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Wild Ireland: From Wicklow to the landscapes of Kerry
Local experiences,  Crafts & meetings

Wild Ireland: From Wicklow to the landscapes of Kerry

Duration 8 days
Inspiration Local experiences
From €1,700 per person
Planning your trip

This trip in brief

  • An 8-day road trip in the south of Ireland, from Wicklow to Kerry.
  • Stages: Glendalough, Wexford and Hook Peninsula, Waterford, the Copper Coast, Cork, Killarney National Park, the Rock of Cashel and Dublin.
  • Included: 7 nights, breakfasts depending on accommodation, rental car and hiking suggestions.
  • Starting from €1,700 per person, itinerary adaptable to your wishes.

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Why choose a road trip in the south of Ireland?

A road trip through southern Ireland offers the chance to discover a diverse range of landscapes in just a few days, from mountains and verdant valleys to historic towns and rugged coastlines. Starting in Dublin, the route first takes you to County Wicklow before continuing towards the southeast of the country.

The first major stop is Glendalough, in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. Its ancient monastic site, two lakes, and hiking trails provide an excellent introduction to Ireland's natural landscapes. The journey then continues to Gorey, Wexford, and Waterford. This part of the tour offers a mix of historical sites, charming Irish towns, and walks along the ocean.

If you'd like to discover other tour ideas in the country, check out our... Tailor-made trips to Ireland.

Discover the wild coast of southern Ireland

After Waterford, head to the spectacular Copper Coast. Cliffs, secluded coves, former mining areas and small beaches follow one another all along the road.

A stop at Bunmahon or Kilmurrin Cove allows you to fully appreciate this still unspoiled coastline. Then, continue towards Ardmore. Its coastal path offers a beautiful hike overlooking the Celtic Sea before reaching Cork.

This part of the journey is particularly appealing to travelers who like to take their time. Indeed, the small roads of the south regularly offer opportunities to stop and enjoy a panoramic view or explore a village.

From Cork to the vast landscapes of Kerry

Cork then marks a new stage in the journey. Discover the English Market, the lively streets of the city centre and the friendly atmosphere of the country's second largest city.

Then, head towards Gougane Barra. Nestled between mountains, forest and lake, this site offers several hiking opportunities before reaching Killarney.

Killarney National Park is one of the highlights of this road trip in the south of Ireland. Ancient forests, lakes, waterfalls and mountains make up some of the most iconic landscapes of Kerry.

Walkers can, among other things, reach Torc Mountain. Others may prefer to discover Torc Waterfall, Muckross House or Muckross Abbey at a more leisurely pace.

A circuit combining hiking, heritage and freedom

This trip was designed for travelers wishing to combine nature and cultural discovery.

With your rental car, you can travel at your own pace. This allows you to change some stops depending on the weather, extend a hike, or simply stop to admire an unexpected view.

Finally, the return to Dublin allows you to discover the spectacular Rock of Cashel before ending your stay in the Irish capital.

This road trip is therefore a great first introduction to the country. It combines the landscapes of Wicklow, the southeast coast, Cork and Kerry while maintaining a balanced pace.

For even more ideas before you leave, also check out our travel guides to Ireland and the United Kingdom.

To prepare for your trip and discover other regions of the island, you can also consult the Official website of Tourism Ireland. The official website features, among other things, the major coastal roads and various route ideas across Ireland.

Wild Ireland: From Wicklow to the landscapes of Kerry: travel itinerary

Wild Ireland: From Wicklow to Kerry – Travel Itinerary. Embark on an 8-day road trip through the south of Ireland. Discover the landscapes of Glendalough, the villages of the southeast, the spectacular Copper Coast, Cork, and the Kerry mountains. Between hikes, coastal drives, medieval heritage, and Killarney National Park, experience an immersion in the heart of a wild and authentic Ireland.
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Day 1

Arrival in Dublin, Glendalough and first discoveries

Arrival in Dublin, Glendalough and first discoveries

Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, pick up your rental car.

Then leave the capital to reach County Wicklow.

Discover the monastic site of Glendalough, founded in the 6th century. Then, continue your walk towards Lower Lake and Upper Lake.

This first walk allows you to gradually discover the mountainous landscapes of Wicklow.

Hiking in Glendalough:

Distance: approximately 5 km
Duration: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Difficulty: easy
Elevation gain: slight

At the end of the day, meet up with Gorey.

Night in Gorey.

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Day 1
wexford
Day 2

Wexford, Hook Peninsula and Waterford

After your breakfast, you might enjoy a short walk in Courtown Woods.

Next, head to Wexford. Discover its historic center, its port, and its colorful facades.

Continue towards the Hook Peninsula. The famous Hook Lighthouse overlooks a wild coastline of rocks and small coves.

At the end of the day, head to Waterford.

Depending on your arrival time, take a stroll through the Viking Triangle and along the River Suir.

Night in Waterford.

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Day 2
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Day 3

The Copper Coast and Ardmore

Leave Waterford to reach the Copper Coast.

Explore Bunmahon and then Kilmurrin Cove before continuing on to Dungarvan.

In the afternoon, head to Ardmore.

Those who enjoy walking can take the Ardmore Cliff Walk.

Distance: approximately 4 km
Duration: approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Elevation gain: approximately +100 m

The trail offers superb views of the Celtic Sea.

Then continue your journey towards Cork.

Overnight in Cork.

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Day 3
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Day 4

Cork, Gougane Barra and arrival in Kerry

Enjoy your morning exploring Cork.

Stroll around St Patrick's Street and then explore the English Market.

Next, leave the city to reach Gougane Barra.

Take a walk around the lake and discover the small oratory set in this mountainous setting.

Several hikes are possible in Gougane Barra Forest Park.

Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate depending on the route

Then continue towards Killarney.

Overnight in Killarney.

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Day 4
park
Day 5

Hiking in Killarney National Park

Dedicate your day to Killarney National Park.

We particularly suggest climbing Torc Mountain.

Distance: approximately 14 to 15 km
Duration: approximately 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Elevation gain: approximately +500 to +600 m

From the heights, enjoy magnificent panoramas of the lakes and mountains of Kerry.

Depending on your energy level, also discover Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and Muckross Abbey.

Overnight in Killarney.

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Day 5
rock
Day 6

From Kerry to Dublin via the Rock of Cashel

Leave Killarney to go to Dublin.

On the way, make a stop at the spectacular Rock of Cashel.

Situated on a rocky promontory, this medieval complex is among the great historical sites of Ireland.

Depending on your pace, you could also make a detour to Kilkenny.

Upon arrival in Dublin, return your rental car.

Night in Dublin.

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Day 6
Dublin Street lined with Victorian brick buildings
Day 7

Dublin's must-sees

Dedicate this day to the capital.

Explore St. Patrick's Cathedral and then Christ Church Cathedral.

Continue on to Trinity College and the famous Book of Kells.

You can also visit the Guinness Storehouse.

In the evening, take a stroll along the Liffey before heading to Temple Bar.

Night in Dublin.

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Day 7
Dublin
Day 8

Last moments in Ireland

After breakfast, head to Dublin Airport.

Depending on your preferences, you can take the Dublin Express or arrange a private transfer.

End of the journey.

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Day 8
Included
  • 7 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected establishments
  • Breakfast is included depending on the accommodation.
  • Rental car during the tour
  • Mileage as per rental conditions
  • Brightside Travel Personalised Travel Journal
  • Detailed day-by-day itinerary
  • Interactive map
  • Hiking suggestions
  • Good addresses and recommendations
  • Brightside Travel assistance before and during your stay
Not included
  • The flights
  • Fuel
  • Parking and any tolls
  • Meals and drinks
  • Entrances to the sites
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
Wild Ireland: From Wicklow to the landscapes of Kerry
From €1,700 per person