Discover the raw beauty and timeless charm of Ireland’s west on this unforgettable 10/11-day cycling, hiking and cultural adventure through the breathtaking Connemara region. Beginning with two nights in Dublin and finishing in Galway, you’ll soak up the lively charm of these cities, perfectly bookending your off-the-beaten-track adventure along Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast.
From the lively streets to the quiet backroads, we slow things down and breathe it all in, a perfect blend of scenic e-bike rides and invigorating hikes through Connemara’s wild and wonderful landscapes. Quiet coastal roads, windswept valleys, shimmering inlets, and ancient trails weave together as you explore this raw corner of Ireland at a gentle, enjoyable pace. Whether you’re pedalling with a little e-boost or walking through story-rich landscapes, every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view—majestic mountains, glassy lakes, and fjordside paths included.
You’ll stay in hand-picked 3–4 star boutique hotels and country lodges including two nights in a grand Connemara castle. This trip blends wild landscapes, Irish culture, gentle adventure, and a touch of indulgence, for an experience you’ll never forget.
Dublin – Galway
22 March – 4 April 2025
Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Upon arrival into Dublin, you’ll be met at the airport for a group transfer to our hotel. Take some time to settle in, shake off the travel cobwebs, and begin exploring this vibrant, walkable city at your own pace – Dublin is full of charm from the get-go. At 6pm, we’ll gather in the hotel lobby for a warm welcome and to meet the rest of your fellow travellers. Then it’s off to a lively local restaurant for our first dinner together—good food, a few laughs, and perhaps a pint or two to kick things off in true Irish style.
O/N 2 nts Dublin Hotel
This morning, a local guide will lead us on a half-day walking tour through the heart of Dublin, bringing the city’s rich history and colourful characters to life. From Georgian architecture and literary legends to political intrigue and hidden laneways, you’ll get a real sense of what makes this capital so captivating. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. You might choose to dive deeper into Dublin’s story with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, complete with a pint and panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar, or explore the iconic Trinity College and marvel at the intricate beauty of the Book of Kells. The evening is free to follow your curiosity (or your appetite) wherever it leads.
Today we swap city streets for country charm as we board the train and journey to the colourful town of Westport in County Mayo. Watch the changing Irish landscape roll by as we make our way toward the wild beauty of the west.Once in Westport, there’s time to explore this cheerful Georgian town—browse the local shops, wander along the river, or relax in a cosy café. Later, we’ll get fitted for our e-bikes and make sure everything’s ready for the cycling adventures ahead. The evening is yours to enjoy, with plenty of great spots for dinner and a traditional Irish welcome.
O/N 1 nt Clew Bay Hotel (or similar)
This morning we follow the island-dotted shores of Clew Bay, with the sacred peak of Croagh Patrick rising in the distance. A short stop at the 14th-century Murrisk Abbey sets the tone for a day steeped in history and beauty.
From here we ride to the coastal town of Louisburgh, where mountains meet ocean and tales of the legendary Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley, come to life at the visitor centre.
The road then carries us through the hauntingly beautiful Doo Lough Valley and the green embrace of Delphi Valley, before a final stretch along Killary Fjord leads us into the welcoming village of Leenane.
O/N 2 nts Leenane Hotel (or similar)
This morning’s hike follows the historic Famine Trail along the edge of Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only fjord. Built during the Great Famine of the 1840s, the path passes abandoned villages and crumbling stone walls—echoes of lives once lived in this remote and striking landscape. With sweeping views of the fjord and mountains rising on either side, it’s a moving and memorable walk. At the trail’s end, we will return to Leenane to board the Connemara Lady for a scenic fjord cruise. With stories of the land, history and people—and the occasional dolphin—it’s a beautiful way to take it all in. Tonight, enjoy a second night in Leenane. A cosy pub and a cold pint of Guinness might just be the perfect end to the day.
This morning we lace up the boots for one of the most rewarding stretches of the Western Way. Starting from the village of Leenane, tucked at the head of Killary Harbour, the trail carries us into the wild heart of Connemara. The path winds through open bogland and valleys framed by the Maumturk and Twelve Bens mountain ranges, with sweeping views that change with every step. It’s a landscape of big skies, quiet solitude, and that unmistakable Connemara magic.
The hike covers around 15 kilometres at a steady pace, giving us time to soak in the scenery and perhaps spot a sheepdog at work or a hawk circling above. Our destination is the welcoming Lough Inagh Lodge, a country house hotel set beside the glassy waters of the lough. A well-earned drink by the fire or on the terrace (weather permitting!) is the perfect way to round off the day.
O/N 1 nt Lough Inagh Lodge (or similar)
Today it’s back on the bike again as we pedal through some of Connemara’s most captivating scenery. From the tranquil setting of Lough Inagh Lodge, the road winds gently between misty mountains and shimmering lakes, every turn a postcard of wild Irish beauty. Our ride takes us to the enchanting Kylemore Abbey, a lakeside neo-Gothic masterpiece wrapped in gardens and legends, where we’ll pause to explore its fairytale setting and soak in its serene atmosphere. Refreshed, we continue onwards, rolling through quiet country lanes towards the coast, with sweeping views of the Atlantic unfolding as we approach Renvyle House, our welcoming home for the night. Here, the sea air and a hearty dinner complete a day filled with movement and beauty.
O/N 1 nt Renvyle House
After a hearty breakfast we set off by bike to trace one of Connemara’s most scenic coastal routes. The road meanders past sandy coves and rugged headlands, with the Twelve Bens rising proudly in the distance and the Atlantic glinting at our side. Along the way, there’s time to pause for photos, breathe in the sea air, and let the rhythm of the ride carry us through fishing villages and wild stretches of countryside. By afternoon we roll into Clifden, the colourful capital of Connemara, with its lively streets and warm, welcoming vibe. But the highlight awaits just up the hill at Abbeyglen Castle, our home for the next two nights. Here, a touch of grandeur meets Irish hospitality, and we settle in like royalty, celebrating the day’s ride in true castle style.
O/N 2 nts Abbey Glen Castle (or similar)
Today is all about choice, and a little indulgence. With two nights at the charming Abbey Glen Castle, you can slow the pace and make the day your own. Wander down into Clifden, where colourful shopfronts, cafés, and galleries invite a leisurely browse. If you’re feeling active, you might explore the famous Sky Road, a loop with breathtaking coastal views, or take a gentle walk along the bay. Of course, you may prefer to stay closer to home and soak up the castle atmosphere. Relax in the gardens, enjoy the spa, or simply settle in with a book. However you spend the day, we’ll gather again in the evening to share stories, laughter, and a touch of Connemara magic within the castle’s walls.
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the quiet beauty of Connemara and make our way to Galway City, the vibrant heart of the west. Famous for its lively streets with the sound of buskers filling the air, Galway is the perfect place to end our journey. Here our tour concludes. Choose to stay in Ireland longer and discover more of the Emerald Isle, or if you are ready to discover another country, you might like to join our Norway tour which starts on 1 July. Whatever you choose, as we part ways, we leave with more than just memories of castles, coastlines, and Connemara skies—we take home the friendships forged along the way and the joy of a journey well-travelled.
As a former police officer and part-time ICON tea lady (a job she took way too seriously as those who know her will know that tea is something of an obsession), Suzanne took over ICON Adventures in 2015, since then has been curating organised tours and bespoke travel arrangements to far-flung corners of the globe.
With a penchant for off-the-beaten-track destinations Suzanne also fearlessly leads her own unique hiking and cultural tours across the globe. She brings not only a can-do attitude but also a bloody-well-will-do attitude as she leads the ICON team and her tours. Her attention to detail and dedication to her clients means you want her planning your trip!
With Suzanne in charge of a tour or helping to organise independent travel for you, you can be rest-assured it will be like her tea, done to the highest and most meticulous standard.