July Itinerary Spotlight: An Irish Family Adventure
Embark on a magical family journey through Ireland, where each day is designed to delight curious minds and create unforgettable memories. From castle stays and coastal adventures to sheepdog demonstrations and hands-on chocolate making, this itinerary is full of engaging, kid-friendly experiences wrapped in the beauty and charm of Ireland. Whether you’re flying by helicopter over the Ring of Kerry, exploring ancient forts, or spotting dolphins on a sea safari, every moment has been thoughtfully crafted to inspire wonder, laughter, and connection—for children and parents alike.
Journey Highlights
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Ashford Castle Magic: Stay at Ireland’s most iconic castle, where families can experience the ancient art of falconry, explore the fairytale grounds, and meet the resident Irish wolfhounds.
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Helicopter to the Ring of Kerry: Take off on a thrilling flight over Ireland’s wild west, landing for a private sheepdog demonstration amidst the stunning landscapes of Kerry.
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Dingle Peninsula & Sea Safari: Discover coastal wonders with your private guide, then set out by rib boat to explore sea caves, spot dolphins, and circle the remote Blasket Islands.
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Horseback Riding in Ballyconneely: Saddle up for a breathtaking beach ride along the white sands and turquoise waters of Ballyconneely, a true bucket-list experience for horse-loving families.
Castles, Falcons & Lake Picnics
Your Irish adventure begins in spellbinding style at Ashford Castle, a 13th-century fortress turned five-star sanctuary. You’ll be welcomed to the lavish Presidential Suite, where antique furnishings, original fireplaces, and sweeping lake views set a regal tone. Begin with an unforgettable private falconry session—an exclusive opportunity to engage with the noble art of hunting with hawks and owls in the oldest established falconry school in Ireland. With a majestic bird of prey perched on your gloved hand, you’ll feel centuries of tradition come to life beneath the castle’s towering turrets. Later, board a traditional hand-crafted wooden boat and glide across the pristine waters of Lough Corrib to a secluded island, where a gourmet picnic—curated by Ashford’s executive chef—is laid out with crystalware and fine Irish fare beneath the trees. As dusk falls, return to the castle for an evening of indulgence—perhaps a multi-course tasting menu in the George V Dining Room under glittering chandeliers, or a cosy supper in the castle’s vaulted stone dungeon, now an atmospheric tavern echoing with centuries of legend and laughter.
Wild Islands & Wolfhounds
Wake to the soft light spilling over the turrets of Ashford Castle and begin your day with a magical morning stroll alongside the castle’s gentle Irish wolfhounds, whose calm presence and towering elegance echo the nobility of this historic estate. Then, venture west through a cinematic landscape of rolling moorlands, mirror-like lakes, and windswept coastline, en route to the untamed beauty of Achill Island. Here, at Keem Bay—a crescent of powdery white sand embraced by emerald cliffs—your family will enjoy a private surfing session, tailored to all skill levels and set against some of the clearest waters in Ireland.
Gallops & Gleoiteogs
Day three sweeps you into the wild beauty of Connemara, where the white-sand beaches of Ballyconneely stretch out before the rugged peaks of the Twelve Bens. Here, saddle up for a leisurely horseback ride along the shoreline, the Atlantic breeze in your hair and the rhythm of hooves on sand setting a soothing pace—an experience as peaceful as it is cinematic. Afterward, transition from land to sea as you step aboard a privately chartered Galway Hooker, the iconic red-sailed vessel steeped in seafaring lore. Drift across Galway Bay’s glistening waters, keeping watch for playful seals, diving seabirds, and perhaps a dolphin or two, all while learning the legends and traditions of this proud maritime region.
Helicopter Heights
Take to the skies from Ashford Castle on a thrilling family helicopter ride to the legendary Ring of Kerry, soaring over Connemara’s lakes, the Atlantic coastline, and the dramatic Gap of Dunloe. Touch down in this iconic region—famous for its emerald pastures, windswept cliffs, and ancient stone forts—for a private sheepdog demonstration on a working farm. Continue on to the charming town of Kenmare for a hands-on chocolate workshop at Lorge Chocolatier, where French master chocolatier Benoît Lorge leads families in crafting lollipops, bars, and truffles in a cozy countryside setting. With sweeping views from the Lakes of Killarney to the Skellig Islands, this day blends adventure, culture, and sweet fun for all ages.
The Dingle Peninsula
Set off on an unforgettable day exploring the Dingle Peninsula with your private driver guide, beginning with the breathtaking Slea Head Drive where ancient beehive huts, windswept beaches, and dramatic Atlantic views await at every turn. Kids will love running along Coumeenoole Beach and hearing tales of shipwrecks and local legends as you make your way to the colorful town of Dingle. In the afternoon, gear up for the thrilling Dingle Sea Safari—a high-speed rib boat adventure that takes you past sea caves, cliffs, and the remote Blasket Islands in search of seals, dolphins, puffins, and even the occasional whale. With a mix of wild landscapes, hands-on storytelling, and ocean excitement, it’s a perfect family day filled with wonder and wide-eyed fun.
Call our team today to plan your tour! +353 1 668 1553
All images: Copyright: ©Failte Ireland











