In the hills of Connemara, you can hear the echoes of ancient Celtic legends. On the rugged Dingle Peninsula, you’ll be swept up in the harmony of sea and shore. And in the wild moonscape of the Burren and atop the towering Cliffs of Moher, you’ll discover the authentic Ireland that’s inspired generations of poets and writers. Ireland’s ineffable charms are impossible to fully capture, but this Walking Tour comes awfully close.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Overnight Flight

Begin your journey with an overnight flight to Ireland.

Day 2 - Galway

Admire the patchwork landscape of the Emerald Isle as you touch down in Shannon. A Go Ahead representative greets you after you clear customs and accompanies you to your hotel in Galway. Tonight, meet your fellow walking enthusiasts at an included dinner.
Included meals: breakfast (in flight), dinner

Day 3 - Galway

Venture out for your first scenic stroll this morning in one of the most breathtaking examples of the Irish countryside, Connemara National Park. Amble through the vast wilderness and a stunning patchwork of lush valleys, mountains and mystic lakes. Then pay a visit to Kylemore Abbey, originally built by Mitchell Henry in 1866 as a palatial gift for his new bride. This former country estate in the midst of the Irish Highlands is now home to an order of Benedictine nuns, who have maintained the estate’s buildings and Victorian walled garden.
Included meals: breakfast
Included entrances: Kylemore Abbey

Day 4 - Killarney

Journey south today for a guided walk along some of Ireland’s most mesmerizing coastline. Hike through the Burren, a limestone plateau where fields of rock are interspersed with wildflowers. Here, you’ll pass a fascinating array of stalactites, stalagmites and waterfalls. Then stroll along the majestic Cliffs of Moher, rising out of the Atlantic Ocean to heights of 600 feet. Rejuvenate from your walks with an included pub lunch. Upon your arrival in Killarney, enjoy an included dinner.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5 - Killarney

When Muckross House and the surrounding woodlands and moors were donated to the Irish state in 1932, Ireland’s first national park was born. Today, Killarney National Park has grown to 25,000 acres of diverse ecological landscapes from red sandstone mountains to extensive bogs and lowlands. Pass through the ornate halls of Muckross House at the park’s core. Then follow in the footsteps of a local guide on a walking tour through the park’s most awe-inspiring areas.
Included meals: breakfast
Included entrances: Muckross House

Day 6 - Killarney

Make your way along the dramatically rugged terrain of the Dingle Peninsula on a walking tour of this most western tip of Ireland. Beyond its breathtaking views, the Dingle Peninsula is shrouded in the traditions and legends of Irish culture. As you wander past secluded harbors and seaside cliffs, your Tour Director will point out archaeological sites and ancient ruins dating back to the Mesolithic Period. After some free time to explore the fishing port of Dingle, your tour director will introduce you to the Gallarus Oratory, a tiny, beehive-shaped church. Made entirely of stacked stone, the Oratory has weathered countless storms—and remained completely dry—since it was built nearly 1,300 years ago.
Included meals: breakfast
Included entrances: Gallarus Oratory

Day 7 - Cork Region

Today begins with a scenic drive through the Caha Mountains of the Beara Peninsula, revealing dramatic views of the sea below. Stop in Glengarriff to board your boat to Garnish Island for a one-hour walk. Much of the island’s charm resides in the contrast between the cultivated gardens and the glimpses of wild seascape and barren mountains beyond. This evening, arrive at your hotel in the Cork region for an included dinner.
Included meals: breakfast, dinner

Day 8 - Cork Region

Spend a free day in the Cork Region. With an independent spirit and a welcoming vibe, Cork exudes the best of Irish culture—both old and new. Walk along its picturesque, yacht-filled harbor and through the narrow streets brimming with gourmet restaurants, art galleries and cozy pubs. Alternatively, you can join an optional excursion walk along Kinsale’s beautiful coast and a tour director-led visit to Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress built to protect the town’s harbor. The Battle of Kinsale, fought here in 1601, marked a turning point in Irish history.
Included meals: breakfast

$65 USD

Kinsale Coastal Walk Tucked between the hills and shoreline, Kinsale ranks as one of Ireland’s most popular resort towns. Its maze of narrow streets winds around gourmet restaurants, yacht-filled harbors, art galleries and charming pubs. However, this quaint town also boasts historical significance. The Battle of Kinsale, fought here in 1601, marked a turning point in Irish history. Today, enjoy a walk along Kinsale’s beautiful coast and a Tour Director-led visit to Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress built to protect the harbor.

Day 9 - Limerick

This morning, take part in one of Ireland’s most time-honored traditions by puckering up to the legendary Blarney Stone during a tour director-led visit to Blarney Castle. Continue toward Limerick, stopping to wander the paths and groves of Doneraile Wildlife Park, an 18th-century landscaped park that’s home to countless deciduous trees and deer herds. Celebrate your last night with an optional medieval feast at Bunratty Castle, the Emerald Isle’s most complete medieval castle set within a re-creation of a 19th-century Irish village.
Included meals: breakfast
Included entrances: Blarney Castle

$125 USD

Bunratty Castle Banquet Celebrate tonight with a feast at Bunratty Castle. A castle has stood on these grounds since 1270, and Bunratty played a key role in the Irish Confederate Wars. You'll step back in time as you soak in the magical atmosphere at this ancient stronghold. Please note: This excursion is available only from April-October.

Day 10 - Shannon

Continue on our tour extension to Dublin, or transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Included meals: breakfast
(In case of early morning departure, breakfast may be served in flight.)