Kerry & Cork Discovery Tour

The Beara Peninsula

Derreen Gardens, Eyeries and Allihies, Castletownbere and Healy Pass

We explore the delightful Beara Peninsula, stopping en route to marvel at the great collection of tree ferns at Derreen Gardens, the pretty painted town of Eyeries and Allihies with its incredible sea views. In the afternoon we visit the bustling little town of Castletownbere before heading off for the spectacularly beautiful Healy Pass.

Ring of Kerry

A visit to Kerry wouldn’t be complete without this fascinating and scenic drive. We join the Skellig Ring at Portmagee before continuing down this little-travelled route for lovely views of Valentina Island and the Skellig Islands. Later we’ll arrive at Waterville with its dramatic Atlantic seascapes before arriving at Derrynane House, former home of Irish politician and statesman Daniel O'Connell, now an Irish National Monument. Our final stop is at Sneen, with its stunning Sculpture Park and Garden of the Senses.

Killarney & Muckross House

Today we drive to Killarney for a short stop at this delightful and historic town, followed by a visit Muckross House, the 19^th-century Victorian mansion, set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. Muckross stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed worldwide for their splendour and beauty.

Bantry House and Ilnacullin

This morning is given over to Bantry House, a stunning stately home set directly beside Bantry Bay. There’s plenty to discover both in the house and gardens. In the afternoon, our adventures take us across the water to Garinish Island (Ilnacullin). Warmed by the waters of the Gulf Stream, this island and its unique gardens enjoys a climate that is almost sub-tropical, making it possible for beautiful ornamental plants from many parts of the world to flourish.  

Dingle Peninsula

The colourful fishing town of Dingle awaits us today. This ‘capital’ of the Dingle Peninsula (Corca Dhuibhne) is known for its rugged scenery and sandy beaches and has lots to see and do. Later in the day, we’ll enjoy the beautiful views at Clogher Head – we may even spot seals! Time permitting, we stop to view Galarus Oratory, a tiny 1200-year-old church on our way home.

Holiday information

All transport relevant to the itinerary (hired minibus or local transport) is included in the price of your holiday, but for flexibility we do not include entrances, or optional cable car rides (allow £30 per person). 

Discovery holidays involve active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet. Optional short walks of approximately 2½ miles allow you to stretch your legs and see the best of the local scenery.  

During your Discovery Tour you will have the opportunity to visit many fascinating places of interest. This is the proposed programme, but your HF Holidays Tour Manager may adjust it at their discretion, taking into account factors such as weather or local opening times or the wishes of the group.

Free day

On our 7-night holidays we allow one free day where there is no organised excursion. This is an ideal opportunity for you to relax, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the area independently. 

Suitable, comfortable footwear for rough, wet or uneven terrain

The "Emerald Isle" offers a multitude of interests for the visitor.  If you are fascinated by ancient relics and their accompanying legends of fairies and leprechauns, or looking to uncover the past history of your ancestors, this is the place to visit.  The countryside is green and lush and the area we visit is the home to the famous circular tourist trail; the Ring of Kerry.  

The counties of Kerry and Cork are located on the wild southwest tip of Ireland and has an abundance of lakes and mountains creating a beautiful landscape to explore.

Kenmare

Kenmare is located between the Kerry Way and the Beara Peninsula and is a friendly town, full of colourful shops and pubs.  The town is full of cultural interests making it worth exploring.

Sea-fari

There is a seal watching cruise that goes from Kenmare pier with the commentary of a marine biologist, a 2 hour cruise.  There are complimentary hot drinks and cookies.  

Gardens of Derreen

One of Ireland’s oldest and most established gardens, Derreen is regarded as one of the ten best gardens in Ireland. The gardens are full of rare and exotic plants many of which were brought back from hunting expeditions in the Himalayas and beyond. 

We recognise that everyone’s travel arrangements are unique, so all our holidays to Europe can be booked ‘with flight’ or ‘without flight’, giving you more flexibility and choice.

Alban O'Brien