Overview

Self-Drive Holidays
17 Nights
  • Fully customisable itinerary
  • Prices from: £2260 per person
  • Best time to go: April - October
  • Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Highlights

Dublin
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Stroll along the River Liffey promenade and admire the beautiful Georgian architecture of Ireland’s capital city. Visit the Book of Kells at Trinity College or wander through the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar and sip a warming cup of Irish coffee in an old Victorian pub.

Kilkenny
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Discover the Marble City and go back in time to Ireland’s Medieval Mile, packed with historic architectural marvels, breweries, pubs and music. Kilkenny Castle is one of the highlights in the city, a striking Anglo-Norman fortress overlooking the River Nore.

Ring of Kerry & Killarney National Park
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Enjoy a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry, a popular route located within Killarney National Park. The area is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts – hike in Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, take a short jaunt to Torc Waterfall, or cycle around the beautiful Killarney Lakes.

Cliffs of Moher
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Visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. Admire the magnificent views over the Atlantic and explore the fascinating visitor centre.

Galway
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Unwind in the vibrant and compact city of Galway. Explore narrow lanes lined with bright-coloured shops and beautiful Galway Bay. Galway is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Irish music sessions, which can be heard in the many pubs dotted around the city.

Causeway Coast
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Experience a spectacular road trip along the North Antrim coastline and visit breathtaking locations such as the Dark Hedges and the Giant’s Causeway. Enjoy the thrill of crossing Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, or venture along the exhilarating cliff-face path at the Gobbins.

The Ultimate Scenic Self-Drive Tour of Ireland

Your adventure begins in Dublin, Ireland’s bustling capital city, before travelling through some of the best attractions and most inspiring landscapes in the country.

With an abundance of scenic drives along rugged coastline and lush green countryside, this route showcases the very best of Ireland. There are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in rich Irish culture.

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Arrive in Dublin, Ireland’s charming capital city. Stroll along the River Liffey and visit world-class attractions, such as the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle, and enjoy a local tipple in one of the colourful pubs in Temple Bar.

Your journey will then take you to the picturesque city of Kilkenny, famous for its quaint medieval streets and impressive 12th-century castle, before continuing to Killarney, nestled in the southwest corner of the country. Take a short detour to visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel or Blarney Castle. Discover Killarney National Park and travel along the renowned Ring of Kerry route around the Iveragh Peninsula.

You will then follow the stunning coastline north towards Galway, with its colourful streets and lively atmosphere. Make sure to stop at the magnificent Cliffs of Moher and the delightful village of Doolin.

Your journey continues north toward Westport, a picturesque Georgian town and the ideal base to explore the dazzling Bay Coast, with its crystal clear waters and impressive bays. Next, you will visit County Donegal and County Antrim, home to the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring striking coastal scenery.

Your itinerary ends in Belfast, where you can learn about the city’s history by joining a City Sightseeing Tour or a Black Cab tour. Discover the fascinating Titanic Belfast Museum and Belfast City Hall. In the evening, enjoy the buoyant atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter and discover its artsy, cobblestoned streets and alleyways.

Suggested Itinerary

The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists.

We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you.

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin
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Ireland’s capital city is compact, walkable and full of character. Get your bearing with an included City Sightseeing Bus Tour, or take a stroll along the River Liffey promenade. Admire the view of Dublin’s many bridges and charming Georgian architecture. In the evening, amble to Temple Bar and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Overnight – Dublin

Day 2: Dublin Sightseeing
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A full day to explore Dublin. Rise early to visit the Book of Kells Exhibition at Trinity College. Explore Grafton Street, enjoy some fresh air in St Stephen’s Green and wander to Dublin Castle.

You could also visit the Guinness Storehouse, which is both a brewery and a fascinating interactive museum.
Overnight – Dublin

Day 3: Dublin to Kilkenny
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Leave Dublin behind and begin your journey west towards charming Kilkenny. Known as the Marble City, Kilkenny is full of wonderful historic buildings and an impressive castle.
Overnight – Kilkenny

Day 4: Kilkenny Sightseeing
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Spend the day exploring Kilkenny. One of the highlights in the city is without a doubt Kilkenny Castle, an imposing Anglo-Norman fortress overlooking the River Nore.

The Medieval Mile links Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral, and is dotted with unique shops, cosy pubs, and picturesque alleyways.
Overnight – Kilkenny

Day 5: Kilkenny to Killarney
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Continue westward towards County Kerry and take a short detour to visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel or quirky Blarney Castle.

Arrive in bustling Killarney, at the edge of Killarney National Park. Visit the beautiful Muckross Estate with its historic house and pretty gardens or enjoy a leisurely walk around the famous lakes of Killarney.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 6: Ring of Kerry Sightseeing
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Drive around the magnificent Ring of Kerry and visit the quaint towns and villages along the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula. You could also travel to Portmagee and enjoy a boat trip to the striking Skellig Islands, which featured in Star Wars films.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 7: Dingle Peninsula Sightseeing
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Explore the Dingle Peninsula, full of interesting historic sites, peaceful beaches, and thrilling mountain passes. Drive around the circular Slea Head Drive, which offers incredible views over the wild Atlantic Ocean. You could also arrange a boat trip from Dunquin to the remote Blasket Islands – a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 8: Killarney to Galway
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Travel north towards Limerick and join the Wild Atlantic Way towards Galway. Follow the dramatic coastline and make sure to stop en route to visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Arrive in Galway, with its picturesque cobblestone streets and legendary pubs.
Overnight – Galway

Day 9: Galway Sightseeing
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Galway is one of Ireland’s most charming cities, with its many colourful pubs and delicious seafood restaurants. Hop on a City Sightseeing Bus and learn about this beautiful city’s history at the Galway City Museum and the Cathedral.

In the evening, relax and enjoy a local tipple, while taking in the wonderful views of the River Corrib and Galway Bay.
Overnight – Galway

Day 10: Galway to Westport
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Continue to follow the Wild Atlantic Way northwest through Clifden, a lively town full of shops, pubs and restaurants, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range. You will also pass Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord.

Your destination is picturesque Westport, known as one of Ireland’s most photogenic towns.
Overnight – Westport

Day 11: Bay Coast Sightseeing
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Enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings of Westport, including magnificent Keem Bay, Clew Bay and Achill Island. Cycle along the Great Western Greenway, hike Croagh Patrick, or relax in Westport itself. Stroll along the beautiful tree-lined promenade on the banks of the Carrowbeg River and visit historic Westport House.
Overnight – Westport

Day 12: Westport to Lough Swilly
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Today you will head north into County Donegal, passing through Donegal Town, home to a castle and Railway Heritage Museum. We suggest following the coast round to Sliabh Liag Cliffs, the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe, then further north to your destination of Lough Swilly.
Overnight – Lough Swilly

Day 13: North County Donegal Sightseeing
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Lough Swilly is located west of the Inishowen Peninsula. Here you can hike along the cliffs in Malin Head, the most northerly point of the Irish mainland. Admire the wonderful landscape of rocky headlands, green hills and crashing waves.

Head west towards the Fanad and Rosguill Peninsulas, where there are spectacular views of Ballymastocker Bay and the lighthouse at Fanad Head. Further inland is Glenveagh National Park where you can explore beautiful Glenveagh Castle on the shores of Lough Veagh and walk around its idyllic gardens.
Overnight – Lough Swilly

Day 14: Lough Swilly to County Antrim
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Travel across the Inishowen Peninsula to Greencastle, where you can take the short ferry crossing across Lough Foyle towards Magilligan Point. Head east along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route.
Overnight – North Antrim Coast

Day 15: Causeway Coast Sightseeing
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Start your day by visiting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended high above the sea, followed by a refreshment stop at picturesque Ballintoy. Make your way to the Giant’s Causeway and enjoy its striking coastal landscape. In the afternoon, you could pop into the Old Bushmills Distillery or head to the iconic 16th-century Dunluce Castle, perched on dramatic coastal cliffs.
Overnight – North Antrim Coast

Day 16: County Antrim to Belfast
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Travel south towards Belfast, stopping by the enchanting Dark Hedges on the way. Re-joining the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, spend some time exploring the Glens of Antrim and discover the incredible Glenariff Forest Park. Closer to Belfast is Carrickfergus Castle perched on the shores of Belfast Lough.
Overnight – Belfast

Day 17: Belfast Sightseeing
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Today, you will have a full day to explore Belfast. Visit fascinating attractions such as the iconic Titanic Quarter, Belfast City Hall, St George’s Market or the Crumlin Road Gaol. In the evening, stroll down to the Cathedral Quarter, the city’s cultural hub centred around St Anne’s Cathedral where you will be able to enjoy some of the best pubs in the city.
Overnight – Belfast

Day 18: Depart Belfast
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Today you may wish to further explore Belfast and the surrounding area before your Irish escape comes to an end.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

  • Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 17 nights including traditional Irish breakfast
  • Comprehensive information pack
  • Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
  • Map of Ireland with our recommended driving route
  • 14 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
  • Tickets for the Dublin City Sightseeing Tour
  • Tickets for the Galway City Sightseeing Tour
  • Tickets for the Belfast City Sightseeing Tour
  • 24-hour emergency contact number
  • Full financial protection

Your holiday doesn't include:

  • Travel insurance
  • Flights
  • Lunches and evening meals

Accommodation & Prices

Special Places to Stay Special Places to Stay
Special Places to Stay Special Places to Stay
Premium Premium
Premium Premium
Standard Standard

We know that after a busy day of sightseeing, an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. That’s why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay.

Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients.

Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry.

Category
Accommodation type
Price per person
Standard
4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels
From £2260

A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation.

Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Irish experience.

Premium
Boutique Guest Houses and 4* Hotels
From £3165

Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners.

It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels.

Special Places to Stay
Exceptional Hotels and luxury Resorts
Please enquire

From award-winning luxury Hotels to unique country retreats, all of which offer exceptional accommodation with superb facilities and outstanding service.

These are truly magical places and amongst the best Ireland has to offer. The perfect choice when you would like somewhere really special which can be a treat for the night or for your entire holiday.

Car Hire

Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money.

If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car.

All our packages include:

  • Collision Damage Waiver
  • Super Damage Excess Waiver
  • Third Party Insurance
  • Theft Waiver
  • Tax
Economy
Vauxhall Corsa or similar
  • Good for 2 people
  • Maximum of 4 passengers
  • 2 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Compact
Ford Focus or similar
  • Good for 2 – 4 people
  • Maximum of 5 passengers
  • 2 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Intermediate
Volkswagen Passat or similar
  • Good for up to 4 people
  • Maximum of 5 passengers
  • 3 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Fullsize
VW Sharan or similar
  • Good for 5 people
  • Maximum of 7 passengers
  • 3 – 4 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission

Make an enquiry

Grand Irish Road Trip

Need something more tailored?
Contact us via email:
enquiries@absoluteescapes.com

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