Overview

Self-Drive Holidays
11 Nights
  • Fully customisable itinerary
  • Prices from: £1425 per person
  • Best time to go: April - October
  • Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Highlights

Killarney National Park
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Located next to the lively town of Killarney, this stunning national park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range, or enjoy a cycle around the beautiful Killarney Lakes.

Skellig Islands
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Travel to the village of Portmagee and embark on a boat trip to the striking Skellig Islands. Dramatically rising from the sea, Skellig Michael hosts the ruins of a 6th-century monastic settlement and was used as a filming location for the Star Wars films.

Dingle Peninsula
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Relax in the popular seaside town of Dingle, replete with charming gift shops, teahouses and cosy pubs. Follow the scenic Slea Head Drive, taking in ancient historic sites and magnificent views towards the uninhabited Blasket Islands.

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

Galway
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Unwind in the vibrant city of Galway, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Irish music, which can be heard in the many pubs dotted around the city.

Aran Islands
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Hop on a ferry to the unique Aran Islands. Hire a bike or take a stroll to the prehistoric Dún Aonghasa fort, perched high on the cliffs. If you are lucky, you might also spot a basking shark off the coast.

A Spectacular Journey along Ireland’s West Coast

Embark on a captivating self-drive tour along Ireland’s West Coast and immerse yourself in natural wonders, rich culture, and spectacular scenery.

Your west coast adventure begins in the heart of County Kerry, where you will explore the picturesque Ring of Kerry and charming Dingle Peninsula. Further north, visit the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, the unique Aran Islands, and vibrant Galway. Continue to Connemara National Park, the stunning Bay Coast, and the tranquil beauty of Sligo.

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Arrive in the bustling town of Killarney in County Kerry and discover Killarney National Park. Travel along the many charming coastal towns and villages that make up the wonderful Ring of Kerry around the Iveragh Peninsula, and take a scenic drive around the Dingle Peninsula.

Following the coastline, head towards the delightful village of Doolin in County Clare, visiting the magnificent Cliffs of Moher and the unique Aran islands. The vibrant city of Galway awaits. Take some time to explore the city’s bustling, bright-coloured streets and enjoy a local tipple while listening to traditional live Irish music.

The route continues northwest towards the spectacular Connemara National Park with its ample walking trails. Here, you can explore the remote Derrigimlagh Bog, or visit the beautiful Kylemore Abbey. Your journey will then take you onwards to County Mayo and the elegant Georgian town of Westport, located on the Bay Coast with crystal clear waters and hidden coves.

The route culminates in Sligo, an area boasting secluded islands and serene beaches, with the majestic Benbulbin Mountain dominating the backdrop. Dedicate a day to wander the trails at the mountain’s base, visit local farmers’ markets, and watch the crashing waves at Mullaghmore Head.

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 Killarney
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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 2: 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 the Star Wars films.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 3: 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 4: Killarney to Doolin
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Depart Killarney and head north towards County Clare. On the way, take some time to explore the bustling city of Limerick, with its many museums and historical sites.

Your adventure continues in timeless County Clare, where you can hop on a boat tour of the Shannon Estuary or explore unique landscapes, including the Bridge of Ross and Kilkee Cliffs.
Overnight – Doolin

Day 5: Clare Sightseeing
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Take a boat trip to the unique Aran Islands and explore their many ancient sites including the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa and medieval ruins of the Seven Churches. Back on the mainland, there’s the Burren National Park with some wonderful walking trails around its lunar-like landscape.
Overnight – Doolin

Day 6: Doolin to Galway
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Enjoy a spectacular drive along a section of the Wild Atlantic Way to Galway, following the dramatic coastline and stopping en-route to visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Finally arrive in Galway, with its picturesque cobblestone streets and old-fashioned pubs.
Overnight – Galway

Day 7: 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 an included City Sightseeing Bus and learn about the 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 8: Galway to Westport
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Your journey continues north towards County Mayo. Follow the west coast towards Clifden, a lively town full of shops, pubs and restaurants, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range and Connemara. Your final destination will be the picturesque town of Westport.
Overnight – Westport

Day 9: 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 10: Westport to Sligo
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Your next destination is Sligo, a town known for its rich cultural and artistic heritage which is nestled amongst impressive natural landscapes. In Sligo, you will find an abundance of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops.
Overnight – Sligo

Day 11: Sligo Sightseeing
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Take a walk along the river in Sligo and visit Sligo Abbey, which remains well-preserved to this day. Outside the town, there are plenty of wilder places to visit, such as the trails around the distinctive Benbulbin Hill, the oldest and the densest concentration of Neolithic tombs in Ireland at Carrowmore, the many sweeping beaches in the area.
Overnight – Sligo

Day 12: Depart Sligo
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Today you may wish to further explore Sligo and the surrounding area before your Irish escape comes to an end.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

  • Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 11 nights including traditional Irish breakfast
  • Comprehensive information pack and local visitor information
  • Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
  • Map of Ireland with our recommended driving route
  • 12 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
  • Tickets for the Galway 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 £1425

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 £2095

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

West Coast of Ireland Road Trip

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

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