Compare Hiking the Wicklow Way by Wilderness Ireland vs Undiscovered Ireland - Small Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 7 days | 14 days |
| Price From | $ 1,770 | $ 4,775 |
| Price Per Day | $ 253 | $ 341 |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included |
Breakfast is provided each morning, as well as lunch’s and snacks throughout the trip. Dinner is provided on evenings 1 and 5 and your guide will assist with restaurant recommendations and bookings for the other nights. Local pubs and restaurants offer a wide choice of local dishes. On this trip, we generally eat dinner as a group however if you would like to make alternative arrangements you are free to do so. Your guide will have an evening off during this trip where they do not eat with the group. They will recommend options for dinner that evening and will help you make any necessary reservations. |
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| Description |
Irish naturalist Robert L. Praeger noted, “You can set foot on the heather six miles from Dublin and not leave it until…30 miles to the south.” And thus from this inspiration, the trail hiking the Wicklow Way was born. Over the course of 7 days, we’ll hike the very best portions of the Wicklow Way on this fully guided hiking adventure. The Wicklow Way meanders through forests and glaciated valleys, over hills and peaks and across the famous heathery hills of Wicklow. We’ll visit historical sites like the ruins of the monastic city at Glendalough, the impressive gardens and waterfall at Powerscourt Estate, and historical downtown Dublin. Along the way, relax in a lavish deluxe-standard eco-lodge and cosy BnBs. And for the final night, you’re in for a treat – a stay at a historical Dublin hotel! |
Setting out from Shannon, this all new itinerary charts the road less travelled in Ireland with a chance to experience the country’s favorite sport—hurling, the breathtaking views of the Clare shoreline from the 700-feet tall Cliffs of Moher and an all Irish trip to a local Pub, where you’ll be serenaded by the musicians of Kilkenny. From here it is a short way to Tipperary and Blarney Castle—home of the kissing stone, before journeying onwards to the port of Cobh, the Titanic’s final port of call before it set sail for New York. Spanning two immersive weeks, this exploration includes a stay at the Carton House, Queen Victoria’s favorite retreat in Dublin. |
Day 1: Dublin to Powerscourt Estate & Gardens
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Our Wicklow Way adventure starts in the lively city of Dublin. Setting off hiking the Wicklow Way, meander through lush forests home to ravens, deer, red squirrels and more. The trail winds over colourful heathland blanketed with brilliant pink and purple heather for which the Wicklow Way is famous. In the evening, we’ll stop at the beautiful Powerscourt Estate for tea, originally a 13th century castle lavishly embellished in the 1730s, with a chance to admire the magnificent extensive gardens, rated among National Geographic’s Top 10 Gardens of the World. (L,D)
Hike details: 6 km/3.7 miles, approx. 3-4 hours*
Day 2: Crone Woods to Lough Tay
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Set in beautiful, verdant surroundings, marvel at the breathtaking Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest cascade in Ireland. Rejoining the Wicklow Way, enjoy an open mountain trek across emerald slopes, home to the site of a 70 year old plane crash, with occasional parts of the fuselage turning up in the heather. From the summit of the hill, savour the rich panorama of lakes and open country. Back on the Wicklow Way, enjoy expansive views of the heathery hills as we descend into a sweeping glacial valley and glittering Lough Tay, once inspiration to countless artists, writers and intelligentsia.
Hike details: 9.5 km/6 miles, approx. 4-5 hours*
Day 3: Lough Tay to Glendalough
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Luggala Valley’s name comes from the Gaelic meaning ‘hollow of the hill’ and it’s a perfect example of a glaciated valley, carved out during an ice age more than 10,000 years ago. Until the Irish Famine of the 1840s, this area was heavily farmed – the shadows of long-abandoned potato fields and shells of tumbledown cottages still dot the landscape. Our hike ambles past the picturesque Lough Dan before winding along an ancient pilgrimage path, once used by visitors to St Kevin’s Church and the monastic site of Glenalough in its idyllic lake-side setting.
Hike details: 13 km/8 miles, approx. 5-6 hours*
Day 4: Glendalough Monastic Site to Glenmalure
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
When hiking the Wicklow Way, its crown jewel is the ancient monastic site of Glendalough – the Valley of the Saints. Once a great centre of learning, the monastic city has been a pilgrimage site for over a 1,000 years. Explore the ruins of this peaceful place as your guide brings the landscape alive. Rejoining the Wicklow Way, a spectacular hike sweeps us past the lakes of Glendalough. A gentle climb carries us out of the valley through the wooded monastic grounds back in windswept wilds of Wicklow’s heathland. Marvel at the quiet panoramas missed by Dublin day trippers before our gentle descent into the next enchanting valley.
Hike details: 13 km/8 miles, approx. 5-6 hours*
Day 5: Glenmalure to the Iron Bridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Our last day hiking the Wicklow Way, we leave behind the high peaks of the Wicklow Mountains and descend into the rolling, green pastures and emerald landscapes of south Wicklow. Our path weaves leisurely in and out of luscious green forests on Wicklow’s road less travelled. This afternoon, we’re in for a well-earned treat: relaxation at a spa retreat where you can either book from the range of spa treatments or simply unwind in the relaxing pool and thermal suite. Tonight, we celebrate our week’s hiking achievements with a celebration dinner in the unique surroundings of our eco lodge.
Hike details: 11 km / 7 miles, approx. 5-6 hours*
Day 6: Great Sugarloaf Mountain to Dublin
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
In the morning, either enjoy a slow morning, or you could take advantage of the spectacular 9 hole golf course or even spa treatments at our accommodation. Our final stop hiking in Wicklow is Great Sugar Loaf Mountain, dominating the Wicklow Way skyline. Standing apart from Wicklow’s other peaks, Great Sugar Loaf’s conical shape makes it an easy climb. The rewarding views over the captivating countryside we’ve just conquered is a fitting end to a fantastic week on the trail!
Making our way to the city for our final night of our trip and a chance to check out some of Dublin’s famed restaurant and live music scene.
Hike details: 2.5 km/1.5 miles, approx. 2 hours*
Day 7: Dublin Walking Tour & Depart
Meals: Breakfast
After a relaxing final morning, we’ll explore the lively, cosmopolitan city of Dublin on a historical walking tour led by local history enthusiasts. Learn about Irish history from the founding of Dublin, the Great Famine, world wars, and of course, the Easter Rising and War of Irish Independence.
Day 1: Welcome to Ireland
Transfers to your hotel depart from Shannon airport at 07:00 and 13:00. Relax and settle into your hotel or perhaps head for the nearby Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. At 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.
Falls Hotel & Spa, Ennistymon.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Cliffs and Delights of Galway
Journey to the incredible West Coast and the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre where you can enjoy breath-taking views of the Clare shoreline and the Atlantic Ocean. Your next stop is Galway, the City of Tribes. See the St Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square on your orientation, before indulging in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Arrive in quaint and colourful Westport in Co. Mayo, on the Clew Bay.
The Wyatt Hotel, Westport.
Breakfast, Lunch with Wine
Day 3: Explore Westport
Explore Westport with Insight Choice. Choose to join a Local Expert on a culinary walk through the town, sampling the best sweet and savoury artisan dishes. Alternatively, travel to Ballycroy National Park for a nature walk through lush countryside, with panoramic views of Achill Island and the Nephin Beg mountain range.
The Wyatt Hotel, Westport.
Breakfast
Day 4: Co. Donegal and the Wild Atlantic Way Relaxed Start
Visit the historic Lissadell Estate, childhood home of Irish revolutionary Constance Markievicz, who went on to becoming the first Irish Cabinet Minister. Meet the owners who have lovingly restored the house and gardens to its former glory and listen to their story as you enjoy tea and scones. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way to Donegal, then head inland for the market town of Letterkenny in the heart of the Northwest. Tonight, enjoy hearty Irish fare as your dine in the home of a local family.
McGettigan's Hotel, Letterkenny.
Breakfast, Morning Tea, Dinner with Wine
Day 5: Wilderness of the Northwest
Experience the beauty and tranquillity of Ireland's northernmost wilderness as you travel through Glenveagh National Park, along the shores of Lough Veagh. Visit Glenveagh Castle, originally built as a romantic highland retreat, with a Local Expert. Spend time in the tartan-and-antler-encrusted music room and the blue room, where guests Greta Garbo and Ella Fitzgerald once stayed. Learn how the estate has played a central role in the conservation efforts of the National Park.Continue through Creeslough across the true wilds of Donegal. See Doe Castle, historical stronghold of Clan Sweeney, then on to the Atlantic Drive. Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, it is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets, offering pristine and unspoilt scenery. Continue back to Letterkenny via Mulroy Bay and Milford, and return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
McGettigan's Hotel, Letterkenny.
Breakfast
Day 6: Dublin, the capital
Journey across the Emerald Isle to Dublin, see the Custom House, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and travel along River Liffey on your orientation with your Travel Director. Explore Dublin with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the world-famous Guinness Storehouse Brewery and learn how to pour the perfect pint. Alternatively, join a Local Expert to visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells. Arrive at the historic Carton House Hotel, a favourite retreat of Queen Victoria, newly renovated. Tonight, enjoy a cooking demonstration and savour a delicious dinner at the hotel’s gastropub.
Carton House, County Kildare.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 7: A Day at Leisure Relaxed Start
Today take advantage of the activities available at your hotel. Stop on the estate grounds and look out for rare birds. Take your chance at fishing, play a round of golf or pamper yourself at the spa. Transfers are also available for guests wishing to further explore Dublin.
Carton House, County Kildare.
Breakfast
Day 8: Gardens of Ireland
Your first stop this morning is at the Powerscourt House, in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, where you join a gardener for a walk through one of the world’s greatest estates. Your next stop is at Glendalough where a Local Expert takes you on a walk in the ‘valley of the two lakes’. This evening, arrive in Kilkenny, where your Travel Director shows you the medieval city, with its majestic castle and river walk. The evening is at your leisure.
River Court Hotel, Kilkenny.
Breakfast
Day 9: Active Kilkenny Relaxed Start
Kilkenny holds a long history for Ireland’s national sport – hurling. Meet an experienced player to gain an exciting insight into this unique Irish cultural experience, and have a go for yourself on the pitch. Tonight, enjoy a pub dinner where local musicians entertain you in true Irish tradition.
River Court Hotel, Kilkenny.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 10: Castles on the way to Cork
Cross County Tipperary as you travel to 15th-century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence ! In Cobh, visit the Queenstown Story exhibition, offering a glimpse into the hardships of the early emigrants to British overseas colonies. The ill-fated Titanic also called to the port on its voyage to New York, and the ocean liner Lusitania was struck by a torpedo just off the shore of the town.
Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City.
Breakfast
Day 11: Walks in Nature
Explore Kinsale, one of the most picturesque towns on the southwest coast of Ireland. Visit Charles Fort, one of the finest surviving examples of a 17th-century star-shaped fort. Overlooking the town and the mouth of the Bandon River, it provides breath-taking views of the county. An easy and peaceful walk takes you to the Old Head of Kinsale, to see the memorial to the crew of RMS Lusitania and the ruins of Downmacpatrick Castle.Enjoy the freshest seafood this evening on your Sea-to-Table dinner.
Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 12: County Tipperary and Adare
Travel across County Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious honey of the island, crafted sustainably, vital for the preservation of biodiversity in the region.Continue to Adare, Ireland’s prettiest village, for a walk among thatched cottages.Tonight, toast to your travels and memories made at your Celebration Dinner.
Bunratty Castle Hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 13: Farewell Ireland
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Shannon airport at 05:30 and 09:00.
Breakfast
