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WILD ATLANTIC WAY - EPIC
FREE Day Tour with this tour
Type : Mixed Adventure
Duration : 12 Days
The Cliffs Of Moher – Co. Clare
Tour Type : Mixed Adventure
Accommodation : Guesthouses
Group Size : 16 Max
Grade : Easy
Departure Dates 2017 : 14th May | 4th June | 2nd July | 6th Aug | 3rd Sept
Tour Highlights
Tour Essentials
• Visit the 12th Century Rock Of Cashel
• Cycle through Bare Island on the secret Beara Peninsula
• Visit Skellig Michael, a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Hike along the world famous Cliffs Of Moher
• Visit a real working sheep farm
• Experience Stand Up Paddling along the Irish Amazon!
Accommodation :
Included Meals :
Start Point :
End Point :
Transport :
Inclusions :
Exclusions:
11 nights in quality guesthouses
11 breakfasts, 0 lunches, 0 dinners
Dublin
Dublin
Minibus – 16 Max
Listed in notes
Listed in notes
Details
This tour will take you along Irelands’ west coast from west
Cork in the south to Donegal in the north. The Wild Atlantic Way
Tour is a soft adventure tour which will bring you on wonderful
walking trails to some of the country's’ most spectacular vistas and
dramatic coastlines. Not only this but you will also have the
opportunity to experience some of the best outdoor adventure
pursuits such as Stand Up Paddling, surfing, kayaking and much
more. Each day will not only be filled with adventure activities, but
also lots of cultural and historical visits to castles and abbeys along
the Wild Atlantic Way.
Route Map
What's Included ?
• 12 full days of pure adventure
• The best and friendliest guides in the business.
• All you tour transport for 12 days
• 11 hearty Irish breakfasts
• Bike hire & ride around Slea Head
• Terbert Ferry
• Poulnabrone Dolmen
• 12th Century Corcomroe Abbey
• Guided tour of Dingle Whiskey Distillery
• Clifden Castle
• Killary Sheep Farm
• Bike hire and ferry on Bare Island
• Bike hire along the Great Western Greenway
• Deserted Village of Achill Island
• Ballycroy National Park
• Céide Fields
• Stand Up Paddling
• Sea Trails Coastal Walk
• WB Yeats Grave
• Slieve League Cliffs
Slea Head - Dingle
Cycle The Great Western Greenway - Mayo
What’s Not Included ?
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Lunches & evening meals
Travel insurance
The 12th Century Rock Of Cashel - Optional €5
Boat to Skellig Michael UNESCO site – Optional €55
Donegal Castle – Optional €3
Kayak with Fungi the dolphin in Dingle – Optional €45
Kayak & Coasteering in Kilkea – Optional €35
Surfing in Lahinch – Optional €35
Seaweed Bath in Enniscrone – Optional €35
Rock Of Cashel - Tipperary
DAY
1 Tour departs from Dublin
Our Adventure Begins !
Jump aboard and meet your fellow adventurers for the next 12 days! Once your guide introduces himself and gets everyone
settled, we will make our way out of the city and head south west to the wonderful town of Kenmare in the county of Kerry. We will
pass through spectacular countryside throughout the midlands, then to break up the journey we will take you back in time to the
12th century when we visit the world famous 'Rock Of Cashel' once the home of the King of Munster. Once we reach Kenmare
you'll have time to stretch and relax in one of the best loved towns in Ireland. The many great restaurants and brilliant traditional
music in brilliant pubs will keep you entertained !
DAY
Highlight of the day: Visit the 12th century Rock Of Cashel
Overnight : Kenmare Village
Restaurant Suggestion: Mulcahy’s Wild Garlic Restaurant
2 The Beara Peninsula & Bare Island Cycle
After breakfast we will take a scenic drive to Castletownbare, a fishing village which looks like it's caught in time on Ireland's
secret Peninsula of Beara. This was the home of the last great Irish Chieftain, O'Sullivan Beara. From there, we will take a ferry
to Bare island, a small inhabited island about 20mins boat ride from the mainland. This place is a magical little island where time
stands still and stress just doesn't exist. You will take a spectacular bike ride through the island, taking another ferry back to the
mainland. After a stop in the capital of the Beara peninsula, Glengarriff we return to the lovely Kenmare for more 'fun and
frollicks' !
DAY
Highlight of the day: Cycle across Bare Island
Overnight: Kenmare
Restaurant Suggestion: The Mews
3 Ring Of Kerry & Skellig Michael
In the morning, we will travel along the world famous Ring of Kerry and stop at the port in Portmagee. From there we will take a
ferry to Skellig Michael, one of Irelands’ most holy places and one of only two UNESCO World heritage sites in Ireland. Here,
you will find a most unusual monastery built in stone beehive huts. Centuries ago, Monks were cut off from the mainland and
spent their time here creating manuscripts and praying. If the weather doesn't permit us to take the ferry we will head into
Killarney National Park and hike through one of the most beautiful valleys in the country at the Gap of Dunloe and take a boat ride
through the lakes of Killarney. Tonight, we will stay in the vibrant town of Dingle
DAY
Highlight of the day: Visit Skellig Michael ,a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overnight : Dingle Town
Restaurant Suggestion : Walkers Bar & Restaurant
4 Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head
This morning, you get to do what everyone on the planet has on their bucket list, you'll swim or Kayak with Fungi the dolphin who
came to Dingle harbour years ago with a school of dolphins but never left. In the afternoon we will cycle around the famous Slea
Head and stop off at the many ancient sites along the way. After that, you'll need to be warmed up a little and no better place
than the Dingle Whiskey Distillery where you'll be shown the secrets of whiskey making and you'll have the chance to sample a
few tipples before you leave. Tonight we stay another night in this wonderful town. Make sure to check out Dick Macs Pub before
you leave, it's a real experience !
Highlight of the day: Bike ride around Slea Head
Overnight: Dingle Town
Restaurant Suggestion: The Chart House Restaurant
DAY
5 Co. Clare & Lahinch
We really do hate to say goodbye to Dingle, but it's upwards and onwards literally as we head north along the Wild
Atlantic Way. We will take a short but interesting ferry ride from Tarbert crossing the mouth of Ireland's longest river,
the river Shannon. Further along the coast, we will make a stop at Kilkea where you will have the opportunity to try
the new land/sea adventure activity called 'coasteering'. You will be taken along the base of the sea cliffs, where you
can climb along the edge and jump into the sea & lagoons dotted along the way - fantastic fun and a real Wild Atlantic
Way experience ! Tonight we will stay in the village of Lahinch , Ireland's surf capital!
DAY
Highlight of the day: Coasteering in Kilkea
Overnight : Lahinch Village
Restaurant Suggestion: Vaughan Lodge Seafood Restaurant
6 The Cliffs Of Moher & Surfing Atlantic Waves
After a hearty breakfast we hit the waves and get some surf lessons on Irelands’ most famous surf beach at
Lahinch. Once we’ve dried ourselves off, we will travel a short distance north to Ireland’s most iconic landmark, The
Cliffs Of Moher. Thousands of visitors flock to these high cliffs every year. We will take a hike along the cliffs before
we get back to our accommodation to freshen up. To finish this jam packed day of adventure we will take you to
Doolin village to a traditional night of Irish music and 'craic‘ (means fun).
DAY
Highlight of the day: Surfing on Lahinch Beach
Overnight: Lahinch
Restaurant Suggestion: The Cornerstone
7 The Burren National Park
This morning we will take you to one of Ireland's iconic tombs, the dolmen at Poulnabrone which sits in the heart of
the Burren, one of Ireland's National Parks. This dolmen is a burial site and most likely the last resting place of a
local Chieftain. Your guide will then take you on a hike through the Burren and explain about the flora and fauna
exclusive to this area of Ireland. We will take a hike along the top of the cliffs which is just as amazing. we then head
for the city of Galway where you will say goodbye to some friends who have completed the Wild Atlantic Way South
and meet up with some new travelling companions joining us for the northern adventure. Tonight we stay in Clifden
DAY
Highlight of the day: Hike along The Cliffs Of Moher
Overnight: Clifden
Restaurant Suggestion: Ardagh Restaurant
8 Connemara & Killary Fjord
Connemara is the heartland of Ireland for many. It holds the dreamy image of Ireland many picture in their minds
before they set foot on its soil. This truly is a place of outstanding beauty. We will visit Connemara National Park and
make some photo stops along the way including Kylemore Abbey, a romantic castle set among the mountains and
lakes. After visiting the castle grounds, we will now show you the working man's view of Connemara when you visit a
mountain sheep farm where you will be given a sheep dog demonstration, and maybe the chance to sheer some
sheep ! Afterwards, you will do the famous 'Famine Walk' along Killary Harbour where Irish families were ordered to
build paths during the famine years.
Highlight of the day: Hike the famous famine walk
Overnight: Clifden
Restaurant Suggestion: Guy’s Bar & Snug Restaurant
DAY
9 Achill Island & Wonderful Westport
Today we will take you to two fascinating sites, firstly a megalithic tomb that still stands 5000 years on and the
deserted village of Slievemore. A whole community was forced to leave their homes during the 1840's because of
crippling high rents imposed by their landlords. Then, on to one of Ireland's most hidden treasures at Keem Bay. You
can either swim in the bay or walk along the high sea cliffs with amazing Atlantic views. Afterwards, we will leave
Achill by bike and you will get to experience the Western Greenway, an old railway line used by the English
gentry. Today it’s a bike trail which we will cycle from Mulranny to Newport, where we will collect and transfer you to
Westport town.
DAY
Highlight of the day; Cycle along The Great Western Greenway
Overnight: Westport Town
Restaurant Suggestion: The Olde Bridge Restaurant
10 Sligo & Amazing Beach Walks
This mornings first adventure you will try SUPing, or 'Stand Up Paddling', along what is known as Ireland's Amazon
River. From there, we will visit the Victorian seaweed baths at Enniscrone before we meet Auriel Robinson, a
marine historian who is passionate about the area. She will bring you on a fascinating guided walk explaining the
history of the area and the fate of the Spanish armada. Then we head for Mullaghmore where you are free to explore
the beach and have a swim. You will be staying here for the next two nights.
DAY
Highlight of the day: Stand Up Paddling along Ireland’s Amazon
Overnight: Mullagmore
Restaurant Suggestion: Eithna’s by the Sea
11 Donegal & The Mighty Slieve League Cliffs
Today we head along the coast to the long beach at Rossnowlagh. The beach spans 3km, so we'll walk to the end
and back to get some fresh sea air in our lungs. If anyone feels like a quick dip in the ocean, we're always happy to
join you. We then move further North to Donegal town where you will visit Donegal Castle. This was once home to a
local 'Chieftain' called ''Red" McDonnell built in 1474. Then your guide will then take you to one of the signature stops
of the whole tour. Your Wild Atlantic Way tour will end on a high when you are taken to see highest sea cliffs in
Europe at Slieve League! Marvel at this amazing views from the top of these giant cliffs.
DAY
Highlight of the day; Slieve League Cliffs
Overnight; Mullagmore
Restaurant Suggestion; The Quay Bar
12 Strokestown House & Back to Dublin
Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and today we are heading back to Dublin. We have one last treat
for you as we make a final stop at Strokestown house where you will be given a guided tour of this stately home.
From here it is only another hour and a half until we say our final farewell and land back in Dublin. What an
experience!
Highlight of the day: Strokestown House
End of Services: Thank You !
Tour Information
Partner Net Price : €2060
Duration: 12 Days
Departure Time: 08:00
Departure Location: Suffolk Street ( outside the old stone church)
Single Supplement: €35 per night
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation:
Your accommodation is included in the price of the tour each night. The standard is a high quality lodge or guesthouse
with each room having its own en suite. We see the tour accommodation as a very important part of the overall tour
experience and each year we travel around Ireland handpicking the very best quality accommodations that are
relevant to our tours. The hosts are welcoming and very friendly and give our customers a homely feeling when they
arrival.
Meals:
Each morning you will get a full cooked breakfast with continental options to set you up for the day ahead. Lunches
and evening meals are not included however your guide will direct you to where you can get a packed lunch .
Normally this would include a sandwich, water and maybe a chocolate bar or something sweet. Do make sure to
bring sufficient water for the day ahead. Evening meals are another important part of the tour experience and we
always encourage our customers to try local and traditional food on tour. Each night we make a suggestion of where
to eat however the night is yours to own. Sometimes the group eats together and if some wish, they can eat
elsewhere.
Our Guides
At Extreme Ireland Adventures we put so much energy
into handpicking and training our guides. In our view,
you can be brought on the most amazing tour, but if the
guide is bad then the tour fails. All our guides are born to
do what they do. They have a deep love and knowledge
of this little island and they want to share it with
everyone. Their only aim is to make sure that our
customers have an unforgettable in Ireland. Each guide
has their own particular style which we always encourage
but all will give a professional and fun tour experience.
Budgeting for your Tour
You will need some extra money for tour for the likes of lunches, meals, drinks, souvenirs etc. Here are some tips
and information that will be helpful for you to budget your tour before you arrive.
Lunches
Depending on the day, you will either have a packed lunch for a hike or you will have lunch in a pub or restaurant.
Each day tour guide will let you know what is the best option and you can choose. Here are some guideline prices for
your lunch options.
Sandwich Water Sweet -
€5
€2
€2
Pub Lunch Coffee Tea -
€10 - €15
€4
€3
Evening Meals
Each night you have the choice of eating with the group or if you wish you can eat separately. We will give restaurant
suggestions which we choose based on their local produce and quality. This area can vary greatly but this will give
you some guideline on what to expect.
Budget Main Meal Average 3 course High end 3 course -
€6 - €10
€25 - €30
€35 - €55
Glass of Wine Pint of Beer Whiskey / Short -
€5
€5
€5
Foreign Exchange
ATM Availability: Widely available in main towns
Cash Back : Most pubs, large shops and restaurants will offer a cash back service
Credit Card Acceptance: Widely accepted
Travellers Cheques: Can be changed in most banks and post offices
Local Currency: Euro
Where to Exchange: Your tour leader will advise where you can exchange.
Preparing for your Tour
Climate
Ireland has a temperate climate and can be changeable. Our wonderful green landscape doesn't come without the a
sprinkling of rain once in a while! In general the summers are warm with the hottest months being July and August.
Winters are cool and the lowest temperatures are recorded during January and February. Whatever the season it is
advisable to prepare for rain.
Gear & Equipment
Here are some essentials that we would suggest to bring on tour ; Comfortable waterproof walking boots; Waterproof
jacket & over trousers; At least 2 pairs of comfortable walking trousers and breathable tops ; Day pack 25L will do ;
Gaiters and walking poles ( personal choice but recommended ) ; Thick socks , hat and gloves ; Water bottle &
lunch box ; Sunscreen 7 insect repellent ; .....and don’t forget your camera !!
Luggage on tour
Most people will have two pieces of luggage on tour. Their main larger piece and a smaller day pack used for day
hikes etc. The larger piece depending on the day will be secured in the bus or at the accommodation. This tour
stops in some accommodations for more than one night to allow less packing and unpacking.
Electric & plug supplies
3 Pin Flat
Airport Transfers
You can get to Dublin city from the airport by bus or taxi which run regularly from outside the airport arrivals.
Visas
Depending on what country you are travelling from there are different visa requirements needed. We would advise you
to go to the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade to check whether you will need an visa for Ireland before your trip.
www.dfa.ie
Other General Information
Population : 4,600,000
Size of Country: 70,273 sq km
Major Language: English / some smaller parts in the west speak Irish as their first language
Main Religion: Roman Catholic
International hone Code: +353
International Phone Calls: We suggest you use ‘Viber’ or ‘Skype’ for free international calls
Some Fun Facts about the Irish & Ireland
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Over 40% of all American Presidents can trace their ancestry back to Ireland
Newgrange passage tomb in Co. Meath is 600 years older than the Pyramids and 1000 years older than Stonehenge
St Brendan is said to have discovered America 1000 years before Columbus
Dublin was originally called ‘Dubh Linn’ meaning ‘Black Pool’
The national symbol of Ireland is the Celtic harp, not the shamrock.
Free Day Tour
On selected tours we offer a free day tour from Dublin as an extra bonus for booking your tour with Extreme Ireland
Adventures. Apart from our adventure travel business we also operate one a day tour business from Dublin. A day
tour will allow you to experience a part of Ireland that may not be on your tour and you can choose from one of seven
different iconic destinations free of charge either before or after your tour date. Just get in contact with us and let us
know when and where. You can view our day ours from; www.extremeireland.ie
Travel Insurance
Your tour with Extreme Ireland Adventures does not include
travel insurance. In-light of this, we would suggest that you get
covered before you embark on your Irish adventure. Choosing
what insurance company to use is entirely up to you, however if
you need a suggestion, we would direct you to World Nomads
who specialise in adventure travel. www.worldnomads.com
Booking Your Tour
10% Deposit
With any of our multi-day tours we can secure your place with a small deposit of 10%. The remainder of the
balance can be paid up to two weeks before departure. Once we have a deposit, you name is added to the tour
rooming list and the logistics for your tour is started. You can do this through our website www.extremeireland.ie ,
just click the 10% deposit box in the booking form. Otherwise you can pay in full online or call us on
00353-1-4100700 / email; [email protected]
Your Tour Advisor
Stephen Power
Adventure Travel Specialist
Stephen has been with Extreme Ireland Adventures since the
beginning. Having travelled a large part of the globe solo, he
still holds Ireland as among the most beautiful countries in the
world. Stephen will be delighted to answer any questions,
queries or indeed assist you in booking any of our tours. You
can contact him by phone or e-mail ;
E-mail :
Phone :
Mobile :
[email protected]
00353-1-4100700
00353-87-2891268