What a wonderful week we had exploring the hills and mountains of southwest Ireland. We lucked out with the weather and our mix of trip members and leaders. With Backroads help we got to learn about Irish history and explore the countryside with hardly any logistical effort. We added a bonus after dinner kayaking trip and were rewarded with experiencing bioluminescence after dark. I'm definitely tempted to return to Ireland, but it will be hard to get as lucky with the weather as we did.

This was our first Backroads trip and we did it with two friends. First, the weather was unusually amazing for Ireland. Sunny, mid 60s daytime, zero rain. So that helped immensely. Had we done some of those hikes during active rain, or walked through some areas after a big rain, I might have a little different opinion, but the weather was amazing (even to the locals). That said, our Backroads guides were amazing and provided for our every need. Good daily communication about what to expect on that day's hikes, the duration, the scenery to expect, etc. They provided an ample supply of snacks to take with you, water was always available from them to fill water bottles prior to the hikes, compostable zip-lock style bags for your snacks, great variety of sweet and salty plus fruits. Sunscreen, hydration tablets. It was all there for you. Guides (trip guides and our guide who managed the supplies) were all great, super friendly, energetic, and well versed in the trip itself and the areas we would be in. Accommodations were all very good, good food at the hotels and local establishments. Two wonderful picnics. Will be planning another Backroads trip as soon as possible. Some of our travel group had been on 6 or more trips over the years, and others had been on 2-3 trips before. There were only a few of us on the trip with no prior Backroads experiences. That says a lot about the company and the quality of the experiences offered.

Six days of magic! Energetic and fun leaders brought together an amazing journey with beautiful hikes, delicious food, and fun extra activities. Ireland was the perfect trip #7 for me. Thank you, Backroads!

This was our first Backroads trip and it won't be our last. Our trip leaders, Mikhaila and Maisie, and our support leader, Evan, were fantastic. They ran a flawless trip and were fun to be around. The hiking was as challenging as you wanted to make it. Perfect for hikers of different fitness levels. Our accommodations were first class and the food was delicious. The local guide, Dermot, was so much fun and extremely knowledgeable. If you are on the fence about taking a Backroads trip, my advice is DO IT. You will be glad you did.

Best trip of my life. All the Backroads leaders and local guides were amazing. I can't wait to return to Ireland.

This was an amazing trip, with awesome leaders, spectacular views, scrumptious food, knowledgeable guides and sensational entertainment. The hikes were customized to each guest and leaders made sure everyone felt special. Now I just have to decide where to go next with Backroads!

The leaders and local guides were tremendous.

Start with some moderately challenging hikes, throw in several excellent dinners and first-class accommodations, stir in some stunning scenery, a few traditional songs, a heaping tablespoon of Irish history, and the charms of a small-town pub or two, and you end up with the Ireland Hiking and Walking Tour! My wife and I had the time of our lives on this trip. Granted, we got a bit lucky with the weather--always a gamble--but I think we would have enjoyed ourselves immensely even in the pouring rain. This trip and the people who lead it are a treasure.

Our Backroads hiking trip in Ireland far exceeded our expectations! The trip leaders made everything so effortless - we just showed up ready to explore the beautiful Irish countryside. The hotels were charming. We woke up to views of a lovely lake in one hotel and to a pasture of horses with new foals in another. It's a good thing we got our miles in hiking because the food never stopped! We can't wait to book our next Backroads trip!

My first Backroads trip was a dream come true! I returned home yesterday and a large piece of my heart was certainly left in Ireland. What a magical place filled with natural beauty, strong traditions, delicious food and the warmest, most accommodating people you could find. The rain did not stop our diverse group from all over the U.S. (and Vancouver!) from having the time of our lives, and we bonded like it was summer camp. And the leaders, ah, our fearless leaders! Nat, Jake and Cara were incredible at bringing their knowledge, experience and consistently positive energy to the group every second of every day, and they were truly inspiring examples of their generation. If I could follow them on every adventure, I would! They made this 52-year-old feel young and I wanted to take them all home with me! I can't wait for my next Backroads adventure--if you are hesitating, DON'T! I waited too long and wasted years. Carpe diem!