Ireland

Walking and Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way

Trip code: M07KE

Multi-activity holiday

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

15.0Kg CO2e

Navigation App

SUMMARY

  • County Kerry's iconic scenery - sea cliffs carved by the wild Atlantic Ocean, soft golden beaches, emerald-green farmland criss-crossed by stone walls, mist-shrouded bogs and cloud-torn mountain peaks.
  • Cycle through the stunning Gap of Dunloe, Killarney's National Park and hike to Torc Waterfall
  • Enjoy a scenic boat trip from Ross Castle through the three lakes of Killarney and visit Lord Brandon's cottage.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Navigation app
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Bike hire included
  • Boat trip from Ross Castle on Killarney's lakes

TRIP DESCRIPTION

This seven-night self-guided walking and cycling holiday explores County Kerry, the location of Ireland's 10 highest peaks and a vast national park containing the country's oldest oak forests. A haven for hikers and cyclists, with magnificent views of land and sea at every turn. Kerry also boasts an abundance of welcoming towns, B&Bs and cosy pubs in which to rest weary feet. Admirably referred to by locals as 'The Kingdom', Kerry will give you a striking, authentic and truly memorable experience of Ireland with its astonishing natural beauty, enriched by the warm welcome of its people.

The Wild Atlantic Way spans the full Western coast of Ireland and on this holiday you explore its wonderful Southern peninsula. With one of the country's finest national parks as its backyard, the lively tourism hub of Killarney is often the starting point for Kerry's two famed loop drives: the larger Ring of Kerry skirts the mountainous, island-fringed Iveragh Peninsula. The more compact Dingle Peninsula is like a condensed version of its southern neighbour, with ancient Christian sites, sandy beaches and glimpses of a hard, unforgiving land. Killarney's exquisite beauty makes it one of Kerry's most popular tourist destinations. We ensure you escape from the crowds, along a mountain pass, an isolated cove or an untrodden trail.

Terrain

The walking is on well marked trails, the terrain at times can be a little muddy underfoot and some rocky sections. There are some coastal paths which are wide but do have drops. Walking boots are essential and poles are highly reccommended.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Killarney - optional 21km/13mi cycle

Check into the Abbey Lodge B&B where you stay for 3 nights and discover the delights of Killarney. Or if you have time enjoy a circular route to Killarney National Park, cycling to Muckross Lake; one of the famous 3 lakes of Killarney, 15th century Muckross Abbey and 19th century Muckross House with renowned and beautiful gardens. Following your cycle return to Killarney to enjoy this vibrant town for your first overnight stop.

You stay at Abbey Lodge.

hotel details

 equivalent

Abbey Lodge, Killarney

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
WiFi
TV
Safe
Tea/coffee


Abbey Lodge offers guests complimentary WiFi, spacious en-suite rooms, and onsite car parking. The large rooms have a power shower, radio, and a TV. Each also includes a safety deposit box, a work desk, and ironing facilities.

Abbey Lodge is an ideal base for exploring all that Killarney and County Kerry has to offer. Killarney National Park is home to Muckross House, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall. Killarney Racecourse and the INEC are both within a 10-minute walk.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

Day 2: Ross Castle and the Lakes of Killarney - cycle (24km/14.9mi)

Cycle to the 15th century Ross Castle once home to The O'Donovan Rossa Clan who ruled these lands in bygone times. You will enjoy a scenic boat trip through the three Lakes of Killarney to finish at the Lord Brandon's cottage, stopping perhaps at the cafe here for lunch or a coffee. Cycle through the glaciated valleys of the stunning Gap of Dunloe with glistening mountain lakes with jagged rock faces before returning via the spectacular Killarney National Park. If you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of the native wild red deer.

You stay at Bamburys Guesthouse.

hotel details



Bamburys Guesthouse, Dingle

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

WiFi
Tea/coffee


This family-run guesthouse is located just 1 minutes' walk from the heart of Dingle Town. All rooms are ensuite and are traditionally stylish and comfortable.

Day 3: Esknamucky Glen and Torc Waterfall - walk (10km/6.2mi)

A transfer to Galways Bridge today and there are panoramic views of the Killarney lakes and mountains as you walk from Galway's Bridge along the old Kenmare road through the Esknamucky Glen. It truly is one of Ireland's premier walking routes. Finish by visiting the famous Torc waterfall before returning to Killarney.

You stay at Teac Seain.

hotel details

 equivalent

Teac Seain, Annascaul

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Market
Hairdryer


Teac Seain is a family run Bar and B&B situated in Annascaul village, a peaceful tranquil area with beautiful walks and scenery to admire. A dream come true for the serious walker as Annascaul takes in the Dingle Way walkers route.

Day 4: Transfer to Dingle - optional walk (20km/12.4mi)

Todays transfer takes you to Bamburys in Dingle where you stay for 3 nights. Dingle is the South West's home to traditional Irish music, language and culture and Gaelic is still the daily language of the locals. Enjoy this picturesque town full of true Irish tradition, perhaps visit the Dingle Whiskey, Gin and Vodka Distillery and sample the 'water of life'.
An optional walk from Annascaul to Dingle is also available - the taxi will drop you in Annascaul on the way from Killarney and your luggage will be transferred on to Bambury's in Dingle.

Day 5: Choice of cycle routes (41km/25.5mi)

Cycle west from Dingle via Ventry to Slea Head, with magnificent views across the Blasket Sound to the famous Blasket Island. Continue to Dunquinn and Ballyferriter before returning to Dingle. Alternatively, from Dunquinn harbour take the ferry (pay locally) to Great Blasket Island to explore this mystical and enchanting place.

Day 6: Cycle to Ballydavid and on to Brandon Creek - cycle (22km/13.7mi)

Cycle north to the beautiful village of Ballydavid, one of the largest fishing ports in the region. Continue to Brandon Creek, the most westerly point of Ireland before returning to Dingle.

Day 7: Walk to Annascaul Lake and Annascaul - walk (14km/8.7mi)

A wonderful walk along the Dingle Peninsula from North to South, following a spectacular old farmer's track. You walk over the plateau, passing a deserted famine village and Annascaul Lake on the way before descending into your home for the last night in Annascaul at the southern foothills of the Slieve Mish Mountains

Day 8: Leave Annascaul

After a final breakfast and farewell follow your own arrangements for your onward journey.

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE DATE

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from $417.

TRAVEL DETAILS

Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.

REVIEWS

So far (booking by a phone call) the experience has been positive. Luke was friendly, approachable, but professional and told me all I needed to know, along with a little more information as well. I was very happy with the service.

14 Nov 2024

Excellent so far. Katie Hatton could not have been more helpful and understanding

15 Feb 2024

Efficient, friendly and personal. They really care about getting the details right for the customer.

20 Jan 2024

Exemplary

John Mcgirr, 10 Jan 2024


Multi-activity holiday

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

15.0Kg CO2e

Navigation App

7 nights from $1880

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: +44 1606 720199

 

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