Board your early morning train in central Dublin, settle into your reserved seat, and relax on your roughly 3-hour journey to Galway city. As you travel, admire Ireland’s peat boglands and rolling hills, and catch views of the Shannon River at Athlone. A light breakfast service is available on the train.
On arrival in Galway, travel by air-conditioned vehicle to nearby Connemara Airport for your flight to Inis Mor, the largest of Ireland’s Aran Islands, set at the mouth of Galway Bay. Hop into your small plane and marvel at the bird’s-eye views on your 10-minute flight. Gaze down over Galway’s rugged coast and the Atlantic, and catch tantalizing glimpses of Inis Mor’s villages and fields, a patchwork of greenery criss-crossed by dry stone walls.
After landing, set off for a scenic island tour, following the winding lanes through barren-but-beautiful limestone landscapes. Pass thatched cottages, sandy beaches, medieval churches and Celtic stone crosses; and hear about the island’s age-old Celtic mythology and Gaelic linguistic heritage from your guide.
Stop for a pub lunch (own expense) in Kilronan, the main village; and visit Inis Mor's star attraction: Dun Aengus fort. Wander around this semi-circular prehistoric fort, whose crumbled stones edge a 300-foot (90-meter) sea cliff, and enjoy the thrilling views down over the island, sea and Ireland’s mainland.
After your island tour, fly back to Connemara and transfer to Galway city. Enjoy some free time to stroll around the charming streets, shop for souvenirs or perhaps enjoy a glass of Guinness (own expense) in one of the friendly pubs.
Then, relax on your train ride back to Dublin, where your trip concludes.
