☘️THE PREMIER TRANSATLANTIC GOLF SHOWDOWN 2027 – ADARE MANOR, IRELAND

More on DAY 1 -WELCOME TO IRELAND

The Cliffs Of Moher

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. To the south of the cliffs is Hag’s Head and was once the site of a castle.

The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O’ Brien’s Tower. Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru (he who defeated the Vikings in battle), built a Tower at the cliffs in order to enjoy some tea with his lady friends. The Tower is adjacent to the sea stack, Breanan Mór, which stands over 70 metres above the foaming waves and is home to some of the Burren’s wildlife.

The Kilkee Cliffs

After your visit to the Cliffs of Moher, you will travel southward, and will stop for a view of the breathtaking Kilkee Cliffs on the Loop Head Peninsula. Characterized by sheer drops, rugged rock formations, and panoramic views of the ocean, you’ll encounter fascinating natural features carved by centuries of Atlantic storms.

The cliffs expose Late Carboniferous (around 310 million years old) rocks, primarily deep-water marine shales and sandstones. Geological features like ancient ripple marks and sand volcanoes (formed by sediment extrusion) can be observed. Depending upon the time of your arrival, the tides and of course the weather, you may see some of these Natural Wonders at the Cliffs:

The Pollock Holes:

These stunning natural sea pools appear at low tide and are a popular spot for swimming and paddling in calm conditions. They are located near the start of the cliff walk. The Puffing Hole and the Amphitheatre: Intriguing rock formations carved by the sea.

Sea Stacks: Majestic sea stacks like Bishop’s Island (said to have ancient monastic ruins on top) and The Candlestick rise defiantly from the ocean, showcasing the power of erosion. Intrinsic Bay and Foonagh Bay: Scenic bays along the route. You will be glad that you didn’t miss this “hidden gem”!

After your stop at the Killkee Cliffs, you will travel down to your hotel in Killarney, where you will stay for the duration of your visit. The remainder of today will be free to relax and settle in to your surroundings prior to an action packed, exciting schedule over the next week!

Here is a little bit of information about Killarney and the surrounding area, where you will stay for the week ahead…….

About Killarney:

Killarney, located in County Kerry, is a highly sought-after destination due to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of the attractions that you will visit while in Killarney will include Killarney National Park:

Killarney National Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, and exploring its ancient woodlands, lakes (Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, Upper Lake), and wildlife. The park was established in 1932 when the Muckross Estate was donated to the Irish Free State by the Bourn and Vincent families. The land around the lakes has a long history of human occupation, dating back to the Bronze Age with evidence of copper mining on Ross Island. It was also home to monastic settlements, such as the 7th-century Inisfallen Abbey, and served as strongholds for Gaelic chieftains.

Muckross House & Gardens:

Built between 1839 and 1843 for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife, Muckross House & Gardens is a magnificent 19th-century Victorian mansion and its surrounding estate, nestled within the stunning Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland. It’s a testament to the elegant lifestyle of the landed gentry of the past. Here you will also find Muckross Abbey: A beautifully preserved 15th-century Franciscan friary ruin, Muckross Abbey is a peaceful and atmospheric site to explore, with its distinctive central courtyard and ancient yew tree. The surrounding gardens, including the Sunken Garden, Rock Garden, and Stream Garden, are beautifully landscaped and free to explore.

Ross Castle:

Ross Castle is a magnificent and historic tower house situated on the shores of Lough Leane, the largest of Killarney’s three lakes, within the breathtaking Killarney National Park in County Kerry. The Castle was originally built in the late 15th century by the O’Donoghue Mór (O’Donoghue the Great) chieftains, who were a powerful ruling family in the region. It served as their ancestral home and a symbol of Gaelic power.

The castle has undergone significant restoration including the great hall, dining room, and bedrooms and is now furnished with 16th and 17th-century period furniture, offering visitors a glimpse into its past. The spiral stone staircase, built with varying heights to break the stride of attackers, is a notable feature. The construction is of a typical tower house with strong defensive features:

Thick Stone Walls and Narrow Windows: Designed for defense, the lower levels have narrow slits for shooting arrows or guns, while upper levels have larger windows for light. Bartizans and Machicolations: These are defensive turrets and openings that allowed defenders to drop stones or boiling liquids on attackers.

Fortified Bawn: The tower was originally surrounded by a square bawn (enclosed courtyard) with corner towers for added protection. It’s an iconic landmark, steeped in history and folklore.

The Ring of Kerry:

Killarney is a popular starting and finishing point for exploring this world-famous scenic driving route.

The Dingle Peninsula:

The Dingle Peninsula or Corca Dhuibhne in Irish is a breathtakingly beautiful finger of land jutting into the Atlantic Ocean from County Kerry on Ireland’s southwest coast. Often described as “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic, it’s renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, rich ancient history, vibrant Irish-speaking culture, and charming towns. The peninsula is characterized by a wild and rugged coastline, with steep cliffs, wide sandy beaches, and numerous headlands and coves.

A range of mountains forms its spine, running from the Slieve Mish in the east to the Brandon range in the northwest, including Mount Brandon, the peninsula’s highest peak (952m). Its location at the edge of Europe means it’s heavily shaped by the Atlantic elements, leading to a mild but unpredictable climate. Expect all four seasons in one day, so layering is key! Fuchsia and even palm trees thrive here due to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream.

The diverse geological formations, spanning 485 million years, contribute to the unique landscape of contrasting rugged rock, verdant fields divided by ancient stone walls, and sheltered coves. Inhabited for nearly 6,000 years there is evidence of early human activity, from the Stone Age to the Iron Age, is abundant with numerous archaeological sites like standing stones, forts, and beehive huts.

Jaunting Car Rides:

A Jaunting Car Ride is a traditional, horse-drawn carriage tour, offering a unique way to experience Killarney National Park and hear local folklore. It’s an iconic and charming way to experience the local sights and scenery.

The Carriage of a jaunting car is typically a two-wheeled vehicle pulled by a single horse. Its distinctive feature is the seating arrangement: passengers sit back-to-back, facing outwards, with their legs dangling over the side. This unique design allows for unobstructed views of the surroundings. Some larger versions might have benches facing forward. The “Jarvey” is the driver of the jaunting car. These individuals are as much a part of the experience as the ride itself. They are usually local, often multi-generational, and are renowned for their wit, storytelling, historical anecdotes, and knowledge of the area. They’ll share local folklore, facts, and often a good laugh.

The gentle, unhurried pace of a jaunting car offers a refreshing contrast to today’s rushed high-speed travel and it connects you to how people moved around centuries ago. It’s a genuine piece of Irish heritage, often operated by families who have been Jarveys for generations, adding a layer of local character that modern transport simply can’t replicate. The combination of the unique seating, the clip-clop of hooves, the fresh air, and the Jarvey’s engaging stories all contribute to a truly distinctive and nostalgic experience.

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 2 -KILLARNEY GOLF AND FISHING CLUB

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club – Killeen Course Or Similar

More on DAY 3 -THE STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY OF KILLARNEY

While some members of your group may join events at the Adare Manor today, others may choose to enjoy a memorable day of sightseeing around Killarney Town and the surrounding area.

The Killarney area

After a full Irish Breakfast, your driver will pick you up and whisk you off to explore this area from the early medieval period, with evidence of early settlements and monastic sites like Innisfallen Abbey (founded in the 7th century on an island in Lough Leane) and Muckross Abbey (founded in 1448).
Historical landmarks include the 15th-century Ross Castle, a medieval fortress on the shores of Lough Leane. Not to be missed is St. Mary’s Cathedral, a striking 19th-century Gothic Revival cathedral.

Killarney town gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a popular retreat for British aristocrats due to the development of estates and gardens by wealthy landed gentry like the Kenmare family. The Town Centre features charming old-style shop fronts, traditional pubs with live Irish music showcasing the rich musical heritage of the area, and a variety of restaurants. Killarney is a blend of natural wonders, historical sites, and lively atmosphere.

Killarney National Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, and exploring its ancient woodlands, lakes (Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, Upper Lake), and wildlife. The park was established in 1932 when the Muckross Estate was donated to the Irish Free State by the Bourn and Vincent families.
The land around the lakes has a long history of human occupation, dating back to the Bronze Age with evidence of copper mining on Ross Island.
It was also home to monastic settlements, such as the 7th-century Inisfallen Abbey, and served as strongholds for Gaelic chieftains.

Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall is a dramatic 18m high waterfall which cascades through the wooded Friers Glenn and is one of Killarney National Park’s most beloved, popular and easily accessible natural attractions, renowned for its dramatic beauty.This is a magnificent natural site of beauty. The waterfall has a public hiking path that stretches to the top of Torc Mountain.

Enjoy a short walk , and maybe even see the red deer which are well known inhabitants of the Killarney national park . Its name, “Torc,” comes from the Irish word “torc,” meaning “wild boar,” and is associated with local legends.

Adare Manor

If you are going to the events at Adare Manor today, you will see Team Europe and Team USA getting accustomed to the tournament course, refining their game, and finalize their strategies.

Players spend significant time on the driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas, honing their skills and making final adjustments to their swing and short game. It will be a casual atmosphere (for spectators) of this practice day, a more relaxed atmosphere than the competition days.

On practice days, spectators can often get closer to the players, watch their practice swings, and sometimes even catch a glimpse of their interactions with teammates and coaches. Here may also be autograph and photo opportunities! While not guaranteed, players might be more willing to sign autographs or take photos during practice days, especially early in the week. You may also have the chance to Merchandise Shop. The merchandise shops are typically open on practice days, allowing fans to purchase official gear and memorabilia before the main event.

After a day of excitement your driver will transfer you back to your Hotel for an evening at your leisure.

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 4 -THE SPECTACULAR RING OF KERRY -DAY TOUR

The Ring Of Kerry

Today, after a full Irish breakfast your driver will pick you up for an unforgettable adventure around the famous Ring of Kerry.

Killorglin

Pass through Killorglin, the home of the ancient Celtic festival Puck Fair. Dating back to 1613, this is one of the oldest festivals in the world where a goat is crowned king of the village and placed on a pedestal for 3 days in August each year. People come from far and wide to pay homage to the king goat and enjoy the festivities of street stalls, music, and much more.This section of the tour takes you along part of the famous “Ring of Kerry” driving route.

Dingle Bay

Enjoy a scenic drive along some parts of the famous Dingle Peninsula. And stop for photos en route with amazing views of Dingle Bay, Skellig rocks, Inch beach.This ideal setting is perfect for panoramic photographs admits the Wild Atlantic Way.

Waterville

Picturesque little village overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay with its own beautiful beach, famed by the Skellig Rocks with their early Christian monastery. A regular visitor, Charlie Chaplin loved Waterville and hence the statue in his honor, unveiled in 1998. It is also home to one of Ireland’s finest golf clubs and most famed footballer Mick O’Dwyer and Mick O’Connell.

Sneem

Take a stop in the charming village of Sneem. This is one of Ireland’s most colorful and charming villages. With two squares and a beautiful bridge in the middle of the village, this is where the River Sneem meets the currents of Kenmare Bay. It was also the regular holiday choice or Charles de Gaulle.

Killarney National Park

One of the most beautiful and admired national parks in the world, Killarney National Park was the first of its kind established in Ireland in 1932. With magnificent views of the Lakes of Killarney and Black Valley, the park gives you an opportunity to enjoy a walk in this amazing landscape and spend time strolling along the lakes.

Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall is a dramatic 18m high waterfall which cascades through the wooded Friers Glenn and is one of Killarney National Park’s most beloved, popular and easily accessible natural attractions, renowned for its dramatic beauty. This is a magnificent natural site of beauty.

The waterfall has a public hiking path that stretches to the top of Torc Mountain. Enjoy a short walk , and maybe even see the red deer which are well known inhabitants of the Killarney national park . Its name, “Torc,” comes from the Irish word “torc,” meaning “wild boar,” and is associated with local legends. Return to Killarney and get ready for an evening of Dance and Music at the Celtic Steps Show!

Celtic Steps

Celtic Steps brings the vibrant essence of traditional Irish music, song, and dance to the stage. It’s designed to mirror the lively atmosphere of a traditional Irish “rambling house,” where communities would gather for informal sessions of music, dance, and storytelling. The show features a blend of various traditional Irish dance styles, including; Hardshoe dancing: Known for its percussive, rhythmic sounds created by the shoes. Soft shoe dancing: Characterized by graceful, flowing movements.Competitive style dancing: Showcasing the intricate footwork and precision seen in world-class Irish dance competitions. Sean Nós (old style) dancing: A more traditional, often improvisational, and solo form of Irish dance.

The Show features highly talented and often award-winning dancers and musicians, many of whom are local and have achieved international acclaim, including world champions. Performances are accompanied by a live band of world-class musicians playing traditional Irish instruments such as the fiddle, tin whistle, Irish wooden flute, button accordion, piano, guitar, and bodhrán (Irish drum).

And of course, the compelling, powerful vocal performances of classic and contemporary Irish folk songs.
Celtic Steps The Show, brings together the raw energy of popular Irish Dance with the timeless authenticity of traditional Irish Music.

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 5 -THE DINGLE PENINSULA & SLEA HEAD

Dingle and The Dingle Peninsula.

Today take a journey from Killarney to Dingle, heading out onto the Dingle Peninsula with its amazing mountain scenery and unusual antiquities. The Dingle Peninsula will charm you with its villages painted in bright colors and will bewitch you with the dramatic beauty of its landscapes. Here the blue of the marine landscape surrounds the Blasket Islands, deserted since 1953. In the distance are the two rocky Skellig islands, where the ruins of an early Christian Monastery can be found.

The road between Dunquin and Slea Head is dotted with beehive huts, forts and church sites. Prehistoric Dunbeg Fort is on a cliff top promontory with a sheer drop to the Atlantic and has four outer walls of stone. Inside are the remains of a house and a beehive hut as well as an underground passage.

Beehive huts

Beehive huts (Irish Name: Clocháns (singular) and clocháin (plural)) are circular stone buildings shaped like a beehive which was lived in by the Kerry monks. Predominantly along the southwestern Irish seaboard, especially in County Kerry. This is where you find the best examples and highest concentrations. With the absence of mortar, these dry-stone structures” makes their longevity and integrity even more impressive.

Inch Beach

A stop at Inch Beach is a must! This is one of the most famous beaches in Ireland, and stretches for 3 miles facing the Atlantic Ocean and is renowned as a surfing and fishing location. Its golden sands became well known on the big screen as it has featured in many movies, most notably Ryan’s Daughter and Playboy of Western World which was entirely filmed along its shoreline.

Slea-Head

Slea Head drive, the most westerly drive in Europe, is considered by many photographic magazines as the most beautiful peninsula in the world, and was recently voted the number one area for dramatic shots. Marvel at the Atlantic Coast as you travel on this spectacular road which hugs the western shoreline. Enjoy great views of the Blasket Islands and maybe even see the “Sleeping Giant Island.”

The road winds around through Gaelic speaking Corca Dhuibhne beginning at Ventry beach passing by the 4000-year-old beehive huts and onwards to Dunquin with amazing views of the great Blasket Island and the Sleeping Giant. The peninsula has fabulous beaches in Coumeenoole and Clogherhead where the film Far and Away was shot.

Next visit will be the beautiful village of Ballyferriter and then on to Dingle.

Dingle Village

Dingle is a charming Gaelic speaking fishing village famed in many films like Far and Away and Ryan’s Daughter, Dingle is also celebrated for having the most pubs in Ireland for a town of its size, 52 pubs and 2000 people! And of course, you will find some of the best Sessions in the country in this small village! Dingle town is the heart and soul of the Peninsula. Today it attracts visitors, including artists and musicians, from all over the world. After a long and inspiring day, you will head back to your hotel in Killarney for an evening at your leisure.

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 6 -VILLAGE OF ADARE AND THE ADARE MANOR

Today, you may be attending events at Adare Manor or, you may choose to enjoy a memorable day of sightseeing around Adare Village and the area.

Adare Village

The Geraldines of Kildare developed Adare in mediaeval times and the present village was largely an early 19th century creation by the Dunravens.
The town is often referred to as “Ireland’s Prettiest Village,” it is a charming and historically rich village with picturesque thatched cottages, medieval monasteries, and a strong sense of heritage.
Adare is unique in that it boasts three medieval monastic sites within or very close to the village:

Trinitarian Abbey (Holy Trinity Abbey): Founded in 1230, it’s the only Trinitarian monastery in Ireland and is still in use today as the local Catholic parish church.

Augustinian Priory: Founded in 1316, its ruins are very well preserved and are a significant historical landmark.

Franciscan Friary: Founded in 1464, also in ruins but offering a glimpse into medieval monastic life.

Desmond Castle

Although mostly in ruins, Desmond Castle, also known as Adare Castle, is another important historical site, dating back to the 13th century and associated with the Earls of Desmond The building of the Gothic style Adare Manor began in 1831.

In 1765 John Wesley preached to the people of Adare from under an ash tree near the Franciscan Friary and the tree was still there until about 1860.
Today a stone marks the site where this tree stood, and the Methodists hold a ceremony here in June each year.
In the early 19th century, the Earl of Dunraven, laid the plans for the existing streets and townhouses of Adare. These lands and dwellings were rented to tenants under various agreements, some of which still exist today.

Adare Village

Adare village is an architectural wealth of scenic beauty. The main street is punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monasteries, ruins and a picturesque village park. The streets are lined with the original thatched cottages which were built in the 1820’s by Lord Dunraven. Some of these cottages have changed use and are now restaurants, fashion boutiques and arts and crafts shops.

Located in the heart of County Limerick and situated on the banks of the River Maigue, a tributary of the River Shannon, Adare is the gateway to the southwest of Ireland, bordering the counties of Kerry, Cork, Clare and Tipperary. Adare’s blend of stunning architecture, deep history, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a delightful experience while in the west of Ireland.

The Adare Manor

Adare Manor, a magnificent Neo-Gothic manor house in County Limerick, Ireland, has a rich and fascinating history spanning several centuries. While it stands today as one of Ireland’s most luxurious hotels, its origins trace back much further.

The site where Adare Manor now stands has been occupied for centuries. The earliest significant structure was Desmond Castle (also known as Adare Castle), a 13th-century Anglo-Norman fortress built by the Earls of Kildare.

This castle later fell into the hands of the Earls of Desmond, a powerful Anglo-Norman family who were effectively rulers of much of Munster. However, their power waned, and their lands were eventually confiscated by the Crown. The lands of Adare eventually came into the possession of the Quin family in the 17th century. They were originally Welsh gentry who had settled in Ireland.

The construction of the current Adare Manor began in 1832 under the direction of Sir Valentine Richard Quin, the 2nd Earl of Dunraven, and his wife, Caroline Wyndham-Quin (née Wyndham).

The updates and construction represented a monumental undertaking, taking over 30 years to complete and costing an enormous sum. The intention was to create a house that paid homage to the nearby medieval monastic ruins (Trinitarian, Augustinian, and Franciscan), incorporating elements like cloisters, arches, and stained glass.
For over a century, Adare Manor served as the principal seat of the Earls of Dunraven. Maintaining such a grand estate became increasingly challenging for aristocratic families due to rising costs.

In 1987, the 7th Earl of Dunraven, Mr. Thady Wyndham-Quin, sold Adare Manor and its surrounding 840-acre estate to an American businessman, Thomas F. Kane.
It was he who undertook the significant transformation of Adare Manor, converting it into a luxury five-star hotel and golf resort.
Under his ownership, the golf course was also developed and gained an international reputation.

J.P. McManus

In 2015, when J.P. McManus purchased the property, he later invested heavily in further enhancements and renovations. This included a substantial extension, the creation of a magnificent new clubhouse, and a complete redesign of the championship golf course by Tom Fazio.

The Manor will be the proud host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious and dramatic team competitions in golf, pitting teams from the United States against teams from Europe.

Samuel Ryder

The Tournament is named after Samuel Ryder, an English businessman who made his fortune selling garden seeds in “penny packets.”
Ryder was an avid golf enthusiast and a generous benefactor of the sport. His efforts were to help with the financial struggles faced by professional golfers, and this is why he sponsored tournaments.

The idea for a transatlantic team competition between professionals emerged from informal matches played in the early 1920s. Specifically, a challenge match between British and American professionals was held at Wentworth, England, in 1926. This match is considered the unofficial precursor to the Ryder Cup.

Inspired by these contests and seeing the potential for a formalized biennial competition, Samuel Ryder donated the now-iconic gold trophy that bears his name. The gilded figure atop the trophy is modeled after Abe Mitchell, Ryder’s personal golf instructor.

The first official Ryder Cup was held in 1927 at Worcester Country Club in Worcester, Massachusetts, USA. The competition originally pitted a team from the United States against a team from Great Britain. The American team, captained by the legendary Walter Hagen, won the inaugural event 9.5 to 2.5.

(1927-1971): For the first several decades, the contest was exclusively between the United States and Great Britain

(1973-1977): In 1973, players from the Republic of Ireland were included to bolster the British team’s competitiveness against the dominant Americans.

(1979-Present): By the late 1970s, American dominance was still pronounced. To create a more competitive and globally representative event, the Ryder Cup was expanded in 1979 to include players from all of Continental Europe.
This pivotal change truly transformed the Ryder Cup into the thrilling and closely contested event it is today.

The Ryder Cup is one of golf’s most watched and passionately followed events, celebrated for its unique match-play format, intense national pride, and unforgettable moments of triumph and heartbreak. Those fortunate enough to attend such an event will surely have a lifetime of memories to share!

After your return to your hotel from your days activities, enjoy the evening at your leisure in Killarney.

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 7 -KILLARNEY - KATE KEARNEY'S AND THE GAP OF DUNLOE TOUR

Today, after your full Irish breakfast, your driver will whisk you away for a lovely day in the Irish countryside.

A Lovely Full Day Tour Through The Gap Of Dunloe and The Black Valley

Today’s adventures will take you to the Gap of Dunloe (Irish: Dún Lóich, meaning “Lóich’s stronghold”, otherwise known as Bearna an Choimín, meaning “gap of the common land”), and The Black Valley. The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass forged between the MacGillycuddy Reeks (west) and Purple Mountain (east) by glacial flows. The river running through the gap is the river Loe from where the Gap gets its name.

The Gap begins at Kate Kearney’s Cottage. The road, narrow in many places, winds through the pass and descends into The Black Valley passing five lakes, Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough. The River Loe connects these lakes. Within easy walking distance from Kate Kearney’s cottage is a picturesque old bridge known as the ‘Wishing Bridge’. It is said that wishes made here are destined to come true!

You can “Walk The Gap” Or, take a Pony & Trap to Lord Brandon’s cottage and then back up to the Gap. (The driver, pony and carriage charge is paid directly to the driver(cash payments only)

The Black Valley

The Black Valley, or Cummeenduff (from the Irish Com Uí Dhuibh, meaning ‘Black Glen’), is a famously remote and exceptionally scenic valley located in County Kerry. It lies at the southern end of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain range, nestled between the iconic Gap of Dunloe to the north and Moll’s Gap to the south.

The Black Valley is renowned for its wild, untamed landscapes. It remained one of the last places in mainland Ireland to be connected to the electricity and telephone networks, finally receiving power in 1976. This historical isolation has preserved its raw, natural beauty, offering a sense of stepping back in time.

The valley is a visual feast of lush woodlands, craggy mountains, serene lakes (including Cummeenduff Lough and Lough Reagh), and the winding Gearhameen River. The surrounding mountains, part of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, create a dramatic backdrop. While the exact origin of the name is debated, it’s often attributed to the deep shadows cast by the surrounding mountains, making the valley dark for much of the day, or perhaps to its long period without electricity.

The area is home to red deer, and the flora is vibrant, especially the blooming rhododendrons in spring/early summer (though rhododendrons are an invasive species in Ireland). The untouched vistas, tranquil lakes, and dramatic mountain backdrops make it a photographer’s dream, especially in good light or after rain when waterfalls are more prominent.

The Black Valley offers a profound sense of peace and natural grandeur, inviting visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in one of Ireland’s most spectacular and untamed landscapes. You will return to your hotel in Killarney and enjoy your final evening in the Emerald Island!

Overnight  B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 8 -FAREWELL

After a final full Irish Breakfast your driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight home.