Ring of Kerry, Killarney & Cork
4 day tour
Savour the true tastes of Ireland on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Tour map
Tour Highlights
Places you explore
Birr Castle and Gardens - Explore the lush gardens and discover one of the 19th century's greatest scientific instruments, The ‘Great Telescope’.
The Village of Adare - ‘Ireland’s Prettiest Village’, a stunning ‘chocolate box’ collection of thatched houses and historic buildings.
Killarney - You’ll have a merry time in this bustling town of great bars and local music.
The Ring of Kerry - Indulge your senses on this classic route through 100 miles of beauty and intrigue.
The Caha Pass on the edge of the Beara Peninsula - Ireland’s unexplored secrets await you in this stunningly beautiful and isolated peninsula.
Glengariff and Garinish Island - Sail serenely from the picturesque village of Glengariff to the scenic woodlands of Garinish.
West Cork villages - Enjoy the delicacies of market fairs and delightful village views in these famously cultured communities.
Kinsale - Enjoy fine food and drink in Kinsale’s renowned restaurants and bars.
Cork City and the English Market - Roam over the city’s beautiful bridges and capture their panoramic views.
Rock of Cashel - See the superb vistas of this historic fortress, home to some of Ireland’s most iconic views.
Your journey
This four day tour focuses on the wildest part of Ireland.
A region where the rugged coast deserves to win every beauty pageant there is. Where the local pubs are boisterous from noon until midnight. And where the castles look strong enough to fend off an entire empire.
But it’s not all completely wild. More and more people are coming here because of the fantastic seafood, milder climate, and exceptional quality of life.
So join this tour and experience the wild part of 'off the beaten' track Ireland.
Tour Details
Check-in closes at 23:45 (tour departs at ) - ,
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You're restricted to kg (0lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.
Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)
- Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
- Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Air conditioning as standard
- The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Entry fees to visitor attractions
- Tour accommodation
Itinerary
Day 1
- Explore the lush gardens and discover one of the 19th century's greatest scientific instruments, The ‘Great Telescope’
- Discover “Ireland’s Prettiest Village” and snap a photo or two amongst the thatched roofs and ancient stone buildings
- Feast on the tastes and sights of Killarney’s excellent pubs and restaurants
Departing Dublin, you travel west through the Midlands and into the Slieve Bloom Mountains.
You arrive at Birr Castle and Gardens, a private home with extensive and beautiful grounds open to the public. Here you can learn about the bygone age of scientific discovery at the “Great Telescope”, the largest in the world for over 70 years.
As you say goodbye to Birr, the tour continues to “Ireland’s Prettiest Village”, Adare. This quaint spot has a superb collection of thatched cottages and ancient structures, including the ruins of a 15th century Franciscan Monastery, and Desmond Castle. From here, you drive to Killarney, your home for two nights. Tonight you can relax and enjoy top quality restaurants and local music in the vibrant bars.
Day 2
- Travel the famed Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s most incredible touring routes
- See the ancient ring forts and houses amongst the fishing villages and picturesque beaches
Today you explore the sights of the Ring of Kerry, 100 miles of remarkable coastal scenery.
You depart Killarney and pass Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain. Joining the coast road offers plenty of photo stops, with spectacular views across the Dingle Peninsula.
Your guide will make the most of your time today so may stop at either Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace or Cahergal Ring Fort. After your historical excursion you lunch in the small fishing village of Portmagee. This spot is as beautiful as it is tasty. You can sample the fantastic local seafood or head to the island of Valentia, where you take the Skellig Experience.
In the afternoon, you stop for photos in Waterville, then make your way to Coonmakista Pass for one of the most superb views in Ireland.
The road then takes you down to sea level for a chance to see the home of Daniel O’Connell, Derrynane House. This stop gives you a chance to explore fine gardens and beaches, as well as the house the famous O’Connells lived in.
The tour continues around the Ring, stopping at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. You stroll along to the striking Torc Waterfall before arriving back in Killarney for the night.
Day 3
- Travel south to the Beara Peninsula’s gateway towns, Kenmare and Glengarriff, and follow the Wild Atlantic Way
- Tour Bantry Bay and the delightful coastal villages of West Cork
- Sample the delights of Kinsale, known as the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland”
Your morning starts with journey south through Kenmare and over the dramatic Caha Pass. You descend from the mountains to the myth-strewn waters of Bantry Bay.
The tour curves along the shore line to the village of Glengarriff, where you can take a quick boat trip past a large seal colony to Garinish Island. Here you can explore the immaculate gardens and woodland trails at your leisure.
In the afternoon, you follow the West Cork coastal route through Clonakilty and Timoleague before arriving in Kinsale for the night. This harbour town has an excellent reputation for food and drink: a perfect way to finish off a good day of exploring.
Day 4
- Enjoy Cork’s rich culture and delve into its rebellious history
- Visit the Rock of Cashel and its fortified 13th century Gothic cathedral
After a relaxed start, you depart from cosy Kinsale towards Cork. This city is cheerfully called ‘Ireland’s real capital’ and is built on an island in the River Lee. You can browse the English Market and its stalls, marvel at the French Gothic spires of St. Fin Barre's Cathedral or ring the magnificent Shandon Bells in the 300 year old tower of St. Anne’s Church.
In the afternoon, you begin your return journey to Dublin, stopping en route at the impressive Rock of Cashel. This geological wonder boasts an impressive medieval monastery complex sitting up on it. The limestone outcrops and superb architecture contribute to a real sense of awe. You set off from here and arrive back in Dublin in the evening.
Accommodation
Where does this tour stay overnight?
You stay two nights in Killarney and one night in Kinsale.
How does the accommodation work?
Your tour excludes accommodation; but when you book, you can ask us to reserve local accommodation for you, or you can choose to reserve your own accommodation in the overnight locations.
I want Rabbie’s to book my accommodation, what happens now?
Once you've booked your tour, we'll reserve all your accommodation, and your driver will drop you off with your hosts. You’ll pay your accommodation directly. Most don’t accept credit cards, so be prepared to pay cash.
What if I want to change my accommodation booking with Rabbie’s?
Changes to accommodation cannot be guaranteed and are subject to availability. An amendment charge will apply.
I booked my own accommodation is there anything I need to do?
You’ll need to contact us with your accommodation details. Please only reserve accommodation within the overnight towns that your tour stops in. Your driver will drop you off at your chosen accommodation as long as it’s relatively central.
What if I cancel my tour at short notice?
If you cancel less than three days before departure, you may be liable for the cost of your first nights’ accommodation. And occasionally you may be liable for all your accommodation costs.
What are the accommodation types?
We try to reserve accommodation that’s no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation suppliers to ensure they reach a certain standard. The prices below are for guidance only.
B&B (Bed and Breakfast) Standard
The toilet and showering facilities are shared with at least one other room in the house, and the price includes breakfast. The cost is €35 - €42.50 per person per night. A single standard room is €50 - €65 per night.
B&B En suite
The showering and toilet facilities are private, and breakfast is included in the price. The cost is €45 - €60 per person per night. A single en suite is €65 - €80 per night.
Hotels
Hotels have a bar or restaurant and provide evening meals. Breakfast is included in the price.
- Hotel 3 star - €75 - €90 per person per night
- Hotel 4 star - €100+ per person per night
- A single room at a 3 star hotel is €90 - €130 per night
- A single room at a 4 star hotel is €150+
Hostels
A hostel consists of dormitory rooms with 4 to 16 bunk beds. The bathroom facilities are a short distance from the dorm room. Kitchen facilities are equipped so you can make your own meals. The cost based on dorm beds is €22 - €30 per person per night.
I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, you can read our FAQs, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, or email rooms@rabbies.com.
FAQs
Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?
The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.
Is there parking close to the departure point?
We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.
When should I get to the departure point?
Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.
What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?
If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.
What are your cancellation policies?
Your cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked.
For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure
For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure
For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure
For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.
If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.
To cancel your booking, email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.
Click here to view terms and conditions
Can Itineraries change?
Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.
Can I pre-book a specific seat?
Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.
Are there toilets on the bus?
Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.
How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?
We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.
Do you take children on your tours?
We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.
You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.
How much time do I get off the bus?
We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.
Why do you exclude visitor attractions?
We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.
Do we need to bring our own lunch?
You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.
Should I tip the driver-guide?
Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.
What about travel insurance?
We advise you take out travel insurance.
What is ABTOT?
You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.
I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs .
Restrictions
We regret we dont carry children under the age of 5 years old on our scheduled tours.
If your child is less that 1.35m tall, you should let us know and we will provide a suitable booster seat.
You're restricted to kg (0lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.