Ireland Hiking & Walking Tour
Cork, Killarney & Ancient Celtic Wonders
Relish the artistry of a stone wall. The warmth of Irish hospitality in upscale hotels. The charm of centuries-old footpaths. And the pleasure of an afternoon pint in a rustic pub.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $5,699 - $5,999/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Revel in the renowned beauty of the Emerald Isle on hikes through varied rugged and country landscapes, from misty mountains to peaceful valley paths
- Connect with our knowledgeable local guide, who brings stories of the region to life with warmth and wit
- Join a private whiskey tasting with a local expert and an evening listening to yarns spun by a well-known Irish storyteller
- Admire the dramatic peaks, scintillating lakes, waterfalls, green hills and vast gorges in wild and scenic Killarney National Park, a place of legend and natural wonder
- Find your bliss at our upscale country hotels, from a restored Victorian gem in the Ring of Kerry to the iconic Park Hotel Kenmare
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Cork Airport & Travel Details
- Take in Ireland’s spectacular natural beauty during country road rambles and coastal cliff walks
- Hike in the Gap of Dunloe—a striking glaciated valley
- After a climb, arrive at a viewpoint over verdant Kerry farmlands and the mountain ranges of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, home to some of Ireland’s highest peaks
- From the top of aptly named Windy Gap, gaze at the inspiring panorama of Caragh Lake and Dingle Bay
- Delight in the art of storytelling as a shanachie spins enchanting tales
- Victorian décor charms at our lakeside Ring of Kerry lodge.
Nights 1-2
Deluxe Hotel
Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the Slattery family at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Set out on a scenic hike near Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s tallest peak
- Take in wondrous views of glacial valleys, heather-covered hills and sparkling lakes
- Visit delightful Killarney and enjoy its lively craft shops and boutiques and scenes of horse-drawn jaunting cars
- The town is situated right next to Ireland’s oldest national park and is a place where Gaelic culture thrives in its music, storytelling and warm hospitality.
Night 3
Luxury Hotel
Unwind in this luxurious retreat overlooking the famous Lakes of Killarney and Ireland’s highest mountain range. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges
- Climb Torc Mountain for 360-degree vistas before arriving in enchanting Kenmare, where rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades
- Visit our hotel’s state-of-the-art spa
- On the rugged Beara Peninsula, trek over Mount Knockagarrane, taking in awe-inspiring views of lakes and mountains
- The undeveloped peninsula probably looks today like it did to the ancient Celts
- Join a private whiskey tasting
- Peaceful paths lead past old-growth trees and saltwater marshes to one of County Kerry’s largest stone circles, a Druid site dating from 2000 BC.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
It’s just a short walk to the pubs and shops from this regal Victorian estate, nestled amid magnificent parkland on Kenmare Bay. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Cork Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 2-4
All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
