A luxurious multi center, guided walk on The Dingle and Kerry Ways, staying in a wonderful selection of manor houses, hotels and guest houses in villages throughout Kerry. The southwest of Ireland, washed by the Gulf Stream, has a mild climate - natives call it sub-tropical. This is reflected in the rich vegetation, particularly the wild flowers and hedgerows, which contrasts with the rugged, craggy coastline and inland mountains and lakes.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in the beautiful harbor town of Dingle. Dingle is a harbor town, once fortified and seeped in history. Ryan’s Daughter was filmed in the area 30 years ago. The town also is the gateway to the Gaeltacht, where Gaelic is the first language. Overnight in Dingle. Options for afternoon: - Boat trip in Dingle Harbour to see Fungi, the friendly dolphin. Harbor walk to Hussey’s Folly; Visit to Ocean World marine center; Stroll through historic Dingle and visit the numerous craft shops, pubs and restaurants.
Day 2: The Dingle Way - Distance: 6 miles Ascent: 600ft. Gaeltacht walk from Ventry Harbour (site of an ancient battle which folklore says lasted a year and a day), along the slopes of Mount Eagle to dramatic Slea Head and Dunquin (“the nearest parish to America”). Detour to visit Dunbeg pre-historic fort and other archaeological sites. Visit local pottery. Coach trip back to Dingle can include visits to early Christian sites - Reask and Gallarus. Overnight in Dingle.
Day 3: Mount Brandon Area. Distance: 3-7 miles Ascent: 825ft. Coach trip through scenic Connor Pass. Return to Dingle by old walking path over the Brandon Range through Mullaghaveal. This may have been used as the route to the workhouse in famine times. Overnight in Dingle.
Day 4: Transfer/Beach Walk - Distance: optional Ascent: none. Coach transfer along northern and southern shores of Dingle Bay and continuing on the renowned coaching route, the Ring of Kerry to Sneem. Mid-day break and walk on Rossbeigh Beach. Overnight in Portmagee.
Day 5: Great Skellig Island. Distance: 1.6km/1miles (steep) Ascent: 180m/600ft. We take a boat trip to a World Heritage Site, the monastic island of Sceilg Mhichíl, (Great Skellig Island), habited in 8th century by Irish monks. We pass the worlds largest Gannet colony on Little Skellig island. Overnight Portmagee. Alternative: - Distance: 7-10km/ 4-6 miles Minimal Ascent.
If weather conditions are unsuitable we will walk on Valentia island, noted for it’s lush vegetation, and stroll by the inlets and islands of the coast.
Day 6: Killarney National Park [Half Day]. Morning – Transfer to Killarney. Visit the ruins of Muckross Friary and Muckross House and gardens. Discover the unique flora and fauna of the parkland; perhaps see some of the last remaining Irish Red Deer. Lunch in the Muckross House Tea rooms. Transfer into Killarney via jaunting car. Afternoon -free for shopping and general sightseeing in Killarney. Evening - after dinner enjoy an Irish Whiskey Tasting session followed by an evening of traditional music. Overnight in Killarney.
Day 7: Boat Trip through Lakes of Killarney - Distance: 6.5 miles/11km Ascent: 640ft/200m. The boat trip is by the traditional 12 passenger open wooden boats, and takes approximately 2 hours. This is followed by a 6 mile walk through the dramatically ice carved gorge of the Gap of Dunloe. Finish the day with an Irish Coffee in Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Other non-walking options: Travel by boat and return the same way to Killarney. Time to visit Ross Castle (15th Century, recently restored), shopping in Killarney. After the boat trip get a jarvey car and ride through the Gap of Dunloe. Farewell Dinner. Overnight in Killarney. Easy walks of 3 - 6miles (5 - 10km) with gradual ascents of up to 825ft (250m) approx.
Note: Dates each Walking Tour begins: June 14, 28, July 19, August 23.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
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