Wild Flowers and Gardens of Ireland's Burren

Discover the wild, flower rich landscapes of Ireland’s west. From the limestone pavements of the Burren to the windswept shores of Inis Oirr, expect a remarkable diversity of flora, guided insight and thoughtfully chosen gardens. Combined with dramatic coastal scenery, historic sites and relaxed, well paced travel, this tour offers a rewarding immersion into one of Europe’s most distinctive botanical regions. Ideal for keen gardeners and nature lovers alike, expect inspiration throughout this tour.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Shannon, Knockpatrick Gardens and Ennis
Fly from London to Shannon Airport and travel to Knockpatrick Gardens. This thoughtfully planted garden provides an early introduction to the area’s flora, where herbaceous borders merge with more naturalistic, meadow-style areas. Continue to the Shannon Estuary and cross by ferry from Tarbert to Killimer, with wide views over the water and the chance to notice wildflowers along the roadside as you travel. Arrive at your hotel in Ennis in the late afternoon. A welcome drink is followed by dinner with wine.

Day 2: Inis Oírr and the Cliffs of Moher
Drive to Doolin this morning and take the ferry to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands. Spend time exploring its varied habitats, where limestone pavement and sandy machair support a wide range of coastal and Burren species. Among those to look out for are sea thrift, sea campion, vetches and orchids, along with ferns and mosses tucked into sheltered spaces. The island shares much of the Burren’s distinctive flora, including bloody cranesbill, spring gentian and mountain avens. Seals are often seen along the shore, and seabirds are a constant presence. There is free time for lunch before returning by boat on a cruise beneath the Cliffs of Moher, offering a different perspective on this dramatic coastline. Return to Ennis for the evening.

Day 3: Caher Valley, Burren Gardens and Poulnabrone
Travel into the Caher Valley for a visit to Caher Bridge Garden, known for its design and wide-ranging plant collections. The garden makes good use of its setting, combining structure with informal planting and a strong sense of place. Continue to a nearby coastal garden created by Doreen Drennan, where planting is relaxed and well suited to the exposed conditions near the Atlantic. Later, visit Poulnabrone Dolmen, one of Ireland's most recognisable prehistoric monuments, set among the Burren’s limestone pavement. Its stark form contrasts with the surrounding wildflowers, which can be particularly striking at this time of year. Return to your hotel in Ennis.

Day 4: The Burren with a Local Expert
A day exploring the Burren in the company of a local specialist. This landscape is well known for its unusual mix of plant life, where species more typically associated with alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean environments can be found growing together. Walk across areas of limestone pavement and flower-rich grassland, looking for gentians, rockroses, saxifrages and other characteristic plants. The walk is expected to last around three hours over uneven terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness and suitable footwear are important. Return to Ennis in the late afternoon. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with wine.

Day 5: Bunratty Castle and return to London
Visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, where the gardens and traditional farmsteads recreate rural Ireland of the past. Explore heritage plantings, kitchen gardens, and orchards featuring historic varieties of fruits, vegetables, and cottage garden plants. Continue to Shannon Airport for the return flight to London.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 18 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. Any paths may be grassed, rocky or muddy, and uneven underfoot. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Shannon
• Four nights’ accommodation at the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink 
• 2 dinners
• Breakfast daily
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Accompanied by garden expert Trevor Edwards throughout
• Fully escorted by a tour manager

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £540
• Single room supplement - £240
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Old Ground Hotel, Ennis

The Old Ground Hotel is a centrally located 4-star property in the heart of Ennis, within easy walking distance of the town’s shops, cafés and historic sights. Set in a beautifully restored 18th‑century manor house, the hotel combines historic character with modern comfort. Facilities include a restaurant and bar, free Wi‑Fi, and event spaces, while dining is a notable feature with locally sourced cuisine. Guest rooms are well appointed with amenities such as tea and coffee facilities, TV, Wi‑Fi, and comfortable furnishings.

Hotel Website