Day 1
Distance: Approximately 37km
Morning
Your tour starts in Killarney. If you’re looking for fine food, great festivals and traditional music pubs, you’re in the right place here. But there’s one thing every visitor to this vibrant town should do and that’s take a ride in a jaunting car – a horse-drawn carriage. Sit back and relax as your driver brings you on a tour that includes Killarney National Park and 15th century Ross Castle, on the shores of Lough Leane. Groups can be accommodated but booking in advance is advisable, particularly during the peak season. Combination tours (a jaunting car ride and a lake cruise) are also available.
Located 5.6km from Killarney town centre you’ll find Muckross House and Gardens nestled in the middle of the National Park. This stunning mansion once hosted Queen Victoria and its interiors give a fascinating glimpse into aristocratic life in the 19th century. The house is open to visitors all year round and you can avail of a combination entry ticket that includes a house tour and access to Muckross Traditional Farms, where life in rural Ireland in the 1930s and 40s is displayed in glorious detail. A complimentary coach takes you from the house to the farms. Free coach and car facilities are provided and group reductions are on offer, though groups of 20 or more must book in advance. Universal access is available throughout but there are some limitations inside the house and the farms.
Lunch
Grab some food at the Garden Restaurant in Muckross grounds, a modern 170-seat, self-service facility set against the spectacular backdrop of the Torc and Mangerton Mountains.
Afternoon
The next stop is the Gap of Dunloe, a rugged glacial mountain pass forged between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Purple Mountains. At the entrance of the gap is the famous Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150-year-old, family-run bar and craft shop. There is parking for coaches and cars here and the cottage is open 7 days a week, offering everything from Sunday lunch to Irish entertainment with music and dancing. If your group is planning to eat here, you should book ahead by calling +353 64 664 4146 or emailing katekearney@eircom.net. Please note that seats in the bar can’t be reserved.
For anyone wanting to continue their exploration of the Gap of Dunloe, it’s recommended that they hire a jaunting car, pony or bike, or go on foot. The pass is 11km, and while it is paved the whole way, sensible walking shoes and outdoor gear are essential. On your journey, you’ll pass five lakes linked together by the River Loe and flanked with beautiful mountains. Refuel in Lord Brandon’s Cottage, a 19th century hunting lodge with an open-air café and begin your journey back through the Gap or take a boat ride across Killarney’s lakes toward the historic Ross Castle back in Killarney.
Evening
Overnight at Aghadoe Heights Hotel, complete with beautiful views of Killarney town, the famous lakes and the mountains beyond.
Day 2
Distance: 81km
Morning
As you reach the town of Killorglin, you might notice the statue of a goat perched proudly on a large boulder. This is King Puck. Every year, a wild mountain goat is crowned king and a festival erupts in the town with several days of music, dancing and unbeatable fun. Thought to have its origins in pagan times, Puck Fair is Ireland's oldest festival with official records dating back to the early 17th century. If you're not in town around festival time at the beginning of August, don't worry – Killorglin is an enjoyable melting pot of pubs, cafés and galleries.
Next stop is the sandy paradise of Rossbeigh Strand, where legendary lovers Oisín and Niamh took to the sea on their white horse to live in the land of youth - Tír na nÓg. Animal lovers can visit Burke’s Beach Riding Centre and enjoy horseback rides along the shore or embark on a longer trek that offers stunning views of Horseshoe Valley and Castlemaine Harbour. You’ll need to book your trek in advance by calling +353 87 2379110 or emailing gburkestreks@eircom.net.
Lunch
Stop at The Fertha Bar & Restaurant in Cahersiveen for a selection of wraps, sandwiches and rustic dinners.
Afternoon
The gateway to the Skellig Ring, Cahersiveen is one of the westernmost towns in Europe and a treasure trove of historic sites. Start with a wander through The Old Barracks, now a Heritage Centre, originally constructed as a police station for the Royal Irish Constabulary in the 1870s. This fairy-tale, Schloss-style building has lift access on all floors and offers discounted prices for large groups. Cross the River Fertha to the ancient Cahergal Stone Fort and then walk down to the beautiful 15th century Ballycarbery Castle ruins and enjoy the lush green scenery.
At the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, next to the Valentia Island bridge, you get to explore the astounding Skellig Islands while still on dry land. Skellig Michael, the larger of the two islands, has wowed the world with its appearance in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but long before that, these islands were something special. Within the stone-clad, grass-roofed centre you can see exhibitions that explore everything from the 6th century monastic settlement on Skellig Michael to the seabirds that call these craggy islands home.
Optional boat trip to the Skellig Islands
Boat trips around the Skellig Islands and also to Skellig Michael can be booked in advance. Check local operators for details and bear in mind that all trips are weather dependent.
Evening
Tuck into some award-winning fresh seafood and contemporary Irish cuisine in The Moorings Restaurant in Portmagee, overlooking the harbour. Overnight in its guesthouse accommodation with a total of 16 rooms available.
"Follow the winding roads here and you’ll discover more than pristine beaches and tumbling waterfalls – you’ll also experience the warmth of a real Kerry welcome."