Kylemore Abbey from Dromoland Castle Private Tour

Explore Ireland’s stunning landmarks on a private 8-hour tour from Dromoland Castle, including Kylemore Abbey, Sky Road, and Aughnanure Castle, with personalized service.

A private tour from Dromoland Castle to some of Ireland’s most captivating sights offers an intimate and flexible way to experience the country’s natural beauty and historical sites. For $838.11 per group, up to 3 people, travelers enjoy a full day of sightseeing, driven in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi and private transportation. The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, and is designed to be adaptable to your interests, making it ideal for those who appreciate a personalized pace and flexible itinerary.

This tour includes stops at Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, and the Sky Road, along with two additional scenic and cultural sites in Connemara. The option for your chauffeur to tailor the experience, combined with the professional driver’s local knowledge, ensures a smooth, relaxed exploration. While admission fees for attractions are not included, the tour provides a comprehensive, scenic, and culture.

Key Points

  • Private, chauffeur-driven experience with a Mercedes-Benz vehicle and Wi-Fi onboard
  • 8-hour tour starting at 9:00 am, with flexibility to visit other sites within the area
  • Visits to Kylemore Abbey, Aughnanure Castle, Sky Road, and Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farm
  • Admission fees are extra for attractions such as Kylemore Abbey and Aughnanure Castle
  • Bottled water and device chargers are included for comfort during the trip
  • Free cancellation allows for flexible planning

Private Transportation in Style and Comfort

The tour uses Mercedes-Benz vehicles that provide both luxury and practicality. These vehicles are air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi on board, making it easy to stay connected or plan your next move while traveling through Ireland’s scenic landscapes. The chauffeur is a certified professional driver, who can navigate areas where larger vehicles cannot go, ensuring access to all the sites on your customized itinerary.

The private nature of the tour means no strangers join your group, and you have the freedom to decide the pace and stops. Child seats and pets are available on request, making this tour suitable for families and small groups.

Exploring Aughnanure Castle: A 16th-Century Treasure

The first stop on this tour is Aughnanure Castle, a historic 16th-century stronghold near Lough Corrib. Home to the OFlaherty clan, this site offers a glimpse into Ireland’s feudal past. The visit lasts approximately 1 hour, with admission tickets available for purchase locally. The castle’s walls and towers reflect traditional Irish castle architecture, and the location offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

While the admission fee is not included, the castle’s historic charm and its proximity to the lush Irish countryside make it a worthwhile stop. Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine what life was like during Ireland’s medieval period.

Discovering Kylemore Abbey and Its Victorian Walled Garden

Next, the tour takes you to Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. This Benedictine monastery is set amid rugged Connemara scenery, offering dramatic views of mountains and lakes. The visit lasts about 2 hours, providing ample time to explore the Abbey and walk through the Victorian Walled Garden.

Admission fees for Kylemore Abbey are not included, but access grants entry to both the Abbey and the garden, with the opportunity to see the architecture and lush plantings that have been restored over time. The estate’s dramatic setting and architecture make it a highlight for visitors seeking both historical and scenic richness.

Enjoying the Scenic Drive Along Sky Road

A key feature of this tour is the Sky Road, a 16-kilometer scenic drive near Clifden. This route is renowned for offering some of Ireland’s most breathtaking coastal views. As you wind along the rugged coastline, expect stunning perspectives of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs, and the surrounding landscape.

The Sky Road is a free stop, lasting approximately 10 minutes, ideal for quick photo opportunities and soaking in the scenery. Its proximity to Clifden makes it a convenient and memorable highlight, especially for those eager to capture scenic vistas.

Exploring Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farm: Connemara’s Traditional Roots

In Clifden, the tour stops at Dan O’Hara’s Homestead, an important cultural site that offers a window into 19th-century Irish life. Visitors can learn about traditional farming practices and local history. The stop lasts about 1 hour.

While the admission fee is not included, the homestead provides insight into Irish rural living and cultural heritage. The site features authentic buildings and displays that enrich the understanding of local history, making it a meaningful addition for those interested in Ireland’s rural past.

Pine Island Viewpoint: Overlooking Derryclare Lough

The Pine Island Viewpoint offers a stunning look across Derryclare Lough, with a small, wooded island called Pine Island visible from this scenic overlook. The viewpoint requires only about 10 minutes to enjoy and is free of charge.

This stop provides a perfect moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Connemara, with panoramic views that make for excellent photos. Its quick nature makes it an ideal spot for a brief, scenic pause during the day’s travels.

The Quiet Man Bridge: A Film-Inspired Landmark

The Quiet Man Bridge in Connemara is famous for its appearance in the 1952 classic film, The Quiet Man. The stone bridge is a picturesque location that takes about 10 minutes to visit.

While no admission fee applies, the bridge’s association with Irish film history and its charming setting make it a favorite for photography and stories. It offers a brief but memorable glimpse into Ireland’s cinematic legacy.

Flexibility and Customization of the Tour

This private tour stands out for its ability to customize the itinerary based on your interests, within the time constraints of around 8 hours. The driver can incorporate other sites in the area if desired, as the suggested stops are just a starting point.

Travelers benefit from on-demand pacing and the comfort of private transportation, making the day relaxed and tailored. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, with the flexibility to extend or adjust stops if time permits.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour departs at 9:00 am from Dromoland Castle and includes bottled water and device chargers. The cost is $838.11 per group for up to 3 people. The admission fees for at least three sites—Kylemore Abbey, Aughnanure Castle, and Dan O’Hara’s Homestead—are paid separately.

Booking on this tour includes a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind in case of change of plans.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private, flexible experience suits travelers seeking comfort and customization. It’s perfect for small groups or families who want to explore Ireland’s scenic and historic sites without the rush of large bus tours. The professional driver and luxury vehicle enhance the experience, especially for those interested in comfort and convenience.

The tour’s emphasis on stunning views, cultural landmarks, and scenic drives makes it a solid choice for anyone eager to see the best of Connemara and surrounding areas at their own pace.

This private tour offers a well-rounded journey through Ireland’s scenic landscapes and historic landmarks, with the flexibility to adapt to your interests. The 8-hour experience covers key sites such as Kylemore Abbey, Aughnanure Castle, and the Sky Road, along with cultural stops like Dan O’Hara’s Homestead and Quiet Man Bridge.

The luxury transportation, professional drivers, and personalized itinerary make this a comfortable and insightful way to explore Connemara. While additional admission fees apply, the tour provides a strong foundation for an engaging Irish adventure, especially suited for small groups and those seeking an intimate, customizable experience.

✨ Book This Experience

Kylemore Abbey from Dromoland Castle Private Tour



5.0

100% 5-star

“It was a very adaptive tour through the remaining remnants of Hurricane Erin. Tour guide managed to get us to the Abbeys between rain showers. We c…”

— Janet B, Aug 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, Wi-Fi onboard, bottled water, and device chargers are included. Admission fees for attractions like Kylemore Abbey and Aughnanure Castle are paid separately.

Can I visit other sites during the tour?
Yes, the tour descriptions are suggested itineraries, and the driver can tailor stops based on your interests and time availability.

Are child seats or pets available?
Yes, child seats and pets can be arranged upon request.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 10 minutes at viewpoints to 2 hours at Kylemore Abbey, with other stops typically lasting around 1 hour.

What should I prepare for the scenic drives?
Bring comfortable clothing, a camera, and be prepared for some variable weather, especially near the coast.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission fees for Kylemore Abbey, Aughnanure Castle, and Dan O’Hara’s Homestead are not included and should be paid on-site if you wish to visit.

What makes this tour different from others?
The private, customizable nature and luxury vehicle set it apart, providing a relaxed and flexible experience with personalized attention.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, with child seats available and pets on request, it can accommodate families and small groups of all ages.

What is the main appeal of this tour?
The combination of Ireland’s iconic sites, scenic drives, and the ability to customize the day makes it an attractive choice for those wanting a personalized exploration of Connemara and beyond.