8 Day Emerald Explorer Small Group of tour of Ireland

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Overview

Available languages

English

192 hours

Mobile ticket

Experience the very best of Ireland at a slower, more relaxed pace. The Emerald Explorer Tour is designed for travellers who want to truly take their time, to explore, connect and soak up the beauty of the Emerald Isle without feeling rushed.

Over eight unforgettable days, you will discover Ireland’s most iconic landscapes and cultural highlights, from Ireland’s Ancient East to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry and beyond.

This small-group Ireland tour covers over 1,100 km of stunning coastline, blending famous sights with hidden gems and authentic local experiences. From Dublin to Connemara, every day is carefully planned to offer the perfect mix of sightseeing, storytelling and free time to unwind and enjoy each destination.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

There is free time on this trip

Driving time average 2.5 hours per day

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

It is recommended to pack lots of light layers, a raincoat, and sunscreen

Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase (maximum is 143lbs or 65 liters) and 1 carry-on bag

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

If activities or experiences are cancelled due to weather conditions no refund will be provided

Solo traveller supplement will apply for private ensuite room

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

What To Expect

Day 1

Dublin- Glendalough- Kilkenny

Accommodations

Kilkenny Hibernian

1

Sally Gap

Your 8-day Ireland adventure begins as we depart Dublin along Ireland’s Ancient East, travelling the scenic Military Road through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains. Along the way, soak in the dramatic views of rolling hills, deep valleys and shimmering lakes that make this region so unforgettable.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
2

Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Our first stop is the historic Glendalough Monastery, nestled in a glacial valley surrounded by two peaceful lakes. With your expert local guide, you will explore the monastery’s ancient ruins and walking trails while taking in its tranquil, picture-perfect scenery.

1 hour • Admission Included
3

Kilkenny Castle

Next, we visit Kilkenny Castle for a guided tour, one of Ireland’s most impressive and best-preserved castles. Step back in time as you wander through its grand halls, elegant rooms and fascinating art collections.

1 hour • Admission Included
Day 2

Blarney to Killarney

Accommodations

Killarney Towers

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Cahir Castle

“It’s a long way to Tipperary…” as the song goes, but just a short and scenic journey from Kilkenny to the impressive Cahir Castle. Dating back to the 13th century and standing proudly on a rocky island in the River Suir, this magnificent fortress offers fascinating insights into Ireland’s medieval past.

1 hour • Admission Included
2

Blarney Castle & Gardens

Next, we travel to one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, Blarney Castle and Gardens. Here, you will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and receive the famed “gift of the gab.” Take time to wander through the castle’s stunning gardens, explore its mysterious dungeons and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by lush scenery.

2 hours • Admission Included
3

Killarney

This evening, we arrive in the lively town of Killarney, the beating heart of the Kingdom of Kerry. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening filled with traditional music, great food and warm Kerry hospitality, a true highlight of your 8-day Ireland adventure.

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable
Day 3

The Kerry Experience

Accommodations

Dingle Marina Lodge

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Killarney National Park

We begin the morning exploring Muckross House and Gardens, a magnificent 19th-century Victorian mansion set within Killarney National Park. Take a stroll through the lush gardens or enjoy a coffee overlooking the lakes before continuing on foot to the nearby Torc Waterfall, one of Kerry’s most photographed natural gems.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
2

Gap of Dunloe

Next, experience the breathtaking Gap of Dunloe, a glacial mountain pass carved between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain Range. Take time to enjoy the dramatic scenery and capture stunning photos of one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes. Guests who wish may choose to take a traditional jaunting car ride through the valley (optional, not included).

1 hour • Admission Not Included
3

Dingle

From here, we continue west toward the colourful harbour town of Dingle, travelling through some of Kerry’s most scenic countryside. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Dingle’s charming streets, famous seafood restaurants and lively pubs filled with traditional music.

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable
Day 4

Dingle Peninsula

Accommodations

Dingle Marina Lodge

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Dingle

This morning, we set off on one of Ireland’s most breathtaking routes, the iconic Slea Head Drive. With every turn, the Dingle Peninsula reveals something new: sweeping Atlantic views, windswept cliffs, ancient stone huts and tiny coves carved into the coastline. It is the kind of place where you will want to keep your camera close, and your eyes wide open.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
2

Slea Head Drive

We will stop at some of the peninsula’s most unforgettable viewpoints, from the Beehive Huts to Gallarus Oratory, Dunquin Pier and the golden sands of Coomeenoule Beach. Your guide will share stories, local legends and favourite hidden spots along the way, making this an experience you will remember long after the tour ends.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
3

Dingle Distillery

In the afternoon, we return to Dingle for a special treat, a guided tour of the renowned Dingle Distillery, home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated craft spirits. Discover how their award-winning whiskey, gin, and vodka are made and enjoy a tasting that captures the true spirit of the peninsula.

1 hour • Admission Included
4

Dingle

Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening in Dingle’s colourful harbour town. Browse local craft shops, sip a creamy Guinness, listen to traditional music drifting from cosy pubs, or simply wander the waterfront as the sun sets over Dingle Bay.

8 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
Day 5

Dingle to The Cliffs of Moher

Accommodations

Armada Hotel

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Conor Pass

Embark on a scenic journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, starting with a breathtaking drive through the Conor Pass and crossing the River Shannon into County Clare.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

County Clare

Late morning, we journey north and cross the River Shannon by ferry, a short, scenic crossing that offers beautiful coastal views and a chance to spot seabirds along the way. As we arrive into County Clare, the landscape transforms into the dramatic limestone beauty of the Burren.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
3

Cliffs of Moher

After a lunch stop in the lively seaside village of Lahinch, it’s time for one of the true highlights of the tour, the Cliffs of Moher. Rising 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, these world-famous cliffs are an unforgettable sight. Stroll the cliff paths, take in the sweeping views and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air, this is one of Ireland’s most iconic moments.

2 hours • Admission Included
4

Spanish Point

This evening, we make our way to the beautiful coastal village of Spanish Point, where we will stay for the night. Known for its long sandy beach, ocean views and peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Enjoy cosy pubs, delicious local seafood and the warm West Clare hospitality that makes this region so special.

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable
Day 6

Burren National Park to Galway

Accommodations

Hyde Hotel Galway

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Burren Farm Experience

This morning begins with a truly memorable Irish experience: an Irish Farm Safari with our friends at the Burren Farm Experience. Your local hosts will share their 200-year family history and guide you across their 500-acre working farm in the heart of the UNESCO-recognised Burren. You will get to walk, taste and explore your way through one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes, learning how traditional farming thrives in this wild, stony region.

2 hours • Admission Included
2

The Burren

Discover The Burren National Park, a unique landscape in county Clare, characterized by its limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and ancient monuments. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that have adapted to thrive in this challenging environment.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
3

Galway

Spend the afternoon wandering Galway’s colourful cobbled streets, lively pubs, boutique shops and buzzing cafés. Soak up the city’s creative energy and enjoy dinner in one of its award-winning restaurants. Tonight, you will stay right in the heart of Galway City, surrounded by its famous nightlife, music scene and unforgettable West of Ireland atmosphere.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
Day 7

The Connemara Experience

Accommodations

Hyde Hotel Galway

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Connemara

Wake up in Galway City and get ready to explore the rugged beauty of Connemara, a land of shimmering lakes, soaring mountains and timeless Irish culture. Our adventure begins as we travel through the Galway Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region), passing Lough Corrib, Ireland’s largest lake. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the language, traditions and landscapes that make this part of Ireland so special.

Admission Not Applicable
2

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

Next, we visit the iconic Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens, set on a 1,000-acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and framed by the peaks of Connemara National Park. Stroll through the elegant gardens, learn about the Benedictine nuns who still call the abbey home and enjoy lunch in the onsite café.

1 hour • Admission Included
3

Leenane

Afterwards, we pause in the picturesque village of Leenaun, where you can admire sweeping views over Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord - a truly unforgettable sight.

Admission Not Applicable
4

Killary Sheep Farm

The highlight of the afternoon is a traditional sheepdog demonstration in the heart of Connemara. Watch a skilled farmer and his clever dogs work in perfect harmony to herd sheep across the hills, an authentic Irish experience that guests consistently rank as one of their favourites.

1 hour • Admission Included
5

Cong

Our scenic return to Galway brings us through the charming village of Cong, made famous by the classic film The Quiet Man starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
6

Galway

This evening, return to Galway City for your final night of the tour. Celebrate an unforgettable week with dinner, drinks and perhaps one last session of traditional Irish music!

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable
Day 8

Clonmacnoise and Irish Coffee!

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Galway

After a final night in the vibrant city of Galway, your last day begins with a delicious and engaging Walk, Talk & Taste Tour. Led by a passionate local guide, you will explore the city through its stories, streets and flavours, wandering historic lanes, hearing fascinating tales of Galway’s past and sampling some of the region’s finest local food along the way. It is a wonderful way to experience the heart and soul of the City of the Tribes.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
2

Dublin

Following the tour, we bid farewell to the west and begin our journey back to Dublin, travelling east through Ireland’s ever-changing countryside. Arriving in the capital later in the day, it is time to say slán as your Irish adventure comes to an end, filled with unforgettable landscapes, shared moments and memories to treasure.

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Burren Farm experience

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Cliffs of Moher visitor centre

Shannon Ferry crossing

Dingle Distillery tour

Galway walk talk taste tour

Sheepdog Demonstration

Muckross House & Gardens

Blarney Castle and Gardens

Kylemore Abbey & Gardens

Glendalough Monastery

Killarney National Park

Guided Tour of Kilkenny Castle

Cahir Castle

Lunches and dinners

Gratuities for your guide

Pre and post-tour accommodation in Dublin

Travel insurance (recommended)

Options

8 Day Emerald Explorer Small Group of tour of Ireland

Reviews

4.97

86 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

83
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  • The Road Rose to Meet Us!!

    67jd,,Oct 9, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    We both enjoyed the Overland Ireland Emerald Explorer 8-day Tour. The group was just the right size (14 people) so that we quickly got to know each other and didn’t feel we were part of a crowd. Mark, our knowledgeable guide and very capable driver, was amazing. He quickly learned each of our interests and needs and went out of his way to address them, whether it related to golf, hurling or music. His personal stories, humorous anecdotes and passion for Ireland, added to the interesting historical and cultural information he provided. Accommodations were lovely, the sites we went to were varied (some truly awe-inspiring) and there was sufficient free time to further explore the areas we were in. Being fairly active people, but not wanting the full “adventure” option, we were pleased to still have enough opportunity to get out and explore the beautiful sites and towns we stopped at. Kudos to the people at Overland Ireland for putting the Itinerary together and a big “thank you” to Mark.

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  • Wonderful holiday

    ritahO5733MQ,,Oct 7, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    I enjoyed the small group tour and Mark was an excellent guide. Great conversations on the bus on current and Irish history which I appreciated. Mark kept us informed on details of trip along the way. The sites we visited included unusual activities such as sheepdog farm but it was a highlight. Had plenty of time to tour on own as well as with the group. Thanks for a wonderful holiday.

  • Ireland you stole my heart

    JacquiAT,,Sep 16, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Highly recommend this tour of Ireland. Covering wonderful places of interest without the rush. Our Knowledgeable guide, Mark was a gem a true gentleman. You won't be disappointed choosing Overland tours.

  • A dream realized!

    brianmZ256XM,,Sep 14, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Jessica, a patient and kind woman from Overland Ireland (Ol) helped us to set up a great adventure with multiple days added to the front and back end of our 8 day trip. In all, we had 14 days in Ireland that exceeded our expectations. Our 7 day tour was an incredibly rich experience. Hugh O’Reilly was our driver, guide and friend to the group. I can't imagine another human being doing a better job than he did. He was joyful, thoughtful, profoundly informative and just plain fun to share time with. My wife and I were left in awe of the country and people we experienced. Overland Ireland delivered on all of its promises. It wouldn't be possible to identify any one experience as being most memorable because every moment was unique. It is also worth mentioning that we were very fortunate to have shared our experience with wonderful, joyful, interesting and open minded people from multiple nations.

  • Best trip ever

    eleanorbP8457LY,,Aug 28, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    My mother and I took the 8-day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour and had the most magical time. Our tour guide was Patrick, and he was just fantastic. Along with everything described on our itinerary, Pat made a point to offer us choices of pit stops, such as scenic lake views and old monastic sites. This made our experience even more exciting as every day offered something new and we visited spots we might have never heard about or been able to reach without someone as experienced and knowledgeable as him. Pat was also extremely engaging with the group, and by the end of the trip, we were all laughing together like old friends. Pat knew a little bit about everything and a whole lot about things. We got an in-depth account of Irish history, culture, natural environment, and the Irish experience as a whole. The bus was comfy and included outlets, and although I usually get horribly motion sick on large vehicles like buses, I was fine as long as I sat near the front. All of the accommodations were perfect and exactly what we needed after a long day. Perfect balance of outings and free time wandering around the city (Pat provided restaurant, pub, and attraction recommendations in every town we stopped in). The entire tour was entirely stress-free, and this tour was such a wonderful way to explore Ireland. Thank you for the fantastic trip!!!

  • Fantastic Small Group Tour

    kevinbR7116VR,,Aug 27, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    I just completed the 8 day Emerald Explorer tour and it exceeded my expectations in every way. The tour is very structured, but also offers ample alone time to explore at your own pace. Our guide was Mark and he went above and beyond to create the best trip possible. His knowledge of all things Ireland impressed us all. I highly recommend both Overland Ireland and Mark, and look forward to touring the North on a future trip.

  • Best trip ever!

    patricelX9606XU,,Aug 26, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    I can’t say enough about Overland tours & our wonderful tour guide Pat O’Mara. I had the most amazing time & the small group we were with was so much fun. I would definitely use Overland again & ask for Pat as our guide.

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  • Grand Ireland Tour

    Explore03437449484,,Aug 24, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    We (me, my wife and our 20 year old son) had a grand time touring Ireland, seeing so much of the beautiful countryside and lively towns! Our tour was a total of 9 adults (plus our fantastic guide David) from multiple countries (US, Australia and Norway). David did a great job of making us all feel welcome, and ensured that nobody was left out (including two solo travelers). He kept us engaged with stories and interesting information, while driving safely and getting us to our destinations on time. The entire tour went smoothly and we felt that we had an authentic Irish adventure! We particularly enjoyed the two-night stays at Dingle and Galway which allowed for more free time to explore these fun towns (including live traditional music at a Galway pub near our hotel). All accommodations were nice with generous breakfasts included. Highly recommend David and Overland Tours!

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  • A Truly Memorable Irish Adventure!

    jessicalM7560MH,,Aug 24, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    My family and I recently embarked on the 8-day Emerald Explorer Tour and had the absolute pleasure of traveling with our fantastic guide, Pat O’Mara. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned, combining well-known landmarks with charming, off-the-beaten-path destinations. It offered the perfect balance of history, culture, natural beauty, and local charm—all set against Ireland’s idyllic backdrop. The travel pace was just right. No drive ever exceeded two hours, and we appreciated the scenic stops along the way to stretch our legs and soak in the breathtaking views (and snap a few photos!). Pat was an outstanding guide—engaging, knowledgeable, and wonderfully attentive to everyone in the group. His storytelling brought Irish folklore and history to life, and he went above and beyond to tailor suggestions and activities based on our individual interests and energy levels. A highlight for me was our small group hikes along the Dingle Peninsula and up Diamond Hill in Connemara—truly unforgettable moments! We also had a lot of laughs along the way. Our group bonded quickly, often gathering for a pint or two in the evenings during our free time. It was such a special, shared experience that left us with lasting memories and new friendships. I can't recommend this tour highly enough—it was a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and connection. Don’t hesitate to book it!

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  • Overland Ireland; Emerald Explorer Trip with Mark as our Guide

    juliesX121AG,,Aug 13, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Mark, our guide gave our group a trip of a lifetime! Mark took us to several beautiful destinations and each day was filled with beauty. I didn't have to think about where to go, or how to get there, which made the trip stress free! It was a seamless experience of being present to enjoy all the scenery and sights that Ireland has to offer. Mark did his job professionally and I would highly recommend Mark to be your next guide in Ireland! I give Mark high marks!

From €2,445.00

4.97
(86 reviews)