Hiking Ireland: Group Travel
take The Road less traveled
May 29 - June 8, 2019
(multiple dates available)
“May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields...””
Total package price:
$5893*
Includes all airfare, transfers, hotel accommodations, tours, guide, most meals and more.
*Prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Prices and availability are subject to change and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process.
Explore spectacular coastlines dotted with ancient ruins and rolling green hills during this 10-day journey from the Irish Sea to the Atlantic Ocean.
Experience the history and scenery of the Emerald Isle, beginning in vibrant Dublin. You'll hike from the peaks of the Wicklow Mountains to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, with interludes at medieval castles and monasteries. Share good conversation and cold Irish beer in local pubs along the way. After you experience the rugged grandeur of the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, the natural wonders of Killarney National Park await. Walk through old oak forests, past idyllic Irish farmsteads and into remote mountain valleys.
Explore coastal footpaths and castle ruins on your way to the Dingle Peninsula. When you arrive, revel in music and merriment at this epicenter of Gaelic culture. Your adventure concludes in Ennis, a market town steeped in medieval heritage and renowned for its traditional music scene and festive atmosphere. Lovers of adventure, history and vibrant culture will find Ireland’s spirited ambience and rich landscapes are not to be missed.
May 29:
DEPARTURE
Today you embark on your journey to Ireland!
In the coming days, as you walk across the rugged landscapes, you'll be following in the footsteps of this ancient country’s ancestors.
May 30:
Arrive in Dublin and travel to Killiney for a seaside hike
Arrive at the Dublin, Ireland airport by 8:30am today and transfer to your hotel in Killiney for an orientation at 11am.
This afternoon your guides will take you on a walking tour to explore the picturesque Heritage town of Dalkey, Dublin's principle port in medieval times. You'll walk scenic byways in this colorful seaside town and ascend Killiney Hill for panoramic views of Dublin city, Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. Considered one of the finest urban seaside walks in Europe, it is a perfect introduction to the outstanding coastal, cliffside and mountain scenery that awaits you in the days to come.
Alternatively, return to Dublin city for your own self-guided tour, or while away the afternoon amidst Dalkey's many shops, cafes and pubs.
Dinner included.
Driving: 30 minutes;
Hiking: 4-6 miles, 2-3 hours;
Terrain: Coastal laneways, parkland pathways. Alternate is city streets in Dublin.
Example: Dalkey & Killiney Hill walk is 4 miles, 880' ascent.
May 31:
Explore the Wicklow Mountains and the monastic "city" at Glendalough
You begin your day with an interpretive tour of the monastic 'city' at Glendalough. Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough is an exquisite medieval Irish monastery and remarkable reminder of a uniquely Irish way of life.
Next you'll hike along the Wicklow Way and into Glenlo Valley to experience the beauty and solitude that St. Kevin sought there. At the conclusion of your hike you'll leave behind the austerity of Kevin's hermitage and return to your lodgings in Killiney.
All meals included.
Driving: 1.5 hours;
Hiking: 7-9 miles, 4-6 hours;
Terrain: Green roads, hilly trails, and boardwalk; Example: Glendalough & The Spinc is 8 miles, 1774' ascent.
June 1:
Discover Cahir Castle and
hike the Glengarriff Woods
Cahir Castle is one of Ireland's oldest, largest and best-preserved castles. Built over 800 years ago on a rocky island in middle of the River Suir, the castle's history includes the Norman invasion and capture by the Earl of Essex in 1599.
After exploring the castle you'll make your way to the outskirts of Cork City for lunch before continuing on to Glengarriff on the rugged Beara Peninsula.
You'll hike in the spectacular Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve, nestled in the sheltered glen between the Caha Mountains and Bantry Bay. Afterwards you'll journey to Castletownbere, a small, colorful town that is the largest whitefish port in Ireland thanks to its location overlooking Berehaven Harbour.
All meals included.
Driving: 5 hours;
Walking: 2.5 miles, 1+ hour.
Terrain: Forest paths and coastal trails with 200' ascent.
June 2:
Traverse the Beara Peninsula and explore Casteltownbere
The Beara Peninsula offers a variety of headland walks that include some of the most remote stretches of the Beara Way.
One route option takes you to the very tip of the mainland and is a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching.
Another brings you into the far-flung village of Allihies, the village furthest from Dublin in all of Ireland and a former 19th century copper-mining boomtown.
All walks are sure to yield breathtaking views of cliff and coastal scenery, idyllic Irish farmsteads, and a host of historical sites.
When storms threaten, other Beara walks that are more protected but are still awash in history and grand seascapes are chosen.
Overnight in Castletownbere.
All meals included.
Driving: 1 hour;
Hiking: 7-10 miles, 6-7 hours;
Terrain: Waymarked hills and headlands – open hiking over exposed heath land; rolling hills with some steep sections; minimal road walking; Example: Garinish Loop and Crow Head is 10 miles, 1708' ascent.
June 3:
Hike some of the most remote and lovely sections of the Beara Way
Your hikes on the Beara Way feature incredible panoramas, ancient stone circles, and old oak woodlands.
Today's lunch is off the beaten path at a restaurant located in a spectacular setting deep within the Glanmore Valley.
This afternoon you'll hike the Beara Way to the nearby Gleninchiquin Valley to marvel at the magnificent Uragh Stone Circle, an age-old monument set in the midst of the valley with views over Lough Inchiquin.
Dinner is at a lively Irish country pub overlooking Kenmare Bay.
You'll overnight in Kenmare, one of Ireland's most friendly and decorated "Tidy Towns."
All meals included.
Driving: 1.25 hours;
Hiking: 5-8 miles, 3-5 hours;
Terrain: Waymarked walks over rough, rolling hills which can be boggy; some quiet road walking.
June 4:
Hike the Kerry Way through beautiful Killarney National Park.
You have several options for your hike and your guides will choose the most appropriate trail based on weather and other factors.
One favorite section of the Kerry Way, on the Old Kenmare Road, will lead you through old oak forests, along centuries-old droving roads, past waterfalls, and into remote mountain valleys.
Another Kerry Way walk leads to the ancient ruins of Muckross Abbey, down tree-covered serpentine paths beside the shores of Lough Leane and Muckross Lake, and into secluded and rare yew woodlands.
Or you may choose the ascent of Torc Mountain, a hike that combines oak woodland, mountain valleys, a waterfall and an unparalleled bird's eye view of the Lakes of Killarney.
All meals included.
Driving: 1.5 hours;
Hiking: 4-10 miles, 4-6 hours;
Terrain: Trails, gravel roads, boardwalk and paved paths with elevation from relatively flat to mountainous;
Example: Kerry Way on the Old Kenmare Road is 7.3 miles, 1,596' ascent.
June 5:
On our way to Dingle, explore coastal footpaths and castle ruins
The Dingle Peninsula is a treasure trove of ancient history and grand panoramas, and the streets of Dingle beckon with an array of unique shops, cafes and pubs. But getting there is half the fun, so on your westward journey you'll take some superb walking diversions!
Inch Strand is a three-mile long beach abruptly jutting out into Dingle Bay at the foot of the Slieve Mish Mountains.
On the Dingle Way in the parish of Minard, you'll explore a ruined castle, holy well and storm beach. After arriving into Dingle town and checking into your lodgings, the remainder of the day is free for exploring on your own.
Your guides will recommend the best places to eat, shop and play. For guests wishing to hike, there are scenic walks along Dingle Harbour that start right in town.
You'll have two nights to enjoy the legendary nightlife in Dingle's many pubs, known round the world for great "Ceól agus craic"—music and merriment.
Breakfast included.
Lunch and dinner on your own.
Driving: 2 hours;
Hiking: 1+ miles, 2+ hours;
Terrain: Beach, harbor paths, paved roads and low coastal elevation;
Example: Inch Beach is 3 miles, no ascent.
June 6:
Experience Dingle town and choose from a variety of exceptional hikes
The Dingle Peninsula is a "Gaeltacht" or center of Irish-speaking culture, and a repository of antiquity, including thousands of archeological sites.
You'll take an archeology tour of some of the peninsula's famous sites, including the Gallarus Oratory, a place of worship for early Christian farmers of the area.
Shaped like an upside-down boat, the simple dry-stone structure has remained waterproof and in near-perfect condition since 700 AD. You'll also enjoy a series of carefully selected walks designed to showcase the Dingle's coastal headlands, beaches and mountains, all the while interweaving Dingle's lively history and folklore.
All meals included.
Driving: 1.5 hours;
Hiking: 3-6 miles, 3-4 hours;
Terrain: Open hiking over exposed headlands, rolling hills with some steep sections.
Example: Ballydavid Head is 3.3 miles, 792' ascent.
June 7:
Hike the Cliffs of Moher and overnight in the lively town of Ennis
You'll make your way to Ennis and check into your lodgings before heading to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center to begin your spectacular hike.
On a clear day, views include the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the mountain of Connemara to the north and Loop Head lighthouse to the south.
Your hike ends in the charming town of Doolin, and from here you will transfer back to Ennis for a farewell dinner to celebrate Ireland and newfound friends.
With its vibrant nightlife, traditional music scene, festive atmosphere and medieval heritage, this bustling market town is an ideal location to continue your explorations of Ireland.
All meals included.
Driving: 4.25 hours;
Hiking: 5 miles, 2-3 hours;
Terrain: Waymarked clifftop paths, well protected and ancient roadways with some inclines.
Example: Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center to Doolin is 5 miles, 750' ascent.
June 8:
yOur Ireland Coast to Coast Hiking adventure ends today in Shannon
After breakfast you'll depart Ennis for the Shannon airport, arriving around 9:30am.
Breakfast included.
Driving: 25 minutes to Shannon airport.
(If you'd like to extend your trip to include a day on the Aran Islands, and 2+ days in the Connemara, you are in a perfect location in Ireland to do this. Additional fees apply.)
“...and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.””
TRAVEL DETAILS
FLIGHT INFO:
Nonstop flight
DEPARTING May 29, 2019:
NYC (early evening flight)
ARRIVING May 30, 2019:
DUB (arriving in the morning)
Nonstop flight
DEPARTING June 8, 2019:
SNN (midday flight)
ARRIVING June 8, 2019:
NYC (arriving in the afternoon or early evening)
HOTELS
All accommodations will be in small inns or premier guesthouses.
Registration form
*Price per person based on triple occupancy
**If you are waiting for an updated passport number please provide this as soon as you receive it
Please type Carefully! Inaccurate information will result in travel delays and/or airline change fees.
Pricing details
price Per Person:
$5893*
(based on double occupancy)
*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.
INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE
Round trip airfare
NYC-DUB
SNN-NYC
Dublin airport to hotel transportation
Transportation to Shannon Airport,
Hotel/Guesthouse accommodations
All meals as noted in the daily itinerary
Transportation to and from each day's hiking
Entrance fees to parks, Cahir Castle and Gleninchaquin Park
Experienced guides, tour information
Luggage transportation
NOT INCLUDED
1 Lunch
1 Dinner
Tips to guides, drivers and hotel staff
Optional Travel Insurance
Basic (starting at $236)
Classic Trip+ (starting at $434)
Cancel for Any Reason (starting at $450)
SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Prices and availability are subject to change at any time and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process.
Payment can be made in full
or
You can follow a customized payment schedule
Additional fees apply: $50/pp (one time) and 3% processing fee per payment.
REGISTRATION
A completed registration form (per person)
Photo copy of picture/information page of each traveler passport emailed to: christian@zone-travel.com
Credit Card Authorization form with copy of credit card and Government issued photo ID (like a drivers license or passport)
FINAL PAYMENT
Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.
Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.
Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.
CANCELLATION
Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on each individual airline policy.
Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 45 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation (in addition to airline fees):
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Travel Insurance
TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL PASSENGERS - DUE 10 DAYS AFTER DEPOSIT
Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.
Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."
Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.
BASIC PLAN:
Your may think you can't afford both the fun and the insurance to protect it. The Basic Plan is so affordable that you can have it all, while still staying in a budget. The plan offers existing medical condition coverage and 24-hour assistance services, allowing you to purchase your trip with complete confidence.
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $10,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $50,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $500.00
Baggage Delay: $200.00
Travel Delay: $300.00
Travel Delay: $150.00
24-Hour Hotline Assistance: Included
CLASSIC TRIP+:
When you book your family on an international vacation, you want the peace of mind that you purchased the right amount of coverage. Classic Trip+ doubles nearly all the post-departure coverage of the Classic Plan, including Emergency Medical and Dental, Emergency Medical Transportation, Baggage Loss, Baggage Delay, Travel Delay, and Missed Connection.
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $50,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $1,000,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $2,000.00
Baggage Delay: $600.00
Change Fee Coverage: $250.00
Frequent Flyer Miles Redeposit Fee: $250.00
Travel Delay: $1,600.00
Missed Connection: $1,600.00
24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included
CANCEL ANYTIME:
You can enjoy the extra flexibility of knowing you can cancel your trip for almost any unforeseen reason that the Classic plan does not already cover at 100% and receive 80% of their non-refundable trip cost back in cash. With features like comprehensive trip cancellation, primary emergency medical coverage and 24-hour travel assistance, the Classic with Cancel Anytime plan is there if life throws an unexpected wrench in your travel plans. Plan must be purchased within 10 days of the first payment date and must cover the full non-refundable trip cost ($10,000 maximum).
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $25,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $500,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $1,000.00
Baggage Delay: $300.00
Change Fee Coverage: $250.00
Frequent Flyer Miles Redeposit Fee: $250.00
Travel Delay: $800.00
Missed Connection: $800.00
24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included
F.A.Q.
How can I make a payment?
You can make a payment (Mastercard, Visa, Discover or American Express) by clicking one of the payment buttons above
or, if you prefer a check, you can make checks payable to "Zone Travel LLC"
Address:
235 Binns Blvd
Columbus, OH43204
Single Accommodations
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available.
Single supplement - $1,359
Weather
Ireland's climate is maritime influenced. Rain showers with intermittent sunshine is common. In mountainous areas it can be windy and cold even during summer months.
In spring (February to April), daytime temperatures are typically in the 50s with nighttime temperatures in the 40s.
In summer (May to July), Ireland has about 18 hours of daylight with daytime temperatures that range from 60-75F (and occasionally higher), and nighttime temperatures of 55-60F.
Autumn (August to October) is usually mild with similar temperatures to the summertime