Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-4
Premiere & Deluxe Hotels
Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-4
Premiere & Deluxe Hotels
2025: May-Sep
Cork, Killarney & Ancient Celtic Wonders
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 on our Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour.
Highlights
- Revel in the renowned beauty of the Emerald Isle on hikes through varied landscapes, from rugged coastline to country lands
- Connect with our knowledgeable local guide, who brings stories of the region to life
- Join a private whiskey tasting with a local expert and an evening listening to yarns spun by a well-known Irish storyteller
- Admire the dramatic peaks, scintillating lakes, green hills and vast gorges in wild and scenic Killarney National Park
Start/End Cork
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
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 shanachie spins enchanting tales • Victorian décor charms at our lakeside Ring of Kerry lodge.
Nights 1-2
Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the Slattery family at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry.
Day 3
Our fantastic local guide 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.
Night 3
Overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, this beautiful estate hotel boasts 13th-century castle ruins. (pool, spa)
Days 4-6
Alongside our local expert, hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges • Climb Torc Mountain for 360-degree vistas before arriving in enchanting 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 local 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.
Nights 4-5
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)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Carrig Country House and Park Hotel Kenmare are Premiere Hotels. While they 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, guest rooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.
Hotels
World-Class Hotels
Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
*Deluxe Hotel
Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the Slattery family at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry.
Night 3
Premiere Hotel
Overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, this beautiful estate hotel boasts 13th-century castle ruins. (pool, spa)
Nights 4-5
Premiere Hotel
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)
Gallery
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
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Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.