Ireland
8 days, 6 races, and countless adventures
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Run the Wild Atlantic Way
Come as you are — solo, with a partner, or a friend. Our all-inclusive running adventures will let you touch, taste, and behold the Emerald Isle.
Daily trail runs through wind-swept fields and along cliff edges challenge your inner explorer to dig deep and use all the senses to take it in.
With no planning on your end, the morning trail runs roll into afternoons of high adventure and laid-back cultural excursions. Discover what we have in store for you in Ireland.
Quick Info:
- Daily afternoon activities
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- Arrive/Depart: Dublin, Ireland
- 8 days / 7 nights
- 6 trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
Trip Highlights:
Try your hand at falconry, archery, and shooting
Run the famous Cliffs of Moher
Explore the historic streets of Galway
"It felt like a real adventure and a step into someplace uniquely Ireland."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Country: Ireland
Ireland is known for its wide expanses of lush, green fields. In fact, its nickname is the Emerald Isle. But there are also large areas of rugged, rocky landscape, beautiful, sandy beaches and the iconic sheer cliffs that Ireland has become known for.
Ireland is a nation of storytellers. The tradition dates back to Celtic bards, who would record and recite the country's history. We'll bring you into that history as we visit fishing villages, abbeys, and estates with strong ties to their cultural roots.
CAPITAL
Dublin
LANGUAGE
Gaelic and English
CURRENCY
Euro
WEATHER
62° / 45° in
May & September
LANDSCAPE
Emerald fields and sea cliffs
KNOWN FOR
Guinness and The Cranberries
Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,500 mile coastal trail on the west coast of Ireland. It has been memorialized by artists and poets for its picturesque landscape.
We'll spend some time along this trail and see how Wild Atlantic Way earned its name.
A True Taste of Ireland
We can't talk about about Ireland without mentioning it's storied pub culture - full of lively music and flowing spirits.
We'll get a taste of this part of life through whiskey tastings, learned dances, and more.
From Dublin to Galway
Though the wild coasts call to us, there is rich history to be found in the country's city centers, as well. You'll get a chance to explore Galway on this trip. Learn about the history that shaped Ireland, explore the modern bohemian storefronts, or raise a glass in one of its many pubs!
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
2024 Ireland Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Dublin - Welcome
- Day 2: Ballina
- Day 3: Carrowteige
- Day 4: Westport
- Day 5: Clare Island
- Day 6: Galway
- Day 7: Cliffs of Moher
- Day 8: Farewells
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Dublin
You'll want to arrive by early afternoon so you can check-in to our first hotel (from 4pm). We will meet as a group at our hotel and get to know each other while enjoying a "you chill, we grill" BBQ welcome dinner.
We will also be giving a welcome presentation to make sure you are informed for our week of adventures ahead!
- Welcome presentation and dinner
- The Morgan Hotel
- Dublin, Ireland
Arrival Details
Arrival: Dublin International Airport
Event Check-in: Starts around 5:00pm
Coming to Dublin early or staying late?
Check out Cherie's tips for things to do in Dublin!
Sunday (Day 2): From the East to the West
Good morning to the cliffs of Ireland! Our first race is a marvelous introduction to the lush beauty of coastal Ireland. After getting the salty wind in our hair, we'll enjoy a hearty Irish breakfast and then head west to County Mayo. You'll have time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities or take a stroll through Ballina. This small town is known as Ireland's salmon capital and you will spot anglers from all over the world fishing for their catch of the day!
We'll end the day with dinner at a nearby castle to enjoy locale fare and learn stories of the surprising history of the site.
- Drive to the coast, explore Ballina
- Twin Trees Hotel
- Ballina, Ireland
Monday (Day 3): Off The Beaten Path in County Mayo
Wake up your taste buds to a delicious wholesome breakfast before we get on the bus to travel along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way to discover Carrowteige, one of the most spectacular undiscovered coastal trails in Ireland. It’s a feast for the eyes, with golden sandy beaches, rugged cliffs jutting into the Atlantic, and of course lots of friendly sheep. After we run, we'll grab lunch and enjoy a perfectly pulled Guinness at the village's family run pub in the heart of the remote 'Gaeltacht' (Irish speaking) area!
On the drive back we'll stop at the areas most significant landmark. On the edge of the earth overlooking the wild Atlantic, lies the rugged, windswept outcrop of Downpatrick Head. Now a Signature Discovery Point on the famed Wild Atlantic Way, the area provides unparalleled views of the ocean. A majestic sea stack rises from the sea. With its centuries of layered rock it provides shelter to thousands of nesting sea birds.
Before another delicious evening meal it's time to learn which style of Whiskey you like and why during a Whiskey Appreciation Session.
- Historical tours, whiskey appreciation session, traditional Irish music & dancing
- Twin Trees Hotel
- Carrowteige - Downpatrick Head
Tuesday (Day 4): Ballina & Westport
We'll kick start the day with an early morning run trough one of Ireland's largest urban forests - Belleek woods. We'll discover the fairy trail and pass by the concrete ship, before continuing along the 'Monasteries of the Moy Greenway'. The finish line is at the picturesque Rosserk Abbey, a 15th century friary overlooking the River Moy.
Fuelled by a second breakfast we'll visit the Mount Falcon Estate where we'll have the chance to meet, handle and learn about 'Birds of Prey' during a unique Falconry experience.
After tea time & lunch we'll head to Westport - Ireland's friendliest town - for a free afternoon and evening. This is the perfect opportunity to shop for woolly jumpers and to mingle with the locals in the pub while listening to traditional live music.
Dinner & free time on your own.
- Rosserk Abbey, Mount Falcon activities (falconry, archery, clay shooting)
- The Mariner Hotel
- Belleek Woods - Mount Falcon - Westport
Wednesday (Day 5): A Day on Clare Island
We're taking a ferry to Clare Island for today's run! This storied island has a rich history of castles, pirates, and the Spanish Armada. We'll end the run on a sandy beach and grab lunch at the Sailor's Bar.
What better way to spend the day than with local stories and sports by the shores? We'll stay on the island for the day, dip into the sea, immerse deeper into the Irish islander's way of life or learn how to play 'Gaelic football'.
- Storytelling, day on the island, gaelic football
- The Mariner Hotel
- Clare Island
Thursday (Day 6): Galway
Today we're heading out to the Famine Trail of Ireland's only fjord - Killary Fjord. This race brings us under the shadow of the majestic Mweelrea mountains.
Today's activity will have you yipping for more - we'll experience a sheepdog show and soak up the culture of Irish fishing communities.
Next, it's off to Galway! One of the most unique areas of Ireland, this area is a true gem of rich history where music spills from pubs, traditional crafts like wool knit sweaters are made, and cobbled streets invite you to lose yourself in this beautiful city!
Dinner & free time on your own.
- Sheepdog show, live music
- Lahinch Coast Hotel
- Westport - Galway - Lahinch
Friday (Day 7): Cliffs of Moher
Well, we've made it to a true treasure of the Irish Isles. Let's celebrate an incredible adventure by running the Cliffs of Moher, iconic sea cliffs that have inspired travelers, geologists, and artists for generations. This UNESCO Global Geopark is a protected area and haven for puffins, falcons, and other seabirds that call the coast home.
We'll finish the day enjoying a free afternoon to relax, enjoy the seaside town or hotel spa, and reflect on the once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
In the evening we'll gather together one last time for our Celebratory Dinner and spend our final night with good drinks and lots of laughter!
- Cliffs of Moher, celebratory dinner
- Lahinch Coast Hotel
- Clare, Ireland
Saturday (Day 8): Farewells
We'll return to Dublin today to say our farewells - but the friendships and memories of this trip will never leave us!
Plan to arrive in Dublin around 2:00pm. Flights departing after 4:00pm are your best option or stay the night and enjoy one last fish fry before your travels! Our bus will drop participants at the airport upon arrival to Dublin and then continue onto downtown Dublin for anyone spending more time in the city.
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us the month before your trip - we'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Ireland is breezy and cool - pack lots of layers!
- Bring some euros for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 40-60 people per trip
Culture Kick Trip
While all Global Adventures include daily trail runs, this trip focuses on giving you a backstage pass to Irish culture and history. We'll tour historic sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices. For this trip, please fly into Dublin Airport (DUB).
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Check out your Ireland Global Adventure itinerary for more details.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these trail runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain and terrain will be varied. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs.
Ireland trail Runs
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting and weather
Lighthouse Run (5.5K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 394 ft
Easy to Moderate
Off the Beaten Path (6.7K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 1,010 ft
Challenging - we'll hike mostly!
The Abbey Run (10K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 364 ft
Easy to Moderate
The Island Run (8.6K)
Loop
Elevation Gain: 620 ft
Moderate
Famine Trail Run (10K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 606 ft
Moderate
Cliffs of Moher Run (5.6K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 849 ft
Moderate
Prepare for your trip: The Nitty -gritty
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (first day):
- Please plan to arrive in Dublin by 3pm on the first day of your trip
- Dublin Airport (DUB), Ireland
- Check in at the The Morgan Hotel
Depart (last day):
- We will travel back to Dublin in the AM with expected arrival by 2:00pm. Please do not book flights for earlier than 4:00pm on departure day. If you plan to depart from Dublin the following day, please plan to book a hotel stay on this night.
- Check out of Lahinch Coast Hotel before bus travel to Dublin.
- Bus Stop #1: Dublin Airport (DUB) - planned arrival ~2:00pm*
- Bus Stop #2: downtown Dublin - access to taxis and public transit
- Dublin Airport (DUB), Ireland
*Departure Travel Note:
Vacation Races does not assume responsibility for unforeseen delays arriving in Dublin. Please practice caution when booking flights and leave yourself plenty of travel time.
We highly recommend booking an extra night at a hotel rather than rushing to a flight on departure day.
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Packing List: These are fast-paced adventures. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training
Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Ireland trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
May 25 - June 1, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,200
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
only a $500 refundable deposit due at registration!
Included in all Global Adventures
- 6+ trail runs or hikes (7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Got Questions? We've Got Answers:
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$4,200 (double occupancy room)
$5,000 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (Refundable until 5 months before the event!)
The full trip cost is refundable minus a fee until 3 months before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for more info.
Registration Policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Not passport ready? Join the email list.
We'll send you updates about registration opening, price jumps, and more to keep you on track!
Still got questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.
