Did you know I plan self-drive vacations? Sometimes guided tours don't quite fit the bill for what you'd like your vacation to be, and a preference to drive yourself and stick to your own schedule resonates with you. That is definitely something I can assist with! Check out what this family chose for their self-drive vacation to Ireland!

Ireland - 10 days

My client and her sister wanted to take their parents to Ireland, as their mother is 3/4 Irish and has always wanted to go see her ancestral lands. On a previous vacation they experienced Germany which was Dad's heritage, but now it's Mom's time!

Itinerary

Day 1 - Dublin

On their first day in the country, they're going to hang a little low by keeping their activities to a minimum, and just hopping on the Hop On Hop Off bus to see the city.

Day 2 - Dublin

Now that they've gotten a good night's rest, they'll be ready for a delicious Dublin food tour and a unique tour of the Teeling Distillery, which as of the opening in 2015 was the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years. 

Day 3 - Dublin to Waterford

This morning they'll visit the EPIC museum of Irish emigration, which is based on the idea that learning about emigration is one of the most interesting ways to fully understand a country. Later they'll pick up their car and head to Waterford where they'll stay overnight.

Day 4 - Waterford to Cork

Today they will be touring the Waterford Crystal factory to learn more about how these intricate pieces are made. Later on, they'll drive onward to their hotel in Cork.

Day 5 - Cork to Killarney

Before getting to Killarney, they'll tour Blarney Castle and maybe they'll choose to kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of gab! Upon arrival in Killarney, they'll experience a jaunting ride, which is a traditional horse and carriage ride. Such a fun thing to do!

Day 6 - Killarney

They're staying in Killarney a couple of nights and today they get to experience the Ring of Kerry. They've opted for a small group tour so that all four of them can enjoy the views, without someone missing out because of having to focus on driving. 

Day 7 - Killarney to Limerick area

When in Ireland, you definitely should experience a stay in a castle! That's what these clients are doing: they are going to stay at Dromoland Castle for a couple nights. On the way there, they'll enjoy the Cliffs of Moher and a walking tour in the Burren.

Day 8 - Limerick area

Waking in a castle has got to be surreal, don't you think? They'll wake this morning and be able to enjoy some of the activities onsite, from falconry classes to rolling hills and gardens onsite. They'll also be enjoying a sheepdog demonstration to learn how shepherds use man's best friend to keep the sheep orderly.

Day 9 - Limerick area to Galway

Another morning to enjoy staying at a castle before they continue their drive up to Galway. Another great place to enjoy if you're interested in the natural landscapes of Ireland, as Galway is near the Aran Islands.

Day 10 - Galway to Dublin

This morning they will take a ferry to the Aran Islands where they can take a shuttle around and enjoy walking about on their own. When they've had their fill, they'll take the ferry back and continue on to Dublin. Tomorrow they fly home so they are staying in a hotel near the airport.

Does this type of trip appeal to you?

Remember, each of the trips I plan I customize to meet my traveler's specifications, so if this type of trip appeals to you, I can make it based on what you want to experience, including things that are appealing to you!