Walking Tour of Ireland - walk on ancient paths

The most popular way to walk in Ireland is to travel with a group on an escorted walking tour. We offer many itineraries to choose from, in all parts of Ireland. All tours begin and end on Saturday in Ireland, offering the opportunity to combine two tours for a longer stay. We also offer self guided walking in Ireland with luggage transfer.

Group Size for our Irish walking tours: Explore Ireland, traveling with a mix of 8-14 English-speaking international travelers. Each walking day we hike 8- 13 miles and the maximum height is 2000 Feet. The routes are relatively free of traffic. The terrain varies by region, from easy to more difficult. You need only walk as far as you want each day.

When you walk, there's time to smell the roses, or more likely, the scent of peat fires in the air. Sometimes the best walks in the area mean moving from B&B to B&B each night. On others, a more based stay is planned. This varies by itinerary.

When is the best time to walk in Ireland? April through October are best. We offer very few walks at other times of the year.

If you do not see something here that completely meets your needs, or if you are traveling with a group of friends, we can custom-design a tour for you.


Moderate Grading Irish Walking Tour This grading is given to our SPECIAL INTEREST ESCORTED / GUIDED LEISURE HOLIDAYS and offers walking in varied terrain, sometimes in wet underfoot conditions, suitable for people capable of walking up to I 6KMs (10 Miles) daily. During each day of walking you will encounter uphill and downhill sections with the maximum height of 600 meters being our “cut-off’.
Energetic Grading This grading is given to our GROUP ESCORTED / GUIDED COMFORT HOLIDAYS and offers hiking, sometimes across open mountain and bogland (wet conditions). The terrain is varied and each day will have uphill and downhill hiking — some of which may be steep. The maximum height we reach on any of these holidays is 950 meters but during a day — your accumulative height gain may exceed this figure. This type of holiday is suitable for people in a good state of fitness and capable of walking up to 2OKMs (12 Miles) a day.
Strenuous Grading This grading is given to our where participants walk without a guide. For these holidays — participants need to be able to walk up to 2OKMs (12 miles) a day across varied terrain — some open mountain terrain with no tracks, some bog terrain, some beach terrain, some prepared trails or tracks and some asphalt. The maximum height you will have to ascend in any of the holidays is 700 meters, but during a day — your accumulative height gain may exceed this figure. Because participants are walking without a guide — it is essential that you are able to map read and compass navigate and that you take note of local weather forecasts

OUR EASIEST WALKS ARE THE TRADITIONAL IRELAND TOUR AND THE MINIBREAKS.

What's Included in our Guided Walking Tours of Ireland:

• Guided walks on 6 days with an IRISH guide.
• Transfer to and from walks and luggage transfer.
• 7 nights bed in room with private shower/ bathroom, luggage transport where needed.
• 7 hearty Irish breakfasts (B), picnic lunch on 6 walking days, 7 dinners
• All taxes and service charges
• Transport to/from each days walking locations and luggage transfers when required
• Courtesy airport transfer from airport to the start of the holiday and first nights B&B. (As per our transfer timetable)
• Transfers to nearest bus/train station at end of holiday (also within our timetable). Public Bus Service may be used
• Souvenir book ‘Ireland ---- a Travellers Guide’.

Not Included: Any boat trips (e.g.. Skellig Michael), personal drinks, entrance fees to theatres, parks or museums etc. medical expenses or gratuities.


Transfers: On a 8 Day Guided Holiday we offer an optional airport collection within our timetable on your arrival day only i.e., Saturdays. If you do not wish to avail of this service, we will meet you in your first accommodation at 18.00. For Guided Mini Breaks and all Self Guided holidays you can make your own way to the first accommodation. We will be happy to give relevant transfer details on request to our Self-Guiding walkers and to make arrangements if requested. Flying into Dublin Airport is also possible with an excellent selection of buses and trains to choose from. See transfer schedule below.

One Week Escorted Ireland Walking Tour

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All dates shown are the starting dates in Ireland. Flights leave the US the day prior.
There is NO additional supplement or those willing to share a two-bedded room with someone of the same sex. However, if you wish to have your own room, a single supplement applies.
Tour Pricing per person

IRELAND WALKING		USD
		JAN-APR
GUIDED WALKING		OCT-DEC	MAY=SEP
DINGLE		1472	1647
RING OF KERRY		1472	1647
BURREN, ARAN &CONNEMARA		1526	1704
ACHILL MAYO		1526	1704
DONEGAL		1526	1704
WEST CORK & ISLANDS		1526	1704
KERR/DINGLE MINI BREAKS		967	1050
SOUTHER ISLES MINI BREAK		1004	1078
BEST OF THE WEST NO OR SO		2257	3547
SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT	5 DAY	286	8 DAY	470
8 DAY TOURS RUN SAT/SAT
5 DAY MINI BREKAS RUN TUE/SAT

Single Rooms: Limited availability. Children: Not suitable for children under 16

Please note - we are happy to "room-share" single Walkers/Bookings. 8 day Guided Holidays run Sat/Sat, Mini Break 5 day, Tues/Sat. Courtesy airport transfers are available for all 8 day Guided holidays. All holidays include en-suite quality accommodation, meals, picnics, transport & Walking Guide.

DATES

MONTH	Location	No. of Days
March
16 – 23	Achill & Mayo Coast	8
23 – 30	Dingle Peninsula	8
30 – 6 Apr	Best of the West NORTH	8
30 – 6 Apr	Kerry Peninsula	8
April
6 – 13	Best of the West SOUTH	8
6 – 13	Dingle Peninsula	8
13 – 20	Kerry Peninsula	8
20 – 27	West Cork & Islands	8
20 - 27	Best of the West NORTH	8
27 – 4 May	Best of the West SOUTH	8
27 – 4 May	Kerry Peninsula	8
30 – 4 May	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
May
18-Nov	Best of the West SOUTH	8
11 – 18	Dingle Peninsula	8
11 – 18	West Cork & Islands	8
14 – 18	Dingle Peninsula Mini-Break	5
18 – 25	Best of the West NORTH	8
18 – 25	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
21 – 25	Southern Islands	5
25 – 1 June	Donegal Coast	8
June
1 – 8	Dingle Peninsula	8
4 – 8	Dingle Peninsula Mini-Break	5
8 – 15	Achill & Mayo Coast	8
11 – 15	Southern Islands	5
15 – 22	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
15 – 22	Kerry Peninsula	8
18 – 22	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
22 – 29	Dingle Peninsula	8
22 – 29	West Cork & Islands	8
22 – 29	Donegal Coast	8
25 – 29	Dingle Peninsula Mini-Break	5
29 – 6 July	Best of the West NORTH	8
29 – 6 July	Achill & Mayo Coast	8
MONTH	Location	No. of Days
July
6 – 13	Best of the West SOUTH	8
6 – 13	Kerry Peninsula	8
9 – 13	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
9 – 13	Southern Islands	5
13 – 20	Dingle Peninsula	8
13 – 20	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
13 – 20	Donegal Coast	8
16 – 20	Dingle Peninsula Mini-Break	5
20 – 27	West Cork & Islands	8
20 – 27	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
August
10 – 17	Kerry Peninsula	8
13 – 17	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
17 – 24	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
24 – 31	Dingle Peninsula	8
24 – 31	Achill & Mayo Coast	8
27 – 31	Dingle Peninsula Mini-Break	5
31 – 7 Sept	Kerry Peninsula	8
September
3 – 7	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
7 – 14	Best of the West NORTH	8
7 – 14	Burren/Aran/Connemara	8
14 – 21	Best of the West SOUTH	8
14 – 21	Dingle Peninsula	8
17 – 21	Dingle Peninsula Mini Break	5
17 – 21	Southern Islands	5
21 – 28	West Cork & Islands	8
28 – 5 Oct	Kerry Peninsula	8
October
1 – 5	Kerry Peninsula Mini-Break	5
5 – 12	Dingle Peninsula	8
12 – 19	Kerry Peninsula	8

ITINERARIES (Saturday start dates) They are limited to a max of 14 persons.

DINGLE PENINSULA WALK A fascinating peninsula, dominated by the Slieve Mish Mountains. Walk includes the fishing village of Dingle -a place well known for its music, dancing, and Irish Language. See itinerary below.  Energetic Grading

RING OF KERRY WALK - The skyline includes Macgillycuddy's Reeks - Ireland's highest mountain range. This walk features breathtaking seascapes and mountainscapes. Ireland’s fabled County Kerry consists of a series of spectacular mountainous peninsulas divided by deep-sea inlets. MacGillycuddy’s Reeks form the centerpiece of the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer circuit from Killarney, via Killorglin, Caherciveen, Waterville, Kenmare and back to Killarney across Moll’s Gap and past Ladies View – one of Ireland’s most famous viewpoints. Weaving between these points are a network of ancient paths that are nearly as old as the land itself, many of which form part of a long-distance track known as the ‘Kerry Way’. The name ‘Kerry’ comes from the Old Irish word Ciarraige meaning the people of Ciar, an early Celtic tribe that settled in the area around 300 BC. In fact, Kerry has an outstanding collection of historical and archaeological sites that date back over 7,000 years, with several ancient forts and numerous early Christian churches.

Impossibly green pastures stretch as far as the eye can see, completely empty save for small herds of sheep or goats, and at almost every turn there are spectacular views of mist-covered mountains and wild stretches of uninhabitable coastline where deep fissures have been carved, over the eons, by the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Here and there along the coast, pretty fishing villages, such as Caherdaniel and Portmagee, have successfully withstood the elements and offer a picturesque contrast to the verdant hills that surround them. The Skellig Islands lie 8 miles off the tip of the peninsula, two rocky peaks rising sheer out of the Atlantic Ocean. Skellig Michael is a world heritage site on account of its 6th century monastic site, with beehive huts, oratories and inscribed crosses. Little Skellig is home to over 40,000 gannets, the second largest colony in the world. This is a delightful one-week walk and along the way you will enjoy plenty of good Irish cheer!  Energetic Grading

Ring of Kerry Walking Tour Trip Outline:

This trip takes us on a circular route from Killarney, unveiling some of the most beautiful scenery in the region, exploring both the southern and northern coastlines of the Iveragh peninsula. After spending two nights at Killarney, we move onto Derrynane on Kenmare Bay, where we also stay for two nights. Here you will find Derrynane National Park and Derrynane House, the ancestral family home of Daniel O'Connell, 'The Liberator', a 19th century politician. Moving on we spend the last 3 nights in the market town of Caherciveen, across the water from the famed Valentia Island. On your “free day” you have the opportunity, weather permitting, to take a boat to the Skellig Monastic Rock - an experience of a lifetime and not to be missed. Caherciveen is a market town in transition, being part of the “old Ireland living in the new”. Our walks in the area reflect the Peninsula at its best. After our farewell evening and morning breakfast we transfer to Killarney for onward journeys …. And memories to be cherished.

Day 1 Courtesy Airport Collection from Shannon Airport at 12.00 hrs., Cork Airport at 14.00 hrs. or Kerry Airport at 16.00 hrs. Arrive at first guesthouse in Killarney where we stay for the next 2 nights of your holiday. Evening meal together and a general chat about the coming weeks walks.

Day 2 We take a wonderful walk through the famous Gap of Dunloe with fabulous views over the Lakes of Killarney & spectacular glacial formations in this well-known valley. Transfer back to Killarney. Evening meal in local restaurant. Walk Details - Distance: 16kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 350m. Rocky and sometimes wet & muddy tracks and road walking. Boots essential.

Day 3 Walk from Killarney to Kenmare passing the historic Muckross House and Gardens. Continue through Killarney National Park towards Peakeen Mountain with glorious views over Kenmare Bay. Transfer from the end of the walk to Derrynane where we stay for our next 2 nights. Dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 20kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 400m. Mountain tracks and open roads. Can be wet - boots recommended.

Day 4 Walk from nearby Sneem to the spectacular Staigue Fort. This is a glorious walk with breath-taking views to the south over Kenmare Bay to the Beara Peninsula and West towards Derrynane. Return to Derrynane for evening meal and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 16kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 400m. Grass tracks, open bog land and rough mountains. Can be wet underfoot - boots essential. Some road walking.

Day 5 Leaving Derrynane we enjoy a wonderful morning walk around the historic Derrynane National Park and Abbey Island with great coastal vistas. This was once the home of Daniel O’Connell, The Liberator. From here we continue along this majestic coastline with views out to the Skellig Rock, to the lovely village of Waterville. Short transfer this afternoon to Caherciveen for evening meal and overnight accommodation. Walk Details - Distance: 16kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 300m. Some road walking, grass tracks and rough heather. Boots essential.

Day 6 This is your Free Day. However, we do offer to arrange a visit to the famous and spectacular monastic island of Skellig Michael, 12 kms. off the coast, if weather, sea and boats permit! A walk on Valentia Island is another excellent possibility Dinner and overnight in Caherciveen

Day 7 Today, we follow an ancient and fascinating stagecoach trail from Kells, just outside Caherciveen, and enjoy the most wonderful scenery of the week as we walk along the shores on Dingle Bay east towards Glenbeigh. A truly memorable walk for our last day on the Ivreagh Peninsula. Transfer back to Caherciveen. Overnight and farewell dinner in Caherciveen. Walk Details - Distance: 18kms. Duration: 5hours. Max. Height: 450m. Grass and rocky tracks, open bog land and some road walking. Boots essential.

Day 8 Departures. After breakfast, we offer a courtesy transfer to Killarney Bus/Rail Station arriving there at approx 09.45/10.00 hrs. From there you will find bus connections to Shannon Airport - 3 hrs. approx and Cork Airport – 2 hrs. approx.

ANTRIM - NORTHERN IRELAND ANTRIM Trip Outline The coastal village of Carnlough is our base for the first three nights as we explore the beauty of the nine Glens of Antrim and the surrounding hills. For the next four nights we stay in the market town of Ballycastle on the north coast of Antrim, famous for its Oul’ Lammas Fair. From Ballycastle we explore the area around Fair Head, the north-easternmost tip of Ireland. On our free day, weather permitting, we make a day trip by boat to Rathlin Island. We then walk along the Causeway Coast and visit the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. Our final day’s walk takes us inland from Ballycastle over Knocklayd to Glendun.

Day 1 Courtesy Airport Collection Service from Belfast City Airport @ 16:00hrs, and from Belfast Central Bus & Train Station (Europa) (within our timetable). Arrive at our first guesthouse on the Antrim Coast at Carnlough, our stop for the next three nights. We will have an evening meal together and a general chat about the coming week’s walks.
Day 2 Our first walk takes us along the Ulster Way where we have excellent views over the North Channel towards Galloway and Kintyre. We walk along the Sallagh Braes and continue across Scawt Hill to Glenarm. This has to be one of the finest walks in Northern Ireland. History is all around us with wonderful panoramic views. Return to our accommodation for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 18kms. Duration: 6 hours. Max. Height: 420m. Rough and rugged terrain with no tracks. Can be wet underfoot, some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 3 For today’s walk we ascend the escarpment behind Carnlough along an old mining trail and cross this plateau with its unrivalled views. We then trace a circuit through the famous Forest Park in Glenariff, the Queen of the Antrim Glens. Return via the Miners Trail to Carnlough for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 18kms. Duration: 6 hours. Max. Height: 400m. Grass tracks and rough mountain with no tracks, and some road walking. Rocky terrain and which can be wet underfoot – boots are essential.
Day 4 From Carnlough we continue North along the coastline of the Antrim Glens to do a walk via Fair Head and Murlough Bay. This is a spectacular walk from where we get our first views of Rathlin Island and the Mull of Kintyre across the narrow channel to Scotland. We continue to Ballycastle (our accommodation for the next four nights) for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 14kms. Duration: 4.5 hours. Max. Height: 400m. Grass tracks and some rough cliff walks, with and without tracks. This is a circular walk. Boots are essential.
Day 5 In Ballycastle, enjoy a ‘free day’ which allows you to partake in other activities if you wish – such as cycling, horseriding, canoeing or just laze about with a book! Weather permitting, we may arrange to take the ferry (45 mins.) across to historic Rathlin Island with its many lighthouses, world famous bird sanctuary and its coastline surrounded by the treacherous waters of the North Irish Sea. Here you have the option to partake in either a cycling or walking activity. We do a circular walk down to the Southern Lighthouse. We also view the treacherous waters of the Corrie Vreckan. We return by ferry to our accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 6 After breakfast we visit the spectacular Carrickarede Rope Bridge. We then travel west to start our walk which snakes along the famed cliffs of the Causeway Coast, passing the sands of White Park Bay and the ruins of Dunseverick Castle. Finally, we descend to explore the magical realm of the Giant’s Causeway. Transfer back to our accommodation for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 16kms. Duration: 6 hours. Max. Height: 150m. This is a lovely cliff path walk. Some beach also and a little rocky terrain, grassy tracks. Boots essential.
Day 7 Our final day’s walking takes us along the Moyle Way from south west of Ballycastle, over Knocklayd Mountain, via Breen Wood Nature Reserve to finish in Glendun. This is challenging end to an exciting weeks walking! Transfer back to our accommodation in for overnight and final dinner. Walk Details - Distance: 18kms. Duration: 6 hours. Max. Height: 520m. Grass, forest and rocky tracks, and a little road walking - boots recommended.
Day 8 Departures. After breakfast we return you to Belfast Central Bus & Rail Station (Europa) for your onward journey. You will have excellent connections from here to Dublin and Belfast Airports. A bus to Dublin takes 2 hrs. approx  Energetic Grading

DONEGAL: Trip Outline The heritage town of Ardara, a centre for the tweed industry, is your base for the first three nights as you explore the beauty of South-West Donegal. You visit Glencolumbcille with its pilgrimage sites and climb the spectacular Slieve League. You then move North to the district of Gweedore for the next three nights. On your ‘free day’ you will have time to partake in other activities if you wish and we may arrange a boat trip Aran Island, weather and time permitting. You then climb Errigal, Donegal’s highest mountain. Your final walk takes you to the cliffs around Horn Head near Dunfanaghy. The last night’s accommodation is at Letterkenny, from where there are good connections for departures via Derry, Donegal, Dublin and other centres.

Day 1 Courtesy Collection from Sligo Bus & Rail Station at 17.00 hrs. and Donegal Bus Station in the Diamond at 18.00 hrs. Arrive for overnight at our first guesthouse at Ardara. Evening meal together and a general chat about the coming week’s walks.
Day 2 Our first day we follow the old pilgrimage route at Glencolumbcille, a holy site since the days of St. Columbcille in the 6th century. We enjoy some wonderful coastal scenery along the way and visit some of the places of historical and archaeological interest that abound in this region. At the end of the walk we return to Ardara for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 12kms. Duration: 4½ hours. Max. Height: 300m. Grass tracks and open mountain with rocky sections and no tracks. Some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 3 Today we walk along the famous Slieve League to complete a most impressive walk across these high and spectacular cliffs on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The views are fantastic over Donegal Bay to Benbulben and the mountains of North Mayo. Return to our accommodation in Ardara for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 13kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 750m. Grass tracks and open mountain with rocky sections and no tracks. Some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 4 Morning transfer from Ardara to Maghery near Dungloe (¾ hour). Today’s walk takes us to Croaghegly and the low hills inland from Crohy Head. We gain views of Aranmore and other islands, as well as the headlands of the Rosses dotted with lakes. Transfer to Gweedore for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 15kms. Duration: 4 hours. Max. Height: 245m. Grass tracks and open mountain with rocky sections and no tracks. Some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 5 This is your ‘free day’ to allow you to partake in other activities if you wish – such as cycling, horseriding, canoeing or just laze about with a book! Weather and time permitting, we may arrange a boat trip to Aranmore/Aran Island, an island of ferocious beauty located 5kms. off the Donegal Coast. Return to Bunbeg/Gweedore for dinner and overnight. There is no guided walk today. You are free to decide your own program once you arrive on the island.
Day 6 Today, from the village of Dunlewy we climb Errigal, Donegal’s highest and best known peak. If the day is fine, we will have views southwards towards Slieve Snaght and the brooding depths of the Poisoned Glen; while to the North we will look out over a watery plain towards Bloody Foreland and Tory Island beyond. On our descent we visit the lower peaks of Mackoght (Wee Errigal) and Beaghy. Return to Gweedore for dinner and overnight. Walk Details - Distance: 8kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Height: 751m. Stony tracks and open mountain with rocky sections and no tracks. Some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 7 Our last day’s walk is on the promontory of Horn Head near Dunfanaghy. This spectacular headland offers some fine cliff scenery and views across the wild waters of Sheep Haven to the Rosguill and Fanad Peninsulas. Transfer to Letterkenny for overnight and farewell evening dinner. Walk Details - Distance: 15kms. Duration: 4½ hours. Max. Height: 250m. Grassy tracks and open moorland with rocky sections and no tracks. Some road walking. Boots essential.
Day 8 Departures. After breakfast we transfer you to Letterkenny Bus Station for your onward journey. From Letterkenny there is an excellent bus service to Derry, Donegal, Dublin and to all major towns and airports in Ireland.  Energetic Grading

SLIGO AND LEITRIM: Day 1 Arrive Sligo. Overnight at Sligo/Drumcliffe. Day 2 Lissadell and Raghly - beach walk. Overnight at Sligo/Drumcliffe. Day 3 King's Mountain/Benbulben plateau/ Swiss Valley / Glencar Waterfall. Overnight at Sligo/Drumcliffe. Day 4 Free day - excursion to Lough Gill / Parkes Castle or Inishmurray and Creevykeel (court tomb). Overnight at Boyle. Day 5 Castlebaldwin to Boyle, visiting Carrowkeel megalithic cemetery on Bricklieve Mountains. Overnight at Boyle. Day 6 Castlebaldwin to Ballyfarnon, visiting Heapstown cairn / Labby Rock / Magh Tuireadh (Moyturra). Overnight at Drumshanbo. Day 7 Ballyfarnon to Drumkeeran/Arigna, via Kilronan Mtn. and Corrie Mtn. Overnight at Drumshanbo Day 8 Departures  Energetic Grading


WICKLOW The Dublin and Wicklow mountain range is the largest highland area and the most extensive granite plateau in Ireland. The hills have extensive rounded and heather clad summits with deep valleys, and fantastic views out across the Irish sea. We walk past lakes and farmland, monasteries and forts and the world famous valley of Glandalough. Sika deer may be seen on this holiday. Day 1 Arrive to our Guesthouse near Enniskerry, where we stay for the next 2 nights. Days 2&3 Walking the famous Boglands of Kippure and Lough Bray we cross to the eastern side of the mountains with views over the famous Wicklow Gap. Days 4,5 & 6: Lough Dan and Glendalough with its monasteries, churches, lakes and valleys. Overnighs are spent near the restful village of Laragh. Day 7 The Glen of Imaal and rugged Lugnaquilla dominate todays walk as we enjoy our final day in the beautiful 'Garden of Ireland'. Overnight in Glenmalure. Day 8 Departures.  Energetic Grading

WEST CORK & ISLANDS - BEARA PENINSULA -Scenic peninsula between Cork and Kerry. Day 1 Arrival in Glengarriff where we stay two nights-a glorious little town made famous by Garnish Island. Days 2, 3 & 4 Walking through the Caha mountains we enjoy glorious views over Bantry Bay and then spend another two days along the coast of this wonderful area. Two nights are spent in Castletown bere. Days 5 & 6 Our next two nights are spent in Allihies as we move further west along the peninsula visiting the famous Dursey Island and exploring the mountains near Allihies-rich in copper mining history. Day 7 We transfer to Killarney for our final night enjoying a wonderful inland walk with great views across the impressive Kenmare Bay on the way. Day 8 Departures  Energetic Grading

BURREN/CONNEMARA Wonderful, contrasting scenery. The Burren offers a moon-like limestone landscape, with a wealth of flora. Connemara was originally a place known only to fishermen, but is now a walkers paradise. Day 1 Arrive to first Guesthouse near Ballyvaughan where we stay for three nights. Days 2 & 3 We explore the Burren in depth-enjoying walks over the spectacular Gleninagh mountain and the legendary Turlough Hill. Days 4 & 5 Moving west along Galway Bay to Clifden we immerse ourselves in Connemara and also take a day out for a boat-trip to Inisbofin Island-weather permitting. Days 6 & 7 Our last two days take us further north to Leenane as we cross the Twelve Bens and walk along Killary Harbour-Ireland’s only fjord. Day 8 Departures Energetic Grading


ACHILL ISLANDModerate Grading This Guided Walking holiday offers a region of Ireland that seems to have been missed by others, thankfully. The North-Western Coast of Mayo, rich in archaeological landscape, with its flourishing flora and fauna, majestic cliffs and rocky coves, is just waiting to be discovered by the walker. The Mullet Peninsula, as it “hangs off” the Mayo Coast, dominated this region and we have selected two walking days on Benwee Head and Erris Head that will give you a great feeling and understanding of this wild and rugged coast. The area is known for its interplay with light and water. The rocks and cliffs are given a magical pink or reddish hue when sunlight falls on them as it sets in the evening Western sky. Irish is spoken in these districts and the people are just waiting to welcome you with a warmth that has to be experienced to be appreciated. For the history lover and heritage, mythology or folklore lovers – this area has everything!

Achill Island (24kms x 19kms) is the largest island in the country and was first inhabited over 5,000 years ago. It is now accessible from the mainland by a new bridge completed in 2008. Its magnificent blue flag sandy beaches, sea cliffs, open mountain tops and raised peat bogs together with the warm hospitality of the “locals” bring visitors back again and again for holidays. Visit and walk the beautiful villages of Dooagh and Keel, the high cliffs at Achill Head, the magnificent beaches at Keel and Keem, Slievemore and Minaun, the highest mountains on the island. The island has a wealth of archaeological remains with a very strong historical and cultural heritage which goes with West Coast Island life. Achill has a thriving local craft-making tradition with Irish music playing a big part in the islands entertainment. Irish is still being spoken in many of the villages and townlands. You have to discover for yourself what makes Achill unique and a place apart … join us for this walking holiday!

Southern Islands Mini-Break Guided Walking Holiday The "magic" of Island life comes alive in this Walking Tour, covering the Southern Islands of West Cork and Roaring Water Bay. Island people have uniqueness and character which has to be experienced to be appreciated, but its the wealth of history, culture, wildlife, flora and fauna that makes this trip special…not to mention the stunning, wild and rugged scenery. The island people are waiting to welcome you, show you their heritage and share the history of these most beautiful Islands.
Day 1 Arrive to the little fishing village of Baltimore, looking out at the Fastnet Rock. Transfer by ferry at 17.40 hrs to Sherkin Island for our first night’s accommodation. Evening meal together and a general chat about the coming week’s walks. A short walk after dinner sets the tone for this holiday. Meeting time at Baltimore Harbour is 17.00 hours.
Day 2 After breakfast we walk around the magnificent Sherkin Island. a treasure of nature. The birdlife of its historical shores attracts people from all over the world. Overnight and dinner on Sherkin. Walk Details: Full day’s walking - 5 to 6 hours. Level walks. Open countryside. Boots essential.
Day 3 Today we transfer by ferry from Sherkin to Cape Clear, with a walkl on the northern shore, stunning views over to Schull and Mount Gabrial, not to mention the remains of the O’Driscoll Castle, now lasted by the seas. Overnight and Dinner on Cape Walk Details: Half day’s walking - 4 hours. Slight hills. Open countryside. Boots essential.
Day 4 A full day’s walking on Cape Clear, where its vast depth of history, archaeology, culture, music and wildlife awaits us. Views West to Mizen Head and South to the Fastnet Rock make this day a memorable experience. Overnight and evening dinner on Cape Clear Island. Walk Details: Full day’s walking. 5 to 6 hours. Level walks. Open countryside. Boots essential
Day 5 After breakfast we say “goodbye” to Island life and take a leisurely ferry trip through the islands of Roaring Water Bay, past Sherkin and Heir as we return back to the seaside village to Baltimore for our farewell and onward departure. Arrival in Baltimore at approx 1030hrs. Public Bus service back to Cork City, Airport and Killarney. Excellent Taxi service available if required. Should you wish us to arrange transfers to/from the Walk location, delighted to do so … please do ask at time of booking. Pre/Post tour extra nights available also. … again please do ask at time of booking.  Moderate Grading


Week long Ireland Walking Tours run Saturday pm to Saturday am.
One of our favorites:

DINGLE PENINSULA
Day 1 A courtesy transfer from Shannon or Kerry Airports (within our timetable). Arrive to first Guesthouse in Tralee where we stay for the next 2 nights of our holiday. Evening meal together and a general chat about the coming week.

Day 2 Wonderful walk along the Slieve Mish Mountains from Tralee overlooking North Kerry and Tralee Bay. Finish walk in Camp and transfer back to Tralee. Evening meal in local restaurant. Walk Details - Distance: 16kms. Duration: 5 hours. Max. Ascent: 250m. Rocky and sometimes muddy mountain track. Boots essential.

Day 3-4-5 Based close to the lively fishing port of Dingle we spend the next three days exploring this fabulous part of Ireland with spectacular coastal walks and breathtaking mountain walks. We will also take a boat trip to the Blasket Island if the weather permits.
Days 6 & 7 Walking across the peninsula from south to north we descend in to the lovely village of Cloghane to spend our final two nights and explore this area in more detail.
Day 8 Departures. An early courtesy transfer will be offered to the group from Cloghane to Tralee. From Tralee there is an excellent bus and train service to all major towns, cities and villages in Ireland. An early courtesy transfer back to Shannon Airport will also be offered.
Courtesy Airport Transfers:- Shannon Collection at 12 noon & 16.00hrs Return back to Shannon before 12 noon but no earlier than 10.00am Kerry Collection at 16.00hrs Return back before 10.00am

TRADITIONAL IRELAND (NORTH KERRY, BURREN (CLARE) VERY EASY WALK Visit Listowel, with its market square and the Stack Mountains, the Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher, and Doolin, the birthplace of Irish music. The walking is not so hard. It is the nightlife that saps the energy! See itinerary below.

Traditional Ireland Itinerary
The first three nights are spent at the market town of Listowel, located in North Kerry, half an hours drive from Tralee. Our walks explore the coastal scenery near Ardfert and Ballyheigue. On Day 4 we then cross the Shannon and move on to Clare, where we spend the afternoon walking at the Cliffs of Moher. Doolin will our base for the next four nights. Day 5 is your free day and you have the chance to visit one of the Aran Islands, weather permitting. Usually this is Inisheer, the easternmost island of the group. On Days 6 and 7 we explore the Burren landscape with walks at Black Head and on the slopes of Slieve Elva.Day 1 The first three nights are spent in Listowel, a busy market town, made famous by it's many writers, including John B. Keane, author of "The Field".
Moderate Grading
 

Sheep’s Head Cook & Walk Guided 4-Day Easy Walk

The Sheep’s Head Peninsula is a peaceful and unchanged corner of southwest Ireland offering a variety of terrain, all with beautiful views. It takes in a superb moorland crest and rugged cliffs as well as easy lowland terrain. The Sheep’s Head Way is a long distance walk encompassing The Sheep’s Head Peninsula and the general Bantry area. In keeping with the special beauty of the Peninsula, the Way is signposted differently from that of most other walks, utilizing local stone and Irish Oak for ‘walking man’ markers. The 17th Century Book of Survey and Distribution has described much of this Peninsula as “being all rocky and frequented only by eagles and birds – never to be inhabited by reason of the rough incommodities”… sounds like the perfect walking terrain!

Join that with the most magnificent food you can imagine – grown locally – lots of it organic, and learn how to cook a variety of dishes with expert Carmel Somers in her restaurant overlooking the shores of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula – and you have a taste of heaven on earth. This trip is a real immersion into what is good in Ireland – good food, good walking, good scenery, good accommodation – all adding up to a GREAT holiday.

Trip Outline
Day 1 Arrive in Bantry and meet your guide at 18.00hrs. Briefing session on what to expect over the coming days. Settle into your accommodation base & eat locally near Bantry. Bantry is a busy, bustling market town at the head of the famous and beautiful Bantry Bay is the heart of West Cork. It has a population of approximately 5,000. The main industries are tourism and mari-culture (Bantry Bay mussels are exported worldwide and the annual Mussel Festival held each May attracts thousands of visitors). Historic Bantry House and gardens are open to the public and the annual music festivals held in Bantry House bring thousands to the town each year.
Day 2 Starting from the village of Ahakista – today’s walk gives us a taste of everything – wonderful coastal views, mountain walking, with tracks and road stretches along the way. We walk from the south of the Peninsula to the north and back again to complete our circuit. At the end of the walk we return to our accommodation for a quick change of clothes before introducing ourselves to our Chef – Carmel who will feed us tonight & introduce us to her wonderful cooking. Walk Details - Distance: 13kms. Duration: 6 hours. Max. Height: 270m. Mountain tracks and open off track mountain, green roads/tracks and road walking. Can be wet – boots essential.

Day 3 After breakfast we drive back to the cookery school to learn about breakfast and dinner options. Immerse ourselves in “hand’s on” cooking and prepare our own dinner. Then – when all is prepared – we leave & transfer to the tip of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula to enjoy a wonderful walk around the tip. Return to our accommodation for a change of clothes and then back to our restaurant to enjoy what we prepared earlier as our own dinner. Walk Details - Distance: 4 or 7kms. Duration: 2 to 3 hours. Max. Height: 230m. Mountain tracks and open off track mountain, green roads/tracks and road walking. Can be wet – boots essential.

Day 4 Starting our morning with a visit to our Chef – we plan and prepare lunch. Enjoying all the information and tips that Carmel can give us – we then leave for the hills again. A short drive from the Restaurant takes us to the spine of the Sheep's Head Peninsula where we walk along the mountains in the centre of this glorious peninsula. With views north over Bantry Bay and south over Dunmanus Bay we soak in the stunning views before returning to eat our lunch. Our final meal together celebrates our success at mastering some wonderful cooking & enjoying some fantastic walking. Returning to our accommodation later that afternoon, we collect our bags and prepare for our onward journeys. Walk Details - Distance: 4kms. Duration: 2 hours. Max. Height: 225m. Mountain tracks and open off track mountain, green roads/tracks and road walking.
Can be wet – boots essential.
Recommended Arrival Airports: Cork

Recommended items We also recommend the following: • Lunch box & thermos flask • Midge repellent cream • Gaiters • Waterproof wax or spray for your boots • Any specific personal medical requirements • Camera & Lots of Film! Please Note: It is our experience that denim jeans & rain-capes are not suitable for walking in Ireland.

Traveling alone?
Some people do not take an active vacation because they find themselves in the position of having to travel alone. What they usually don’t know is that many active people travel alone. Our walkers may be tired at the end of the day but they will never be alone. The people in your group share your sense of adventure and exploration - they are as interested in meeting you, as you are interested in meeting them. There is NO additional supplement or those willing to share a two-bedded room with someone of the same sex. If you require a room on your own — there will be an additional supplement charged. A limited number of single rooms are available at a cost of $50 per night.

COLLECTION SCHEDULES If you do not wish to avail of this service, we will meet you in your first accommodation at 18:00 hours.

For Guided 8 Day Holidays
Tour Name	Collection Airport	Pick up time	*Return to
Antrim Coast/Glens	Belfast City Airport	16.00 hrs.	Belfast Rail Station
Antrim Coast/Glens	Belfast Central Bus Station (Europa)	16.00 hrs.	Belfast Rail Station
Burren Connemara	Shannon Airport	12 Noon	Galway Bus/Rail Station
Dingle Peninsula	Shannon Airport	12 Noon	Tralee Bus/Rail Station
Dingle Peninsula	Cork Airport	14.00 hrs.	Tralee Bus/Rail Station
Dingle Peninsula	Kerry Airport	16.00 hrs.	Tralee Bus/Rail Station
Discover Donegal	Sligo Bus/Rail Station	17.00 hrs.	Letterkenny Bus/Rail Station
Discover Donegal	Donegal Bus Station	18.00 hrs.	Letterkenny Bus/Rail Station
Ring of Kerry	Shannon Airport	12 Noon	Killarney Bus/Rail Station
Ring of Kerry	Cork Airport	14.00 hrs.	Killarney Bus/Rail Station
Ring of Kerry	Kerry Airport	16.00 hrs.	Killarney Bus/Rail Station
Achill/Mayo Coast	Castlebar Rail Station	16.00 hrs.	Castlebar Rail Station
Traditional Ireland	Shannon Airport	12 Noon	Ennis Bus/Rail Station
Traditional Ireland.	Kerry Airport	16.00 hrs.	Ennis Bus/Rail Station
West Cork/Islands.	Cork Airport	12.00 hrs.	Killarney Bus/Rail Station
Wicklow Way	Dublin Airport	16.00 hrs.	Wicklow Bus/Rail Station

Courtesy collections are available on Saturdays only.

Travelling with your group of friends? If 6 or more of you want to come on a walking vacation specially designed for your own group — we will be happy to organize this for you. We will be delighted to help you with a walking tour of your choice and make it exclusive to your group. If you would like a "mixed" itinerary that does NOT appear here — we will be happy to put something specific together for you. If you are travelling with 6 or less people — then we will be happy to incorporate your group into one of our Escorted Tours, or a Special Leisure Interest Vacation or we can organize an Independent vacation for you.....

Self Guided Walking Vacations
As a Self-Guided hiker you will guide yourself from place to place at your own leisure. It is advisable that you can map read and compass navigate however we provide full detailed information and tour descriptions with maps and route notes for each days walking. Your accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage is transported for you each day. We keep in contact by phone to answer any questions or queries you may have, and to ensure the continued smooth running of your self guided walking vacation. Our 24-hour emergency telephone service leaves you great peace of mind, safe in the knowledge that a 'local' person can be contacted at any time. Each day's hiking can vary in length from 18-25 kms and in height from sea level to 550 meters. Optional extra days are available to allow you to spend extra time in some of the most scenic areas on your holiday, exploring more of the locality or enjoying a well earned 'rest day'.
Self Guided Price per person, based on two persons (min.) traveling together.
Including

• A route planned for you
• Accommodation with bath each night
• Full breakfast daily
• Luggage transfer
• All taxes

Please Email Us For Information