The Grand Tour of Ireland Zest Tour
Ireland has so many experiences to offer and at Overland Ireland we have tours to suit everyone. From the relaxed to the active, all you need to do is choose the style of holiday that will allow you to enjoy Ireland at your pace. Our Jewel tours are the perfect fit for those looking for a relaxed style tour where you will experience Ireland s most loved landmarks and many hidden gems. Our Zest tours are for those who want to see experience the Emerald Isle s stunning scenery with the added spice of adventure and activities. Welcome to Ireland s wilder side! Put a bit of zing into your Ireland adventure with Overland Zest. This is for those who want the perfect mix of a relaxed style tour with some activities included to bring up the thrill factor. Our activities range from hiking, kayaking, surfing, biking and much more. In fact, if there is something that we have not listed but you would love to do just let us know and we can organise from there. Relax we ve got the adventure covered.
your irish adventure begins here! Our Grand Tour begins as we leave Dublin and begin our wonderful journey south towards the Wild Atlantic Way. With over 1,100km of rugged coastlines to explore, this 7-Day Zest style tour will put some zing into your Irish adventure as we journey from Kinsale to Westport. This tour is perfect for those seeking a mix of a relaxed style tour with some added thrills. Choose between surfing at Inch Beach or kayaking with dolphins in Dingle Bay. Fall in love with the breath-taking sights on the Ring of Kerry including gems such as Moll s Gap and Torc Waterfall. Cycle through a National Park surrounded by mountains and lakes and home to our native red deer. Hike the epic Cliffs of Moher, lose yourself in bohemian Galway City and be captivated by the landscape of the Aran Islands. Challenge yourself to climb Ireland s holiest mountain Croagh Patrick standing at 764 metres high. Our 7 day journey through Ireland is infused with activities, scenery, castles, adventure, history, heritage, culture and wildlife.
your irish adventure begins here! Day 1: Sunday Cork, the Rebel County We depart from Dublin and travel to County Cork which is located in the stunning South West of Ireland. As we make our way to our first destination we will stop en route for a fantastic photo opportunity at the famous medieval round tower, chapel and cathedral at The Rock of Cashel. Lonely Planet describes Cork as at the top of its game, sophisticated, vibrant and diverse and we completely agree. It is one of Europe s most vibrant cities and locals would argue that it is the REAL capital of Ireland. Begin your Cork experience with a kiss of the Blarney Stone and may you be granted the gift of the gab. Then take the time to explore the gardens, castle and rock close. Be guided through your Cork experience with a walking tour in this historic port and fishing town of Kinsale which is one of the most picturesque places on the south west coast of Ireland. The town is known for its castles, forts, galleries and shops, arts & crafts, and the recently launched Kinsale Gourmet Academy. We will stay the night in this stunning harbour town which is also renowned for its award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery. Kinsale is a place where boredom is an impossibility. total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Day 2: Monday The Ring of Kerry & Dingle We depart Kinsale where our route will take us towards the Ring of Kerry. The trip is filled with many hidden gems as we journey through Moll s Gap, Torc Waterfall and enjoy a two hours cycle around Killarney National Park. Your cycle through the park is a nature lover s dream and you will have a choice of trails to follow, each offering their own unique splendor. Tonight we stay in the celebrated, cozy coastal town of Dingle. The evening is yours to absorb the atmosphere in Dingle s famous quirky pubs, fantastic restaurants and stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions. This just might be the location for that perfect pint of Guinness. total driving time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Day 3: Tuesday Dingle How better to start a morning than a kayaking trip in Dingle Bay where will be able to meet the town s most famous local, Fungie the dolphin. Alternatively, if kayaking is not your thing you can hit the surf at Inch Beach and catch some Wild Atlantic waves! Let our expert guides take you on a breathtaking trip along the Slea Head Drive and finish off your perfect day at the Dingle Whiskey Distillery. There you will sample their award-winning whiskey and gin and get an education on the history of whiskey production around the world. We spend another night in the buzzing town of Dingle, so you don t need to repack your suitcases. Just relax and enjoy. total driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Day 4: Wednesday Cliffs of Moher & Lahinch Our adventure continues as we leave Dingle and travel North via the dramatic Conor Pass with dramatic drops, encroaching cliffs at every turn towards Castlegregory. We then cross the River Shannon by ferry to leave the South West behind. The ferry brings us to County Clare which is home to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Today we will explore the cliffs by foot on a two and half hour breathtaking hike while the fresh air and dramatic coastline embraces us! The Cliffs of Moher are on the southwestern edge of the Burren and are part of the European Geoparks Network and are also recognized by Unesco. We take you off the beaten track and point out special locations along the way. We have all the secret passages that truly outshine the main tourist hot spots. Capture this experience with envy-inducing photos. The views are steeped in myth and wonder, and hear the roar of the Wild Atlantic Ocean echo your name on the waves of bliss. Spend the evening in the most welcoming and colorful village of Doolin, the home-town of traditional Irish music. total driving time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Day 5: Thursday Galway We leave Doolin via the Burren National Park en route to Galway. Our route takes in a visit to Corcomroe Abbey. The abbey is a 13th-century Cistercian monastery and Poulnabrone Dolmen a portal tomb, one of approximately 172 in Ireland. As we travel to Galway we will also stop the 16th Century castle, Dunguaire Castle which is located in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara. Galway is known globally as a city of festivals and culture. In 2020 the city will is the official European Capital of Culture, a celebration of all that Galway is famous for. This medieval city is true living history as many buildings date back hundreds of years and now serve as shops, restaurants and bars. Brightly-painted pubs heave with live music, while cafés offer front-row seats for observing street performers, musicians and local characters. Enjoy a traditional Irish food tour and taste modern Irish cuisines paired with Irish craft beer. Watch Irish dancing and feel yourself toe tapping to the pulse of pure Celtic music and dance. After discovering Galway s hidden gems you are free to enjoy an evening of entertainment, great food and craic in this much celebrated city. total driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Day 6: Friday The Aran Islands & Westport After a short drive to Rossaveal pier, we will sail across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands. Arrive on rugged Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Explore the island, meet the locals and pick up a few words in Gaelic. We will cycle around the coastline of the island and to the stone fort Dún Aenghus, which lies 100m over the ocean before making our way back to the mainland. We depart Rosaveal Pier and drive to the stunning town of Westport which is located in County Mayo. You will take in thebreathtaking views of Connemara National Park and the Lost Valley which is part of the famous Famine Trail on your route to Westport. The evening is spent unwinding with some local craft beers and excellent food in Westport Town. And a visit to Westport would not be complete without a bit of craic at a traditional Irish music session in Matt Molloy s bar. total driving time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Day 7: Saturday Westport Wake up fresh in Westport where your guide will challenge you to climb Ireland s holiest mountain. Croagh Patrick is 764 meters high and is a rewarding hike for the adventurous. Learn about the man responsible for St. Patrick s Day and enjoy an unspoiled view from the top of Clew Bay, home to 365 islands. You will be on top of the world witnessing this natural panoramic view. Return to Dublin by bus, train or taxi. This cost is included in your tour. total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes
sometimes this tour may run in reverse order Day 1: Sunday Westport Our first day will take us from Ireland s capital city of Dublin to Westport in the West of Ireland. As we travel towards our destination, we will stop for a photo opportunity at Clonmacnoise, a sixth century monastic site, which is located on the banks of the River Shannon. Clonmacnoise is home to high crosses, round towers and the remnants of the old monastery from the time of Ireland s Golden Age of Learning. Next your guide will challenge you to climb Ireland s holiest mountain, Croagh Patrick. This mountain stands at 764 meters high and is a rewarding hike for the adventurous. On our trek you will get to learn about the St. Patrick and enjoy unspoiled views of Clew Bay which is home to 365 islands. This is Patrick s sacred mountain and is rich in archaeological heritage. We will spend the night in Westport town where we can unwind with some local craft beers and excellent food. There is always a traditional Irish music session taking place in one of the town s many bars and we highly recommend a visit to Matt Molloy s pub where you will find plenty of craic. total driving time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Day 2: Monday The Aran Islands & Galway Our morning begins with a short drive to catch our ferry to the Aran Islands. As we travel to Rossaveal Pier, we will take in the breathtaking views of Connemara National Park and the Lost Valley which is part of the famous Famine Trail on route to Galway. From Rossaveal Pier, we will cross Galway Bay to the Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are made up of three islands and we will visit the largest of the three, Inishmore. The best way to explore the island is on bike and our cycle down the old roads will start your imagination racing. Our cycle route will bring us along the coastline to Dún Aenghus, a stone fort which lies 100m over the wild Atlantic Ocean. We then return to Rossaveal pier where our transport will bring us to the legendary City of the Tribes, Galway. Galway is a medieval town and its narrow winding streets still hold true to maps that date back to the 1650s. In fact, many of the old buildings in Galway have been carefully preserved over many decades and are now home to locally owned shops, restaurants and bars. A step inside one of these buildings is a step into history. Perhaps Galway is now most famous for its vibrant social scene and year round festival calendar. Arts and culture are two words that are closely associated with the city and there are always street entertainers performing along the main pedestrianized streets. You are free to enjoy an evening of entertainment, great food and craic in this much celebrated city. total driving time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Day 3: Tuesday Doolin Our day begins with a fantastic food tour of Galway city. On our tour, you will get to sample some of the best food in the West and taste produce from local artisan producers. We now depart Galway and begin our journey southwards to County Clare. Our final destination today is the village of Doolin and on our route we will get to see some fantastic landmarks. Our first stop brings us to the quaint fishing village of Kinvara where we will view Dunguaire Castle which dates back to the 16th Century. We will also visit Corcomroe Abbey a 13th-century Cistercian monastery and Poulnabrone Dolmen a portal tomb, one of approximately 172 in Ireland in the Burren National Park. County Clare is home to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. We will tour the spectacular cliffs by foot on a two-and-a-half-hour breathtaking hike. Our tour will take you to the main tourist hot-spots but we also have a few hidden gems that we will share with you. The cliffs are simply amazing and stand 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point at O Brien s Tower. Wildlife is also in abundance and there are over 30,000 birds from more than 20 species living on the cliffs today. Tonight we will spend the evening in the most welcoming and colorful village of Doolin, the home-town of traditional Irish music. total driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Day 4: Wednesday Dingle We depart Doolin, County Clare and continue south to Dingle in County Kerry. There are many things to do in Dingle with the star attraction being a visit, by kayak, to meet Fungie the Dolphin in Dingle Bay. Those of you who are itching to challenge the Atlantic waves can choose to go surfing at Inch Beach. Dingle is our home for tonight and you are free to take a stroll around the buzzing town and enjoy the atmosphere and culture. total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Day 5: Thursday Dingle Our morning begins with a short drive to Killarney National Park where we will take to our bikes and start our adventure. The park has many cycle trails to choose from and you are invited to take the path that most appeals. Killarney National Park is Ireland s oldest National Park and its landscapes include mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. The park is also home to the native red deer, who have a presence in Ireland since the last ice age. In the afternoon we will visit the Dingle Whiskey Distillery. As well as learning about the history of whiskey production around the world, you will also be invited to sample their award-winning whiskey and gin. We return to the cozy coastal town of Dingle for tonight s accommodation. The evening is yours to absorb the atmosphere in Dingle s fantastic restaurants and famous quirky pubs, where you will undoubtedly stumble across an unforgettable traditional music session. total driving time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Day 6: Friday Kinsale Our next adventure takes us to further South to Kinsale in County Cork. On first stop will have everyone talking as you will be invited to Kiss the Blarney Stone after which you will be granted the eternal gift of the gab. We will take time in Blarney to explore the gardens, castle and rock close. Our overnight stay is in the stunning harbor town of Kinsale. Kinsale boasts a long waterfront and a yacht-filled harbor and its winding streets are home to brightly painted shops, restaurants, pubs and galleries. The town is famed for its array of culinary delights and deciding on which restaurant to visit is always a tough decision in Kinsale. total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Day 7: Saturday Dublin As our tour comes to end, we will leave Kinsale and begin our journey to Dublin. But we know there is always time for one more landmark! When we arrive in County Tipperary, we will stop for a photo opportunity of the famous medieval round tower, chapel and cathedral at The Rock of Cashel. total driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes
what is included and excluded in your tour? We are one of the only tour companies to include as much as we can into your tour price. So there are no hidden surprises on your tour, and this takes away the hassle about thinking of unexpected charges. You will notice the list of what s included is very abundant and covers entrance fees, transport, accommodation, WiFi on board and kayaking to name a few! Our quest is to bring your price down and your tour experience up to the max! This is possible with the power of a smaller group tour the more people the merrier and certainly the more people the cheaper price! INCLUDED 6 nights local guest house accommodation, carefully selected by our team Professional qualified Irish tour guide Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay (optional) EXCLUDED Lunch and dinner Food and Drinks Gratuities (optional) Distillery tour Cycling tours Hiking Cliffs of Moher WiFi on board Food Tour Great breakfast Transport to all locations by air-conditioned mini coach Rock of Cashel Entrance Blarney Stone Entrance Entrance fees to National Parks Ferry Crossings All taxes Bottled water on board We know everyone s budget and taste for food are different, so lunch and dinners are not included in your tour price. You have the freedom to choose from fine-dining or simply having some fish and chips. There are so many places along the way to suit all taste buds and all budgets. So you will be spoiled for choice! Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy great menus too from cafés and restaurants that cater for any dietary requirements.