The Best Two Day Tours in Ireland: The Ring of Kerry and Dingle Slea Head Tours

If you’re dreaming of Ireland’s rugged coastlines, vibrant villages, and jaw-dropping scenery, a private two-day tour of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula promises an in-depth, flexible way to see the best of it. From the comfort of a luxury vehicle, guided by a passionate local, you’ll explore iconic sights with plenty of free time to soak in the surroundings. The reviews from past travelers are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating and numerous rave comments about the guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking views.

One standout feature of this tour is its private, bespoke nature. Unlike crowded bus excursions, you’ll enjoy tailored itineraries, flexible stops, and the attention of a guide who truly knows the area — making every moment feel special. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is priced at over $2,100 for up to six people, which reflects its premium, personalized approach. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a luxury, intimate Irish adventure**.

If you value expert local guides, scenic flexibility, and a private setting, this tour could be perfect. But if budget or a more structured group tour is your preference, there are other options. Still, for those who want a deep dive into Ireland’s stunning west coast with top-tier service, this experience hits the mark.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guidance: Fully qualified, passionate guides with local knowledge.
• Flexible Itinerary: Tours are adjustable depending on weather or personal interests.
• Stunning Scenic Stops: The iconic Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula with free time to explore.
• Luxury Transportation: Comfortable vehicles, including Mercedes sedans or executive vans.
• Value for the Price: Includes driver, fuel, tolls, taxes, and fees — focusing on quality and comfort.

An In-Depth Look at This Two-Day Irish Adventure

Why Opt for a Private Tour?

Traveling with a private guide means you’re not just another face in a crowd. Instead, you get a tailored experience, with the flexibility to visit less-touristy spots or spend more time at your favorite locations. Past guests have commented that their guides, like Gerard, are “very knowledgeable,” and “knows every inch of the area,” making the experience both informative and engaging. Gerard’s local expertise shines through in his storytelling, which adds layers of context that elevate the scenery from mere beautiful views to a more meaningful encounter.

Day 1: The Majesty of the Ring of Kerry

Your adventure kicks off from your Killarney hotel at 9:30 a.m., with the day dedicated to exploring the famous Ring of Kerry. This iconic route is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, lush valleys, and coastal views that stretch for miles. The tour is admission-free, so your focus can be on absorbing the scenery and stopping wherever you like.

Expect to see legendary sights like the Killarney Lakes, Muckross House, and perhaps some hidden gems that your guide might suggest based on the weather or your interests. The flexibility of a private tour means you won’t be rushed through popular stops; instead, you can linger, take photos, or explore the charming villages along the route.

Guests have lauded Gerard’s storytelling, with one reviewer noting, “He is very in-tune with his guest’s interests and energy levels,” making the long drive both fun and engaging. The route’s natural beauty is complemented by the personal touch, ensuring that the day feels more like a scenic road trip with a knowledgeable friend than a scripted tour.

Day 2: The Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head

The second day offers a different but equally captivating experience. Starting again at 9:30 a.m., the focus shifts to the Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged cliffs and colorful fishing villages. The highlight is Slea Head, often described as one of the most beautiful places on earth, with views that are hard to beat.

This day includes free time in Dingle town, a lively hub famed for its music scene, artsy shops, and friendly locals. Many guests enjoy wandering the streets, sampling fresh seafood, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. One review mentions that LilyMais, a colorful local shop, was a standout find during their visit, emphasizing the town’s charm.

The 7-hour day allows for ample exploration without feeling rushed, and you can customize your activities with your guide’s help. Past travelers appreciated guides who worked around their interests, whether that meant seeking out lesser-known spots or focusing on photography, local culture, or history.

Transportation and Comfort

The luxury vehicles—either Mercedes sedans or executive vans—provide a smooth, quiet environment, perfect for enjoying the scenery. With captain’s chairs, you get a comfortable ride with excellent views, as well as the confidence of a licensed, insured driver. Fuel costs, tolls, taxes, and fees are all included, so no surprises.

What the Reviews Reveal

Reviewers consistently praise Gerard and Bertie as informative, personable guides who go above and beyond. “Gerard was very familiar with the area,” one traveler notes, “and made our time very enjoyable.” Others mention how guides tailored the trip based on interests, and how they felt like they were touring with a friend, not just a guide.

One guest appreciated that Gerard “knows every inch of the Ring of Kerry,” and another shared how the guide’s storytelling made the landscapes come alive. Many reviews also highlight the scenic stops as “special and scenic,” with some travelers adding that they were able to see hidden gems off the usual tourist trail.

The Value of a Private, Fully Guided Tour

At over $2,100 for up to six people, this tour isn’t cheap but reflects its high level of personalization, comfort, and expertise. The value lies in the luxury transportation, flexibility, and local insights that you simply can’t get from standard group tours. When you’re traveling in a small, private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, the experience becomes more relaxed, more tailored, and ultimately more memorable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and personalized service. It’s ideal for those with a moderate to high budget who want to see Ireland’s stunning west coast without the stress of planning every detail. Families, couples, or small groups wanting intimacy and exclusivity will find this a perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

This private two-day tour of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula offers an exceptional way to explore Ireland’s most famous and breathtaking sights. Thanks to knowledgeable guides like Gerard, you’ll enjoy engaging stories and insights that bring the scenery to life. The luxury transport and flexible itinerary mean your experience is comfortable and tailored to your pace and interests.

While the price tag is on the higher side, the combination of personalized service, stunning vistas, and local expertise makes this tour a worthwhile investment for those who want a deeper, more relaxed exploration of Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast.

If you’re after a luxury, flexible, and highly personalized Irish experience, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to truly savor Ireland’s natural beauty without the rush or crowds.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult. There is no extra charge for kids aged 1-14, making it a family-friendly option.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the fully private guided experience, transportation in a luxury vehicle, fuel, tolls, taxes, and all handling charges. Entrance fees and meals are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is fully private and flexible, allowing adjustments based on weather, interests, or special requests.

What type of vehicle is used?
Depending on your group size, you’ll travel in either an executive class Mercedes sedan or a Mercedes van with captain’s chairs for maximum comfort.

What should I bring?
Dressing appropriately for Irish weather is advised. Always have waterproofs, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 53 days ahead, but it’s wise to reserve as early as possible, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

To sum it up, this private two-day tour is a carefully curated way to experience Ireland’s rugged coastlines, charming villages, and epic landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want a luxurious, personalized adventure with expert guidance, making your Irish journey truly unforgettable.