West is Best

Link to Tour Map

June 14th - Overnight Flight to Shannon

June 15 - Welcome to Ireland

Upon your early morning arrival at Shannon Airport, your Irish adventure begins with a stop in the charming village of Adare before arriving to Killarney. Killarney is the doorstep to Ireland’s largest National Park, and a buzzing town filled with live music. Your hotel will ready for you to check in this afternoon so you can rest up after your flight.

🏨 Overnight in Killarney

June 16 - Beautiful Beara and the Best of the Ring of Kerry

The day begins with a visit to Derreen Garden, a 19th-century estate on the Beara Peninsula. Once developed by the Earls of Lansdowne, its winding paths and exotic plants flourish in the Gulf Stream climate, creating an enchanting, off-the-beaten-track retreat.

The journey continues to Kenmare, a colorful town full of artisan shops, cafĂ©s, and welcoming charm, where you will have time to explore and enjoy lunch, and perhaps even visit an ancient  stone circle.

In the afternoon, the return to Killarney follows the dramatic mountain pass of Moll’s Gap, along the Ring of Kerry, offering sweeping views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and rugged valleys—an unforgettable drive through some of Ireland’s most striking scenery.

9:00am Depart
10:30am-12:00pm Dereen Garden
1:00-3:00pm Kenmare 
4:30pm Arrive back to Killarney via Moll’s Gap
🏨 Overnight in Killarney

The day begins with a traditional jaunting car ride (horse and carriage) through Killarney National Park, a relaxed and memorable way to experience the park’s lakes, woodlands, and mountain views while hearing stories from local jarvies. This is followed by a visit to Muckross House, a grand Victorian mansion surrounded by beautifully kept gardens on the shores of Lough Leane. Explore the elegant rooms on a self-guided tour, wander the grounds, and take in the estate’s fascinating history.

From there, the journey continues westward on a leisurely, scenic drive with opportunities to pause for photos along the way. The day concludes with an afternoon arrival in Dingle, a vibrant coastal town celebrated for its preservation of the Irish language, fabulous seafood, and welcoming pubs.

9:30am Jaunting Car ride
10:30-1:00pm Muckross House
3:00pm Arrive to Dingle
🏨 Overnight in Dingle

June 17- National Parks and Nature

June 18 - Dingle Peninsula

Your day will be filled with the breathtaking scenery of Slea Head, where you can marvel at the dramatic cliffs, ancient forts, and pristine beaches of the Dingle Peninsula. Visit the Blasket Centre to learn about these now-uninhabited islands, many of whose residents emigrated to Massachusetts. This will be followed by a visit to the Dingle Distillery for a guided tour to learn about their distillation process and taste their local spirits, including their award-winning whiskey, gin, and vodka. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Dingle town at your leisure, browsing the charming shops, or enjoying fresh seafood. Afterward, rest up in luxury, ready for another day of adventure tomorrow.

🏨 Overnight in Dingle

June 19- Onward to County Clare

Today, you'll visit the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, where you can explore the history of transatlantic aviation and the birthplace of Irish Coffee. You’ll also see the museums new tribute to Maureen O’Hara (whose husband was a pilot). Afterward, you'll take a short ferry to County Clare across the River Shannon and marvel at the stunning Kilkee Cliffs, which offer breathtaking views. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Doolin.

9:00am Depart
11:00am-12:45pm Foynes Airboat Museum
1:30pm Ferry to Clare
2:00pm Arrive to Clare 
2:45-3:15pm Kilkee Cliffs
4:45pm Arrive to Doolin
🏨 Overnight in Doolin

June 20 - The Aran Islands

A day exploring Inisheer, the smallest (and closest) of the Aran Islands, with a local guide. Inis Óirr offers a charming blend of ancient history and stunning natural beauty. You can wander through its winding lanes, discover ancient ruins like Cill Ghobnait, and enjoy the pristine sandy beaches. The island's unique landscape is perfect for cycling or walking, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the Cliffs of Moher in the distance.

🏨 Overnight in Doolin

June 21 - The Burren to Galway

Today, you'll depart Doolin and take a scenic drive through the Burren, a unique and striking limestone landscape, to the Burren Perfumery for a delightful visit.  The Burren Perfumery specializes in a range of perfumes, and cosmetics using the unique plants native to the Burren area. Afterward, enjoy some free time in Galway City to explore its vibrant streets, browse shops, or have lunch at your leisure, before arriving at Glenlo Abbey for afternoon tea.

8:30am Depart Doolin
9:00-10:00am Burren Perfumery
11:00-12:30pm Galway City
1:30pm Afternoon tea on arrival to Glenlo Abbey

🏨 Overnight at Glenlo Abbey

June 22 - Kylemore Abbey and Connemara

Today, you'll journey through the stunning Connemara region, known for its wild and rugged landscapes. Your first stop will be Kylemore Abbey, where you can explore its magnificent Victorian walled gardens and visit the craft center. Afterward, you'll have a chance to stop in the charming town of Clifden and see sheepdogs at work before concluding your day with a final night at the luxurious Glenlo Abbey. Savor a truly memorable dinner, perhaps in a beautifully restored Pullman car from the legendary Orient Express, ensuring a relaxing and unforgettable end to your journey.

🏨 Overnight at Glenlo Abbey

June 23 - Slán, Ireland

Dublin airport is about a 75 minute drive  from the hotel, depending on traffic. You’ll also need to arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your flight departure time since you’ll be clearing US Customs before boarding your plane.