Region Overviews: Ireland Travel Guide: Overview
Ireland is an enchanting place, and the serene, beautiful scenery features breathtaking views and stunning landscapes throughout the whole country.
Relish the artistry of a stone wall. The warmth of a wool sweater. The charm of a centuries-old footpath. The pleasure of an afternoon pint. The laughter of strangers. The drama of a seanachie's story. Discover that a beautiful day can be cloudy with a chance of rain. And that vacations don't need to be measured in tan lines. Find your bliss in Ireland.
THIS ITINERARY: 6 days, 5 nights
ACCOMMODATIONS: Premiere Hotels
Start/End Cork
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Take in Ireland's spectacular natural beauty during country road rambles and coastal cliff walks | Hike in the Gap of Dunloe—a striking glaciated valley | After a climb, arrive at a viewpoint over verdant Kerry farmlands and the mountain ranges of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, home to some of Ireland's highest peaks | From the top of aptly named Windy Gap, gaze at the inspiring panorama of Caragh Lake and Dingle Bay | Delight in the art of storytelling as a local seanachie spins enchanting tales | Victorian décor charms at our lakeside Ring of Kerry lodge.
Enjoy the gracious hospitality of Mary and Frank Slattery at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry.
Our longtime friend and local guide Michael Murphy shares secrets of Muckross Estate, its ruined abbey and Torc Waterfall | Stroll to 15th-century Ross Castle on the shore of Lower Lake and tour its restored tower | Explore historic Killarney's craft shops, boutiques and lively pubs.
A handsome family-owned hotel, promising and delivering "warmth beyond the smile," in the heart of Killarney. (pool, spa)
Alongside our local expert, hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges | Climb Torc Mountain for 360-degree views before arriving in charming Kenmare, where rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades | Visit our hotel’s state-of-the-art spa | On the rugged Beara Peninsula, trek over Mount Knockagarrane, taking in awe-inspiring views of lakes and mountains | The undeveloped peninsula probably looks today like it did to the ancient Celts | Join a private whiskey tasting with aficionado John Moriarty | Peaceful paths lead past old-growth trees and saltwater marshes to one of County Kerry’s largest stone circles, a Druid site dating from 2000 BC.
It's just a short walk to the pubs and shops from this regal Victorian estate, nestled amid magnificent parkland on Kenmare Bay. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy
SMALL GROUP? TRY RENDEZVOUS
An extra leader and van for even more flexibility | +$2,400 for Europe and +$2,900 for North America | Call us to book your Rendezvous
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy.
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do. LEARN MORE.
Note: The terrain on this trip includes a mix of level to rolling garden pathways, paved country lanes and peat-covered mountain trails, with some moderate climbs and descents.
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
While the Premiere Hotels on this trip offer outstanding service and amenities, please note that they are not equipped with air-conditioning. Despite the region's generally temperate climate and cool nights, guestrooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.
Ireland is an enchanting place, and the serene, beautiful scenery features breathtaking views and stunning landscapes throughout the whole country.
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