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Trip	Wild West and North Tour by Overland Ireland 5 \| Excellent 76 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Reserve	12 Day Kaleidoscope of Ireland by Gate 1 Travel 3.5 \| Average 746 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip See Offer

Duration	6 days	12 days
Price From	$ 1,450	$ 2,959
Price Per Day	$ 242	$ 247
Highlights	Cycle on the Majestic Aran Islands and discover Bohemian Galway Learn about the history of the Troubles in Derry and Belfast Stand tall on the Giants Causeway Learn about the amazing history of Kylemore Abbey in Connemara Marvel in the beauty of County Donegal	At Trinity College, view the magnificent 8th century Book of Kells Visit the imposing 12th century Kilkenny Castle, overlooking the River Nore Visit the Jameson Whiskey Distillery and enjoy a tasting Tour the storied 15th century Blarney Castle, where you will have the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone View some of Ireland's most spectacular scenery as you drive to the mighty Cliffs of Moher Marvel at the Giant's Causeway, renowned for its layered black basalt columns Tour the Titanic Experience, a nine-gallery museum in the dockyard where the ship was built †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Trip Style	Small group tour	Group tour
Lodging Level	Standard	Premium
Physical Level	2- Easy	3- Moderate
Travel Themes	Family Friendly Local Immersion & Homestays	Cultural 50 plus
Countries Visited	Ireland	Ireland
Cities and Attractions	Belfast Connemara Cork Derry Dublin Galway	Belfast Dublin Galway Kilkenny
Flights & Transport	Ground transport included	Ground transport included
Activities	Hiking Historic sightseeing History Kid-friendly activities Ruins & Archaeology	N/A
Meals Included	Breakfasts	N/A
Description	Our Irish small group experience starts here! How much can you pack into a 6 day tour in Ireland? – A LOT! Get the best of the west and top it off with a whirlwind tour of Northern Ireland on our small group tour. Make unforgettable memories at The Giant’s Causeway, Game of Thrones Dark Hedges and Belfast as you journey through the kingdom of Northern Ireland. Experience the spectacular views of Connemara National Park, the wilds of Donegal and the panoramic views on each day of your tour.	2 Dublin, 1 Kilkenny, 2 Cork, 1 Limerick or Newmarket-on-Fergus, 2 Sligo, 2 Belfast

Itinerary: Wild West and North Tour

Day 1: Sunday – Dublin to Belfast

Titanic Experience Belfast on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

We begin the first day of your adventure with a visit to the magical stone age passage tomb at Newgrange which is richly decorated by megalithic art. After exploring this Neolithic structure we will travel north to Belfast.

Next up this afternoon is the full Titanic experience at Titanic Belfast. This splendid interactive visitor centre was voted the world’s leading tourist attraction in 2016. Prepare to be moved by the wonderful stories told about the world’s most famous ship.

We will finish the day with an enthralling black cab tour of Belfast. This tour is optional but highly recommended. Alternatively, if you just need to take a breath and chill, you can spend some time exploring the city’s coolest pubs, shops and restaurants.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes

The Ultimate Tour of Ireland - Small Groups, Big Experiences on your Overland Ireland Ultimate Small Group Tour

Day 2: Monday – The Giant’s Causeway to Derry

Today will be both a test of mental strength and a celebration for your soul. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most anticipated features of this tour and it never disappoints. The Causeway Coastal Route is breath-taking and while crossing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge you will feel the exhilaration of the air beneath your feet while the anticipation builds.

Game of Thrones fans will have officially landed in their spiritual home as we take a sneak peak of one of its most famous filming locations, The Dark Hedges.

Our next stop is Londonderry, Northern Ireland’s second largest city, steeped in rich history. Explore the city by night and look forward to a tour of the walled city on day 3.

Total driving time: 3 hours

Carrick-a-Rede Bridge on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Traditional Music Sessions and Local Craft Beers on your Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 3: Tuesday – Derry to the Hills of Donegal

Londonderry on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Before leaving Derry, let our friends take you on a walking tour of the city. Understand the struggles of our past and the long road to current peaceful times in the North.

Now it is time to venture into the wild northwest – The hills of Donegal. We continue our exploration of Northern Ireland and embark on a magnificent drive over the Glengesh Pass, on to Maghera Beach and by Assaranca Waterfall.

One of our highlights today will be the stunning views and a walk along one of the highest cliffs in Europe – Slieve League which stands over 600m above the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Our accommodation tonight is in the picturesque village of Ardara, County Donegal.

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Comfortable Accommodation on your Overland Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 4: Wednesday – Westport to Connemara

Today’s road trip will take you through William Butler Yeat’s County – Sligo and down towards Ireland’s favourite town – Westport!

Our time in Westport begins with a wonderful walking tour of the town and a fabulous lunch to set yourself up for an unforgettable journey through Connemara National Park and the famous Famine Trail.

We will arrive at Kylemore Abbey in the heart of Connemara in the afternoon. You will have time to roam the abbey and Victorian Walled Garden on this 1000 acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and the majestic Connemara National Park.

Stay in Clifden and discover some great bars, restaurants and nightly music and have a chat with the locals over a pint of the Black Stuff!

This year we have added the option of staying in Ballynahinch Castle!

Total driving time: 4 hours

Experience Westport on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Your Fully Guided Overland Ireland Small Group Tour Lets You Meet Friendly Locals

Day 5: Thursday – The Aran Islands

Aran Islands on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

After a short drive cross country to Rossaveal Pier on Galway Bay we take the ferry to the Aran Islands. We will land on rugged Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands.

We explore the Island by bicycle or by special request jaunting. Our route will take in the stone fort of Dún Aonghasa, which lies 100m over the ocean before making our way back to the mainland. While you are there you might pick up a few words of “Gaelic” from the locals and maybe get an original Aran Sweater!

Our departure from Rossaveal is the start of our Galway adventure. We will hug the coastline into bustling bohemian Galway. Expect a great atmosphere, entertaining street performers and plenty of craic in this much celebrated town.

Total driving time: 2 hours

Its Your Holiday, Do It Your Way - Your Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 6: Friday – Galway to Dublin

Galway is a city that has its Medieval history at its very heart.

Now that you have a “feel” for Galway, our guide will take you down the narrow medieval streets where you can duck in and out of brightly coloured shops.

Try on Claddagh Rings, Galway shawls and pass through The Spanish Arch to take in the famous Claddagh fishing village.

Transportation is provided with the GoBus, a direct bus from Galway to Dublin city centre or Dublin Airport in case you need to catch a flight home.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Itinerary: 12 Day Kaleidoscope of Ireland

DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for Ireland
Depart for Ireland

DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Dublin
Upon arrival in Dublin, transfer to your hotel. Most flights arrive in the early morning and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to explore the city on your own. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a light dinner
Overnight: Dublin
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Monday - Dublin City Tour
Begin the exploration of Dublin with a drive through Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest walled city parks. More than green space, it is home to numerous monuments. You might also see fallow deer grazing in the fields. Continue on to view St. Patrick's Cathedral, the National Cathedral of Ireland founded in 1191. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels, was dean of the cathedral from 1713 to 1745. On O'Connell Street, admire the handsome buildings that line the city's main thoroughfare. Next, at Trinity College, one of the oldest gospel books grabs your attention, the Book of Kells. This illuminated manuscript was created in the year 800 by Celtic monks. The afternoon is at leisure in the Irish capital. Perhaps visit the Guinness Storehouse, follow in the footsteps of your favorite writer, or browse the shops and museums
Overnight: Dublin
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Tuesday - County Wicklow, Travel to Kilkenny
Drive south from Dublin to Glendalough in County Wicklow, for a short stop at the mystical 6th century monastic site with its round tower before driving through the hilly rolling countryside of County Kildare. Arrive in Kilkenny, a small city located on the banks of the River Nore and visit the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening
Overnight: Kilkenny
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5, Wednesday - Waterford, Jameson Distillery
This morning, drive to Waterford, where you will have an orientation tour of the city. Continue along the coast through the seaside resort of Youghal. Next, tour the Jameson Whiskey distillery and enjoy a tasting session, before arriving in Cork. Dinner together tonight is at the hotel
Overnight: Cork
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6, Thursday - Kinsale, Cork
Start the day visiting Kinsale, a fishing port of great significance in Irish history. A former trading post, the town is known for its 800 year old church, and Georgian houses. The maritime and military history will come to life on a guided walking tour with a local guide. Return to Cork, where the remainder of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Cork
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Friday - Blarney, Home Hosted Lunch, Limerick
Start out today with a stop at Blarney Castle, dating from the 15th century, though earlier fortifications were built on the same spot. Visit the grounds and maybe kiss the stone of eloquence. Next, visit a farm, where the family will host a delicious lunch. Continue to Limerick where you will see the imposing King John's Castle. This castle was built in the 13th century on the banks of River Shannon to safeguard the city. Tonight, perhaps participate in the optional Medieval Banquet* dinner for a lively evening of music, singing, and storytelling
*For Mar & Nov departures, the Knappogue Medieval Banquet will be substituted with Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet
Optional: Knappogue Medieval Banquet (PM)
Overnight: Limerick
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 8, Saturday - Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Travel to Sligo
First stop is at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. This rock wall towers 700 feet over the crashing surf of the Atlantic. It's sure to be one of the most spectacular meetings of land and water you're likely to see. Then head to Galway, a seafaring town steeped in tradition. Enjoy free time to discover the historic squares and pubs of this colorful town and to view Galway Cathedral. Later, travel to Sligo for overnight. This lovely town was home to a young William Butler Yeats. The poet died in 1939 in France, and ten years later his remains were re-interred here by the Irish navy. Savor dinner together at your hotel this evening
Overnight: Sligo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Sunday - Donegal, Slieve League
Begin a full day excursion with a drive to the gravesite of William Butler Yeats at Drumcliff. Continue into County Donegal, with its soaring sea cliffs, white sandy beaches, jaw-dropping landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. Visit the towering Slieve League cliffs, that stretch towards the horizon and admire the stunning panorama before you. At almost 2000 feet, they are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Later, drive back to Sligo
Overnight: Sligo
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10, Monday - Derry City Tour, Giant's Causeway
First stop today is Derry (Londonderry) in Northern Ireland. Your local guide will give you a walking tour around the 17th century city wall. View the Guildhall, Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall and St. Columb's Cathedral. Proceed to the Bogside district and the symbolic Peace Bridge. Local legend and lore make visiting Ireland especially unique and there is no shortage of tales to accompany Giant's Causeway, your next stop. The giant Finn McCool is said to have created this geological wonder so he could walk to Scotland to confront another giant. From there, the story varies. Today, a massive floor of 40,000 hexagonal stones stretches into the sea. Later, continue to Belfast
Overnight: Belfast
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Tuesday - Belfast City Tour
Today, embark on a morning sightseeing tour of Belfast*. The city is located on the western shores of Belfast Lough, at the mouth of the River Lagan. To the northwest, mountains rise to the Antrim Plateau. This lovely setting has given the city a microclimate that nurtures its green spaces. Its location on calm waters has made it ideal for shipbuilding; the most famous vessel christened here was the Titanic. Start the half day tour by exploring the Titanic Experience, a nine-gallery museum in the dockyard where the ship was built. It's a city rich in history, architecture, and culture, and its share of political upheavals. Visit a neighborhood in West Belfast, where buildings are still scarred from The Troubles, which came to an end with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Then, view the hallowed quads of the university district and botanic garden, and visit the Ulster Museum. Finish at the colonnaded façade and towering dome of the Edwardian City Hall. Tonight, enjoy dinner and bid farewell to your Tour Manager
*For Jul 1, sightseeing may be altered due to local events
Overnight: Belfast
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12, Wednesday - Depart Ireland
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast