Ireland Small Group Holidays
Ireland
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You don’t have to look far beyond rolling hills and the endless acres of grassland to understand why they call it the Emerald Isle. Of course, few places in the world are as riddled with cliché as the image of Ireland is. But once you’ve had a pint of Guinness, found a shamrock and had a chat with a leprechaun, it’s time to discover the real Ireland: you’ll find it much more exciting!
Sitting in the north-west of Europe, Ireland is a lot more dynamic and diverse than it is given credit. Vibrant Dublin in the east is Ireland’s commercial and cultural capital, and well worth a visit in its own right. But if it’s adventure you’re... (Read more...)
Sitting in the north-west of Europe, Ireland is a lot more dynamic and diverse than it is given credit. Vibrant Dublin in the east is Ireland’s commercial and cultural capital, and well worth a visit in its own right. But if it’s adventure you’re... (Read more...)
after, Ireland is a patchwork of diverse scenery, ready to be explored.
Ireland is famously green. Away from the rugged and partly mountainous coast much of the country is farmland only interrupted occasionally by towns, lakes and forests.
The capital, Dublin, is the hub of pulsating modern living, and very popular among tourists. But the more rural areas hold some wonderful places to visit such as historical Galway and grandiose Kilkenny and Killarney, the starting point to the scenic ‘Ring of Kerry’.
The climate is seasonal and while summers are usually pleasantly warm, Ireland gets quite cold and rainy close to the winter months. Spring and summer are usually the optimum time to visit when the flora is at its most beautiful.
Ireland is famously green. Away from the rugged and partly mountainous coast much of the country is farmland only interrupted occasionally by towns, lakes and forests.
The capital, Dublin, is the hub of pulsating modern living, and very popular among tourists. But the more rural areas hold some wonderful places to visit such as historical Galway and grandiose Kilkenny and Killarney, the starting point to the scenic ‘Ring of Kerry’.
The climate is seasonal and while summers are usually pleasantly warm, Ireland gets quite cold and rainy close to the winter months. Spring and summer are usually the optimum time to visit when the flora is at its most beautiful.
Mountain Biking
Ireland is ideal for mountain biking, with winding rural roads scattered across the country. There are few places in the world with unspoiled countryside so close to modern comforts.
The landscape rolls up and down, and is especially mountainous towards the coast. In the south-west, County Kerry is home to MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. This mountain range has the highest peak in Ireland reaching 1,038m.
Another fantastic option is Galway. Here you can take in the wondrous natural beauty as well as beautiful religious monuments.
Multi-Activity
In a country like Ireland, with modern cities offset against rural villages and scenic terrain, you’re guaranteed to find lots to do. To experience the best of the country it might be a good idea to try a multi-activity holiday.
There are countless ways just to get around this verdant country, whether you’re walking, cycling or even horseback riding. No matter which way, you’ll see something spectacular.
Surf on the western Atlantic coast, rock climb in the mountains or find any number of adventurous activities. Again, you’re spoiled for choice.
Paintballing
Paintballing is one of the classic adrenaline-rush activities. You’ll rush through the carefully structured game areas, ducking and weaving through obstacles and hiding places. There are numerous locations across Ireland, so no matter where you are there will be a paintballing centre close by.
Paintballing is suitable for all levels so don’t worry if you’ve never tried it before; it is probably the most accessible of adventure sports.
Surfing
If someone says ‘surfing holiday’, Ireland probably isn’t your first thought. While Ireland can’t guarantee you the glowing sunshine or white sandy beaches that are synonymous with surfing, it can promise you one thing: waves.
The west coast of Ireland backs onto the Atlantic Ocean. And with nothing but miles of open sea, the waves that crash near the beach are the result of massive underwater swells.
Donegal is famous for its high and consistent waves, and it’s where Ireland’s top surfers head to. It’s probably not for beginners, but if you’ve got some experience, the quiet beaches and testing waves are perfect.
If you’re new to surfing then you can head to Strandhill, County Sligo. The waves are a little calmer here, and there are surf schools to teach you how it’s done.
Trekking
If you’re going on a walking holiday then the chances are you’re looking for unspoiled countryside, wonderful historical and cultural attractions, and diverse wildlife. Ireland has it all. Ireland was made for trekking.
Probably the most famous trek in Ireland is known as the Ring of Kerry. Starting in Killarney you travel through rural Ireland enjoying the wonderful scenery and coastal charm.
Of course there are hundreds of different options available for walking in Ireland. Try the Dingle Peninsula with its breathtaking coastline or historic Kilkenny. Climb up the ragged cliffs of Mayo, or climb to the peak of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks in Country Kerry.
No matter what kind of walking adventure you are looking for, Ireland’s wealth of natural beauty will be waiting for you.
Classic Itineraries
The capital city Dublin, which contains a massive proportion of Ireland’s population, is probably going to be the starting point for your adventure. It is a truly fantastic modern city with excellent food, attractions and architecture. Of course, if it is the great outdoors that has drawn you to Ireland, Dublin’s charms may not hold your attention for too long.
If this is the case then head west. The west coast of Ireland is home to much of its adventurous charm. The high rising mountains of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks are fantastic for a little mountaineering or mountainbiking. But if it’s walking you’re here for there is no better place to start than Killarney. Traverse the famous Ring of Kerry, for a look at the beauty of rustic Ireland.
Don’t forget to head the short distance north for the beaches of Bundoran. Surfing here is a must, and the scenery remains fantastic.
Other Activities
Thrill seekers need look no further than Ireland to find all the intrepid adventures they like. Ireland has all the classic activities in the comfort of a beautiful landscape. Bungee jumping is unsurprisingly popular here with everything from bridges to purpose-made towers for you to throw yourself from.
As a country filled with hundreds of green hills, Ireland is also the perfect place for paragliding. You’ll need to learn how to do it first, of course, but there are plenty of schools around.
Kayaking is available in Ireland’s system of rivers, and at the coast you can enjoy water skiing and windsurfing.
