Beyond the Map
Explore Ireland independently
Would you like to explore Ireland independently and at your own leisure but you don’t want to miss out on any highlights and hidden gems? Then hiring a car and going on one of my tailor made self-guided adventures is ideal for you.
A bespoke self-driving tour of Ireland is the best way to combine the insightful advantages of hiring a local guide with the cost effective flexibility of navigating the emerald isle in your own vehicle. Below you find an overview of my favourite self-drive itinerary which can ensure you enjoy a mix of immersive local experiences while also hitting some of Ireland’s most iconic sites.
The best thing about it: Everything can be completely customised to meet your needs!
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THE ITINERARY
Enjoy browsing through the example itinerary day by day. Get a taste of how discovering Ireland’s west coast with your local guide could look like. Any questions? I would be delighted to have a chat with you about all possibilities.
Cliffs of Moher & the Burren
This day is the best start to a self-drive itinerary if you arrive into Shannon airport. Alternatively you can also stay the night before in Galway city.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options:
Accommodation: Hotel in Galway city
Add another night in Galway to explore the city!
County Galway
Exploring the lakes and mountains of Connemara. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way to discover the skyroad, quiet sheep lined backroads and quaint little villages.
Highlights:
Accommodation: Small town B&B in County Galway
Hiking/walking options:
South Mayo
I would call it Ireland’s most scenic road trip. Following winding country roads along lake shores and the coast to reach Ireland’s friendliest town.
Highlights:
Accommodation: Hotel in Westport
Hiking/walking options:
Clare Island
Visit a remote island off the Mayo Coast to take a break from driving. Here you can explore by foot or on the bike and enjoy a day at the relaxing pace of Island life.
Highlights:
Accommodation: Hotel in Westport
Hiking/walking options:
Along Clew Bay to Achill island
After discovering the south shore of Clew Bay and visiting Clare island it is now time to venture along the Clew Bay north shore and onto Achill island. The largest island off the coast of Ireland can be reached via a bridge, which makes it the perfect island destination during a road trip.
Highlights:
Accommodation: B&B on Achill island
Hiking/walking options:
Achill island
You’ll have a full day to discover the quiet roads of Achill island. This is the best place to “get a little lost” and discover beautiful scenery far beyond the known tourist trail.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options:
Ballycroy National Park & Mullet peninsula
This National Park covers a vast 15,000 hectares of uninhabited and unspoilt wilderness, dominated by the Nephin Beg mountain range. A scenic drive will bring you far out west to the Mullet peninsula where you can explore more of the rugged coast.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options:
Accommodation: B&B in Belmullet
North Mayo Coast
Today you’ll head toward my hometown Ballina. On the way you’ll discover my favourite part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options:
Accommodation: B&B in Ballina
Day in Ballina
Take a break from driving. If I’m available I would also be delighted to take you on a guided day tour. I can also organise different activities for you.
Examples for activities:
Accommodation: B&B in Ballina
Sligo Coast
Taking the scenic route, you will leave Ballina to head along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route northwards. Passing by beautiful beaches, small fishing villages and unique hills there are lots of options to stop for hikes or walks, watch the surfers or explore local shops.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options::
Accommodation: B&B in Donegal town
Donegal
National Geographic named it “one of the coolest places on the planet” and you can easily spend a full day or 2 exploring the area.
Highlights:
Hiking/walking options:
Accommodation: B&B in Donegal town
Back to the airport & departure
Depending on your departure time I recommend spending a night close to the airport. Dublin airport can be reached from Donegal town in approx. 3.5 hours.
