The Burren, Aran Islands and Conemara
Walking trip through the west of Ireland
The essence and variety of the West of Ireland is captured on this three centre-walking trip in the Burren, Aran Islands and Connemara. You will be based in hotels and guesthouses in locations that provide the richest variety of geology, scenery and walking conditions that could be desired.
The Burren is a remarkable area of more than 100 square miles of limestone landscape, where a rich variety of plants thrive in the cracks and crevices. Enjoy the bird's eye view of the dramatic west coast of Ireland on the short flight to the Aran Islands, where Gaelic is still spoken. Explore the many archaeological sites of the island, including the pre-historic fort Dun Aengus. Old pilgrimage sites and bog lands rich in flowers are the treats of Connemara.
Tour Highlights:
Cliffs of Moher
Flight over west coast of Ireland to Aran Islands
Visit to prehistoric fort of Dun Aengus on Aran Islands
The internationally renowned karst limestone habitat of the Burren
Connemara's lake dotted bog land, mountains and seascape
The vibrant city of Galway - the capital of the west of Ireland
Irish music and dance
ITINERARY:
(subject to change without prior notice)
Day 1: Arrival
Arrival at accommodation in Lisdoonvarna, renowned for traditional Irish music. Dinner and briefing. Overnight in Lisdoonvarna (3 nights).
Day 2: The Cliffs of Moher & Atlantic Coast
Distance: 4 miles/6.5 km
A gentle walk by the Atlantic Coast will be offered, to allow you to explore the countryside while introducing yourself to Irish walking.
Day 3: The Burren
Distance: 13 km/8miles. Ascent: 275 m/900 ft
The Burren is a unique internationally important habitat. You can explore it through a combination of walking on green roads and traversing of the karst limestone pavements, interspersed with rare arctic and alpine flowers.
Day 4: Roundstone
Distance: 11 km/6 miles. Ascent: 350 m/1,150 ft
Enjoy the views of the island dotted Atlantic coastline and the Clifden bog from Errisbeg, a small mountain behind the village of Roundstone. Overnight in Connemara (2 nights).
Day 5: The Connemara Coast
Distance: 16 km/10 miles. Ascent: little or none
Walk along the shore of Killary Harbour - Ireland's only fjord. A ten-mile walk on the 'Famine Trail' through Connemara mountain scenery - lake dotted bog land rich in flora.
Day 6: Free Day
Transfer to the vibrant city of Galway - the capital city of the west of Ireland.
Day 7: The Aran Islands - Dún Aonghusa
Distance: up to 21 km/13 miles. Ascent: little or none
Short flight over the dramatic west coast of Ireland to the Gaelic (Irish) speaking Aran Islands. Visit archaeological sites including the pre-historic fort, Dún Aonghasa and Poll na bPéist (worm hole), all set in a stony landscape from which a living was laboriously wrenched.
Day 8: Departure
Departure after your last hot cooked Irish breakfast.
Services included
- One group transfer to/from Shannon Airport
- 7 Nights accommodation based on two adults sharing in Irish Tourist Board approved 3 star hotels (5 nights) and guesthouse accommodation with en suite facilities
- 5 hot cooked Irish breakfasts
- 2 Buffet breakfasts
- 6 Packed lunches
- 6 Dinners
- Experienced guide throughout itinerary
- Luggage transfers
- Return flight to the Aran Islands
Optional Services
- Single supplement (limited availability): 210.00 EUR
- Go Ireland airport transfers:
- Prices are per person and based on a minimum of 2 people per transfer.
- All transfers must be confirmed at the time of booking with flight numbers and times for arrival and departure. Otherwise we will assume you are making your own way to the first nights accommodation.
- Please note that refunds are not provided for any unused portions of the transfer.
- Shannon Airport to Lisdoonvarna - Transfer at 11:00 on Saturdays from the information point in the arrivals hall: 35.00 EUR
- Galway to Shannon/Dublin airport - There is a great bus service from Galway to Shannon (5 times daily, journey lasts 1 hour 15 mins & costs 16.00 EUR one way) or Dublin airports with www.citylink.ie.
- Individual taxis can be arranged from Shannon airport to Lisdoonvarna (at client's expense): 90.00 EUR
Hints
- Please note that, for weather or other reasons, on occasion the guide may have to change the sequence of walks or the walks themselves.
- A prepayment of 25% has to be paid directly after reconfirmation. Final payment becomes due three weeks before starting date of the tour.
Demands
- Moderate walks of 6-12 miles (10-19 km) per day with gradual ascents of up to 900 ft (275 m).
RATING
minimum: 6
maximum:
DATES
Duration: 8 Days
Our programme is currently under review. We ask for your patience ... 
ROUTEMAP
