Overland Ireland
Overland Ireland
5
Multi-day Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Sightseeing Tours
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About
Small tour groups with big experiences Overland Ireland are Ireland’s small group multi-day tour gurus. Travel scenic routes and see historical landmarks and stunning vistas. Live the wilds of real Ireland through treks, kayaks, cycles and more. Choose a relaxed or active tour, whichever best suits you. Meet amazing locals as we go off the beaten path, absorb the culture and enjoy the famous craic.
Galway, County Galway, Ireland

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5.0
236 reviews
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JBL
Warren, NJ37 contributions
May 2023 • Family
My wife, daughter and I have just returned from 16 days in Ireland and England. We decided early that we would not rent a car and drive ourselves as we had never driven on the left side of the road, right side of the car, etc. and realized that we’d spend far too much of our limited time stressing over and focusing on driving rather than incredible scenery of the Irish and English countryside. So that left us with a choice among the types of guided tours that were available in each country.

For Ireland we made what turned out to be a perfect choice to go with Overland Ireland and to design the structure of our 7 day trip to Ireland ourselves, working together with Overland. From day one when I reached out to them, they were all about communication. After some back and forth and dropping a few options here and there, we decided on an 7-day itinerary that started in Dublin and ended at Shannon Airport. We flew into Dublin from the US and the next day, our Overland Driver showed up at 9:00am. We knew that is name was Eoin and the folks at Overland, especially Leah, had expressed excitement about our trip and its open, not overly structured form. This allowed for us to improvise as we went along, and from the beginning Eoin was more than up to the challenge. As soon as we met him we knew we had found a kindred spirit and soon learned that his love for travel and knowledge of Irish history and the land itself were exactly what we were looking for. It was clear that he was a kindred spirit with a gift for gab and a wonderful sense of humor. He also showed up with a Mercedes Coach that had room for 10 travelers…we were 3. So, there was plenty of room and it provided us with a wonderful view above the hedges that border the narrow Irish country roads. It is an amazing thing to ride in such a vehicle on the narrow Irish roads, especially when a bus is coming towards you. Never once did we doubt our safety, and the decision not to do the driving ourselves was reinforced continually!

From Dublin we went to Glendalough National Park and the Wicklow Mountains where we hiked through St. Kevin’s monastery and surrounding trails. We spent 2 nights at a B&B called Lough Dan house, a rustic farmhouse mostly used primarily by backpackers and hikers. The owners were delightful, the beds comfortable and the breakfasts wonderful. Our second day, at Eoin’s suggestion, we visited Avondale. We got there just as they opened and walked high into the trees using the famous platform before many people arrived. We had it to ourselves. An incredible experience. Then we hiked the Ballinastoe Woods and surround trails and hills. One word (of many) that comes to mind when traveling the Irish countryside is ‘stunning’, and we used it dozens of times per day.

After Wicklow we headed to Killarney and Killarney National Park for one night, visited Ross Castle and biked around Muckross House and its amazing gardens. This was the only rain that we experienced on our trip in both Ireland and England and it was a lovely rain that we actually welcomed. We stayed at a wonderful B&B called Applecroft. A beautiful place with wonderful and helpful owners and breakfast was excellent!

From place to place, as we drove, Eoin would call out that there was something cool to see in the neighborhood – a castle, a view, a park – this was exactly what we’d hope for and made the next part of the trip even more wonderful.

We left Killarney for the Ring of Kerry and the Skellig Ring. An overwhelmingly beautiful drive that included at least one very nice (though exhausting – remember there are lots of very steep hills) hike and a visit to Waterville and the statue of Charlie Chaplin, who had lived there. Finally that day we came into Dingle where we had a great inn – Base Dingle – and excellent food and music. On our second day in Dingle we biked and hiked to the Eask Tower – a great way to experience Dingle and the views of the countryside and ocean and islands are stunning. Later that day we had an early dinner and then did the Slea Head Drive in the late afternoon, pre-sunset light…I have no words that do this experience justice…but several hundred photos come close.

The next day we headed to the amazing Cliffs of Moher (or Cliffs of Insanity for Princess Bride fans) and then to Doolin where we boarded a ferry to the closest of the Aran Islands – Inisheer (Inis Oirr). This was a completely different experience. The weather was perfect, very breezy and clear and the light had an entirely different character…this being the smallest island, we were able to bike around it completely after a great lunch at a local pub. Afterwards we headed to Ennistymon where we stayed at Falls Hotel & Spa, which was very nice as well.

The next day was our last day with Eoin. We headed south towards Shannon but not before visiting Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Bunratty was a surprise for me. I was skeptical at first, but it is an extremely interesting place and Eoin’s knowledge of it and the lifestyle of the people during the Castle’s heyday, brought it all very much into focus and to life. One of the visitors walking into a hut where Eoin was regaling us of his knowledge thought Eoin was a wax figure and part of the cottage’s decoration! Needless to say that got a pretty big laugh.

And then it was over. We were at Shannon airport. As with any amazing experience, parting with the folks involved is tough…and of course it is…but leaving Eoin was particularly hard for us. An amazing and generous man, a truly wonderful guide and a confident, sensitive and safe driver. We could not have hoped for a better outcome. Same goes for the entire team at Overland. We still have a lot left to see of the Irish Countryside…we would work with Overland again in a heartbeat!
Written 7 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Hi Jack, What can we say? Thank you so so much for your incredible words. We had an absolute pleasure in working with you on your trip to Ireland. From the moment we heard of your unique plan we were so excited to take on a new adventure. Thank you for opening our horizons and being so flexible to hear all of our plans! Our whole team is so grateful for your trust in Overland. It is moments and experiences like this that remind us of why we do what we do. As for Eoin, we knew ye would get on well! Thank you so much for your very kind words for him. We will be sure to pass them along as we know he will be delighted to hear! We hope we can welcome you back to Ireland soon!! Till then... miles buiochas (A thousand thanks) -The Overland Ireland Team
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Victor
11 contributions
May 2023 • Family
These guys are amazing and highly reliable. I booked 2 weeks before a scheduled self-drive tour and they pulled it off with accommodations, itinerary, reservations, etc. during a busy season. We had a spectacular, memorable Irish adventure and craic. I can't thank them more than enough especially their guide, Pat, who saved us from not getting into Skellig Michael. Thanks Pat, Liz, Jessica and Overland Ireland. We hope to be back someday.
Written 3 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Hi Victor, thanks a million for your very kind words. We are so glad we could make this trip happen for you AND that you had such a fabulous time! Best of luck with all your future travels. -The Overland Ireland Team
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Steve T.
White Rock, Canada4 contributions
We were on the 10 day Ultimate Tour. Our group totalled 15 people from US and Canada. Our guide was Mark and he did a great job getting us where we needed to be and ensuring that everyone was well taken care of. I was very impressed with the tour and all the sites and activities. It was first class. Thanks again Mark!
Written 2 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your kind words! We wish you the best of luck in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Patrick M
1 contribution
May 2023
First off I would like to say that the Overland Ireland tour far exceeded my expectations. My wife and I did two weeks of touring throughout Ireland and broke it up into one week driving on our own and the second week joining friends for a week with Overland Ireland. Pat O'Mara was our tour guide and I believe he was the main difference in making the second week far more educational and entertaining. While there was some overlap on the areas we visited on our own and the Overland Ireland sites the difference in the two methods was stark. We enjoyed ourselves while driving to each area by ourselves but it paled in comparison to having a knowledgeable and witty guide who taught us so much more than we ever learned on our own. If thinking about touring Ireland I highly recommend the Overland Ireland small group tour. They provide first class accommodations, clean quality bus and incredibly knowledgeable guides. If he is available, ask for Pat O'Mara and your tour will be greatly enhanced.
Written 29 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your fantastic words. We will be sure to pass along your remarks to Pat. We wish all the best in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mary L
1 contribution
Apr 2023
Ireland's beauty is breathtaking and it's history complex and all this was thoroughly enjoyed and learned thanks to our amazing guide, Pat! Our group of 16 quickly bonded with Pat and he led us on a tremendous trip around Ireland's spectacular coastlines. We so enjoyed Pat's knowledge, story-telling, leadership and wit! He masterfully blended the activities and sights with our interests and his recommendations. His ability to read our group, and cater to our interests and energy level ( a few late nights) was most appreciated. Once arrived at a destination, Pat offered restaurant, walks, and entertainment venues for our consideration. Pat took care of all check-ins and tickets required for tours etc and was always accommodating for washroom and food breaks. Our travels and tours, hotels, airport transfers, and everything else in between, organized by Overland Tours made this a most memorable vacation. Thank you again, Pat and we were truly blessed to have you as our guide.
Written 22 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your fantastic words. We will be sure to pass along your remarks to Pat. We wish all the best in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Tour794233
1 contribution
Our tour was a pleasure. We enjoyed our group and our guide Mark who gave us lots of local advice and lots of laughs. Our tour had a lot of activities and interesting stops but we never felt rushed. It was a great way to see Ireland
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your kind words! We wish you the best of luck in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Miranda A
1 contribution
May 2023 • Couples
First of all I must mention Pat O'Mara who was our guide, and the storyteller for our trip. He provided the magic by his narration of the history, poetry, & people of the amazingly beautiful land our comfortable bus traveled through.. We traveled with 11 people total,and these strangers became fellow adventurers. We saw: the dock in Cobh that many of our ancestors left from during the famine, many ancient ruins on blustery hilltops, magestic country gardens at Killarney and the farms there (butter churning!). We did: black lake kayaking under Muckross castle, climbed 618 steps to the lonely round stone monastery at Skellig Michael, bicycled around the little stone fenced fields with their friendly ponies on Inish Mor, hiked along the misty Cliffs of Moher and cheered on Sam, the talented Border Collie who commanded his flock of sheep !
At night we listened to lively trad Irish music and then exhausted, we slept soundly. A perfect adventure.
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your fantastic words. We will be sure to pass along your remarks to Pat. We wish all the best in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Corey R
Glen Allen, VA2 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
It was an incredible 7 days and I cannot think of a better way to visit Ireland. Mark, our guide, was a 5-star professional in every aspect. He was always professional, kind, happy knowledgeable and so very accommodating. His driving was perfect. He offered us a lifetime of fantastic memories. Thank you Mark.
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your kind words! We wish you the best of luck in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Julie K
1 contribution
May 2023
We have just returned from a tour of Ireland and I can't say enough good things about our trip. Booking was easy and the price was a tremendous value. The itinerary was comprehensive with lots of flexible activities each day. Accommodations were excellent and there was time in each village we stayed to explore the food, pubs and music. A big difference between this and other tour companies we have used was our tour guide, Pat. His knowledge of Ireland's history and culture combined with a great sense of humor made the time we spent in the bus an enjoyable part of each day. He had great suggestions for local restaurants and entertainment and made sure everyone was well cared for. This is the way to see Ireland regardless of age and if you're lucky you will get Pat as your guide.
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your fantastic words. We will be sure to pass along your remarks to Pat. We wish all the best in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

mwestwoodworks
Brooklyn, New York2 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
This week long excursion was joyful! Every experience, every accommodation, every location surpassed expectations. This is an active experience tour, not merely driving places and looking at things. Cycling, hiking and kayaking are among the activities that made the week so memorable. We had a fun group but our tour guide Pat O'Mara was simply magnificent! Knowledge filled, patient, playful and encouraging, all one could hope for and more!
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fearless53646817629
Thanks a million for your fantastic words. We will be sure to pass along your remarks to Pat. We wish all the best in your future travels. -Overland Ireland
Written 8 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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OVERLAND IRELAND (Galway) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go