Walking Tours Self-Drive Ireland South & West – Cork, Kerry & Galway
Self-Drive Ireland South & West – Cork, Kerry & Galway
Experience all the magic of Ireland on this spectacular 8-day driving tour. Visit iconic Mizen Head, the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Irish people. Explore the ancient beauty and rich heritage of the Emerald Isle where every road reveals breathtaking views, landscapes, culture and history.
Tour Highlights
- Experience the classic sights of Ireland - Rock of Cashel, Ring of Kerry, Mizen Head, Galway City & much more.
- Visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the mystical landscapes of the Burren National Park.
- Stay in the vibrant towns of Killarney, Dingle & Doolin with their traditional pubs, music & craic.
- Relax with true Irish hospitality in charming 3* hotels and family-run B&Bs and guesthouses.
Why choose this tour
We’ve included the very best of the south and west of Ireland in this driving tour. From the beautiful Wicklow Mountains near Dublin to the rocky headland of Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southerly point, the magical Ring of Kerry to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and landscapes of Connemara - this tour has it all.
Itinerary
Self-Drive Ireland South & West – Cork, Kerry & Galway
- Wicklow - Cork - Killarney - Dingle – Galway – Connemara – Dublin
- Stunning driving routes to explore at your own pace along Ireland’s Ancient East & Wild Atlantic Way.
- Starts in Co. Wicklow and finishes in Dublin City.
- Collect your hire car at Dublin airport and return to Dublin Airport at the end of your tour. (Other locations on request)
- Upgrades available
Distance:
Distance from airport approx. 40 km
Welcome to Dublin. Failte go Baile Atha Cliath! You’ll arrive today at Dublin Airport and collect your rental car. Your first journey is a short drive to the starting point of your driving tour in Co. Wicklow, just south of Dublin, where you’ll stay tonight.
Known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, there is so much to see and do in Wicklow. Explore Glendalough monastic site, one of Ireland's most famous landmarks. This fascinating early Christian settlement was founded by Saint Kevin in the 6th century on a magical lakeshore setting, surrounded by the beautiful Wicklow Mountains.
At nearby Avoca village you’ll find Avoca Mill, dating back to 1723 where you can watch weavers at work and stock up on the beautiful handmade throws, rugs and scarves made here. Or explore Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, a grand Palladian mansion set in 47 acres of incredible gardens and home to Lord Powerscourt and his family for over 350 years.
After a hearty Irish breakfast, you’ll start your journey south through Ireland’s Ancient East, passing historic towns, castle ruins, and rolling green fields. Stop off at the famous Rock of Cashel where, according to legend, St. Patrick came to convert the King of Munster to Christianity. Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone, it has an impressive collection of medieval buildings to visit.
Your destination today is Co. Cork where you’ll stay tonight. Home to Ireland’s second city and known as ‘The Rebel County’, Cork is the biggest county in Ireland, with over 1000 km of coastline and a maritime history spanning over a thousand years. From Cork City it’s a short drive to nearby Cobh, a colourful seaside town and the final stop of the Titanic before her fateful voyage. Visit the Titanic Experience located in the original White Star Line ticket office or walk the Titanic Trail through the town.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s journey is a spectacular one. Journeying on winding country roads to West Cork you’ll reach Ireland's most south-westerly point, the rocky headland of Mizen Head, with its panoramic sea views and renowned for the beauty of its rugged landscape and ancient heritage.
From Mizen, you’ll journey north along the beautiful coastline of the Ring of Beara towards Co. Kerry. Follow the coast road through the colourful towns of Bantry and Glengarriff with lots of options to stop off for lunch. Crossing from Co. Cork into Co. Kerry you’ll drive on the breathtaking, if sometimes hair-raising Caha Pass! It features two tunnels blasted out of the rock in the middle of the 19th century and dramatic mountain scenery with rugged peaks and deep valleys. You’ll reach the elegant town of Kenmare, another good place for a pit-stop before the last leg of today’s route.
Your route from Kenmare is simply stunning. You’ll travel into Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1981, passing through Moll's Gap, a scenic mountain pass with magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A little further on you’ll come to Ladies’ View, one of the most famous viewpoints in Ireland, offering spectacular views over the Lakes of Killarney and surrounding mountains. It’s a must-stop for photos.
Today’s epic route ends in Killarney town where you’ll stay tonight. This beautiful town is set in the National Park, and packed full of history and heritage. Enjoy your first night here in the Kingdom of Kerry with lively music, great food, traditional pubs and a genuine welcome.
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning it’s time to explore the world-famous Ring of Kerry. This 179 km (111 mile) circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula passes through some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery - quite simply Ireland at its most picturesque. Stop at the Torc Waterfall or visit historic Muckross House. Explore the many scenic villages and towns or take some time out on Rossbeigh Strand, a long, sandy beach near Glenbeigh. It’s a great spot for a quiet walk or simply to relax and enjoy the views of the Dingle Peninsula across the water.
Your route today ends in the pretty fishing port of Dingle where you’ll stay tonight. Nestled on the edge of a natural estuary, Dingle is known for its great restaurants, interesting shops, galleries and delicious ice cream. This cosmopolitan and welcoming small town has a bustling nightlife. Make sure to try out some of the traditional pubs where you might even be able to buy a pair of wellies with your pint of beer!
Meals included: Breakfast
Today your route continues northwards. Stop and discover the city of Limerick and visit 13th century King John’s Castle on the banks of the River Shannon. You’ll cross west into Co. Clare, travelling through the towns of Ennis and Ennistymon, ideal as a stopping point for a spot of lunch. Then it’s on to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. A walk along these iconic cliffs at the very edge of the Atlantic is an unforgettable experience and definitely one for the bucket list! In nearby Doolin you can take a boat tour around the bottom of the cliffs and see the cave made famous in the movie Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
You’ll stay in Doolin tonight. This charming seaside village is known as the traditional music capital of Ireland - a great place to end your day with dinner at one of the local pubs, enjoying traditional Irish music, a pint of Guinness and the warm, friendly atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you’ll journey north again along the beautiful coast of Co. Clare towards Galway. Your onward journey brings you through the Burren National Park. Stop off and experience this unique sparse, otherworldly landscape. The writer Tolkien visited this area and used it as inspiration when writing his Lord of the Rings trilogy and it’s easy to see why. We also recommend a visit to nearby Aillwee Cave, well known to Father Ted fans as ‘The Very Dark Caves’.
Then it’s on to Galway City, the ‘City of the Tribes’. Overlooking Galway Bay, it’s a bustling, colourful and friendly city with medieval architecture, cobbled streets, great seafood, traditional pubs and a cosmopolitan, international atmosphere. The perfect place for a lively night out!
Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s journey will bring you from Galway City west into stunning Connemara. We recommend a visit to the world-renowned Kylemore Abbey and Gardens. This magical gothic-style lakeside castle has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1867, it boasts one of Ireland's finest Victorian walled gardens and is also a great place for lunch. At nearby Letterfrack you’ll find the stunning Connemara National Park, where you can enjoy a walk on the looped trails with sweeping views out over the Atlantic to the islands beyond or have a coffee and find out more about this ancient Irish landscape at the charming visitor centre.
You’ll stay tonight in the picturesque village of Leenane nestled among the Maamturk Mountains, at the head of Killary Fjord. Despite its small size there is always a buzz of conversation and craic in the village’s two pubs and a choice of restaurants serving great food from locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy your last night in Ireland in our home town, one of the most beautiful places in Ireland!
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast this morning, you’ll drive back to Dublin airport and drop off your hire car. It's the end of your tour and time for your onward journey, bringing your unforgettable memories of Ireland with you. Slan go fóill! – we’ll see you again soon.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
Distance from airport approx. 40 km
Welcome to Dublin. Failte go Baile Atha Cliath! You’ll arrive today at Dublin Airport and collect your rental car. Your first journey is a short drive to the starting point of your driving tour in Co. Wicklow, just south of Dublin, where you’ll stay tonight.
Known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, there is so much to see and do in Wicklow. Explore Glendalough monastic site, one of Ireland's most famous landmarks. This fascinating early Christian settlement was founded by Saint Kevin in the 6th century on a magical lakeshore setting, surrounded by the beautiful Wicklow Mountains.
At nearby Avoca village you’ll find Avoca Mill, dating back to 1723 where you can watch weavers at work and stock up on the beautiful handmade throws, rugs and scarves made here. Or explore Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, a grand Palladian mansion set in 47 acres of incredible gardens and home to Lord Powerscourt and his family for over 350 years.
After a hearty Irish breakfast, you’ll start your journey south through Ireland’s Ancient East, passing historic towns, castle ruins, and rolling green fields. Stop off at the famous Rock of Cashel where, according to legend, St. Patrick came to convert the King of Munster to Christianity. Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone, it has an impressive collection of medieval buildings to visit.
Your destination today is Co. Cork where you’ll stay tonight. Home to Ireland’s second city and known as ‘The Rebel County’, Cork is the biggest county in Ireland, with over 1000 km of coastline and a maritime history spanning over a thousand years. From Cork City it’s a short drive to nearby Cobh, a colourful seaside town and the final stop of the Titanic before her fateful voyage. Visit the Titanic Experience located in the original White Star Line ticket office or walk the Titanic Trail through the town.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s journey is a spectacular one. Journeying on winding country roads to West Cork you’ll reach Ireland's most south-westerly point, the rocky headland of Mizen Head, with its panoramic sea views and renowned for the beauty of its rugged landscape and ancient heritage.
From Mizen, you’ll journey north along the beautiful coastline of the Ring of Beara towards Co. Kerry. Follow the coast road through the colourful towns of Bantry and Glengarriff with lots of options to stop off for lunch. Crossing from Co. Cork into Co. Kerry you’ll drive on the breathtaking, if sometimes hair-raising Caha Pass! It features two tunnels blasted out of the rock in the middle of the 19th century and dramatic mountain scenery with rugged peaks and deep valleys. You’ll reach the elegant town of Kenmare, another good place for a pit-stop before the last leg of today’s route.
Your route from Kenmare is simply stunning. You’ll travel into Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1981, passing through Moll's Gap, a scenic mountain pass with magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A little further on you’ll come to Ladies’ View, one of the most famous viewpoints in Ireland, offering spectacular views over the Lakes of Killarney and surrounding mountains. It’s a must-stop for photos.
Today’s epic route ends in Killarney town where you’ll stay tonight. This beautiful town is set in the National Park, and packed full of history and heritage. Enjoy your first night here in the Kingdom of Kerry with lively music, great food, traditional pubs and a genuine welcome.
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning it’s time to explore the world-famous Ring of Kerry. This 179 km (111 mile) circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula passes through some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery - quite simply Ireland at its most picturesque. Stop at the Torc Waterfall or visit historic Muckross House. Explore the many scenic villages and towns or take some time out on Rossbeigh Strand, a long, sandy beach near Glenbeigh. It’s a great spot for a quiet walk or simply to relax and enjoy the views of the Dingle Peninsula across the water.
Your route today ends in the pretty fishing port of Dingle where you’ll stay tonight. Nestled on the edge of a natural estuary, Dingle is known for its great restaurants, interesting shops, galleries and delicious ice cream. This cosmopolitan and welcoming small town has a bustling nightlife. Make sure to try out some of the traditional pubs where you might even be able to buy a pair of wellies with your pint of beer!
Meals included: Breakfast
Today your route continues northwards. Stop and discover the city of Limerick and visit 13th century King John’s Castle on the banks of the River Shannon. You’ll cross west into Co. Clare, travelling through the towns of Ennis and Ennistymon, ideal as a stopping point for a spot of lunch. Then it’s on to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. A walk along these iconic cliffs at the very edge of the Atlantic is an unforgettable experience and definitely one for the bucket list! In nearby Doolin you can take a boat tour around the bottom of the cliffs and see the cave made famous in the movie Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
You’ll stay in Doolin tonight. This charming seaside village is known as the traditional music capital of Ireland - a great place to end your day with dinner at one of the local pubs, enjoying traditional Irish music, a pint of Guinness and the warm, friendly atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you’ll journey north again along the beautiful coast of Co. Clare towards Galway. Your onward journey brings you through the Burren National Park. Stop off and experience this unique sparse, otherworldly landscape. The writer Tolkien visited this area and used it as inspiration when writing his Lord of the Rings trilogy and it’s easy to see why. We also recommend a visit to nearby Aillwee Cave, well known to Father Ted fans as ‘The Very Dark Caves’.
Then it’s on to Galway City, the ‘City of the Tribes’. Overlooking Galway Bay, it’s a bustling, colourful and friendly city with medieval architecture, cobbled streets, great seafood, traditional pubs and a cosmopolitan, international atmosphere. The perfect place for a lively night out!
Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s journey will bring you from Galway City west into stunning Connemara. We recommend a visit to the world-renowned Kylemore Abbey and Gardens. This magical gothic-style lakeside castle has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1867, it boasts one of Ireland's finest Victorian walled gardens and is also a great place for lunch. At nearby Letterfrack you’ll find the stunning Connemara National Park, where you can enjoy a walk on the looped trails with sweeping views out over the Atlantic to the islands beyond or have a coffee and find out more about this ancient Irish landscape at the charming visitor centre.
You’ll stay tonight in the picturesque village of Leenane nestled among the Maamturk Mountains, at the head of Killary Fjord. Despite its small size there is always a buzz of conversation and craic in the village’s two pubs and a choice of restaurants serving great food from locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy your last night in Ireland in our home town, one of the most beautiful places in Ireland!
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast this morning, you’ll drive back to Dublin airport and drop off your hire car. It's the end of your tour and time for your onward journey, bringing your unforgettable memories of Ireland with you. Slan go fóill! – we’ll see you again soon.
Meals included: Breakfast
Our favourite on this tour
The Cobh Heritage Centre tells the stories of three centuries of emigration from Ireland. From the indentured servants taken to the West Indies in the 17th century, to the early settlers of Canada and America, the mass exodus caused by the Irish Famine and the transportation of convicts to Australia, it’s a fascinating and moving experience and a great place to trace the journey of your ancestors.
Our Reviews
See what our guests have to say about travelling in Ireland with Connemara Adventure Tours.
About your tour
Tour
Essentials
Duration: 8 days, 7 nights
Start day: Any Day. March to November.
Start/end location: This tour starts in Co. Wicklow, but you will collect your hire car at Dublin airport. The tour finishes back at Dublin Airport. (Other airports on request).
How to get here
DIFFICULTY
What's
included
Accommodation: You’ll relax each night in a private en-suite room in comfortable 3* hotels, B&B & guesthouses.
Meals: Breakfast is included each morning.
What to bring on your tour
Roadmap for Discovery App: Your bespoke tour app with itinerary, routes and lots of local insider info ready to download before you arrive.
Find out more
- 4*+ hotels
Car
Manual compact car including CDW insurance (without excess), theft protection, unlimited mileage, VAT, airport & locations fees.
Drivers must be at least 25 years of age and hold a full, clean licence for at least 2 years.
All extras including automatic transmission, extra insurance cover, GPS, additional driver, baby/child seat etc must be paid directly by the driver on arrival.
Find out more
Add-on
experiences
Add these amazing experiences on to your tour
- Visit the Aran islands (Inis Mor) for 2 nights + 1 night in Galway
- Dublin City Experience - 1 night in Dublin + whiskey tasting tour.
Customer
service
Our dedicated local team will be on hand for advice and help throughout your stay.
Find out more
Customise your tour
Everything you could
wish for & more
Make this tour into your own truly Irish experience with
a Tailor-Made Tour. All our tours can be customised. You can add extras, lengthen or shorten your tour to suit your needs or schedule.
Visit a remote, ancient island, follow in St Patrick’s footsteps, taste the finest Irish whiskey. The options are endless!
Get in touch with our Ireland travel experts and we’ll build the trip of a lifetime just for you.
Customise your tour
