Highlights
- Go on a food and ghost tours in the town of Kinsale
- Explore the 17th-century Charles Fort and learn of battles and smugglers
- Kayaking along the coastline and discover hidden caves and coves
- Kayak along the coastline in former pirate territories and coves
- Visit a toy soldier factory and make your own toys
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival & Ghost Tour in Kinsale | Kinsale |
| Day 2 | Kinsale - Discover Charles Fort | Kinsale |
| Day 3 | Kinsale - Kayak the Irish Coastline | Kinsale |
| Day 4 | Kenmare - Toy Soldier Factory & Ring of Kerry | Kenmare |
| Day 5 | Kenmare - Fairy Trail & Resort Fun | Kenmare |
| Day 6 | Kenmare - Tour of Skellig Michael | Kenmare |
| Day 7 | Departure From Killarney |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and ghost tour in Kinsale
Welcome to Ireland! Make your way to Cork Train Station and meet with your expert guide for the week. Start your family tour of the Southwest of Ireland in the iconic town of Kinsale. Kinsale is the foodie capital of Ireland with its freshly caught seafood, locally sourced produce, and award-winning chefs. There are many restaurants, cafés, and food markets to tempt your taste buds here.
In the evening, join a unique ghost tour and learn about Kinsale's vibrant history, while meeting some colorful characters of Kinsale's past as they come alive during this entertaining experience.
Spend the night in a four-star hotel—the oldest in Cork—with sweeping views of the Atlantic. There is a pool, as well as leisure facilities on-site, in addition to a babysitting service, if needed.
Day 2: Kinsale - Discover Charles Fort
This morning, begin your day with the Scilly Walk, which starts in Kinsale and follows the harbor to the star-shaped 17th-century military fortress, Charles Fort. Listen to tales of conquests, wine smugglers, and old battles, before exploring Kinsale's coast with your guide. The children will love exploring the lookouts and tunnels in this hands-on dive into history.
Then, grab a bite to in an award-winning local Irish pub, and enjoy the authentic experience.
Day 3: Kinsale - Kayak the Irish coastline
The southern coastline of Ireland was often the site for raids by pirates over the centuries. Today, take to the water and kayak along Kinsale's seashore to where the pirates once landed. Relax and enjoy this family orientated experience, while learning local history and visiting historical sites. Enjoy a family picnic along the shore, and go for a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Kenmare - Toy soldier factory and Ring of Kerry
Wake up and head out to explore the Kingdom of Kerry, as the locals call it today. Your first stop is the only toy soldier factory in Europe, where you will learn how these creative little figurines are made, and even get a chance to make your own toys with the kids.
After a delicious lunch, your guide will chaperone you to some of the best viewpoints and vantage spots to take in the sweeping panoramas of Kerry's unforgettable coast. The Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula includes the Gap of Dunloe, Derrynane House, Moll's Gap, and Ladies View—to mention just a few of its highlights.
This evening, arrive at the next family-friendly accommodation, situated right on the glittering Kenmare Bay.
Day 5: Kenmare - Fairy Trail and resort fun
A magical and enchanting Fairy Trail awaits you at your resort today. Search for the mysterious fairy houses under the shelter of the woodlands and forest trails—try your hand at finding all 18 of them.
Today is all about kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying your surroundings. You resort boasts a spa for the parents in your group and some wonderful activities for the young and young at heart, such as an outdoor treasure hunt, a playground, an indoor play zone, horse riding, archery, and seashore foraging. Your guide will help you with any bookings, and of course, be on hand for those that just want to do some more sightseeing in the area.
Day 6: Kenmare - Tour of Skellig Michael
Catch a boat on the Atlantic today over to the famed Skellig Islands. In ancient times, Skellig Michael was home to monks seeking solitude, and there are still remarkable monastic ruins clinging to its jagged slopes. However, today, the islands are known as part of a galaxy far, far away—the Skelligs are a filming location for Star Wars: Episode VII and Star Wars: Episode VIII.
After getting up close to these islands to encounter wildlife and history, enjoy a celebratory final dinner together tonight.
Note: The Skellig boats only run weather-permitting from May-September, and are subject to availability.
Day 7: Departure from Killarney
This morning ends the family tour of Southwest Ireland. Say goodbye to the wild coasts of West Cork and Kerry, and transfer back to Killarney Train Station. If you have time before departing, consider a stroll through the buzzing market town of Killarney, or a walk through the nearby Killarney National Park. Safe Travels!
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