Celtic Kerry Footsteps
8 days/7 nights
Day 1: Arrival
Optional airport transfer from Shannon or Kerry airports.
7.00pm dinner and welcome briefing with guide at guesthouse in Killarney.
Day 2: Killarney National Park
Distance: 10km/6miles, Ascent: None
A gentle walk through Killarney National Park allows you to experience the stunning lake and mountain scenery as well as the historical aspect of the Park, with a visit of 19th century Muckross House, the Gardens, the Traditional Farms- where guests walk back in time to a working 1930’s farm – and 15th century Muckross Abbey. Off to a traditional Irish pub for a celebration of Irish Music!
Day 3: Ring of Kerry & Torc Waterfall
A short morning walk through Killarney National Park to Torc Waterfall. Transfer along the famous Ring of Kerry route to the coastal village of Caherdaniel. Visit Derrynane National Park & house, beach home of Daniel O’Connell, the Liberator. Walk along the mass path with beautiful views of the beaches, visit a 12th Century abbey on Abbey Island. Walk the blue flag Derrynane beach or a swim in the Atlantic ocean. Picnic lunch on beach or Abbey Island.
Day 4: Skellig Islands & evening walk to prehistoric Ring Fort
Distance: 1.6 km/1 miles, Ascent: 180m/600ft
Day 4 Skellig Islands & evening walk to prehistoric Ring Fort Day Distance: 1.6km/1miles (steep) Ascent: 180m/600ft Evening Walk: Easy Ascent: None We take a boat trip to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monastic island of Sceilg Mhichíl (Great Skellig Island), habited in the 8th century by Irish monks. We also pass the worlds largest Gannet colony on Little Skellig island. After dinner in your guesthouse, we invite you to a magical late evening walk to a prehistoric Ring Fort. The magical sounds of an Irish harp await you in the stillness of the Ring Fort (weather permitting). Simply unforgettabe
Day 5: Treasure Island, Art and Music
Distance: 5km/3miles, Ascent: 40m/133ft
Visit Valentia island, rich in wild and marine life, standing stones, sub-tropical flora & also the location of the first transatlantic cable. Visit Knightstown & Valentia grotto in the Slate quarry. Discover the ancient Ogham standing stones dotted around the island. In the afternoon, learn to play the ancient Irish drum - the Bodhran - in a friendly and informal session with our Master Bohdran player. After dinner in your guesthouse, back to the pub where we invite you to meet the locals, join in (or just clap along) to a traditional set dancing session – and maybe practice beating those Bodhrans!
Day 6: Atlantic Beach walk, Sheep Dog Trials and Free time for you
Transfer along the Ring to Kerry to Killarney where you will stay for your last two nights. See real live sheep dog trials in Kells en-route. Completely rejuvenate your spirit as you walk along the award winning blue flag beach of Rossbeigh. Enjoy a free afternoon discovering Killarneys craft, book & coffee shops, visit a spa or walk in the National Park, adjacent to the town.
Day 7: Boat Trip through the Lakes of Killarney
Departing from Ross Castle enjoy one of Ireland’s best day trips on an open top boat through the three Lakes of Killarney. Finish your day by either taking a wonderful walk through the Gap Of Dunloe and an Irish coffee at Kate Kearneys Cottage. Non walkers have the option of hopping on a horse drawn jaunting car (supplement of €20-30 per person). A farewell dinner where you can celebrate and reflect on the wonderful walks, sights, sound and tastes of Ireland you have experienced throughout the week
Day 8: Departure
Departure after a hot cooked Irish breakfast. Check below if the Go Ireland airport transfers to Kerry (closest airport) or Shannon airport suit.