Welcome to one of our most exciting activity holidays in Ireland! If you are looking for the perfect balance of adventure and discovery, the Spectacular South & West 5-day trip to Ireland delivers it beautifully.
This Ireland itinerary for five days begins in Dublin before sweeping southwest toward some of Ireland’s most iconic experiences and landscapes. You will kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and then set off along the rugged Wild Atlantic Way, where dramatic coastlines, emerald valleys, and colourful towns await. You will also visit some of the most spectacular sights on the Ring of Kerry and kayak in Dingle Bay, one of Ireland’s most beautiful natural harbours.
As part of our Adventure Small-Group Tours in Ireland, this experience is made for those who want to feel alive in the outdoors, to breathe fresh Atlantic air, taste the salt of the sea, and truly engage and connect with the landscape around them. With expert Irish guides leading the way, our activity holidays in Ireland guarantee a memorable, authentic experience, the kind that stays with you long after you return home.
Find out more in the full itinerary below. And if you would like something even more personalised, our Tailor-Made Tours of Ireland offer the unique opportunity to shape your dream Irish adventure.
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 activity holiday in 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. And all in just five unforgettable days.
Continue reading below for the full day-by-day itinerary, and if you have any questions along the way, we are always here to help. Please just contact us for any information you need.
And should you have more time to spare, our 7-day Great Atlantic Adventure offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a little more magic!
Important Note: While we always aim to follow the outlined itinerary, unforeseen circumstances such as weather, traffic, or local events may require us to make adjustments. In some cases, certain activities may be cancelled. If this happens on your 5-day trip to Ireland, your guide will always provide a thoughtful and enjoyable alternative to ensure your experience remains unforgettable. For this reason, we do not offer refunds for cancelled activities. Your comfort and enjoyment are always at the heart of everything we do.
Accessibility on This 5-Day Ireland Tour: Our small-group tours are not wheelchair accessible due to the off-the-beaten-path nature of our routes, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that not all accommodation partners have ramps or elevators.
Below, you will find a detailed list of what is included in this 5-day Ireland tour. It is extensive and covers accommodation, attraction entrance fees, transport, and more. Our goal has always been to keep prices down while pushing tour experiences up, giving you unbeatable value and adventure in one unforgettable journey.
If you have specific dietary requirements or preferences, please let us know as early as possible. We happily cater for vegetarians, vegans, and pescatarians. You can also read our guide on what Ireland is like for vegetarian and vegan tourists for more information.
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Total driving time: approx. 4 hours (excluding stops)
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.
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.
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.
Accommodation
Blindgate house
Blindgate House is a luxury guesthouse just a short walk from Kinsale town centre, offering a peaceful retreat with contemporary design and elegant antique touches. Its 11 spacious rooms feature modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
We wanted to give you a friendly note: on just a few select dates, your booking may be moved to the different, but equally wonderful, Kinsale Hotel & Spa.
Total driving time: approx. 3 hours 30 minutes (excluding stops)
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.
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.
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!
Accommodation
Dingle Marina Lodge
Dingle Marina Lodge is a waterfront B&B offering modern, comfortable rooms with marina and harbour views. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared breakfasts and easy access to Dingle’s restaurants, pubs, shops, and the surrounding peninsula.
Total driving time: approx. 2 hours (excluding stops)
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.
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.
Accommodation
Dingle Marina Lodge.
Total driving time: approx. 3 hours 30 minutes (excluding stops)
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.
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.
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.
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.
Accommodation
Doolin Inn is a modern four-star country house in the heart of Doolin, renowned for its warm hospitality, cosy comfort, and king-worthy breakfasts made from local produce. Perfectly located at the start of the Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail, it offers easy access to scenic hikes, local shops, and lively pubs filled with traditional Irish music.
Total driving time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (excluding stops)
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.
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.
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.
Note: Ferry crossings to the Aran Islands are weather dependent. If conditions make it unsafe to travel,
your guide will arrange excellent alternative activities to ensure you still enjoy a fantastic day.
