5-Day Spectacular South and West Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin
Overview
Available languages
5 days
Mobile ticket
Cycle through the mountains and lakes of Killarney National Park, follow sheep-lined cliff paths in Dingle, stand on the edge of the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, and absorb the creative bohemian spirit of Galway. These five days are filled with scenery, history, storytelling, food, music, heritage and laughter, creating a journey you won’t want to end.
This 5-day small-group tour of Ireland is perfect for travellers who want adventure, culture and incredible scenery in a short timeframe. If you are searching for an activity holiday in Ireland that captures the very best of the south and west, this itinerary delivers a full and authentic Irish experience, all in just five unforgettable days.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a small group tour with a max of 15 people
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Please advise if you have any health issues that may prevent you from taking part on some of the activities so that we can arrange alternative options for you
Please advise if you wish to have a private room as a single occupancy charge will apply
If activities or experiences are cancelled due to weather conditions no refunds will be provided
Max luggage is 70 cm in length (medium suitcase) and hand luggage
What To Expect
Cork, the Rebel County
Accommodations
Kinsale Hotel/Blindgate
Rock of Cashel
Your 5-day Ireland tour begins as we leave Dublin and journey south into the heart of County Cork, one of the most vibrant and culturally rich regions in Ireland. Our first stop is the iconic Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most celebrated heritage sites. Explore its medieval round tower, cathedral and chapel, all perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop overlooking the Golden Vale.
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Then it is onward to Cork, described by Lonely Planet as “at the top of its game: sophisticated, vibrant, and diverse.” Here, you will experience one of Ireland’s most beloved traditions, kissing the Blarney Stone! According to legend, this ancient stone bestows the “gift of the gab” on all who kiss it. The stone sits proudly inside the magnificent Blarney Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and the enchanting Rock Close, a mystical corner filled with waterfalls, fairy glades and druid stones.
Kinsale
We end our day in the colourful harbour town of Kinsale, renowned for its award-winning restaurants, lively art scene and coastal beauty. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner followed by a sunset stroll along the waterfront, a truly magical first night on your Ireland adventure.
Kenmare & Killarney National Park
Accommodations
Dingle Marina Lodge
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Kenmare
After breakfast in Kinsale, we begin our journey west toward Kenmare, a picturesque town often described as the jewel of the Ring of Kerry. Here, you will have time to explore its colourful streets, browse local craft shops and visit the ancient Kenmare Stone Circle, one of the largest in southwest Ireland.
Killarney National Park
From Kenmare, we travel along one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies’ View for breathtaking panoramic photos before descending into Killarney National Park. Once in the park, you will have the chance to explore by bike, cycling through peaceful woodland and along the lakeshore past Muckross House & Gardens and the trail to Torc Waterfall. There are several routes to choose from, each offering its own charm, history, and unforgettable scenery.
Dingle
By late afternoon, we continue west to the vibrant coastal town of Dingle, famous for its colourful shopfronts, lively pubs, warm hospitality and fantastic seafood. This evening is yours to relax, explore, and soak up the atmosphere, perhaps with a pint of Guinness and some live traditional music!
Dingle & The Slea Head Peninsula
Accommodations
No unpacking needed as we have another night in Dingle Marina Lodge
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Dingle Peninsula
Wake up to another incredible day on the Wild Atlantic Way as we explore the very best of Dingle and its breathtaking coastline. This morning begins with an unforgettable kayaking adventure in Dingle Bay, where you will glide across crystal-clear waters, paddle into hidden sea caves and take in the rugged beauty of the surrounding cliffs. It is one of the most memorable experiences of the entire tour.
Slea Head Drive
After returning to your accommodation to freshen up and enjoy lunch, we set off on the world-famous Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal routes. Highlights include the Famine Cottages and pet farm, ancient Beehive Huts, the dramatic sands of Coomeenoule Beach, the winding path down to Dunquin Pier and the fascinating Blasket Centre, where you can learn about island life on the edge of Europe. We return to Dingle in the early evening, where you will have free time to enjoy its colourful streets, cosy pubs, and incredible seafood. With a second night in this charming harbour town, there is no need to repack, just relax and soak up the magic of Dingle.
The Cliffs of Moher
Accommodations
Doolin Inn
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Our Irish adventure continues as we travel north from Dingle toward County Clare. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Castlegregory and the wild Kerry coastline as we say goodbye to the Dingle Peninsula.
West Kerry Sheep Dog Demonstrations
This morning, prepare to be amazed by a traditional sheepdog demonstration with one of our local farmer friends. Watching the border collies work in perfect harmony with their handler offers a fascinating insight into Ireland’s rural heritage, and it is always a firm guest favourite.
Cliffs of Moher
Next, we cross the River Shannon by ferry and make our way into County Clare, home to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. Here, we will explore the cliffs on foot during a two-and-a-half-hour guided coastal walk, taking in dramatic sea views and the fresh Atlantic air. Your guide will lead you along quieter paths and panoramic vantage points, far away from the crowds, perfect for capturing once-in-a-lifetime photos.
Doolin
This evening, we settle into the charming village of Doolin, known for its colourful cottages, warm hospitality and traditional Irish music sessions. Relax over dinner, enjoy the craic and soak up the atmosphere of Ireland’s magical west coast.
The Aran Islands & Galway, The City of the Tribes
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Inisheer
Your adventure continues with a morning visit to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, and a true hidden gem. Just a short ferry ride from Doolin, this tiny island captures the essence of traditional Irish life with its white-sand beaches, stone-walled fields and friendly locals who still speak Irish as their daily language. Once we arrive, hop on a bicycle and explore at your own pace. Cycle past the shipwreck of the Plassey, wander through a maze of ancient stone walls, visit the island’s lighthouse or simply enjoy the Atlantic views and quiet island atmosphere. Guests can enjoy lunch on Inis Oírr before returning to the mainland.
Dunguaire Castle's
After a scenic ferry cruise beneath the Cliffs of Moher, we travel north toward Galway, passing through the limestone landscape of the Burren National Park. Along the way, we stop to admire Dunguaire Castle, a striking 16th-century tower house overlooking Galway Bay.
Galway
The evening brings your journey to a close as we arrive in Galway, marking the end of this unforgettable 5-day adventure along Ireland’s spectacular west coast. While the tour ends here, we arrange comfortable onward transport for you to Dublin, giving you time to relax and reflect on the incredible landscapes, experiences and stories gathered along the way. We hope you carry a little piece of Ireland with you, and that one day, your travels bring you back to us again.
Options
5-Day Spectacular South and West Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin
What‘s Included
Cliffs of Moher entry
Traditional sheepdog demonstration
Return Ferry to the Aran Islands
Local taxes and charges
4 nights local guesthouse accommodation, carefully selected by our team
Shannon Ferry crossing
Bicycle hire on the Aran Islands
Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay
Air-conditioned luxury mini coach to all locations
Go-Bus transport back to Dublin
Cycle in Killarney National Park
Rock of Cashel
Cliffs of Moher hike
Great breakfast each day
Professional qualified Irish tour guide throughout your trip
Blarney Castle
Lunch and dinners
Gratuities
Pre and post-tour accommodation in Dublin
Travel insurance (recommended)
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
24 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Rabbies Tour With Marcus Exceeds Expecttions
Gerry D,Jun 12, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This 5 day Rabbies tour to the West Coast of Ireland was excellent. We were five adult siblings and two in-laws travelling together . The best part about the tour was our guide, Marcus. He was absolutely professional, making sure we were always safe, but better than that he was full of Irish wit and so much knowledge about the country. He regaled us with tales of his Nan, the fairies and his adventures, He told us ahead of time when we would be stopping and was very perceptive to the group dynamics. The Clonmacnoise monastery gave a wonderful introduction to the religious life of the early Christians in Ireland. Marcus also took us off the main highways so we had a better impression of the rural life .In Galway for the first night we enjoyed the lively ambiance of the town. Marcus always drove us around before dropping us off to point out various places to eat or visit which was very helpful. We enjoyed our visit to the Cliffs of Moher and then we arrived in Killarney. It was great to be able to spend three nights in one place . You could unpack your bags and really relax, Each day we just set out in a different direction to see more beautiful scenery and sites. The stunning vistas of the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry certainly showed off the verdant landscape of Ireland.Marcus even arranged for us to see a demonstration of how a sheepdog works, which was delightful. On the last day we visited the Blarney Castle, which had a beautiful set of gardens. The 16 seater Mercedes-Benz van was very comfortable. We switched seats every day so that people would have different views. When you book a Rabbies tour you can choose to book your own accommodations or you can have Rabbies do them for you. We were very pleased with the accommodations that were selected for us. All the places we stayed in were lovely and included a full English breakfast with various choices. Rabbies policy is to try and support local businesses so people stayed in various accommodations. Marcus was the best ambassador for Ireland and for Rabbies and I highly recommend this tour company. Gerry Winnipeg Canada
Unforgettable experience
Y4787GBmaxm,Jun 10, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour guide, Finn, was absolutely incredible. He was so knowledgeable about literally everything. He had the best recommendations for pubs and restaurants. It was an amazing tour.
A quick, multigenerational tour of the Magical South and West
allisonhA6992RD,Apr 9, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00There were 10 people on our tour with Jimmy as our driver. 8 of those people were our family, ranging in ages from 6-72 years old. Everyone had a wonderful time. The pace was perfect. Most of us a re active and can handle a hike. My mother has bad knees and when they were acting up Jimmy was very accommodating, made suggestions on alternate activities, etc. The minibus was very comfortable, plenty of space and was always stocked up on water. the accommodations were amazing guest houses. Top notch with great breakfasts. Jimmy not only gave great recommendations for places to get lunch or dinner, he would also make tentative reservations for us. Many of these towns are small so the reservations (especially for large groups) fill up. The activities were great. In Kinsale don't miss a walking tour with Barry. Blarney Castle is absolutely amazing, a definite must see. Ross Castle was also interesting. Had we had more time, I would have loved to do the Jaunting Cars or a bicycle ride around Killarney/ The Ring if Kerry. In Dingle, don't miss kayaking with Irish Adventures. The guides Noel and Susie were great, so accommodating. If you are up for it, you will not regret a walk along the peninsula. It seems to many the Sheep dog trials were greatly enjoyed but I found it just ok. Don't get hood winked by the prospect of seeing "Worlds fastest dancer" David Geaney at Dingle Pub. He comes on sometime between 9 to 11:30 pm. He does not dance this whole time. We never saw him because we left at 10:10. There are some really great places to eat in Dingle. don't miss Sheehey's food truck. Actually, I didn't get a bad meal in Dingle, all the restaurants and Pubs were great. Dingle had my favorite accommodations, Emlagh House. It was so gorgeous. all the accommodations they put you up in with Overland are amazing. We got there early and stayed an extra night at the end and their recommendations on the extra nights were great too. They are actually bases for tours to start at Ashling in Dublin and Harbor Hotel in Galway. I would highly recommend an extra day (at least) in Galway, if you can swing it. Hopefully you are able to take part in John's Walking, Talking, Tasting tour in Galway. This was a highlight of the trip for me.
They ROCK!!!
556atai,Sep 20, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I am very pleased with the company! Easy communication by e-mail - they replay to all your questions before booking or after. They are very flexible with the payment and since my card was refusing to work, they sent me PayPal :) and the problem was solved. Maybe a month before the trip they sent us more information and what to expect. Before the trip I received again reminder when, were and what time we are meeting, plus our guide's name and phone number in case we needed to speak with him in the morning before we meet. I had problem with my luggage on the airport and got delayed so I texted that I will be late, and he said that there is no problem, and they will wait for me. Our guide Pat was very chilled, knowledgeable and nice person! Helping with whatever we needed during the travel. He was also booking the restaurants for us and had some nice suggestions. He is patient, funny and so easy to go on a trip with! Thank you for all the effort, Overland Ireland! It's been a magical trip for me and my son! Now I will have to come to Ireland again - loved it there!
Just Book It Now
Megan P,May 20, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00WOW! All I can say is wow. If you're debating about booking with Overland - stop and just do it. Touring with Overland was the best choice I made to see Ireland. I had been before but I wanted to see the small coastal towns and did not want to rent a car. Overland allowed me to see everything I wanted to see and all of the places we went had local guides. I was so thrilled to discover two of the local guides were people I had listened to on Rick Steve's podcasts! I felt like I was meeting some movie stars! The activities were great - I hiked the Cliffs of Moher, biked in the National Park to a waterfall (got a little lost but that was our fault - made for a good story), kayaked on the Atlantic ocean, saw some sheep dogs, and felt like a local in the pubs in Dingle! Also seeing the Cliffs with a local guide is 100% different than just seeing them yourself. I wish I would have had a guide the firs time I was in Ireland. Our guide, Conchubhair, was the absolute best (if Overland is reading this I hope they give him a raise because he went above and beyond to make sure our Ireland trip was the best)! The next time I come to Ireland, I will be booking with Overland to explore the north and the west coast!
Fantastic Trip !!!
alg3jag,Oct 14, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked this tour online based on the reviews and it did not disappoint. Frankie, our driver and guide was stupendous! He is the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. His knowledge of Ireland was quite impressive . He was entertaining and informative at every destination. Very kind and considerate to everyone in the group. The stops throughout Ireland were all spot on - guided tours were fun and interesting - biking through Killarney National Park and hiking the Cliffs of Moher were amazing - 17 strangers on Sunday were great friends at the end. I highly recommend Overland Tours to anyone who wants a fun, active trip.
Great experience, would book with Overland Ireland again
Jeanette W,Oct 10, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My husband and my first tour. Very happy we chose Overland Ireland. It was a group of 15 which was a perfect size, not too big, had a great intimate feel. Frankie Burke was our tour guide and driver for 5 days around the south and west coasts of Ireland. He was an excellent knowledgeable host as well as a very competent driver. Frankie kept the inside of the van spotless and at a comfortable cruising temperature. There was never a dull moment with Frankie’s sense of humor, quick wit & stories. His restaurant and pub recommendations were spot on. We’d definitely come back again.
Zest tour with Pat
Peggy T,Sep 17, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nine of us joined together to explore the Wild Atlantic Way with the best guide I’ve ever had, Pat O’M. We were all over 50 and of a wide range of fitness levels. We all ended up feeling challenged but never pushed. Thanks for your humor and your kindness, Pat!
Awesome way to discover Ireland
Larisa C,Sep 17, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Hats off to Pat our tour guide, driver and advisor on the best pubs with trad music. We thoroughly enjoyed our small group experience, which was our first, as we are typically solo travelers. It was our first time in Ireland, and we chose this tour for a few reasons, first I didn't wanted to spend a lot of time planning this trip, coordinating transport, lodging, dining. Second, we had only a week of time in Ireland and wanted to see as much as possible. OverIreland score big on both of this points and did all the planning for us and well as offered an opportunity to cover a lot of ground. Pros: You don't have to worry about anything, it is not all inclusive, however Pat was our culinary advisor in addition to his other talents, and booked dinners as well as made suggestions for lunch. Logging was all included and of a good quality. Tours were outstanding, I couldn't imaging that we would be able to see as much on our own as we did on the tour. Transportation is included and sitting on the Mercedes mini-bus was comfortable and plenty. Food was delicious, you don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy fresh, well prepared local dishes in the pubs, or B&Bs, where you can enjoy a pint or two of fantastic Irish beer. Ireland is definitely making strides to become one of the new culinary destinations in Europe. Cons: Not enough time left in the day after finishing activities to explore local towns.
Spectacular south and west tour
Xandria G,Sep 12, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My mom and I chose this tour because of their great reviews and promise of being an active tour with choosing the Zest tour. The tour did not disappoint! The bus rides were kept as short as possible to get to where you needed to be with ample amounts of stops for coffee or restroom breaks. The locations that were chosen for the tour were amazing towns with loads of character. Kinsale, Dingle, and Doolin are where the B&Bs were located and were great towns to stay in. Loved the cycle through Killarney and the kayaking in Dingle to see fungi. The Cliffs of Moher hike was a longer hike although not strenuous and was absolutely stunning. Marie was our guide for the tour and was a spectacular storyteller and fact giver for the duration of the tour! She gave us the insider’s view of Ireland and tried to make our tour as fun as possible!
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Operated by Overland Ireland LTD