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Driftwood Van

7 Day Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour

Our Highly-Rated Ireland Castle Tour

Experience ancient castles, quaint towns, beautiful islands and historic kingdoms on a 7 day tour of western and southern Ireland.

Get ready to fall in love! You'll tour the Ring of Kerry, stay in an Irish castle hotel, cruise around the Skellig Islands and gaze in wonder at the 700ft Cliffs of Moher.

Fully guided by a local Irish culture expert, this 7 day castle tour of Ireland is perfect for kings, queens, jesters or anyone seeking true authenticity in their Ireland vacation.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"We had the perfect trip to Ireland. Every day was full of off the beaten path experiences. The pace was just right ... Accommodations were unique and comfortable. We stayed in a castle one night! ... If Ireland is on your bucket list, be sure to go with a Vagabond Driftwood tour!" Guest Review, Sept 2023

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From €1,975.50 pps* Single Supplement €395.00
*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr & Oct.
💵 Equivalent US$2,106 Price Estimated at $1 to €0.93
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*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr and Oct.

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

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

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Reviews

Genuine Guest Reviews

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Ireland Driftwood Tour
The driftwood tour was lovely. Our tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. We saw amazing sites in Ireland and the tour was well planned. Would absolutely recommend!
Molly M., 11th Dec 2023
Castles and Kingdoms
Our tour was . Enjoyed every minute, particularly the Drombeg stone circle in county Cork, Gougane Barra, Ballyseedy Castle, Kilkee Cliffs, and the Cahergal stone fort. So much wonderful, interesting history in Ireland. Beautiful country with delicious food in every pub. Our guide, Damien, was helpful, kind, and well informed.
Diane James, 7th Dec 2023
Got my dream trip to Ireland!
Thoroughly enjoyed our Driftwood tour, it was wonderful. The only thing I could have hoped for to make it better would have been to perhaps spend a bit more time at places, which of course would necessitate going to fewer places in the course of a day. That being said, I never really felt rushed (I just have a personal preference to be leisurely when wandering around new places).

Dream trip to Ireland! Love this company and their business model. Plan on doing more tours with them in the future (because even though it was the trip I have been dreaming of for years, now that I've there, it just wasn't enough, I want more!). I recommend this company to anyone considering a tour of Ireland.
Stacie OConnor, 5th Dec 2023

7 Day Castles & Kingdoms Tour

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"perfect experience"
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We had the perfect trip to Ireland ...

We wanted to see the history and beauty of Ireland, and we did just that. Every day was full of off the beaten path experiences.

The pace was just right for us. I feel we know so much more about Ireland and the Irish people. Traveling with a small group is definitely the way to go.

If Ireland is on your bucket list, be sure to go with a Vagabond Driftwood tour!

BRENDA, OCTOBER 2023
"absolutely delightful"
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Our group connected well right from the beginning and it was a wonderful 7 days full of so many incredible places to experience, great accommodations and of course food!

We packed in a lot of things every day but still had time to shop and enjoy the moments.

I would definitely recommend Driftwood/Vagabond tours and would not hesitate to join another one in the future.

VERIFIED GUEST, SEPTEMBER 2023
"in-depth look at ireland"
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I had a wonderful time on this tour with my brother. Our guide Andrew was well versed in the history and information of our tour and Ireland in general.

I felt we really got an in-depth look at Ireland. The country is quite beautiful.

I highly recommend this Driftwood tour and would consider doing another tour with the company.

DOUGLAS, AUGUST 2023
Tour FAQs

Find answers to questions about the 7 Day Driftwood Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour itinerary.

What Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit The Skellig Islands?

Only guests on the 12 Day Vagabond Giant Irish Adventure Tour get to land on Skellig Michael.

The following Vagabond & Driftwood tour itineraries can take a boat trip around both Skellig Islands:

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When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin.

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

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Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides.

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What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

🛶 Kayaking

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

 

Similar Questions

Are There Any Luggage Restrictions?

Yes, we do operate a limit on luggage.

Owing to the compact nature of our small-group tour vehicles, your luggage limit is one suitcase per person (no bigger than 30” or 75cm along their longest side).

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What Activities Are Seasonal?

Our regular touring season in 2024 runs from March 10th until October 22nd.

Some activities and attractions do not operate year-round. March and October departures are particularly affected. Where possible, we will offer a suitable replacement activity.

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What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

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Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

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Do All Hotels Provide Separate Bathrooms?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower and/or bath.

Similar Questions

Where Is My Luggage Stored On Tour Vehicles?

The answer depends on which tour style you have chosen.

Driftwood vehicles have space for luggage onboard. Vagabond vehicles tow a trailer.

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Which Small Group Tours Stay At Irish Castle Hotels?

Dreaming of a night in a romantic Irish castle?

The following Driftwood Journeys of Discovery spend at least one night in a castle hotel:

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Which Small Group Tours Visit The Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of our favourite routes to tour.

Here are all of the small-group tour itineraries that explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Which Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit Kinsale?

Kinsale is a quaint harbour town located in Cork, Ireland.

The following small group tours of Ireland explore Kinsale:

Similar Questions
Hotels

A hot shower after a woodland stroll. 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 Driftwood 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!

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The Armada Hotel

Get ready for a beautiful sunset and a memorable stay.

The Armada Hotel is beautifully located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Dine in full view of Spanish Point beach. The menu at Aileen's Restauarnt features local food, artisan food producers and dishes with herbs and vegetables from the Armada Farm.

After dinner, kick back in front of a roaring fire at Johnny Burke's, the traditionally-themed pub.

 

 

A view of the armada in spanish point during the sunset with a view of the sea
View to the ocean from Aileen's Restaurant at the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point

Ballyseede Castle Hotel

Enjoy the high life at Ballyseede Castle Hotel.

With a history dating back centuries, Kerry's only castle hotel will make you feel like royalty.

Step into a realm of elegance and heritage, with delicious dining, well-appointed rooms and an oak-lined bar area to relax and recharge your batteries.

You may even bump into Molly the wolfhound, a friendly giant often found standing guard at the ornate entrance hall.

 

The exterior of ballyseede castle & gardens
Wolfhound in front of Ballyseede Castle Hotel in Ireland

Coachman's Townhouse

You just can’t beat Irish hospitality!

The Jones family have been welcoming guests to The Coachmans Townhouse since 1969.

The Coachmans is located at the heart of the small town of Kenmare. When you stay here with Vagabond & Driftwood Tours, speciality shops, music venues and great restaurants are only a few footsteps away.

Music-lovers, take note that the pub in the Coachmans frequently hosts live performances by traditional musicians. Not to be missed!

The Coachman's Townhouse exterior
The interior design of a double room in The Coachmans

Gougane Barra Hotel

Gougane Barra Hotel is a family-run establishment, spectacularly located in Cork, on the edge of a lake.

Rob discovered this magical place on the very first Vagabond tour, way back in 2002!

Neil and Katy Lucey's hotel has been delighting our tour guests ever since.

Many of our Vagabond and Driftwood Tours visit Gougane Barra when passing through the southwest.

A view of the gougane barra church from across the lake
A group of guests standing outside the church in gougane barra

Macroom Castle Hotel

Expect a warm Irish welcome at the Castle Hotel in Cork.

This comfortable hotel has been managed by the Buckley family for 3 generations.

It's a great place to unwind after a full day of adventures on Vagabond & Driftwood tours.

The exterior of Castle Hotel lit up as darkness falls on Macroom
The interior design of a triple room in the Castle Hotel with a breakfast displayed also in the room

Actons Hotel Kinsale

Over the years, Actons Hotel has established a reputation for personalised guest care.

This matches our own high standards at Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

Allied with breathtaking maritime views over Kinsale Harbour, Actons Hotel offers the perfect base to explore the famous county of Cork.

Savour the luxurious spa, relax in your modern, comfortable room or grab a bite to eat in the outdoor garden dining area.

Exterior of Acton's Hotel in Kinsale, Cork
Exterior view of Actons Hotel with views of the harbour views
Inclusions

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 7 Day Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities and full days on tour 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
  • A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
  • The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
  • 7 full days on tour
  • 6 nights' accommodation including one night at Ballyseede Castle Hotel
  • 6 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
  • Most daily activities and essential attractions
  • Entrance into Blarney Castle & Gardens, Bantry House and Cahir Castle
  • A guided farm tour and sheepdog demo
  • Admission for and guided tour of Charles Fort near Kinsale
  • 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.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

Flexible and optional activities on tour
  • Scattery Island Tour
    €22.00
    Boat trip and guided tour of historic ruins on Scattery Island.
  • Skellig Islands Cruise
    €50.00
    Cruise around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. 2hr 30 mins.
  • Skellig Experience
    €5.00
    Learn the story of Ireland's island treasures at this visitor centre.
  • Derrynane House
    €5.00
    Self-guided tour of Daniel O'Connell's historic home.
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride**
    €20.00
    Horse-drawn carriage ride in Killarney National Park. Cash required.
  • Walking Food Tour of Kinsale
    €75
    Exclusive tastings at restaurants around the gourmet capital of Ireland.
  • Kinsale Walking History Tour**
    €5.00
    Explore the heritage buildings and incredible events of Kinsale's past. Cash required.
  • Kinsale Harbour Cruise
    €14.00
    Take a guided boat trip around beautiful Kinsale Harbour.
Vagabond, Always going that extra mile
Our tour prices do not include flights, travel insurance or Dublin accommodation
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Loads of Laughs
Photos
Exterior of Ballyseede Castle Hotel in Ireland
Stay in charming Ballyseede Castle Hotel
Patchwork fields and distant islands on the Ring of Kerry in Ireland
Feel the magic on the world famous Ring of Kerry
A boat in front of Little Skellig island off the coast of Ireland
Cruise the remote and dramatic Skellig Islands
Colourful streetscape at Stone Mad Gallery in Kinsale
Explore gourmet Kinsale, Ireland's little-known foodie mecca
Dramatic shot of very small people standing on top of the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
Visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way
Ruined buildings with tower in the background
Take a boat trip and guided tour of Scattery Island
Two horse-drawn jaunting carriages in Killarney National Park, Ireland
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride around Killarney National Park
Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren
Marvel at 5,000 year old dolmens in the Burren National Park
Itinerary
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7 Day Driftwood Castles & Kingdoms Tour Intro & Highlights

  • Get royal treatment as you overnight in an historic Irish castle hotel.
  • Feel the magic while exploring ‘The Kingdom’ of Kerry and the world famous Ring of Kerry touring route
  • Cross the moat into Cahir Castle, one of Ireland’s most awesome medieval fortresses
  • Take an ocean boat trip around the Skellig Islands, one of only three World Heritage Sites in Ireland
  • Gaze out on an ethereal ocean vista at the Cliffs of Moher, a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way
  • Visit a working Irish sheep farm for a guided farm tour and sheepdog demo
  • Take a horse-drawn ‘jaunting’ carriage around beautiful Killarney National Park
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone and wander through the magical Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • Embark on a boat tip to Scattery Island for a guided tour of historic ruins dating back 1600 years.
  • Enjoy 2 nights in lreland's gourmet paradise; the quaint maritime town of Kinsale
  • Experience the genuine friendliness of local people and memorable nightlife in Irish pubs
Blarney Castle in Ireland
Explore the charming gardens of Blarney Castle

Day 1: Cliffs Of Moher, Galway & The Burren

Your historical journey of discovery through Ireland kicks off from Dublin. We head for Clare via Galway, at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way.

  • First stop: the bustling little city of Galway.
  • See traditional sailing boats and castle towers in picturesque Kinvara.
  • Drop by chocolate factories and ancient monuments in the Burren National Park.
  • Visit the world famous, 700ft high Cliffs of Moher (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Armada Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

The magnificent world famous Cliffs of Moher
The magnificent world famous Cliffs of Moher
The picturesque town of Kinvara looking out to sea with boats in the harbour
The picturesque town of Kinvara looking out to sea with boats in the harbour

Day 2: Castle Hotel Stay & Boat Trip

Today we're headed south, exploring Clare and Kerry.

  • Boat trip and guided tour of historic ruins on Scattery Island (Optional Extra) or a trip to the spectacular Loop Head.
  • Watch out for dolphins as we ferry across the mouth of the River Shannon (Fee Included).
  • Visit a working a sheep farm and see a sheepdog demo (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Ballyseede Castle Hotel.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

The exterior view of Ballyseede Castle and Gardens
The exterior view of Ballyseede Castle and Gardens
Cottages and ruined church on Scattery Island, Ireland

Day 3: Skellig Island Boat Trip

Today we're touring the scenic Ring of Kerry route, circuiting the Iveragh peninsula from Tralee to Kenmare.

  • Explore 1400 years of history on a boat trip around the Skellig Islands (Optional Extra). Seasonal departures: May to September.
  • Get a taste for local Irish culture, history and — if you behave — ice cream, on Valentia Island.
  • Discover Derrynane, historic home (Optional Extra) and golden sand beach.

Accommodation tonight is at The Coachman's Townhouse.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Smiling tour group on board a boat trip to the Skellig Islands, Ireland
Driftwood tour group at scenic viewpoint on the Ring of Kerry, Ireland

Day 4: Horse Carriage Ride In National Park

Wandering scenic highways and byways, we'll sojourn from Kenmare to West Cork.

  • Take time to visit cafés, art galleries, and craft shops in Kenmare this morning.
  • Take a horse-drawn ‘jaunting car’ carriage around beautiful Killarney National Park (Optional Extra).
  • Admire charming 19th century Muckross House Gardens.

Accommodation tonight is at The Gougane Barra Hotel or The Castle Hotel Macroom.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Two female tour guests in scenic location on Wild Atlantic Way tour of Ireland
A picturesque view of the Gougane Barra church and lake in the sunshine
A picturesque view of the Gougane Barra church and lake in the sunshine

Day 5: Historic House Tour & Kinsale

A relaxing day exploring West Cork, finishing in Kinsale.

  • Visit stately Bantry House, owned by the same family since the 18th century (Fee Included).
  • Imagine mysterious Celtic rituals at Drombeg Stone Circle.
  • Guided tour of the star-shaped Charles Fort at the mouth of Kinsale harbour (Fee Included).
  • Explore the picture perfect town of Kinsale – Ireland's charming gourmet capital.

Accommodation tonight is at Actons Hotel.

The average driving time today is 1 hours 30 minutes.

Scenic view of 18th century Bantry House and Gardens in west Cork, Ireland
A tour guide leads a Driftwood tour group around Charles Fort in Kinsale, Ireland

Day 6: Free Time in Kinsale

Unwind in Ireland’s gourmet capital with free time to soak up the crafts and culture of Kinsale.

  • Savour a guided food tour of Kinsale (Optional Extra). Exclusive tastings of locally-sourced dishes.
  • Savour real Irish whiskey with a guided tasting in an authentic Irish pub - the 18th century Folk House Venue (Optional Extra).
  • Or, just drop your schedule, turn off your phone and see what's around the corner in Kinsale; one of Ireland's most colourful and vibrant small towns.

Accommodation tonight is at Actons Hotel.

Colourful shop fronts on the streets of Kinsale
A bowl of seafood including praws and salad from a restaurant in Kinsale
A bowl of seafood including praws and salad from a restaurant in Kinsale

Day 7: Blarney Stone & Cahir Castle

Time to say slán with some amazing sights on your final day exploring from Kinsale to Dublin.

  • Follow the River Lee through picture postcard Irish countryside.
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone to gain 'the gift of the gab' and then wander the gardens around Blarney Castle (Fee Included).
  • Guided tour in and around Cahir Castle, one of Ireland’s largest medieval fortresses (Fee Included).

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

The exterior of Cahir Castle on the river Suir
Blarney Castle in Ireland
Explore the charming gardens of Blarney Castle
Dates+Availability
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Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (6 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!
Start:
Finish:
Price:
Spaces Status:
Enquire Now

*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr and Oct.

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

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

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