Embark on an extraordinary journey through the enchanting landscapes and fascinating history of western Ireland.
Explore Ireland’s western coastal reaches, through the picturesque rolling green countryside to wild seascapes and heather-clad mountains.
This Wander Your Way Adventure takes in the amazingly diverse counties of Clare, Galway and Mayo.
We’ll marvel at the unique and fascinating Burren National Park (such a cool landscape), venture into the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara (one of my absolute favorite places in Ireland!) and we’ll take in the vibrant town of Westport which I recently revisited and fell in love with all over again.
On this journey we’ll also walk on a beautiful beach (or 2), learn about some intriguing history and folklore, enjoy the delights of traditional Irish music and pubs in rural villages and feast our eyes on some amazing views of the sea.
This is going to be an amazing trip through some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes of Ireland.
Important to know:
Please note that your airfare is NOT included.
You are responsible for booking your flight to Shannon (SNN) and to arrive no later than the morning of September 4.
Ideally, it will be good to arrive in Shannon on September 3 so you can have a day to adjust to the time difference and get over your jet lag.
Lynne will happy to assist you in making arrangements for your stay in Shannon.
Please email her at [email protected].
The tour will end at Shannon Airport on September 13.
Arriving to Shannon airport, today we will start our journey heading north along the Wild Atlantic Way via the Cliffs of Moher.
Before settling into our accommodation in Doolin village this evening, we will enjoy a hike along the cliffs that takes in the incredible panoramic views as well as highlighting the wild birds that make their homes in the rock crevices.
Overnight: Doolin Inn or similar.
Meals included: Dinner
Embark on a morning hike through the Burren — a unique and ancient landscape of exposed limestone that stretches across County Clare.
It’s one of the coolest, trippiest and awing places I’ve been.
Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the region’s fascinating geology and learn about its rich history, including the remains of ancient settlements and tombs.
After the hike, we’ll visit a local perfumery and indulge in a sensory experience of the fragrances of the region and the perfumes inspired by the landscape.
Enjoy a dinner of traditional Irish cuisine and live music in a local pub, surrounded by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Irish countryside.
Overnight: Doolin Inn or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We start the day by taking a ferry to the rugged and picturesque Aran Islands, where we have the opportunity to visit an islander in her home for lunch.
We’ll stop by the local pub for refreshments before visiting the island Arts Centre to explore the history, culture and heritage.
The islands are a unique and stunning landscape of rocky fields, stone walls and ancient ruins that create a sense of timelessness and natural beauty.
For me, there is a desolate beauty to this piece of Ireland.
It’s very special!
Overnight: Doolin Inn or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
We will recommend places for dinner on your own.
Explore the west coast gem of Galway City.
In this bohemian city we’ll go on a food tour to find the many culinary delights the city has to offer.
We’ll then make our way into Connemara — the western piece of County Galway that is filled with mountains, craggy coastline and peaty bogland.
It’s one of my favorite places in Ireland because of its unique landscape.
We’ll stay in the Capital of Connemara, Clifden — a fun, vibrant town that is full of wonderful people.
Overnight: Foyles Hotel or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We are taking the scenic route of the breathtaking Sky Road en route to our ferry departure.
A short sail takes us to the small and quaint Inisbofin Island which offers up some of Connemara’s most pristine scenery.
Following a winding coastal path, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping Atlantic views past blow-holes and sea arches.
This quiet island is perfect for nature lovers.
Inisbofin is home to a colony of playful seals, plenty of sea birds and even occasional puffins.
History lovers will love the guided tour from a local archaeologist who will unravel the island’s vast history — from the Dun More cliffs and Iron Age promontory fort ruins to famine roads and more.
For those who want to indulge, you can kick back with a pint of Ireland’s favorite stout or a local whiskey before heading back to the mainland.
Overnight: Foyles Hotel or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
We will recommend places for dinner on your own.
Connemara National Park is one of six National Parks in Ireland.
And it is amazing!
We’ll hike up Diamond Hill, a 4.5 mile loop hike over mostly rocky terrain.
It’s completely doable for those who are in decent shape.
Alternatively, the Lower Diamond Hill trail is available for those not up for the challenge.
Diamond Hill offers stunning panoramic views of Connemara National Park from its summit, rewarding hikers with breathtaking vistas of rugged landscapes and pristine lakes.
After our hike, we’ll spend the afternoon in the heart of Connemara in the town of Clifden.
Here you can immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and friendly atmosphere as you explore charming streets, cozy pubs and quaint shops.
Overnight: Foyles Hotel or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
One of just three fjords in Ireland, the gentle azure shores of Killary Fjord reach deep into the wilds of Connemara.
As we hike through this secluded landscape take in the vast peacefulness as you hike further into the valley of the fjord.
The Famine is an important part of Connemara’s history and the Irish diaspora.
We’ll learn about this dark part of Ireland’s past at a famine-era abandoned village and the people who once lived here, whose stories are brought to life by your guide.
Enjoy lunch at a shellfish farm along the shores of the fjord.
After lunch we join a local sheep farmer to hear stories of a livelihood deeply connected with the local ecology.
From there we’ll transfer to Westport in County Mayo via an unforgettable drive through Ireland’s Doolough Valley and discover the hidden gem of Silver Strand Beach.
Silver Strand was my first Irish beach.
And it’s a beauty!
Here we treat ourselves to a moment of bliss on the pristine sands of Silver Stran where the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean beckon.
Overnight: Westport Plaza or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The commanding outline of Croagh Patrick Mountain, a revered pilgrimage destination, casts a significant presence over the nearby landscape.
We will head out on a hike beneath the awe-inspiring mountain, tracing sheep paths through heathery bog areas, covering the last stretch of the ancient pilgrimage trail leading to the base of Croagh Patrick.
Along the way, we will visit a picturesque Augustinian friary, immersing ourselves in the area’s rich history and spirituality.
Note: The guide and Lynne will gauge the group’s ability for making the hike to the top of Croagh Patrick. There is an alternative trail (and less strenuous) called Murrisk Loop walk. This walk follows a combination of mountain path, lane and footpath around the lower slopes of Croagh Patrick with spectacular views over Clew Bay. It also takes in local sites of historical and archaeological interest including Murrisk abbey.
Overnight: Westport Plaza or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
We will recommend places for dinner on your own.
With its brightly colored houses, craft shops, music-filled and family-friendly pubs and gourmet restaurants, Westport is a bustling hive of activity.
Ramble the streets of this Georgian town with a guided walking tour, followed by a soda bread baking class to delve deeper into the story of Ireland’s food heritage.
This is one my personal favorite towns as it has good restaurants, fun pubs and wonderful people!
Overnight: Westport Plaza or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Our adventure concludes with a transfer back to Shannon Airport.
Meals included: Breakfast
