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Ireland West Coast Islands Private Adventure

Windswept Trails in the Burren & Connemara

 

Failte go Eireann! (Welcome to Ireland!) Hike little-used trails through some of the most secluded reaches of western Ireland weaving across rugged bogs, island cliffs, and immaculate beaches. Explore cultural heritage sites from prehistoric times through to the recent past. Discover the natural history and expansive views of this wild and remote region. Celebrate your successful hikes by knocking back a pint of world-famous Guinness. Slainte!

  • Visit three fascinating islands, each with a unique terrain and culture to explore

  • Experience two of Ireland's most magical regions: the Burren and Connemara

  • Discover the country's varied flora and fauna, including its marine wildlife

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Shannon, Ireland

Depart:

Shannon, Ireland

Price: from $3,995

Duration:

7 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-6 Guests

Min Age:

10 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

This trip is perfect for people who enjoy and are capable of 4 - 10 miles of hiking per day, over a period of several hours. The terrain is varied, with time spent walking on beaches, footpaths, through fields and grassy meadows, and it is often wet underfoot.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Explore Burren National Park

    Day 1

    Begin this exciting west coast adventure in the rugged region of the Burren National Park - an exposed limestone landscape that is one of Ireland's most fascinating geological sites. Hike the sweeping, rock-strewn Mullaghmore Hill, the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien's world-building while writing his epic saga, The Lord of the Rings.

    Accommodation: Doolin Inn

    Ideally situated just steps from the Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail, this charming country inn offers warm, cozy rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and a coffeemaker, en suite bathrooms, and sitting areas. Breakfast is served in a cheerful dining room. Other amenities include a cafe, a lounge with a fireplace, and a sunny terrace.

    Activity: 2 hours/3.5 miles hiking

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike Inis Meain

    Day 2

    Kick off the day venturing to the least-visited of the Aran Islands, Inis Meain, which remains a true ambassador of Irish language and traditions. Find yourself captivated not only by the raw landscape of the island and its ancient architecture, but also by its close-knit Gaeltacht or Irish-speaking communities. Hike along silent, winding roads and narrow trails weaving across the remote island, then enjoy a sunset hike of one of Ireland's most iconic sites, the stunning Cliffs of Moher.

    Accommodation: Doolin Inn

    Ideally situated just steps from the Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail, this charming country inn offers warm, cozy rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and a coffeemaker, en suite bathrooms, and sitting areas. Breakfast is served in a cheerful dining room. Other amenities include a cafe, a lounge with a fireplace, and a sunny terrace.

    Activity: 4-5 hours/ 8 miles hiking

    Transportation: 1-hour ferry ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Explore the Wilds of Connemara

    Day 3

    From the far-flung village of Roundstone, head for the hills to the wild and forgotten peak of Errisbeg. Squelching into the boggy terrain, meet the friendly locals - herds of hearty sheep and their lambs - who dot these hills. Climb this often-overlooked hill for its stunning views over the white sands of Dog's Bay to one side, and the layers of Connemara mountains stretching into the distance on the other.

    Accommodation: Clifden Coach House

    This charming boutique Bed & Breakfast is situated only a two minute's walk from the town center of Clifden in beautiful Connemara. Guestrooms are equipped with a sitting area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, king sized bed, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and shower. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. There are also two cozy sitting rooms for gathering or relaxing.

    Accommodation: Foyles Hotel

    Established in 1836, the Foyles Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Clifden. The historic and charming décor has been preserved over the last century but still includes modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs in all the rooms. Dine on locally sourced seafood at the Marconi Restaurant or top off the day with a Guinness at Mullarkey's Bar.

    Activity: 2-3 hours/4 miles hiking

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Be Charmed by Inisbofin Island

    Day 4

    Discover small and quaint Inisbofin Island and enjoy some of Connemara's most pristine scenery. Follow a winding coastal path to enjoy jaw-dropping Atlantic views past blow-holes and sea arches and enjoy glimpses of playful seals, sea birds and even occasional puffins. View the island's Dun More cliffs, iron age promontory fort ruins, and postcard-perfect beaches; then relax with a pint of Guinness, Ireland's favorite beer, before heading back to the mainland.

    Accommodation: Clifden Coach House

    This charming boutique Bed & Breakfast is situated only a two minute's walk from the town center of Clifden in beautiful Connemara. Guestrooms are equipped with a sitting area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, king sized bed, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and shower. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. There are also two cozy sitting rooms for gathering or relaxing.

    Accommodation: Foyles Hotel

    Established in 1836, the Foyles Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Clifden. The historic and charming décor has been preserved over the last century but still includes modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs in all the rooms. Dine on locally sourced seafood at the Marconi Restaurant or top off the day with a Guinness at Mullarkey's Bar.

    Activity: 5 hours/10 miles hiking

    Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer, 30-minute ferry ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Discover Killary Fjord

    Day 5

    Take in the gentle shores of Killary Fjord, one of just three fjords in Ireland. Enjoy a hike through this secluded landscape, drinking in views of white sand beaches and remote islands buzzing with swooping sea birds. Learn about The Famine - a dark part of Ireland's past - at a famine-era abandoned village where stories of people who lived here are brought to life by your guide. Afterward, meet with a local oyster farmer to learn about a livelihood deeply connected with the local ecology and taste his delicious produce.

    Accommodation: Westport Plaza Hotel-Westport, Ireland

    Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.

    Activity: 3-4 hours/8 miles hiking

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Take in the View from Clare Island

    Day 6

    Follow in the footsteps of a 16th Century Gaelic Pirate Queen as you visit Clare Island, guardian of Clew Bay, the former stronghold of Granuaile (Grace O' Malley). Surrounded by the pristine waters of the North Atlantic, this mountainous island enthralls with its dramatic sea cliffs, home to a great array of birds and wildlife. Take in the island lighthouse, set against a breathtaking background, hike along the slopes of Knockmore, and glimpse the clear unconstrained view back to the mainland.

    Accommodation: Westport Plaza Hotel-Westport, Ireland

    Located close to the town of Westport, the elegant Westport Plaza Hotel features spacious rooms, with a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower in the en suite bathroom. Savor sophisticated European food at the Merlot Restaurant, take a quick break at the Plaza Bar over cocktails, indulge in one of Spa Sula's massages or facials, or unwind in its thermal suite.

    Activity: 4 hours/7 miles hiking

    Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer, 30-minute ferry ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart Shannon

    Day 7

    After breakfast, transfer back to the airport for homeward bound flights.

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast

show more

Ireland West Coast Islands Private Adventure

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

Our resident guides provide local knowledge and experience to personalize your adventure, much like visiting a friend abroad.

Reason #02

MT Sobek has been operating trips in Ireland for decades, so you can rest assured our Ireland trips are expertly designed.

Reason #03

Our deep roots in Ireland provide us with access to authentic, local experiences not commonly accessible to tourists.

Meet your guides

Paul Quinn

Paul Quinn

Paul has been exploring Ireland's wild places for over 30 years, and is greatly appreciative of the opportunity to channel his love for the outdoors as a working mountain guide. He is deeply passionate about the people and culture of Ireland, and finding adventure in the Emerald Isle. His guests describe him as knowledgeable, caring, attentive, and energetic. When he's not guiding, Paul loves adventure racing. 

Michelle Hughes

Michelle Hughes

Michelle has spent her entire career in the great outdoors, and got her first taste of adventure on an overland trip from England to Nepal before moving to Australia. She returned to the UK in a similar dramatic and adventurous fashion by sailing on a wooden junk for three months from Darwin to Singapore. Since then, she has kayaked around the Bijagós Islands, off the coast of Guinea Bissau, hiked through the Dolomites, and braved the mountains in Norway. But her passion for Ireland has always brought her back to the wild countryside where you can find her rock climbing, teaching navigation, or sharing Irish folktales and legends.

Activities

Moderate hikes and scenic drives through Ireland's iconic landscapes, taking in geological sites and islands, paired with heartwarming Irish hospitality.

Lodging

Charming and boutique hotels featuring warm local hospitality

Climate

The climate is actually rather mild, with an average yearly temperature around 50°F. Expect a bit of rain during your trip.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

Plan to arrive in Shannon, Ireland (airport code SNN) by 11:30am on Day 1 of the itinerary. An MT Sobek representative will meet you outside the customs area for the one hour transfer to our hotel in Doolin.

What is the weather like in Ireland?

There is no such thing as bad weather! Only bad clothing. Expect sun, wind, rain, clouds and blue skies, and bring your warm layers.

What is the food like on this trip?

The cuisine of Ireland is hearty and delicious! Think Irish stew, Shepherd's Pie, fish soups, glazed carrots, and an Irish breakfast of sausages, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, and fried eggs.

What makes this trip special?

Everything that makes Ireland special! Windswept landscapes, rugged coastlines, charming villages, happy sheep, lively Pubs, and friendly locals.

What is the traditional libation of Ireland?

Guinness and whiskey!

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Testimonials

"MT Sobek took care of everything for our extended family vacation. Not a hiccup in the planning, the itinerary, the lodging or the guide. Everything in life should be so easy."

Kathy J.
MT Sobek Guest

"Exceptional trips! Go with MT Sobek!"

Mitch S.
MT Sobek Guest

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  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $4,195 per person double occupancy

2023 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $4,695 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

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