This gorgeous area of the Emerald Isle is filled with rolling hills, dramatic coastlines and mysterious lakes. Our base is Westport, a real Irish gem designed by James Wyatt in the 18th Century on the south-east corner of Clew Bay. Our excursions take us around Mayo and Connemara, and we finish with a glorious afternoon in the capital, Dublin. Our hotel in Westport stages entertainment every evening including music, bingo, quizzes and other themed events.
Day 1 We travel by coach across country making suitable refreshment stops along the way, reaching our overnight hotel in North Wales in time for dinner.
Day 2 An early start as we travel to Holyhead for our morning crossing to Dublin, having breakfast on board. We continue west into Co. Roscommon, and over to the west coast to the charming town of Westport, our base for the next four nights.
Day 3 Why not begin your free day in Westport by taking full advantage of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities, or enjoying a relaxing read in the conservatory. You could explore Westport, with its graceful tree-lined streets overlooking the Carrowbeg River, or visit Westport House, home to the Brown family for over 300 years, with a history of piracy entwined. (Entrance not included).
Day 4 We make our way to Galway City, a vibrant bohemian city situated along the Wild Atlantic Way. Uncover rich medieval history as you meander the colourful, cobbled streets, settle into a traditional pub or take a stroll along the promenade. This afternoon enjoy one of the highlights of the tour, a lovely 90- minute lake cruise aboard the Corrib Princess, with full commentary and tasty tea and scones.
Day 5 We head along the shores of Clew Bay, with breathtaking views of the islands and Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Holy Mountain. We continue through the haunting beauty of the Doolough Valley, a long lake set amongst the Sheeffry Hills and the steep slopes of the Mweelrea Mountains to the village of Leenaun. We take the coast road to Killary Harbour, at the start of Ireland’s only fjord. We then have a visit to Kylemore Abbey, a Neo- Gothic castle mirrored in its own lake. Explore the restored rooms in the Abbey, the Neo- Gothic church and mausoleum, and the beautiful Victorian walled garden.
Day 6 Leaving Westport, we travel south through County Clare and over the border to Limerick. We have free time for lunch in this vibrant city, before continuing south east through Tipperary and on to Waterford. Our final night is spent at the Dooley’s Hotel on The Quay.
Day 7 An early start is required today as we board our ferry from Rosslare and enjoy breakfast on board as we travel back to Pembroke. Our drive home takes us through South Wales and into England. We return to the local area early evening.
Our four-star hotel is centrally located in the town of Westport, County Mayo, and has an excellent leisure complex including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and gym. The bedrooms are tastefully decorated and are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift to all floors.
