What to do and see in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Ireland's Hidden Heartlands: The Best Cultural Tours

September 19, 2021 Franklyn Hardiman

Discover the best top things to do in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Ireland including 7-Day Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin with the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Bay and the Burren, 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Small Group Tour, 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin , 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour , 4-Day South West Ireland Tour from Dublin, Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin, Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Kylemore Abbey and Ross Errily Friary, Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin, 6-Day All Ireland Tour from Dublin, Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way.
Restaurants in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

1. 7-Day Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin with the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Bay and the Burren

Grand Canal Hotel, Grand Canal Street Upper, Dublin, D04 X5X7, Ireland Vagabond Tours
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5.0 based on 18 reviews

Look no further, you have just found the best possible way to see Ireland. A whole week to explore, relax, absorb, refresh and learn about this fascinating and beautiful island. There is a great blend of outdoor activity, great scenery, relaxing pubs and moments that you will remember for years to come. The 7 day World tour includes the three peninsulas of Beara, Iveragh (The Ring of Kerry) and Dingle. The tour spends two nights in the buzzing little fishing town of Dingle to give you time to partake in activities, get to know the area and the locals, to explore the shops, pubs, galleries and restaurants that abound there – or simply to chill out and catch your breath. The trip also crosses the River Shannon into County Clare and includes the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher as well as Galway city You will see a huge proportion of Ireland's best scenery (just ask any Irish person).

Inclusions: Off the beaten track adventure in a 4X4 tour vehicle., Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Services of highly trained professional tour guides, 7 full days on tour, Six nights accommodation (2 nights B&B, 4 nights Hotel), 6 full Irish breakfasts., Train journey to or from the west of Ireland on certain departures., All relevant taxes, Loads of laughs, Most daily activities and visits, including:, Fantastic guided walks, Demonstrations of local craftsmen at work

Exclusions: Lunches and evening meals (available on request), Some optional entrance fees and additional activity options, for example:, Horse-riding (available on request), Sea-Kayaking (available on request), Bike touring or mountain biking in Killarney National Park (available on request), We try and keep any additional costs to a minimum and these activities account for only a small part of the daily activities on tour. Most of the historical sites we visit are free to enter, as of course are the walks and beaches. The additional activities we do offer are ones that have proved to be a big success over the years.

Reviewed By jenniger

Well I am like most of the others in recent reviews as I have not yet gone on my trip. I want to emphasize how marvelous Ciara was when I had to cancel and I have now rebooked the 11 day driftwood tour September 7. Would love to hear from anyone else booking that tour. One of the reasons I rebooked was the low deposit as even though did get my deposit back with no trouble last year I was uncomfortable at my age and who knows what’s gonna happen with Covid putting a large deposit down again. Marvelous communication and service and I’m sure my tour will be marvelous and I can write a great review when I have been

2. 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Small Group Tour

Grand Canal Hotel, Grand Canal Street Upper, Dublin, D04 X5X7, Ireland Vagabond Tours
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5.0 based on 28 reviews

Covering the west coast of Ireland from the peninsula’s of the south west all the way up to Connemara, the tour includes the chance to stay in a castle, two nights in Dingle town (as suggested by previous customers) and lots more. The tour is very comprehensive but its not rushed, instead we have added more time in so that we can get right off the beaten track and spend more time off the vehicles exploring.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, An off the beaten track adventure in 4x4 VagaTron Mini-coach, The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide, 8 full days on tour, 7 nights' accommodation, 7 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts, Most daily activities and visits (see Tour Options below for extras), All relevant taxes, Guaranteed tour departure and price from the moment you make your deposit, Breakfast

Exclusions: We try and keep any additional costs to a minimum and these activities account for only a small part of the daily activities on tour. Most of the historical sites we visit are free to enter. The additional activities we do offer are ones that have proved to be a big success with customers over the years., Surf lesson in Castlegregory €40, Horse riding in Dingle €35, Boat trip in Dingle €15-20, Sea kayaking in Dingle €50, Rowing in Dingle €25, Golf in Dingle - Ask your guide for rate, Cycling tour in Killarney National Park €30, Skelligs Cruise €40

Reviewed By jenniger

Well I am like most of the others in recent reviews as I have not yet gone on my trip. I want to emphasize how marvelous Ciara was when I had to cancel and I have now rebooked the 11 day driftwood tour September 7. Would love to hear from anyone else booking that tour. One of the reasons I rebooked was the low deposit as even though did get my deposit back with no trouble last year I was uncomfortable at my age and who knows what’s gonna happen with Covid putting a large deposit down again. Marvelous communication and service and I’m sure my tour will be marvelous and I can write a great review when I have been

3. 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

This tour covers a large part of the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway coast. We head South to visit Cork, Blarney Castle & the Ring of Kerry, West to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and North to the Giants Causeway.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Return Rail Tickets , Reserved Seats on the Train, Railtours Ireland Host Throughout, Visitor Attraction Admissions, Escorted Coach, Transfer to Inis Mor, Aran Island, Accommodation

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

4. 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour

Victoria Hotel Galway, Victoria Pl, Galway, Ireland Overland Ireland
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Sure, have you never heard of an Irish half hour? It can stretch out for days and 5 days is what you’ve got to experience this memorable, expertly guided road trip, over ever-changing landscape, along The Wild Atlantic Way. From shucking Clarinbridge oysters and downing creamy stout in Galway, to the jaw dropping sights of the Ring of Kerry, with only the Atlantic separating the 40 shades from the 50 U.S. states. Cool down with Fungie, Dingle’s resident dolphin who came for the fish in 1984 and stayed for the craic or feel like you’re at the edge of the world, at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. And how about a spot of kissing at the Blarney Stone where you’ll come away with the gift of the ‘gab’ (talk); handy for ‘having the craic’ with your small tour group. And in between the heritage and culture, bohemian Galway and dinky Doolin, there’ll be ceol agus craic (music and boldness), seafood and banter and an epic road-trip you’ll never forget.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunches and Dinners, Optional activities

Reviewed By russ2jen

Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.

5. 4-Day South West Ireland Tour from Dublin

Paddywagon Tours Ltd, 55 Gardiner Street Lower, Mountjoy, Dublin, D01 R223, Ireland Paddywagon Tours
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4.7 based on 42 reviews

We start our adventures in the west of Ireland, where we travel through beautiful Connemara, one of the beautiful remote regions of Ireland.Then it's on to Galway, Ireland's trendy party capital on the west coast! Enjoy a pint or two in the great traditional pubs of Galway. We continue our adventures as we travel down the west coast, with the highlight of the drive being time to visit the Cliffs of Moher - at 214m high, these cliffs were the Cliffs of Insanity in the movie Princess Bride! We continue to County Kerry, and the magical town of Killarney. A priceless opportunity to get to know the charming Irish people a little better! Onward to the Dingle Peninsula! Rugged mountains, romantic sandy beaches and crystal cascades sparkle as the Paddywagon cruises into the lovely Dingle Peninsula, and we stay overnight in the charming village of Annascaul. We also kiss the Blarney Stone on our return to Dublin. You cant beat this for value, a great 4 days!

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, 3 nights accommodation (Galway, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney), Fun Professional Guide, Live commentary on board, Transport by air conditioned coach, WiFi on board, USB Ports at every seat

Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch, Dinner

Reviewed By Susan D

I am also waiting for a refund from Paddywagon. It has been 10 months and I still get the same response that they can't access their funds due to Covid. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY!!!

6. Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin

Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03, Ireland Irish Day Tours
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4.6 based on 1,586 reviews

Join us on our Cliffs of Moher tour as we discover some of the most dramatic cliffs in Ireland. We take an unforgettable journey to the Wild Atlantic Way where you are rewarded with dramatic and breathtaking views that are nothing short of amazing. Along with your fellow travellers, discover the best of Ireland’s dramatic coastline including the Burren and the bohemian city of Galway.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Driver/guide

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By junior22016

I went to the office on 37 College Green in Dublin to buy a Hop/Hop off ticket. The attendant told me the ticket was 42 euro when the actual price was. I asked which one it was and she told me it was 22. I paid with a 50 euro bill.However, she ended charging me 42 euro. Since I was trying to make the bus, I did not realize she took my money until I was on the bus. At the end the route I told her what she did knowing she was going to pretend to be clueless. She played along and checked her register to tell me she did not have any extra money in there. The fact is, that money never made it to the register. That was extremely dishonest and you guys need to be careful with crooks like this.

7. Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Kylemore Abbey and Ross Errily Friary

Galway, Co. Galway, H91 CX90, Ireland Galway Tour Company
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4.6 based on 331 reviews

Discover the dramatic beauty of Connemara with its rugged wilderness, welcoming locals and historic treasures, on this full-day trip from Galway city. Traveling with an expert guide, your tour visits Ross Errilly Friary, pretty Cong village and must-see Kylemore Abbey. Spend time at leisure in these Irish gems and enjoy stunning scenery in between each visit.

Inclusions: Professional Local Driver/Guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Entrance Fee to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

Reviewed By tanjamattila

We booked Cliffs of Moher & Burren tour. The cliffs were awesome and our driver John was really great, but the tour was quite badly organised and ended up costing more. Right at the beginning of the journey we were told that due to covid 19 they had cancelled some of the activities that were included in the price: Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb, the 5,800-year-old Poulnabrone Dolmen and Ballyalban Fairy Fort, and also a visit to Kilfenora to see Celtic Crosses was cancelled. We were offered an option to pay 15 euros extra per person to get a one hour boat trip in front of the Cliffs of Moher instead. That was quite unprofessional way from company's side to replace those very interesting attractions that we thought that we could see. We felt a bit scammed as we had to pay more to get a possibility to experience something else. Other option would have been to wait in Doolin until the boat trip was over. The boat trip itself was also very poor from its staff's side. We were given false information regarding how the Cliffs have formed (by atmospheric pressure - that's not correct), about the building date regarding a tower on top of the cliffs etc. It was a bit hilarious and frustrating. The quality of that boat trip didn't convince us but oh well, one more experience :) Other than these couple of odd things the day was really nice and as we live in Ireland we will for sure take another trip to see more of the area. But as we felt that we cannot really trust the tour description and we were not informed in advance about any changes, and there was no word about cancelled activities due to covid 19 on their website when we booked and read about this tour, we will either try another tour company or we will rent a car next time.

8. Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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4.6 based on 866 reviews

Explore Ireland's west coast highlights on a coach and rail day trip from Dublin to the wild Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and picturesque Galway Bay.

Inclusions: Host on trains, Information pack, Reserved seats on trains, Qualified driver-guide on coaches, All travel by rail and coach from Dublin Heuston Station

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

9. 6-Day All Ireland Tour from Dublin

Paddy's Palace, 5 Beresford Pl, Gardiner Street Lower, Mountjoy, Dublin, Ireland Paddywagon Tours
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4.5 based on 95 reviews

The 6 Day All Ireland tour is an amazing opportunity to take in all of the highlights in less than a week. Mix with the local characters who offer brilliant insight into our beloved country, our people, and our legends. Irish eyes shall smile as we greet you with the true beauty of the Emerald Isle, North & South. You'll visit Belfast, Giant's Causeway, historic Derry, Co. Donegal, Co. Sligo, Galway, lunar Burren Region, Doolin village, Adare, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, Killarney, Blarney Castle (kiss the magical Blarney Stone) in Cork, and much more! Cead Mile Failte - A hundred thousand welcomes await!

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation (Belfast, Letterkenny Co.Donegal, Galway, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney), Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Live commentary on board, Fun Professional Guide, Air-conditioned coach, Cliffs of Moher, USB Charging Points at every seat, WiFi on board

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Belfast, Black Cab Tour *OPTIONAL, organised and paid to driver/guide*, Killarney, Horse and Carraige Ride or Horse Riding through Killarney National Park *OPTIONAL, organised and paid to driver/guide*, Gratuities

Reviewed By Susan D

I am also waiting for a refund from Paddywagon. It has been 10 months and I still get the same response that they can't access their funds due to Covid. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY!!!

10. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

Paddywagon Tours Ltd, 55 Gardiner Street Lower, Mountjoy, Dublin, D01 R223, Ireland Paddywagon Tours
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4.5 based on 227 reviews

The Original & Best since 1998, our guests enjoy Quality Mercedes- Benz Paddywagon (painted Emerald Green) and professional tour guides to guarantee a fun, safe and memorable day for family & friends alike. Explore the world famous Cliffs of Moher on a 12-hour day tour from Dublin, where you will marvel at Ireland's famous landscape on a scenic driver along the world famous Atlantic. There will be time to stop en route for photo opportunities in Kinvara fishing village and the lovely Bunratty Castle. Your journey on this Cliff of Moher tour will take you from the banks of Dublin’s river Liffey to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll see the biggest visitor attraction in all of Ireland and experience the nature, geology, history, culture and music of the region as we travel together. The Cliffs of Moher are 66% as tall as New York's Empire State and stretch for almost 10km. Forming part of the edge of Western Europe, this landscape really is a "must see" on a visit to Ireland.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Live commentary on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Cliffs of Moher Entrance Included (€8.00 value), Free Dublin Walking Tour (€10.00 value), Free Wi-Fi on board, Professional Charming Guides

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Susan D

I am also waiting for a refund from Paddywagon. It has been 10 months and I still get the same response that they can't access their funds due to Covid. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY!!!

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