Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty & Galway Bay

Depart from Dublin’s historic Heuston Station, built in 1844 and now the principal station of Ireland’s national railway. As the train heads southwest, you’ll travel through the fertile farmlands of County Kildare and across the Curragh, famous for its racecourse, the Irish Derby, and world-renowned stud farms. Passing through Thurles, the birthplace of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), the journey continues to Limerick Junction where your Railtours Ireland host will assist you in making a smooth connection to Limerick.

On arrival in Limerick, you’ll join your tour coach for a short city tour. Crossing the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, admire views of King John’s Castle, completed in 1200, which marks the city’s medieval origins. Limerick is steeped in history and literary fame, most famously as the setting for Frank McCourt’s Angela’s Ashes. It is also celebrated for its strong sporting traditions, being home to both Munster Rugby and the hurling grounds of Páirc na nGael. From here, the tour continues to the magnificent Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Built in 1425, this imposing fortress has been beautifully restored and surrounded by a recreated 19th-century village, offering a vivid glimpse into Ireland’s past.

After exploring Bunratty, the journey continues through County Clare with a break for lunch at a traditional local pub before arriving at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s second most popular attraction. Rising over 200 metres above the Atlantic, these spectacular cliffs are a true highlight of any visit, with breathtaking views and dramatic scenery that capture the raw power of Ireland’s west coast. Leaving the cliffs, the route follows the Wild Atlantic Way through the extraordinary landscape of the Burren, a vast expanse of limestone hills dotted with rare plants and unique rock formations, often described as one of Europe’s most unusual natural environments.

The road then winds along the coast, passing Black Head and the picturesque villages of Ballyvaughan and Kinvara before reaching Galway, the lively “City of the Tribes.” Here, there is free time to wander around Eyre Square, browse the shops, enjoy a coffee, or simply soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

As evening falls, rejoin your Railtours Ireland host at Galway Station for the relaxing train journey back to Dublin. Travelling by a different route, the train passes through Athenry, Tullamore, and Athlone, crossing the mighty River Shannon once again before arriving into Dublin Heuston Station in the late evening.