10 Day Wild Irish Experience Small Group Tour From Dublin

Planning an Irish adventure? This 10-day small group tour promises to show you the very best of Ireland’s rugged coastlines, ancient ruins, lively towns, and stunning scenery—all with the comfort of experienced guides and cozy accommodations. While the $3,323.39 price might seem steep at first glance, it’s packed with value, from included highlights to personalized attention, making it a trip you won’t forget.

Our review will cover the itinerary in detail, sharing insights from travelers who’ve been on the road with Irish Experience Tours. Expect honest advice, a sense of what makes this tour special, and a few things to consider before booking. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler craving authentic experiences, this tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Ireland.

Three things we love about this tour:

• The small group size (max 16), which ensures more personalized guidance and genuine connections.
• The variety of stops—from Cliffs of Moher to Dingle and Killarney—covering Ireland’s most iconic sights and hidden gems.
• The knowledgeable guides, especially Lee and Anthony, who bring the places to life with stories, humor, and insider tips.

One consideration:

The itinerary involves several long driving days, with up to 5 hours on the road at times. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with less travel, this might feel a bit intense. However, the stops are well-chosen, and the scenery makes the drive worthwhile.

This tour suits travelers eager to see a broad swath of Ireland in one trip, especially those who appreciate small groups, detailed storytelling, and authentic local experiences.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: The tour highlights Ireland’s natural beauty, historic sites, and lively towns.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lee and Anthony receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• All-Inclusive Value: Most entrance fees, ferry rides, and many optional activities are included, reducing extra costs.
• Well-Selected Stops: From Clonmacnoise to the Skellig Islands, each stop offers something unique.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport and cozy accommodations make the journey smooth.
• Flexible Activities: Free time at many stops allows for personal exploration or optional extra adventures.

A Detailed Look at the 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Dublin to Westport via Clonmacnoise

The journey begins with a scenic 3.5-hour drive through Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands—a treat for anyone who loves untouched landscapes. The highlight here is Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic site founded in the 6th century, which scholars from around the world still visit for its historical significance and peaceful ambiance. As some travelers pointed out, the admission is included, making it easy to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Arriving in Westport, travelers often comment on the town’s charm. The streets are colorful, with friendly pubs, cafes, and craft shops. For the more energetic, options include climbing Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s Holy Mountain), biking the Great Western Greenway, or exploring Westport House, linked to Grace O’Malley, the famed Pirate Queen. A 90-minute cruise on Clew Bay offers views of 365 islands and a seal colony—highlighted as a “famous” attraction that makes for perfect photo ops.

Day 2: Exploring Connemara & Westport

The morning kicks off with a walking tour of Westport, where local tales—pirates, saints, and folklore—bring the town’s history alive. Many travelers appreciate how guides like Lee inject humor and storytelling, making history engaging. The tour then moves to Croagh Patrick, with stunning views of Clew Bay.

Next, a poignant stop is the National Famine Memorial, paying homage to Irish ancestors who fled in coffin ships. The drive through Doolough Valley reveals haunting scenery, rich with stories of tragedy. Lunch at Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, is often praised for its fresh mussels straight from the local waters.

The afternoon covers the breathtaking Sky Road, offering postcard-worthy vistas, before wrapping up in Clifden with its lively pubs and traditional Irish music. Travelers love the mix of natural beauty and local culture.

Day 3: Connemara’s Wilderness & Kylemore Abbey

A day dedicated to the wild beauty of Connemara. The National Park and Diamond Hill hike give visitors a chance to stretch legs while soaking in extraordinary views. Kylemore Abbey, with its lush gardens and stunning architecture, is a must-see. Many travelers rave about the gardens, which are well-maintained and photogenic, and appreciate that entrance is included.

The Inagh Valley and Sky Road provide more scenic drives and photo opportunities. Staying overnight in Connemara allows travelers to relax in the peaceful landscape without packing and unpacking.

Day 4: To Galway and the Burren

Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way into Galway, famed for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and oyster bars. The guide often emphasizes the city’s blend of contemporary and medieval charm. After lunch, the tour explores the lunar-like landscape of The Burren and stops at Corcomroe Abbey. The landscape’s unusual karst formations are often a highlight, offering a stark contrast to lush green Ireland.

Arriving in Lahinch, a seaside town known for its surf and lively cafes, many travelers enjoy wandering the streets before heading to the Aran Islands (extra expense) for a full-day adventure exploring Gaelic-speaking Inis Mor.

Days 5-6: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle & Slea Head Drive

The Cliffs of Moher are a breathtaking highlight, with their towering 700-foot drops into the Atlantic. Several reviews mention the awe-inspiring views, and the ferry across the River Shannon adds a fun element, often spotted with dolphins by lucky travelers.

From Doolin, the tour proceeds to Dingle, where the narrow streets, vibrant pubs, and friendly locals create a warm atmosphere. The Slea Head Drive is considered by some as “the most beautiful place on earth,” with rugged coastlines, secluded beaches, and ancient ruins. Reviewers love the opportunity to stop for photos and explore small villages like Dunquin, home to the Blasket Centre, which tells tales of Irish-speaking communities that once thrived there.

Optional activities like sea safaris, kayaking, or brewery tours add extra layers of fun for those who want it. Many mention the guides’ flexibility in accommodating these options seamlessly into the itinerary.

Days 7-8: The Ring of Kerry & Killarney

The Ring of Kerry offers sweeping views of mountains and coastlines. Highlights include Valentia Island, with its scenic views of the Skellig Islands, and Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park. The group often comments on how the route’s variety keeps things visually interesting, with plenty of photo stops.

Killarney itself is charming, with options for horse-drawn carriage rides, biking, or visiting Muckross House. Many travelers find the park’s natural beauty—lakes, forests, and castles—simply breathtaking.

Days 9-10: Cork, Kilkenny & Dublin

The final stretch takes in Cahir Castle and the Rock of Cashel, two iconic medieval sites. Both are praised for their preserved structures and dramatic settings. Kilkenny, with its medieval mile, offers a lively atmosphere, cobblestone streets, and quirky pubs. The tour wraps up with a journey through Wicklow Mountains, known for their rugged terrain and scenic beauty.

Returning to Dublin, the Medieval Mile and Clonmacnoise provide a fitting end—highlighting Ireland’s ancient roots and lively present. Many reviewers mention how the guides’ storytelling made history come alive, turning a sightseeing tour into a cultural experience.

Final thoughts on value and experience

While the tour’s price might seem high, it covers most major entrance fees, ferry rides, and many optional activities, which can often add up if booked separately. The cozy, private transportation, along with expert guides and a carefully curated itinerary, ensures you see the best without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Travelers consistently praise guides like Lee and Anthony for their personable approach, humor, and wealth of knowledge. Their stories add depth to each stop, making the landscapes and historic sites resonate more personally.

The tour’s pace is quite full—long days with multiple stops—so it’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Ireland in a limited time. The free time built into the schedule is a great chance to explore towns or relax, but be prepared for some busy days.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to Ireland’s highlights, especially those who appreciate guided tours that blend sightseeing with cultural insights. It’s also perfect for solo travelers or small groups seeking an authentic, intimate experience without the stress of navigation or logistics.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see Ireland’s most iconic sights, enjoy engaging storytelling, and meet like-minded travelers, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a good investment for those craving a well-rounded Irish adventure with plenty of opportunities for spontaneous exploration and memorable moments.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour includes easygoing walks and optional activities, but overall, it’s accessible for most fitness levels. Some stops may involve short hikes or climbs, like Croagh Patrick, which are optional.

Are all accommodations included?
Yes, all accommodation with breakfast is included throughout the 10 days, providing a comfortable base after busy days of sightseeing.

What’s the group size?
The tour limits a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and plenty of interaction with your guides.

Can I do optional activities?
Absolutely! Many optional activities, such as boat trips, cycling, and sea safaris, are available for an extra cost, giving you the chance to customize your experience.

How about transportation?
All travel between destinations is in an air-conditioned private vehicle, which means no worries about navigating or public transport—just sit back and enjoy the scenery.

What’s the best time to go?
While the review highlights trips in late spring and early summer, the tour runs year-round, with each season offering a different charm. Reviewers note the scenery is stunning regardless of the time.

To sum it up, this 10-day Wild Irish Experience offers a beautifully balanced mixture of natural beauty, historic sites, and Irish culture, all delivered with expert guidance and thoughtful planning. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want an immersive, hassle-free introduction to Ireland’s most iconic and hidden sights. With its small group format, engaging guides, and inclusive pricing, it provides excellent value for those eager to truly experience Ireland’s spirit—without missing a beat.