Day 1. Sunday: An early start this morning as we make our way to the port of Holyhead for our relaxing and scenic crossing to Dublin. Upon arrival in Ireland’s vibrant capital, we journey onward to the outskirts of the city, where we’ll settle in for a comfortable overnight stay with dinner, bed, and a hearty breakfast included.
Day 2. Monday: After a hearty breakfast, we depart our hotel and set off for Westport, with a delightful stop in the picturesque riverside town of Athlone. Nestled in the heart of Ireland, on the banks of the mighty River Shannon, Athlone offers a unique blend of vibrant, brightly painted houses, historic pubs, and quirky shops brimming with character. Take a moment to wander through its charming streets and soak up the local atmosphere before we continue our journey through the lush landscapes of County Mayo. We’ll arrive in Westport, where we will enjoy four nights of comfort, dinner, and breakfast at the elegant Castlecourt Hotel.
Day 3. Tuesday: Today we enjoy a scenic drive through Co. Mayo past Croagh Patrick (the Holy Mountain) and down through eerie Doo Lough Valley. On arrival at Killary Harbour we enjoy a picturesque cruise on the sheltered waters of Ireland’s only fjord. The cruise offers an incredible opportunity to survey the dramatic sweep of the rugged, North Connemara landscape. Later this afternoon we visit Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful estate in Connemara, featuring a Victorian Walled Garden, a Neo-Gothic church, and scenic trails. The Benedictine nuns of Kylemore invite visitors to experience this magnificent place and learn more about the love story that started it all.
Day 4. Wednesday: Enjoy a leisurely day discovering the many charms of Westport at your own pace. Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way in a rugged and scenic corner of County Mayo, this genteel town brims with character and charm. Stroll through the Mall, a delightful, tree-lined promenade where graceful stone bridges arch over the flowing Carrowbeg River. Browse quirky local shops, savour a tasty bite in a cosy café, or soak up the atmosphere in one of Westport’s warm, welcoming pubs – where traditional Irish music and lively conversation promise a memorable experience. Westport offers the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and charm.
Day 5. Thursday: Today we enjoy a guided tour of Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island. We follow the spectacular Atlantic Coast overlooking the amazing scenery of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of Clare and Achill Beg. Travelling the northernmost shore of Clew Bay, dotted with eighty small islands, passing through the pretty villages of Newport and Mulranny. Along the way, we’ll soak in breathtaking vistas and hear stories of the island’s rich heritage. Later we visit the deserted village of Slievemore which is a haunting reminder of times past, comprising of some 80 deserted stone cottages located at the foot of Slievemore Mountain.
Day 6. Friday: We depart Westport and begin our return journey home travelling through County Galway and visit Galway, the only city on the Wild Atlantic Way. As well as being a popular seaside destination with long sandy beaches, Galway is also a thriving and cosmopolitan city centre. Take a leisurely walk along the Old Quays to visit the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh, which pay testament to Galway’s rich maritime history or spend time relaxing in Eyre Square beside the maze of streets offering a variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants. We will continue to our hotel on the outskirts of Dublin for one night dinner, bed and breakfast.
Day 7. Saturday: We depart early, journeying towards Dublin Port to begin the final leg of our adventure. Enjoy a full, hearty breakfast onboard the ferry as you relax and take in views. As the ferry sails away, we reflect on unforgettable memories made and the magic of Ireland that will stay with us long after we arrive home.
Passports: British or Irish citizens travelling on the Irish Sea routes do not need a passport to travel to Britain or Ireland but must have Photographic Identification. Useful means of identification when travelling on this route are passport, driving licence and a bus pass.
Travel Insurance: All passengers must be in possession of fully comprehensive travel insurance.
We require the full name and date of birth for all passengers travelling.
