Southwest Ireland Experience
Vibrant cities, quaint villages, magnificent castles and so much more
See a whole lot of Ireland in just days! Experience Irish tradition and culture while admiring the beauty of its southwest region at your own pace.
What's Included
- Round-trip airfare to Shannon Airport
- Manual Shift economy car rental for the duration of your trip - automatic available for upgrade
- 1 night in Adare at Fitzgerald Woodlands House or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Galway at Clayton Hotel or similar, with Breakfast
- 1 night in Killenard at Heritage Hotel, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Cork at Ambassador Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 1 night in Clare at Inn at Dromoland, without breakfast
Great Ways to Explore
- Staying in several different areas allows you to get a taste of many local cultures!
- Southwest Ireland is filled with castles! You might want to check out Blarney Castle in Cork and King John's Castle in Limerick!
- Ireland's National Parks are absolutely breathtaking - try to make time for Connemara and Killarney!
- This self-drive vacation grants you the freedom to explore and the opportunity to relax.
- Go to a traditional pub in each area! See how the local culture changes as you travel.
Experience the beauty, culture, and history of Southwest Ireland on this unique vacation. First, you'll land in Shannon, pick up your rental car, and head to the quaint village of Adare. Admire Adare's abundance of traditional cottages, historic castles, and beautiful churches.
Next, drive to gorgeous Galway. Frolic around the Latin Quarter, find authentic pubs on Quay Street, and feel like a native in Eyre Square. When it's time for sightseeing, head to the fairy-tale-like Connemara National Park and drive along the Wild Atlantic Way!
Relax in your beautiful Killenard accommodation, then make your way to Cork. Cork is filled to the brim with things to do, so make the most of your time! Some highlights are the Blarney Castle, Cobh Harbour, and the Old English City Market.
Last but certainly not least, drive northeast to beautiful Clare. Visit many famously historic sights in this gorgeous coastal area such as The Burren, Bunratty Castle, and of course, the majestic Cliffs of Moher! On this extraordinary vacation, you'll see a whole region of Ireland in just days.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
For $99 per person, add the following to your vacation:
- Breakfast daily
- Admission to Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- Admission to Bunratty Folk Park
- Round-trip airfare to Shannon Airport
- Manual Shift economy car rental for the duration of your trip - automatic available for upgrade
- 1 night in Adare at Fitzgerald Woodlands House or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Galway at Clayton Hotel or similar, with Breakfast
- 1 night in Killenard at Heritage Hotel, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Cork at Ambassador Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 1 night in Clare at Inn at Dromoland, without breakfast
- Staying in several different areas allows you to get a taste of many local cultures!
- Southwest Ireland is filled with castles! You might want to check out Blarney Castle in Cork and King John's Castle in Limerick!
- Ireland's National Parks are absolutely breathtaking - try to make time for Connemara and Killarney!
- This self-drive vacation grants you the freedom to explore and the opportunity to relax.
- Go to a traditional pub in each area! See how the local culture changes as you travel.
Experience the beauty, culture, and history of Southwest Ireland on this unique vacation. First, you'll land in Shannon, pick up your rental car, and head to the quaint village of Adare. Admire Adare's abundance of traditional cottages, historic castles, and beautiful churches.
Next, drive to gorgeous Galway. Frolic around the Latin Quarter, find authentic pubs on Quay Street, and feel like a native in Eyre Square. When it's time for sightseeing, head to the fairy-tale-like Connemara National Park and drive along the Wild Atlantic Way!
Relax in your beautiful Killenard accommodation, then make your way to Cork. Cork is filled to the brim with things to do, so make the most of your time! Some highlights are the Blarney Castle, Cobh Harbour, and the Old English City Market.
Last but certainly not least, drive northeast to beautiful Clare. Visit many famously historic sights in this gorgeous coastal area such as The Burren, Bunratty Castle, and of course, the majestic Cliffs of Moher! On this extraordinary vacation, you'll see a whole region of Ireland in just days.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
For $99 per person, add the following to your vacation:
- Breakfast daily
- Admission to Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- Admission to Bunratty Folk Park
Day 1. Welcome to Adare!
Feel the luck in the air as you land in Ireland! Pick up your car, then drive from Shannon to Adare and settle in to your first accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring Desmond Castle, Holy Trinity Abbey Church, and more!
Check-in - Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property set in 44 wooded acres amidst the rich, quiet farmlands of the Golden Vale. The hotel is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon Airport. The charming Adare town is only 1.6 km with its streets lined with enchanting thatched cottages, selling crafts, clothes and antiques.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel offers 94 comfortable and stylish guest rooms, first-class service and excellent facilities including the award-winning Brennan Room Restaurant and a leisure club featuring a swimming pool. The state-of-the-art Health & Leisure Centre boasts a spacious cardiovascular gym and weight training area with variety of fitness classes, a 65-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, children's pool and play room, as well as the Failte Ireland Award-winning Revas Spa.
Day 2. Adare - Galway
Gallivant over to Galway today and explore what's known as Ireland's "most Irish city." Spend today leisurely strolling around Eyre Square, Quay Street, and the Latin Quarter, where you'll find tons of shops, restaurants, and of course, pubs!
Check-in - Clayton Hotel Galway
The Clayton Hotel is only minutes from Galway city center, with 195 spacious & luxurious bedrooms, and complimentary parking and Wi-fi for all guests. At the Clayton Hotel Galway you are guaranteed a warm welcome and professional service delivered with a friendly smile throughout your stay. A great day starts with a great night's sleep! Relax at this Galway hotel in one of our contemporary and chic bedrooms and enjoy the comfort of a pillow topped mattress, complete with crisp white linen, fluffy duvets and comfy pillows.
Day 3. Galway
Pack your camera and wear comfortable shoes - today's the day to walk through stunning Connemara National Park! See the rolling hills and vast greenery you've always dreamed about while becoming friends with some friendly wildlife!
When your legs get tired, sit back, relax, and drive down the Wild Atlantic Way. Take in the breathtaking views, stop and take pictures along the way, and create unforgettable memories.
Day 4. Galway - Killenard
Make your way to Killenard today, where you'll rest and recharge at the gorgeous Heritage Killenard. Enjoy its luxurious amenities, treat yourself to a delicious meal, and stroll through its beautiful grounds.
If you're feeling adventurous, check out the nearby Rock of Dunamase, Emo Court, and Kildare Village!
Check-in - The Heritage
Immerse yourself in elegant charm at the 5-star Heritage Killenard in County Laois. As soon as you walk through the hotel's doors, you'll step into a state of pure peace and tranquility. Check-in with the friendly reception team and admire the hotel's rich, traditional decor as you make your way up to your room. Open your door and find air conditioning, internet access, large comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and more.
After a quick nap, unpack your swimsuit and take a dip in the Jacuzzi or indoor pool. Take a whack at a match of tennis, bring out your inner-child in the game room, go fishing, or unwind in the sauna or steam rooms. Enjoy a pre-dinner glass of whiskey at the Slieve Bloom Bar, then indulge in a delicious dinner at any of the resort's three restaurants.
Day 5. Killenard - Cork
Drive south to Cork today! On your way there, you might want to break up your trip by stopping in Kilkenny or Waterford.
Once you arrive in Cork, check out Cork City Gaol, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the Church of St. Anne. Take a leisurely stroll through the enormous, unique Old English City Market!
Check-in - The Address Cork Hotel
The elegant Address Cork presides with an air of grandness from the top of Military Hill in the historic area of St. Luke’s, providing the perfect location for leisure in the heart of Cork City.
The impressive facade of this wonderful red brick Victorian building gives any visitor a sense of the rich history of the area, and a clear example of 1870’s Irish architecture at its best. Cork’s newest eatery, McGettigan’s Cookhouse & Bar was launched at The Address Cork and is committed to using locally sourced ingredients. It provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment for its guests – including a new outdoor decking area.
The Address Cork is ideally located just minutes from some of Cork City's main shopping areas and tourist attractions including; Blarney Castle, The English Market, Opera Lane Shopping district, Cork City Opera House, and the Fota Wildlife Park, to name but a few. It’s a short distance from Cork City's Bus Station in Parnell Place, and Kent Railway Station, and just 5 minutes from Cork City Airport.
Day 6. Cork
Today, you may want to head over to the famous medieval Blarney Castle! Legend has it that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are granted the gift of gab, so pucker up and find out for yourself!
After that, head to charming Cobh Harbour. Walk along the water, admire the quaint colorful shops, and enjoy an authentic Irish meal while watching the boats float by.
Day 7. Cork - Clare
Wake up early and make the most of the day. Drive up to Clare and get exploring! On the way, you might want to make a pit stop at the outstandingly beautiful Killarney National Park!
Once in Clare, visit The Burren, Bunratty Castle, and - yes, you guessed it - the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Learn all about these historic sights, take tons of pictures, and enjoy the breathtaking views. This day will surely be unforgettable.
Check-in - The Inn at Dromoland
Located in the beautiful County Clare countryside, The Inn at Dromoland commands panoramic views across the Clare Hills and Shannon Estuary - and is ideally situated just eight miles from Shannon Airport, a 15-minute drive from Ennis and a 20-minute drive from Limerick.
The Inn at Dromoland features 181 guestrooms, each individually designed and decorated with guests' comfort and relaxation in mind. Its health and leisure club boasts a large swimming pool and children's pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and plunge pool, plus fully equipped fitness center. The hotel is renowned for its seasonal and fully supervised Blue Dolphin Kids Club, as well as other family friendly activities.
Day 8. Depart Ireland
Make room for souvenirs in your luggage, pack your bags, and head to Shannon Airport. Return your rental car, board your flight home, and relax as you dream about your next adventure.
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
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