Go South Tour

Day 1: Welcome to Dublin
Welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival in Dublin, you’ll make your way to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Today is yours to enjoy. There are no scheduled activities or commitments. Take some time to relax, stroll through Dublin’s streets, or discover some of the city’s landmarks on your own.

At the end of the day, head to bed to enjoy a restful night’s sleep in preparation for your adventure ahead. Tomorrow marks the beginning of what we hope will be an unforgettable journey filled with beautiful scenery, interesting history, and authentic local experiences.

Your Dublin hotel is included as part of your tour package. It has an excellent city-center location, so you’ll be within walking distance of many of Dublin’s attractions, restaurants, shops, and cultural sites.

Day 2: Ancient Crosses, Hidden Tombs, and Coastal Views
Start the day meeting your guide and fellow travelers before setting out on your adventure through the Ireland countryside. You’ll leave Dublin behind and first stop at an impressive 17-foot Celtic High Cross that has continued standing proudly since the 8th century. High crosses and their intricately carved designs have inspired the faithful through the ages and have played an important role in Irish culture, history, and art.

Continuing south, you’ll visit a quaint village located along the River Barrow. The river has provided a route inland for thousands of years and remains a peaceful passage for colorful barges and river cruisers, making it one of Ireland’s most important waterways.

Moving deeper into the countryside of County Kilkenny, you’ll discover a prehistoric treasure. A remarkable 6,000 year old megalithic tomb stands hidden among a maze of small farm roads. Its impressive size and meticulous placement of massive stones will boggle your mind, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s history.

Your day concludes in the harbor town of Dungarvan, located on Ireland’s southern Atlantic shore. Here, you can spend your evening exploring the town, enjoying traditional music and food in a local pub, or savoring dinner at a cooking school run by one of Ireland’s renowned chefs. Dungarvan is the perfect place to unwind after a full day of some of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Day 3: Round Towers, Popular Towns, and Irish Pubs
Today brings amazing views, interesting history, and a deeper look into Ireland’s history. As you travel along the scenic southern coast, you’ll visit one of Ireland’s finest medieval Round Towers. Multi-story stone towers like this were built over a thousand years ago by pious monks and endured a long and turbulent history. Founded by Saint Declan, this site is one of Ireland’s earliest Christian settlements and dates back over a thousand years. Explore the church ruins and discover its incredible stone carvings and ancient standing stones.

Next, enjoy free time and a lunch break in Kinsale, Ireland. Known for its colorful streets, excellent cafes, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax over lunch, browse local shops, stroll along the waterfront, and enjoy various other attractions in Kinsale.

After lunch, explore the ruins of a 14th Century Franciscan Friary, stunningly perched on the banks of the Argideen River. The largest medieval ruin in West Cork, the friary remained a significant place of learning and religious influence in Ireland through the 15th Century.

Your day concludes in the town of Clonakilty, famously linked to Michael Collins who was an essential figure in Ireland’s uprising and subsequent independence from Britain. The town is also celebrated for its musical heritage and welcoming spirit. Stop by the legendary DeBarras Pub for a pint, music, and to admire the Jimi Hendrix Experience memorabilia donated by their bass player, Noel Redding, who regularly performed at DeBarras on Friday nights. Spend the evening exploring and soaking up the atmosphere and character of West Cork.

Day 4: Mizen Head and Clonakilty
Enjoy a leisurely morning in bed or wandering the pedestrian friendly Spiller’s Lane or check out where Michael Collins grew up in Georgian Emmet Square. After a relaxing morning, your first stop will be a tranquil Stone Circle nestled in a beautiful setting. This secluded site was of great importance to the early Irish who aligned its axis to the setting sun of the winter solstice.

Next, head to the Mizen Head Signal Station, located on Ireland’s most southerly point. This is a must-see in Ireland. Stroll this rugged headland, where Atlantic waves crash on dramatic cliffs. Learn about lighthouses along the coast and visit the keeper’s quarters by crossing a beautiful arched bridge spanning a deep ravine. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals who love to swim by the rocks!

Return to Clonkilty for your second night and enjoy the rest of the evening in town after a long day of traveling in Ireland.

Day 5: The Derrynasaggart Mountains, Killarney National Park, and the Dingle Peninsula
On today’s trip, you’ll be able to witness some of the island’s incredible natural beauty. After saying goodbye to Clonkilty, we’ll follow a magnificent route through the Derrynasaggart Mountains, where only a few remaining Gaeltacht (or Irish-speaking) districts of Ireland remain, to the spectacular Killarney National Park. Here, you stretch your legs for a view of the beautiful Torc Waterfall. This region is renowned for its stunning lakes and incredible scenery. It is a photographer’s dream… and you may well wish for an extra pair of eyes! You’ll enjoy panoramic views that inspire travelers, artists, and photographers.

The views continue as you travel west along coastal roads and sandy beaches flanked by green hills. After we arrive at the Dingle Peninsula, we’ll take a trip around the dramatic landscape of the Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes. This Gaeltacht (or Irish speaking) area is rich in archeological sites, including the beautifully preserved Gallarus Oratory.

You’ll end the evening in the charismatic fishing town of Dingle. This town is known for its colorful buildings, amazing dining and shopping, and Irish hospitality. Have fun discovering pubs that double as hardware or shoe stores. You’ll spend the next two nights in one of Dingle’s finest boutique guesthouses, giving you plenty of time to experience some of the best things to do in Dingle, Ireland.

Day 6: A Free Day to Enjoy the Town of Dingle
Today is yours to spend however you wish, giving you a great opportunity to experience the town at your own pace. There are many interesting things to do in Dingle, Ireland, such as shopping, biking, golfing, fishing, falconry, or horseback riding. You may choose to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the scenery, or relax on a boat ride. Maybe you’ll settle into a cozy cafe, savor a delicious lunch overlooking the harbor, or spend an afternoon in one of the town’s welcoming pubs. This town’s relaxing spirit is what makes it so special.

Day 7: The Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the River Shannon
Today, you’ll depart Dingle and head over to the Slieve Mish Mountain of County Kerry before arriving at the magnificent River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. This ancient river is one of the country’s most important waterways, serving as a vital route for trade, travel, and settlement for thousands of years. You’ll board a ferry for a short crossing, feeling its gentle flow and crossing to County Clare.

As you arrive at County Clare, you’ll continue through seaside towns with wide sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and surfers riding the waves. The highlight of the day awaits at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, which is one of the most famous places in Ireland. Looming over 700 feet above the crashing Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs stretch for miles along the coastline—a sight that you simply can’t miss!

From the cliffs, you’ll head to Ireland’s UNESCO Geopark, renowned for its limestone landscape. Often described as moonlike in appearance, this region is full of geological wonders, rare plant life, and ancient archaeological sites. Here, you’ll visit the oldest dated megalithic tombs in Ireland, standing for thousands of years.

You’ll stay overnight in the town of Ballina along the River Shannon. With its sister town, Killaloe, just across the river, you have two picture perfect Irish riverside towns. These quaint towns are home to amazing pubs, great restaurants, walkways along the river’s edge, and a beautiful 18th Century stone bridge with 13 arches. Your hotel overlooks the river, providing a peaceful setting to kick back and relax for the evening.

Day 8: River Shannon Cruise, Ancient Ruins, and Return to Dublin
Your final day in Ireland begins with a relaxing cruise on Ireland’s finest waterway, the River Shannon. Hop aboard your privately chartered boat and learn about the history of the area while enjoying breathtaking views of Counties Clare and Tipperary.

Continuing eastward, you’ll stop in the town of Abbeyleix for lunch and an opportunity to experience one of Ireland’s most treasured natural environments: the 500-acre Abbeyleix Bog. Walk out onto the wooden pathway and learn about the important role the environment plays in Ireland’s ecology, history, and conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, explore the ruins of a hilltop fortress with stunning views of the surrounding patchwork countryside. Perched on top of an outcrop, it is said to have appeared on the early maps of the Greek cartographer Ptolemy and been plundered by the Vikings. This is the perfect way to savor one more of the best views in Ireland.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll head back to your lovely Dublin hotel for your final evening in the Emerald Isle. Enjoy one last meal in one of the many fine restaurants, raise a glass to new experiences, reflect on the wonderful adventure you’ve had, and cherish a lifetime of incredible memories.

Slan Beo! Irish for “Goodbye, live life!”

Day 1: Welcome to Dublin
Welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival in Dublin, you’ll make your way to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Today is yours to enjoy. There are no scheduled activities or commitments. Take some time to relax, stroll through Dublin’s streets, or discover some of the city’s landmarks on your own.

At the end of the day, head to bed to enjoy a restful night’s sleep in preparation for your adventure ahead. Tomorrow marks the beginning of what we hope will be an unforgettable journey filled with beautiful scenery, interesting history, and authentic local experiences.

Your Dublin hotel is included as part of your tour package. It has an excellent city-center location, so you’ll be within walking distance of many of Dublin’s attractions, restaurants, shops, and cultural sites.

Day 2: Ancient Crosses, Hidden Tombs, and Coastal Views
Start the day meeting your guide and fellow travelers before setting out on your adventure through the Ireland countryside. You’ll leave Dublin behind and first stop at an impressive 17-foot Celtic High Cross that has continued standing proudly since the 8th century. High crosses and their intricately carved designs have inspired the faithful through the ages and have played an important role in Irish culture, history, and art.

Continuing south, you’ll visit one of the largest medieval churches in Ireland. Built in the 13th Century, this beautifully restored Cistercian Monastery was founded by the Normans at one of the most strategic points in the country along the River Barrow. The river has provided a route inland for thousands of years and remains a peaceful passage for colorful barges and river cruisers, making it one of Ireland’s most important waterways.

Moving deeper into the countryside of County Kilkenny, you’ll discover a prehistoric treasure. A remarkable 6,000 year old megalithic tomb stands hidden among a maze of small farm roads. Its impressive size and meticulous placement of massive stones will boggle your mind, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s history.

Your day concludes in the harbor town of Dungarvan, located on Ireland’s southern Atlantic shore. Here, you can spend your evening exploring the town, enjoying traditional music and food in a local pub, or savoring dinner at a cooking school run by one of Ireland’s renowned chefs. Dungarvan is the perfect place to unwind after a full day of some of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Day 3: Round Towers, Popular Towns, and Stone Circles
Today brings amazing views, interesting history, and a deeper look into Ireland’s history. As you travel along the scenic southern coast, you’ll visit one of Ireland’s finest medieval Round Towers. Multi-story stone towers like this were built over a thousand years ago by pious monks and endured a long and turbulent history. Founded by Saint Declan, this site is one of Ireland’s earliest Christian settlements and dates back over a thousand years. Explore the church ruins and discover its incredible stone carvings and ancient standing stones.

Next, enjoy free time and a lunch break in Kinsale, Ireland. Known for its colorful streets, excellent cafes, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax over lunch, browse local shops, stroll along the waterfront, and enjoy various other attractions in Kinsale.

Continuing on, you find a tranquil stone circle with a mystifying solar alignment. This secluded site was of great importance to Ireland’s early inhabitants who aligned its axis to the setting sun of the winter solstice. Standing among the stones offers a connection to the beliefs and traditions of a civilization that thrived thousands of years ago.

You’ll end the day in the harbor town of Glengarriff, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

Day 4: Mizen Head, the Blue Pool, and Glengarriff
Enjoy a calm morning exploring the town of Glengarriff on your own. This area has a surprisingly mild climate that supports lush vegetation. Explore the Glengarriff Nature Reserve overlooking Glengarriff Harbour. Choose a gentle walk to a peaceful waterfall or take a more strenuous hike to Lady Bantry’s Lookout. Perhaps you’d rather take a stroll to the Blue Pool. Hidden right in the middle of the village, the Blue Pool is a rocky inlet where the river meets the sea. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit if you fancy a swim or simply dip your feet in the stunning rock basin.

After lunch, you’ll head to the Mizen Head Signal Station perched on Ireland’s most southerly point. Stroll this rugged headland, learn about lighthouses along the coast, and visit the keeper’s quarters via a beautiful arched bridge spanning a deep ravine. Look for seals who love to swim by the rocks!

Return to Glengarriff and enjoy an evening of good food and music after a long day of traveling in Ireland.

Day 5: The Beara Peninsula, Killarney National Park, and the Dingle Peninsula
After saying goodbye to Glengarriff, we’ll follow a magnificent route through the Beara Peninsula, traveling on winding mountain roads that climb through the remote Irish countryside and over high passes. Around every bend, you’ll be treated to views of valleys and the coastline.

Continuing onward, you’ll enter the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks: the largest mountains in Ireland and home to the spectacular Killarney National Park. This region is renowned for its stunning lakes and incredible scenery. It is a photographer’s dream… and you may well wish for an extra pair of eyes! Crossing the famous Moll’s Gap, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that inspire travelers, artists, and photographers.

You next take a gentle stroll by beautiful fields and grazing deer as you come to the 15th Century Muckross Abbey. Walk beneath the vaulted cloisters and gaze upon the centuries old yew tree in the central courtyard and imagine life in an abbey 500 years ago.

The views continue as you travel west along coastal roads and sandy beaches flanked by green hills. After we arrive at the Dingle Peninsula, we’ll take a trip around the dramatic landscape of the Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes. This Gaeltacht (or Irish speaking) area is rich in archeological sites, including the beautifully preserved Gallarus Oratory.

You’ll end the evening in the charismatic fishing town of Dingle. This town is known for its colorful buildings, amazing dining and shopping, and Irish hospitality. Have fun discovering pubs that double as hardware or shoe stores. You’ll spend the next two nights in one of Dingle’s finest boutique guesthouses, giving you plenty of time to experience some of the best things to do in Dingle, Ireland.

Day 6: A Free Day to Enjoy the Town of Dingle
Today is yours to spend however you wish, giving you a great opportunity to experience the town at your own pace. There are many interesting things to do in Dingle, Ireland, such as shopping, biking, golfing, fishing, falconry, or horseback riding. You may choose to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the scenery, or relax on a boat ride. Maybe you’ll settle into a cozy cafe, savor a delicious lunch overlooking the harbor, or spend an afternoon in one of the town’s welcoming pubs. This town’s relaxing spirit is what makes it so special.

Day 7: The Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the River Shannon
Today, you’ll depart Dingle and head over to the Slieve Mish Mountain of County Kerry before arriving at the magnificent River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. This ancient river is one of the country’s most important waterways, serving as a vital route for trade, travel, and settlement for thousands of years. You’ll board a ferry for a short crossing, feeling its gentle flow and crossing to County Clare.

As you arrive at County Clare, you’ll continue through seaside towns with wide sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and surfers riding the waves. The highlight of the day awaits at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, which is one of the most famous places in Ireland. Looming over 700 feet above the crashing Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs stretch for miles along the coastline—a sight that you simply can’t miss!

From the cliffs, you’ll head to Ireland’s UNESCO Geopark, renowned for its limestone landscape. Often described as moonlike in appearance, this region is full of geological wonders, rare plant life, and ancient archaeological sites. Here, you’ll visit the oldest dated megalithic tombs in Ireland, standing for thousands of years.

You’ll stay overnight in the town of Ballina along the River Shannon. With its sister town, Killaloe, just across the river, you have two picture perfect Irish riverside towns. These quaint towns are home to amazing pubs, great restaurants, walkways along the river’s edge, and a beautiful 18th Century stone bridge with 13 arches. Your hotel overlooks the river, providing a peaceful setting to kick back and relax for the evening.

Day 8: River Shannon Cruise, Ancient Ruins, and Return to Dublin
Your final day in Ireland begins with a relaxing cruise on Ireland’s finest waterway, the River Shannon. Hop aboard your privately chartered boat and learn about the history of the area while enjoying breathtaking views of Counties Clare and Tipperary.

Continuing eastward, you’ll stop in the town of Abbeyleix for lunch and an opportunity to experience one of Ireland’s most treasured natural environments: the 500-acre Abbeyleix Bog. Walk out onto the wooden pathway and learn about the important role the environment plays in Ireland’s ecology, history, and conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, explore the ruins of a hilltop fortress with stunning views of the surrounding patchwork countryside. Perched on top of an outcrop, it is said to have appeared on the early maps of the Greek cartographer Ptolemy and been plundered by the Vikings. This is the perfect way to savor one more of the best views in Ireland.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll head back to your lovely Dublin hotel for your final evening in the Emerald Isle. Enjoy one last meal in one of the many fine restaurants, raise a glass to new experiences, reflect on the wonderful adventure you’ve had, and cherish a lifetime of incredible memories.

Slan Beo! Irish for “Goodbye, live life!”