Kerry & Cork Discovery Tour

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 leader may adjust it at their discretion, taking into account factors such as weather or local opening times or the wishes of the group.

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 scenic route around the Kerry peninsula with views across the Atlantic Ocean

A visit to Kerry wouldn’t be complete without this fascinating drive. Our scenic route begins with Portmagee and the Skellig ring for lovely views of Valentina Island and Skellig Islands. We then survey the dramatic Atlantic Ocean from Waterville, which takes its name from the Irish An Coireán, meaning "the crescent". Later we explore 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 and Muckross House

Killarney's history and lakes

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

Bantry House and Garinish Island (Ilnacullin)

A fine stately home overlooking Bantry Bay and Ilnacullin, an island garden of rare and unique beauty

This morning we visit historic Bantry House, where we stop for lunch. This afternoon we catch the ferry 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

Fishing town of Dingle, views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Galarus Oratory

Today we have time to soak up the atmosphere in the colourful fishing town of Dingle, ‘capital’ of the Dingle Peninsula - or Corca Dhuibhne. Afterwards we enjoy the beautiful views (and possibly some sightings of seals!) at Clogher Head. 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. 

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 independently. 

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.