Explorers’ Excursion to the Iveragh Peninsula 

29 June–1 July 2018

This year we are pleased to invite members who are interested in an active and outdoor excursion to take part in a three-day, two-night trip to the Iveragh Peninsula. The expedition will include a visit to Desmond Hall and a walking tour around the archaeological sites of the Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry. This excursion is for independently-minded members as own transport (or carpooling with other members) is required throughout.

The current schedule for the three-day (two-night) excursion is as follows:

Day 1: We will meet in Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, for lunch at 1pm. We will then visit the Desmond Banqueting Hall – an imposing two-storey structure that was used by the Earls of Desmond for banqueting and entertainment. The group will then travel on to Valentia Island, where we will check into our hotel for the evening. You may visit two heritage centres and Ballycarbery Castle on the south-west part of the island.

Day 2: The group will be taken on a day-long walking tour of sites of archaeological interest around the Iveragh Peninsula guided by Tracy Collins and Frank Coyne of Aegis Archaeology. A packed lunch will be provided. That evening, the group will convene for dinner in the hotel.

Day 3: The group will leave the hotel and make their way to Cahergal and Leacanabuaile near Cahersiveeen, before embarking on a return journey to Dublin at our leisure.

As always, excursion programmes are subject to change due to weather and other circumstances. As this excursion will primarily take place outdoors please ensure that you have appropriate waterproof clothing and that you are prepared for walking on rough terrain. The cost of the excursion is €295 for members (€325 for guests) which covers: 2 nights’ bed and breakfast at The Royal Hotel Valentia, Knightstown, Co. Kerry, 1 dinner, 2 lunches, all entrance fees, and other administration costs.

Please note: the charge for excursions is non-refundable.

The Explorers’ Excursion is fully booked.