castle (our favourite!).

Early evening, arrive into Historic Derry and explore this historic and beautiful city.

Begin the morning by visit the beautiful Guildhall (City Hall) and view the stained-glassed windows.

Onwards to Donegal for a day tour, the highlight will be Glenveagh National Park. 

Return to Derry. Free for dinner.

After a leisurely breakfast in historic Derry, we continue onwards to Galway, stopping at the grave of our national poet WB Yeats en route and also some time to experience the tweed-weaving capital, Donegal town.

Early evening arrival into bustling Galway city.

We’ll unwind after checkin before enjoying a walking tour of the city.

Dinner on own tonight. Evening free in Galway to unwind in the city.

The majestic Cliffs of Moher.Our big pre-lunch blockbuster visit!

Onwards to Killarney. Our longish drive (2.5 hours) will be broken up with a few comfort stops and pleasant ferry-crossing on the river Shannon.

Enjoy a traditional Jaunting car ride (horse & carriage) with Mike O’Grady through beautiful Killarney National Park, by the famous lakes, ending at Ross Castle.

Visit Muckross Gardens and a maybe a little hike up to Torc Waterfall.

Evening free to enjoy the sights and sounds of Killarney.

After a relaxing Breakfast, we’ll enjoy some of the famous Ring of Kerry drive. 

Including Kenmare, Molls Gap, Ladies View, Torc Waterfall and Muckross House and Gardens

Evening free for dinner and music in Killarney

We must bid farewell to Killarney and onwards to the magical Dingle Peninsula.

Welcome to Dingle. We'll tour the bustling and colourful streets. Visit the Dingle Crystal Workshop.

Checkin to our hotel (2 nights) which has a spa and pool overlooking Dingle Harbour.

Our relaxing free day. Here are some of the amazing optional activities that you can consider enjoying.

·  Possibly visit the excellent Dingle Aquarium. https://www.dingle-oceanworld.ie

·  Consider the award-winning Dingle Sea Safari (see whales, puffins, dolphins). Weather dependent https://dingleseasafari.com

·  Ride along the beach or along the mountain trails above Dingle with some nice Irish horses from the Dingle Stables. https://www.dinglehorseriding.com

·  Go shopping!

Evening free for dinner

Today after breakfast we will checkout of our hotel and move across to the west of Dingle and check-in to your Irish ‘home from home’ on Dingle Bay, Milltown House.

Enjoy a complimentary welcome Dingle Gin & Tonic in our ‘Robert Mitchum’ Bar.

Later in the evening, the adults can enjoy a whiskey-tasting experience, with our resident connoisseur.

Slea Head scenic tour, including holding baby lambs!

We will go ‘back west’ and experience the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ along Slea Head, taking in the magnificent coastal scenery. Visit the many archaeological sites and a friendly sheep farm to hold baby lambs. Explore some golden sandy beaches and take in the magical scenic drive.

Late Afternoon, return to Dingle and perhaps visit the Master Goldsmith Brian De Staic in his workshop. 

Then enjoy a Private Falconry Experience with our Master Falconers and all our Birds of Prey.

In the late afternoon we'll experience the Kingdom School of Falconry.

You will be guests of our very own and beloved waterfront property on Dingle Harbour. Enjoy our gentle-giant Irish Wolfhounds and School of Falconry including beautiful owls.

Tonight we'll enjoy a home-cooked meal with Irish dancing and music.

After an early breakfast we shall make our way to beautiful Tipperary ("its a long way") and to the majestic Rock of Cashel for a guided tour.

Then to Galway for a visit at the famous Guinness Storehouse.

A fitting and fun finale to our Irish adventures.

Back in Dublin’s fair city, early evening.

5pm approx. everyone is safely back at the Leonardo Hotel at Christchurch.

Go n-éirí an bóthar leat / May the road rise to meet you

Do let me 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