Here is the blog I have just received from Alison on the recent Killarney & SW Ireland Tour - sounds like they had a good time

Bad start to an absolutely fantastic tour in south west Ireland.  All but two of us met at the ferry at Holyhead for the 08:55 ferry to be told that it was cancelled due to a technical problem.  So in true biker spirit, we split into two groups in search of breakfast … some went to the truckstop for a truckers breakfast and the rest invaded McDonalds!  We were rescheduled on the 13:50 ferry arriving in Dublin just before 17:30.  It was a mad dash for our first night’s hotel in Gort and, after checking in and getting out of our bike gear, nearly 9 o’clock before we all sat down for dinner.

The weather was really kind to us all week and we didn’t need our waterproofs … it was mostly cloudy and breezy but when it did rain we were in the pub having a coffee!!  There were also some really bright and sunny spells when we had an ice cream and relaxed. 

On Monday morning we travelled over to the coast, stopping at the beautiful Cliffs of Moher for a stretch and an ice cream.  We then wound our way down to the Killimer to Tarbert ferry, through Tralee to our destination for four nights in Killarney.  This is one of the few tours that uses a bed and breakfast establishment but we were certainly not disappointed … very comfortable rooms and a lovely breakfast each morning.  Killarney is a beautiful town with a buzzing night life with its many bars, pubs and restaurants, and only five minutes’ walk from our B&B.  I will certainly be returning!!

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday everyone seemed to break up into little groups but we all toured the Dingle Peninsular, The Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsular, and met up at different places!  Each route was stunning with fantastic views from the mountains, breath taking coastal roads, ferries across to little islands and pubs/cafes dotted around everywhere so we were never hungry.  Every biker’s dream was the many miles of roads with hairpin bends/switchbacks that really tested one’s skills!  Think my favourite was the Healy Pass (should have turned round and done it again!)

On Friday we made our way back east to a lovely hotel in Wexford.  Some made their own way and stopped at the Famine Ship in New Ross, others rode along the coastal route.  We couldn’t resist visiting Blarney Castle with its visitor centre for a coffee in the tranquil gardens.  It was an ideal opportunity to stretch our legs and have a wander … many braving the 100 steps and kissing the Blarney stone at the top! 

On Saturday, after an early breakfast, we made our way to Rosslare for the 9 o’clock ferry signalling the end of the tour. 

Just for the record Dave … NO PUNCTURES!!  Everyone said they had enjoyed themselves … Roy and I certainly did.  They were a great group of people and it was a lovely part of Ireland.  Thank you all once again for an enjoyable holiday.  We hope White Rose will ask us to guide the tour again in the future.