Magical, mystical Ireland is bigger than you think – some 32,000 miles in fact, so it makes sense to talk to someone who really knows where to find the special places to see, stay and visit on tailor-made Ireland holidays – not to mention the most enjoyable ways to get here.
The dramatic coastlines are a standout feature of the Emerald Isle’s landscape. Drive the Wild Atlantic Way in the west, where each twist in the road will open up views of beautiful deserted beaches, craggy jutting cliff-faces and charming towns and villages. The spectacular touring route of the Ring of Kerry and the towering Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are two better-known portions of the journey, but the locations off the beaten track are equally as spectacular. Explore the winding coastal roads of Connemara, spend some time understanding the strange limestone-pavement landscape of the Burren or venture to West Cork. Here you’ll find plenty of Irish holidaymakers and can even hop on board for a spot of whale-watching.
Alternatively, tour along the Antrim coast in the north: with the atmospheric Dunluce Castle and fascinating Mussenden Temple, every location is a dream – not to mention the world-famous, legendary Giant’s Causeway, of course. Ireland’s Causeway Coast was awarded the illustrious title of Lonely Planet’s ‘Top Region to Visit in 2018’, and although it was thrust further into the public eye as the home of the Open Golf Championship in 2019, it is still a relatively unspoilt touring route. There has never been a better time to plan your trip.
If a lively metropolis is more your style, we can include a stay to one of Ireland’s vibrant cities. Georgian Dublin is a foodie’s paradise, packed to the brim with acclaimed eateries and atmospheric bars, where locals will be delighted to share some hidden gems with you over a pint of Guinness. Victorian Belfast is a city on the rise. The Titanic Quarter provides a sincere and poignant insight into the loss of the locally-built liner. The city boasts a glittering array of dramatic murals, a proud industrial heritage and world-class historical sites. Just ask, and we can create a trip that encapsulates the best of your Ireland holiday, including guided tours of these contrasting capitals from the most vivacious local guides.
We pride ourselves on offering holidays made differently; our Irish holidays are a little less off the shelf than you may be used to and tailored to meet your exact requirements. Our holidays to the lesser-known Irish Islands –Achill Island, Clare Island, the Arran Islands and Rathlin Island – tick all of these boxes and more. Unwind and appreciate a more leisurely way of life, learn about fascinating Celtic heritage and delight in hearing the Gaelic tongue spoken at every turn. This is authentic Ireland in a way you have never experienced before.
But we can offer so much more than this. We’ve personally sought out quaint local pubs with the best live music; small restaurants serving delicious food and drink; historical trails with fascinating stories and memorable views; wildlife encounters that will dazzle and enchant long after your Irish holiday comes to a close.
Cruise the open roads on self-drive trip, sit back and unwind as you discover Ireland by rail or take a guided small group tour – either way, choose a McKinlay Kidd holiday to Ireland to discover the craic all around in the real and enchanting Emerald Isle.
