Contact Us
Home > Vagabond's Active Guided Tours of Ireland > 8 Day Wild Irish Rover Tour
An animated green map of Ireland with cartoon houses, round tower, pint of Guinness, Dolmen and castles dotted around the country 8 Day Wild Irish Rover Tour Map Dublin Cork Kerry Galway Clare
Vagabond Van

Wild Irish Rover 8 Day Tour of Ireland

An Unforgettable Activity Holiday in Ireland

This National Geographic award-winning, 8 day tour of Ireland is packed full of Irish history, culture, and bracing adventure activities, such as hiking, biking, horse-riding, sea kayaking, and surfing.

The Wild Irish Rover Tour takes the word ‘wild’ seriously, taking guests off the beaten path, showing you the real, wild Ireland you can’t find in the guidebooks. You will stay in an authentic Irish castle, visit ancient Celtic forts, kiss the Blarney Stone, and take a boat trip around the Skellig Islands.

💰 BOOK THIS TOUR FOR ONLY €100 DEPOSIT PER PERSON. Check Out Our New Flexible Booking Terms

If you’re researching the perfect vacation in Ireland with an itinerary lasting 8 days, then stop searching. But if you want something longer, then you should check out our Ultimate 12 Day Tour Around Ireland. This 8 day tour is a quintessentially active Vagabond tour, as opposed to our slower-paced Driftwood Tours of Ireland.

Arrow
From €1,795.50 pps*
*Single Supplement From €301.50
Estimated $ USD 2020 Price: $2,112 (based on $1 = €0.85)
Enquire Now Feefo Reviews Rating
Dates+Availability
arrow
Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (4 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!

2021

View 2022

March 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
1234567
891011121314
15161718192021
22232425262728
293031    

April 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
   1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
2627282930  

May 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
     12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31      

June 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
282930    

July 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
   1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293031 

August 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
      1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031     

September 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
  12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930   

October 2021

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
    123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031

2022

March 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031   

April 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
    123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
252627282930 

May 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
      1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031     

June 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
  12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930   

July 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
    123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031

August 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
1234567
891011121314
15161718192021
22232425262728
293031    

September 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
   1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
2627282930  

October 2022

MoTuWeThFrSaSu
     12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31      
Start:
Finish:
Price:
Spaces Status:
From €1,795.50 Per person sharing

If the date you want is full please contact us and we will do our best to accomodate you.

A €100 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

All tours are charged in EURO. Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Feefo Reviews Rating
As Featured In: National Geographic Traveler logo in greenLos Angeles Times logo in dark green
Trip advisor logo
Mix adventure activities with culture and history
Go off-road in our legendary 4×4 tour vehicles
Hike, bike, kayak and explore castles & villages
What's Included

All Vagabond tours are flexible. Your 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

What's Included In Your Trip
  • An off the beaten track adventure in 4x4 VagaTron tour vehicle
  • The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
  • 8 full days on tour
  • 7 nights' accommodation
  • 7 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
  • Most daily activities and visits (see Tour Options below for extras)
  • Live like lords and ladies with a one night stay in a castle
  • Entrance into the magnificent Blarney Castle and Gardens
  • Entrance into the epic Rock of Cashel
  • A working sheep farm experience
  • Shannon ferry tickets

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

Flexible and optional activities on tour
  • Surf Lesson Kerry
    €40.00
    1.5-2 hour surf lesson on Castlegregory beach in Kerry
  • Horse Riding Dingle
    €45.00
    Ride a horse along a beach or up a mountain in Dingle
  • Boat Trip Dingle
    €15.00-€20.00
    Scenic boat trip across Dingle Bay
  • Sea Kayaking Dingle
    €50.00
    A guided sea kayak around the beautiful Dingle Bay.
  • Traditional Rowing
    €25.00
    Row a traditional Naomhóg boat in Dingle Bay.
  • Golf in Dingle
    Ask VagaGuide tour guide
    Play 18 holes at Dingle’s links course. All day activity.
  • Cycling Tour Killarney
    €30.00
    Guided bike tour of Killarney National Park on road and paths. 3 hrs.
  • Skellig Islands Cruise
    €40.00
    Cruise around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. 2hr 30 mins.
Vagabond, Always going that extra mile
Our tour prices do not include flights, travel insurance or Dublin accommodation
Guaranteed Booking Price
Amazing VagaGuides! Read More
All Taxes & VAT
Responsible Tours Read More
Loads of Laughs
Reviews

Our Guests Feefo Reviews

Feefo Heading Image
Wonderful Experience
View on FeeFo
A wonderful experience of both the cultural and natural wonders of Ireland! Our guide Bebhinn is extremely knowledgeable and has a great love for her homeland. This tour was a perfect mix of scheduled activities and free time to explore locations at your leisure. Lots of wonderful hikes off the beaten path and spectacular views. I …
Celine Jennings, 22nd Oct 2019
View on FeeFo
We loved our guide, Bebhinn. She was so much fun and very knowledgeable about Ireland, its history and its people. The places we saw, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Bay, among others, were phenomenal. My only complaint was that a couple of the hotels where we stayed, towards the end of our journey, were not as nice as we expected. The last hotel where we stayed, they gave me and my siste…
Susan Flanders, 21st Oct 2019
Outstanding tour with great organization
View on FeeFo
Fantastic tour. Rhys, our guide, was outstanding. We had a really good group to travel with. Did a variety of activities and hotels we stayed at were quite nice. Would heartily recommend the tour to our friends. An amazing experience.
Product : Great experience . Really got a good…
John Hallinan, 20th Oct 2019

Our Guests Trip Advisor Reviews

Trip Advisor Heading Image
Outstanding Experience
We just returned from the 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Tour with Kim. We had an amazing experience and visited sites that were unique and not normal tourist spots. The hikes and views were incredible.
TripAdvisor RatingView on Trip Advisor
Incredible tour!
I am not sure I can put into words how amazing this trip was. My wife and I travel extensively and it was the best trip we had ever taken. We hiked, cycled, travelled by boat to the Skellig Islands, and absorbed all we could of the Irish culture. The accommodations, food, and each day's activities were all top-notch.
TripAdvisor RatingView on Trip Advisor
Unforgettable Ireland Experience!
My husband and I just returned yesterday and are still processing this trip of a lifetime. It was a great mix of physical activity (hike, row, cycle, etc.) and sight-seeing. There were opportunities to do things as a group as well as times to explore on your own. Photos do not do this place justice...each view is truly more beautiful than the last.
TripAdvisor RatingView on Trip Advisor
Photos
Group hiking in Annascaul valley, Dingle peninsula
Hike the steep glaciated valley of Annascaul on the Dingle Peninsula
Vagabond tour group on bikes and ready to go cycling in Killarney National Park, Ireland
Take a bike tour of Killarney National Park
A boat in front of Little Skellig island off the coast of Ireland
Cruise the remote and dramatic Skellig Islands
Scenic church and reflection of blue sky, clouds and mountains in the lake at Gougane Barra, Ireland
Discover hidden gems like Gougane Barra in West Cork
Vagabond VagaTron Tour Vehicle and group posing at Rossbeigh in Kerry
Go off road in your 4x4 VagaTron tour vehicle
Exterior of Abbeyglen Castle Hotel in Connemara
Stay in an Irish castle hotel deep in scenic Connemara
VagaTron tour vehicle at Lough Annascaul on the Dingle peninsula
Go off the beaten track on the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare, Cork and Kerry
Group of Vagabond tour guests looking satisfied at the summit of Diamond Hill in Connemara
Get ready for phenomenal views of Connemara from the summit of Diamond Hill
A group of kayakers paddling out of a sea cave in Dingle Bay, Ireland
Kayak across Dingle bay to meet dolphins
Hiking the Cliffs of Moher in Clare
Explore the stunning Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way
The exterior of the Rock of Cashel
Imagine saints and scholars on a self-guided tour of the epic Rock of Cashel.
Accommodation

A hot shower after a mountain hike. A real fire. A pint. We assure you that wherever you stay with us, you’ll love it.

We put great effort into selecting accommodation on Vagabond tours. Your tour will overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations). Receive a heartfelt welcome, often from the hoteliers themselves. No hotel chains here!

Border between sections

Abbeyglen Castle, Co. Galway

What makes Abbeyglen great is that it is a hotel that is marinated in character, charm, warmth and friendliness.
It offers hospitality second to none where all our guests are treated to real Irish traditional hospitality that is accompanied by luxury, comfort, great food and entertainment.

"Our warm and friendly staff are always at hand to make your stay special, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience."
The exterior view of the stunning Abbeyglen Castle Hotel at dusk with water fountain
Family posing for a picture with woman sitting on the throne in front of Abbeyglen Castle

Spanish Point Hotel, Co. Clare

Spanish Point House is a charming, luxury, period guest house beautifully situated on the Wild Atlantic Way, in the picturesque seaside resort of Spanish Point, Co. Clare. Tastefully and carefully restored to its former glory it combines old world charm with modern day luxury. A haven of tranquillity with magnificent sea-views. Be assured of a very warm welcome and a personal touch from your attentive hosts, Pat, Aoife and Ríain O’Malley.

"At Spanish Point House we can assure you of a very warm welcome and attention to detail. We look forward to welcoming you."
The front exterior of Spanish Point House and a large open garden
The interior design of a double room in Spanish Point House

Dingle Skellig Hotel, Co. Kerry

Located on the shores of Dingle Bay, enjoy breath-taking views across the countryside from Dingle Skellig Hotel. Just a short stroll from the town, you will enjoy the excellent facilities as well as the unique atmosphere. The perfect base to unwind after a long day exploring the Dingle Peninsula. Fungi, the resident dolphin can often be spotted in the distance while enjoying your breakfast or dinner.

"From the moment you arrive, our friendly staff will welcome you and ensure that your visit and time with us is as relaxing and enjoyable as possible."
An amazing view of the Dingle Skellig Hotel and Dingle Bay with mountains in the background
The view from the restaurant overlooking Dingle Bay

Dingle Bay Hotel, Co. Kerry

Situated in the heart of picturesque Dingle town, next to the bustling marina, the Dingle Bay Hotel is the town’s most modern hotel, yet it proudly maintains the Brosnan family history of hospitality. You’re within minutes of all the best pubs and restaurants Dingle has to offer, as well as popular attractions and at the end of the day return from a day touring the spectacular Dingle Peninsula to rooms steeped in comfort.

"Our family are looking forward to welcoming you to our hotel."
The recognisable red exterior of the Dingle Bay Hotel
The interior design of a double ensuite room in the Dingle Bay Hotel

The Moorings Guesthouse, Co. Kerry

Nestled into the picturesque seafront of Portmagee, the Moorings Guesthouse overlooks the village’s busy working harbour. Just 30 seconds walk from the pier, where boats leave for the Skelligs every morning, and right at the heart of village life, there’s simply nowhere more convenient to base yourself when you stay in Portmagee. Gerard and Patricia Kennedy’s warm and genuine welcome is a great way to end a good day’s adventuring.

" The Moorings Guesthouse strives to deliver personal, attentive service while matching the very best standards in efficiency and hospitality."
The exterior front view of the Moorings Guesthouse directly across from the harbour
The interior design of a double room in the Moorings Guesthouse

The Coachmans Townhouse Hotel, Co. Kerry

The Jones family have been welcoming visitors to The Coachmans Townhouse Hotel for generations. Excellent location on Henry St, in the heart of day and nightlife where speciaity shops and award winning restaurants are plentiful. The Coachmans Bar is noted for its Irish Whiskey collection and is part of the Wild Atlantic Way whiskey trail. High class quality Irish music can be enjoyed during dinner in a casual setting.

"We feel honoured and privileged to be in such a fortunate position where we can help create wonderful memories for our guests."
The bar and restaurant of The Coachmans with traditional Irish instruments on show
The interior design of a double room in The Coachmans

Gougane Barra Hotel, Co. Cork

Gougane Barra Hotel is fifth generation family run hotel on the edge of Gougane Barra Lake run by Neil And Katy Lucey. They are tucked away in the mountains in a hidden and romantic glaciated valley in the South West of Ireland. The rooms either look out on the stunning lake or give great mountain views. The hotel is surrounded by forest with walking trails beginning at the front door.

"We like what we do and aim to look after you as best as we can, be welcome to make our home yours in Gougane Barra"
View of Gougane Barra Hotel and the chapel on the side of the lake with the mountains in the background
A stunning view of the Gougane Barra Chapel on the Lake with mountains in the background

West Cork Hotel, Co. Cork

Overlooking the Ilen River, the West Cork Hotel is located on the Wild Atlantic Way and in the heart of Skibbereen. Deeply rooted in the community, it’s the warmth of The West Cork Hotel’s staff, relaxed charm and town centre location that reveal the true heart of this hotel. Established in 1902, The West Cork Hotel was owned and operated by the Murphy family for 104 years. In 2006, it was acquired by Skibbereen residents Tim and Marian Looney who pledged to continue the hotel’s ethos of old fashioned hospitality and value.

The exterior of the West Cork Hotel
The interior of the restaurant in the West Cork Hotel
Itinerary
Arrow Download Full Itinerary

Wild Irish Rover Ireland Tour Highlights

Introducing our National Geographic Travellers Choice – 50 Tours of a Lifetime Winner! Find out more about this incredible activity holiday in Ireland.

  • Connemara to Clare, Kerry to West Cork – this 8 day tour of Ireland visits the incredible highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way.
  • The choice is yours! Options for horse-riding, sea kayaking, biking and even surfing.
  • Be amazed by Irish history. Visit ancient stone circles, castle ruins and Celtic ring forts.
  • 1st time visitors to Ireland will love experiences like the Cliffs of Moher and a visit to Blarney Castle, to kiss the Blarney Stone.
  • Take a boat trip around the magical Skellig Islands and enjoy a castle hotel stay. This 8 day tour is guaranteed to be an unforgetable Ireland holiday!

⬇️ SCROLL DOWN TO DISCOVER WHAT HAPPENS EACH DAY ON THE COUNTER-CLOCKWISE DIRECTION ⬇️

Five Vagabond guests posing with the Cliffs of Moher
Explore highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way like the Cliffs of Moher
Vagabond group waving at a scenic location
Travel in a rugged VagaTron 4x4 tour vehicle to our favourite secret spots

Day 1: Connemara Farm Tour

Begin your cultural adventure from the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin at 8.30am.

  • From Dublin to Galway, we aim for ‘the city of the tribes’ - Galway; it’s atmospheric, it’s buzzy and it’s full of tasty food options.
  • Sheep shearing and sheepdog demo on the mountainous shores of Killary Fjord (sheep demo may happen later in tour).
  • Hike Diamond Hill for phenomenal views of Connemara.
  • There’s a quick photo stop at Kylemore Abbey – one of Ireland’s most scenic historic buildings.
  • You'll feel like royalty with a sumptuous dinner and atmospheric overnight stay at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel.

The average driving time today is 5 hours.

VagaTron tour vehicle going offroad in Connemara
All aboard your 4x4 VagaTron tour vehicle!
Hiking group on top of Diamond Hill mountain in Connemara
Hike Diamond Hill for phenomenal views of Connemara

Day 2: Cliffs of Moher & Burren National Park

Our tour follows along the Wild Atlantic Way from Connemara down to Clare.

  • Guided tour of 16th century Aughnanure Castle.
  • Marvel at dry stone walls and ancient dolmens in the Burren National Park.
  • We'll have a perfect photo opportunity at coastal Dunguaire Castle, just outside the pretty village of Kinvara.
  • See the world famous Cliffs of Moher.
  • Accommodation tonight is at Spanish Point House.

The average driving time today is 4 hours.

Two women with their hands in the air laughing with the Cliffs of Moher in the background
Stand in awe at the world famous Cliffs of Moher
A panoramic view of the Burren Black Head
Marvel at the Burren National Park

Day 3: Dingle Hike & Irish Surf Session

Starting the day in Clare, we'll reach Kerry and the Dingle peninsula by the afternoon.

  • Take a ferry across the mouth of the Shannon – the longest river in Ireland.
  • Optional surf session on one of Ireland's most gorgeous beaches (Tour Option - €40 per person).
  • Hike a steep, glaciated valley at Annascaul for gorgeous views.
  • Refresh yourself with an ice cold pint at the historic South Pole Inn.
  • Your overnight stay is at either the ​Dingle Skellig​ Hotel or ​Dingle Bay Hotel​.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

A Vagabond group hiking in Annascaul Valley
Hike the steep, glaciated valley of Annascaul
Dingle Bay Hotel in a colourful line of buildings
Roll into bustling Dingle

Day 4: Explore Dingle & Traditional Irish Music Session

Discover Dingle, one of Ireland's most exciting small towns, with plentiful activity options and down time.

The average driving time today is 1 hour 30 minutes.

Vagabonds horse riding in a straight line on Ventry Beach in Dingle.
Horse ride along a beach or up a mountain near Ventry.
Fishing boats docked in Dingle harbour in the sunshine
Explore Dingle Bay

Day 5: Biking in Killarney National Park

Move from Dingle to Portmagee across the Iveragh peninsula.

  • Explore the nature and history of Killarney National Park on a guided bike tour (Tour Option - €30 per person).
  • Believe your eyes at the magical yew tree growing in the centre of ruined Muckross Abbey.
  • Go offroading along a white sand beach or to a panoramic viewpoint above the Ring of Kerry.
  • Crystal clear views of the Milky Way in Kerry's International Dark Sky Reserve
  • Accommodation and dining tonight is in the comfort of ​The Moorings Guesthouse in Portmagee​.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes

Vagabond guests on top of a viewing point overlooking Rossbeigh Beach
Go offroad in your 4x4 VagaTron tour vehicle
Vagabond guests cycling through ancient woodlands in Killarney National Park
Explore the nature and history of Killarney National Park on a guided bike tour.

Day 6: Boat Trip Around the Skellig Islands

Explore amazing adventure options off the Iveragh peninsula before ending an active day in Kenmare.

  • Boat trip option around both Skellig Islands to experience seabirds and amazing history (Tour Option - €40 per person).
  • Hike Valentia Island to Bray Head for stunning Atlantic ocean views.
  • Catch authentic traditional Irish music and outstanding local food in quaint Kenmare.
  • Your accommodation tonight is at ​the Coachmans Townhouse​ in the centre of town.

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

Smiling tour group on board a boat trip to the Skellig Islands, Ireland
Boat trip around the Skellig Islands
Two Vagabond guests hiking Bray Head on Valentia Island with the Skellig Islands in the background
Hike Valentia Island for stunning Atlantic ocean views

Day 7: Beara Peninsula Backroads & Coastal Hike

Expect rugged roads and superb scenery today as you journey from Kenmare to West Cork.

  • Dance around a mysterious stone circle on the wild Beara peninsula.
  • Put your tour vehicle through its paces while offroading at an abandoned copper mine.
  • Wind up the scenic Healy Pass – Ireland's bendiest road.
  • Unearth the incredible history of ruined Dunboy Castle on a coastal hike.
  • Accommodation tonight is at either the ​Gougane Barra Hotel​, or ​the West Cork Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Vagabond guests hiking on the Bullig Bay Loop on the Beara Peninsula
Superb scenery and hiking on the wild Beara peninsula
A panoramic view of the Healy Pass taken from a height
Wind up the scenic Healy Pass

Day 8: Blarney Castle & the Rock of Cashel

Before we say goodbye back in Dublin, we'll catch some tour highlights travelling from Cork via Tipperary.

  • Trace the River Lee passing through scenic Irish countryside.
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone amidst the lush surroundings of Blarney Castle Gardens.
  • Imagine saints and scholars on a self-guided tour of the epic Rock of Cashel.
  • Lush rolling hills and patchwork farmland as we traverse Ireland's Hidden Heartlands towards Dublin.
  • Farewells for your new Vagabond friends back in Dublin between 5-6pm.

The average driving time today is 4 hours and 30 minutes.

The Rock of Cashel taken from a distance
Imagine saints and scholars on a self-guided tour of the epic Rock of Cashel.
Two women and two men crossing the bridge in Blarney Gardens with Blarney Castle in the background
Kiss the Blarney Stone amidst the lush surroundings of Blarney Castle Gardens.
Dates+Availability
arrow
Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (4 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!
Start:
Finish:
Price:
Spaces Status:
From €1,795.50 Per person sharing
Enquire Now

If the date you want is full please contact us and we will do our best to accomodate you.

A €100 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

All tours are charged in EURO. Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Similar Tours

Scenic church and reflection of blue sky, clouds and mountains in the lake at Gougane Barra, Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way in a Week
7 Day World Tour of Ireland
Go off the beaten path to spectacular destinations along the Wild Atlantic Way on this small group Ireland tour.
7 Day World Tour Of Ireland Dublin Cork Kerry Clare
From €1,525.50
Per person sharing
View Tour
Vagabond Tour Group foraging for seaweed in Ireland
Delicious & Expeditious
6 Day Epic Ireland Food Tour
Discover delicious and foraged culinary delights on our fully-guided adventure food tour of Ireland.
6 Day Epic Ireland Food Tour Dublin Cork Kerry Clare
From €1,765.00
Per person sharing
View Tour
Exterior of Ballyseede Castle Hotel in Ireland
Tour The Ring of Kerry
7 Day Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour
Stay in a castle and explore the Ring of Kerry on this fun-filled Wild Atlantic Way and southwestern Ireland tour.
7 Day Castles Irish Kingdoms Dublin Cork Kerry Galway Clare
From €1,615.50
Per person sharing
View Tour
X
Cookies on our website:
This website uses cookies.
I'm OK with this Cookie Settings ?

☘️ Worry-Free Bookings. Only €100 Deposit Per Person. See Our Flexible Covid-19 Terms

X