Sample Itineraries For Private Tours of Ireland

Best of Ireland - 6 Days

• 6 Days

  The best of Ireland in under a week

• Best Of The South

  Travel widely throughout the Republic

• Hub and Spoke Tour

  Hub & Spoke Tour: Less hotels, more sightseeing

See the best of Ireland in under one week. This tour is perfect for those who might have any time constraints. Taking in all the major sights Ireland has to offer, this is the perfect teaser tour for those looking to sample Ireland and its charms. Best of all, it's a Hub & Spoke Tour, meaning fewer hotel changes and more sightseeing.

Best of Ireland - 7 Days

• 7 Days

  The best of Ireland in one week

• Best Of The South

  Travel widely throughout the Republic

• Hub and Spoke Tour

  Hub & Spoke Tour: Less hotels, more sightseeing

Travel through the best of Ireland in one week. Best of all, this is a Hub & Spoke Tour, meaning fewer hotel changes and more sightseeing.

Best of Ireland - 8 Days

• 8 Days

  Just enough time to see the best of Ireland

• Best of The South

  Travel widely throughout the Republic

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

See the best that Ireland has to offer. This tour takes in a little more than the six-day tour but is still nice and short. Taking in all the major sights Ireland has to offer. This is a great choice for those looking to take in a slightly larger selection of the Emerald Isle charms.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart for Ballymacarbry on the Tipperary / Waterford border.

  On leaving Dublin you will enter Kildare and travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding and training.

  Visit Kilkenny Castle. This imposing structure dominates the skyline of Kilkenny City. It has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first building; a wooden tower, in the 12th century. William the Earl Marshall built the first stone castle on the site, in 1260.

  Travel on to Tipperary.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Continue on to Ballymacarbry.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Glasha Farmhouse. Nestled between the Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains, the farmhouse will give you a unique insight into rural Irish life. Tonight you will enjoy a hearty home-cooked dinner and conversation with your Irish hosts.

  Included Today

  • Evening Meal
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Glasha Farmhouse

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south via Cork to Kerry. Your route will take you through less frequented idyllic rural villages and hamlets on the Tipperary and Waterford borders before travelling over the spectacular Knockmealdown Mountains through the beautiful Vee Pass. Take a few moments at the top of this mountain pass to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains.

  The scenic drive continues as you follow The Vee into the beautiful heritage town of Lismore. On crossing the River Blackwater you are greeted by the imposing Lismore Castle situated on a steep hill overlooking the town. Over its 800-year history, it has been owned by some notable figures from history including Sir Walter Raleigh, the English Statesman who introduced the potato to Ireland, and Robert Boyle considered the father of modern chemistry to its current owner the Duke of Devonshire. The American actor Fred Astaire was a frequent visitor to Lismore Castle, as his sister was married to the son of the 9th Duke of Devonshire.

  Free time in Lismore, and we would suggest you take a few moments to visit the beautiful medieval St. Carthage's Cathedral.

  Cross into County Cork and travel on via Tallow and Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Travel on to Blarney.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Continue your journey west to Killarney Town via the "county bounds" under the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad – "Whiskey in the Jar".

  Tonight you will overnight at the Killarney Plaza Hotel. This four-star hotel sits in the centre of Killarney Town, overlooking the majestic Killarney National Park.

  Included Today

  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Blarney Castle
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Killarney Plaza Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world up the Atlantic west coast of Clare to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Your journey will take you through North Kerry before crossing into Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  See the The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Continue up the Atlantic seaboard via Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan to Dunguaire Castle (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) at Kinvarra.

  Continue on to Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included Today

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Evening free in Galway City . Here you can take a ramble to Salthill Promenade, a Wild Atlantic Way discovery point, or down Quay Street with its many great pubs including "The Quays" and "Ti Neachtain" — a townhouse which belonged to "Humanity Dick", an 18th-century MP who promoted laws against cruelty to animals.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included Today

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  After breakfast this morning, depart for Dublin City across the centre of Ireland through the counties of Westmeath, Offaly, Meath and Kildare.

  Visit Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Continue on to Dublin City.

  Visit to Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Once your luggage has been unloaded, bid a fond farewell to your Driver-Guide (1 Person) taking with you many great memories from your journey together.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included today:

  • Clonmacnoise
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Free day in Ireland's capital city also known as "Fair City". Dublin City is a treasure trove of historic buildings and famous landmarks, including the Ha'Penny Bridge, the General Post office and the modern addition to O'Connell Street; The Spire of Dublin.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8: Departure Day

  Bid a fond farewell to Ireland! Please have hotel reception staff call you a taxi to take you directly to Dublin Airport. We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight, to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in. Depart on your return flight home with fond memories.

Best of Ireland - 10 Days

• 10 Days

  The best of Ireland at a leisurely pace

• Best of The South

  Travel widely throughout the Republic

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

Taking in the absolute best of the south of Ireland. This tour covers all the major attractions of the area via a delightful and diverse itinerary. If you want to see everything the south has to offer, this tour is for you.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart for Galway City across the centre of Ireland through the counties of Kildare, Meath, Offaly and Westmeath.

  Visit Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Travel on to Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes". Today, it is a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included Today

  • Clonmacnoise
  • Hardiman Hotel

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Continue on to Clifden, the largest town in the region, nestled between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Clifden was founded in 1812 by the High Sheriff of Galway to create a pocket of respectability within the lawlessness of Connemara.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Tonight you will overnight in the Hardiman Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world down the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Travelling down the Atlantic seaboard, our journey will take you via Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle at Kinvarra (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) and Ballyvaughan.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue down the Atlantic coast via the coastal towns and villages of Ennistymon and Lahinch before turning east to Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Cross the Limerick/Kerry border, and you are now in the "Kingdom of Kerry" and you will travel on to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight in the Dromhall Hotel. Located in the ideal location, between the Ring of Kerry and Killarney Town centre, this hotel has been a popular port of call for guests to the area since the 1960s.

  Included Today

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Dromhall Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight in Dromhall Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Dromhall Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Tour the spectacular Dingle Peninsula, or Corca Dhuibhne as it is known in the Irish language. The peninsula stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, and the region is officially recognised as a bastion of Irish language and culture. A range of mountains forms its spine while the magnificent coastline consists of sandy beaches such as Coomenoole beach, which was used as one of the film locations for the filming of 'Ryan's Daughter' and craggy cliffs such as Slea Head. The Blasket Islands, famous for Irish-language memoirs documenting rural life in the 1800s and 1900s, lie to the west of the peninsula.

  Stop off in the much-loved Dingle town and explore its quaint shops, restaurants and bars.

  Return to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight in Dromhall Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Dromhall Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Depart for Cork, known as the Rebel County. Journey west to the “county bounds” through the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - “Whiskey in the Jar”.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Continue on to Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Travel on to Cork City. Founded on the banks of the River Lee. The rebel city is home of Murphy's Original Irish Stout, and is considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland!

  Tonight you will overnight at Imperial Hotel Cork. A landmark of Cork City since 1810. One of the few four-star boutique hotels in the city.

  Included today:

  • Blarney Castle
  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Imperial Hotel Cork (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Morning free in Cork City.

  We would suggest a visit to the English Market in the heart of Cork City. It is a covered market for fish, fruit, meat, and vegetable. The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. Please note: The English Market is closed on Sundays.

  Travel to Kinsale. The Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale is one of the most picturesque towns on the southwest coast of Ireland. Boland's Craft Shop is just one of the many unique stores that are well worth a visit.

  Visit Charles Fort. This star-shaped fort was built in the 1670s by the English to protect Kinsale harbour against foreign naval forces.

  Afternoon free in Kinsale.

  Return to Cork City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Imperial Hotel Cork.

  Included today:

  • Charles Fort
  • Imperial Hotel Cork (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey north to Dublin. Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding, and training.

  Visit Irish National Stud. This is a state–run bloodstock farm, which was founded in 1900 by an eccentric Anglo–Irish man by the name of Colonel William Walker. On finishing the tour of the stud farm, take a walk through the Japanese Gardens—laid out in 1906 to represent the "Life of Man".

  Continue on to Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at The Alex Hotel. Located near Merrion Square in the middle of Dublin City, this hotel makes the perfect base for anyone looking to explore the Irish capital and beyond..

  Included today:

  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Irish National Stud
  • The Alex Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Visit EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  From here you will travel to Christ Church Cathedral. Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Enjoy a Traditional Music Night at The Merry Ploughboy Pub—one of Dublin's iconic trad music venues.

  Tonight you will overnight at The Alex Hotel.

  Included today:

  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Merry Ploughboy Dinner and Show
  • The Alex Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10: Departure Day

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Best of Ireland - 14 Days

• 14 Days

  The whole island of Ireland in two weeks

• North and South

  Explore both Northern Ireland and the Republic

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

The best of the South and North of Ireland in two weeks. This is the ultimate "Best Of" tour of the Island of Ireland. Covering all the major attractions and travelling the length and breadth of the country. This tour is for those wanting to see everything The Emerald Isle has to offer.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart on panoramic orientation tour of Dublin City with your Driver-Guide (1 Person).

  1500 check in to your city centre hotel.

  Afternoon free in Ireland's capital city also known as "Fair City". Dublin City is a treasure trove of historic buildings and famous landmarks, including the Ha'Penny Bridge, the General Post office and the modern addition to O'Connell Street; The Spire of Dublin.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included Today

  • Brooks Hotel

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Depart for Belfast City via the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned, before turning west out along the hilly Cooley Peninsula in Louth to the deep-water port of Greenore on Carlingford Lough.

  Visit Trim Castle. The largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30-year period and finished it in 1206. Trim Castle was also a film location for the movie "Braveheart".

  Here you will board the Carlingford Lough Ferry and journey across the lough with its magnificent views of the majestic mountains of Mourne.

  Welcome to Northern Ireland!

  Your journey north will now take you via along the coastal towns and villages of Kilkeel and Newcastle, where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, before turning inland and travelling on via Lisburn to Belfast.

  Visit Titanic Belfast. The world’s largest Titanic-themed visitor attraction, located on the very slipways where she was built in the heart of Belfast.

  Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast. Known for hosting many of Belfast's prestigious events, as well as being home to many of the city's visiting celebrities and VIPs.

  You might want to stroll down to the Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street, the perfect spot for a pint of Guinness or Bass. This pub dates back to the 1880s and is the only pub owned by the National Trust!

  Included Today

  • Trim Castle
  • Carlingford Lough Ferry
  • Titanic Belfast
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board, as they join you on a journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

  Afternoon visit to Hillsborough Castle & Gardens. Located in County Down, Hillsborough Castle is the official Northern Ireland residence of the British Royal family during their time in the region. In 2014, the castle and its gardens — set across 100 acres of stunning waterways, lawns and woodlands — were officially opened to the public.

  Return to Belfast City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast.

  Included Today

  • Belfast City Step-on Guide
  • Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Depart for the historic fortified walled Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

  Visit Bushmills Distillery. Known around the world as the oldest licensed distillery. We will stop here for a whiskey tasting. Its grant to distil whiskey was given in 1608, but it is believed that the spirit was probably made here 200 years before that!

  Visit Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

  Continue on to Derry.

  Tonight you will overnight at Maldron Hotel Derry, the only hotel within the famous city walls of Derry. This modern and spacious hotel is the perfect base to explore the historic city..

  Included Today

  • Bushmills Distillery
  • Giant's Causeway
  • Maldron Hotel Derry (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Join up with your local Derry/Londonderry City guide as they walk you through the historic city of Derry. Also known as Londonderry, which remains its legal name, Derry/Londonderry City is Northern Ireland's second-largest city (after Belfast), and is famed for being the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. Built, between 1613 and 1619, as a means of protecting the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal, the walls form a walkway through the inner city. Ranging in height from 12 to 35 feet, you can walk across them and view the city from above as your guide lays out the turbulent history of this once troubled region of Northern Ireland.

  Depart for the beautiful Enniskillen Town in County Fermanagh, located between Upper and Lower Lough Erne.

  Visit Ulster American Folk Park. An open-air museum located on the restored boyhood home of Judge Thomas Mellon, founder of the Pittsburgh banking dynasty. The Park's permanent exhibition, called 'Emigrants', examines why two million people left Ulster for America during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries.

  Continue on to Enniskillen.

  Tonight you will overnight at Westville Hotel. Enjoy a stay in this modern, stylish hotel located just outside the picturesque town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh.

  Included Today

  • Derry City Walking Guide
  • Ulster American Folk Park
  • Westville Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Enjoy a morning Lough Erne Cruise. Boasting a rich combination of natural and historic sights, a haven for many species of water birds and Devenish Island.

  Later this morning, you will journey south to Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”. Your route will take you through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben, which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Travel on via Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Continue on along the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland and is considered by many as the best fishing lake in Europe, to Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes". Today, it is a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included today:

  • Lough Erne Cruise
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Continue on to Clifden, the largest town in the region, nestled between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Clifden was founded in 1812 by the High Sheriff of Galway to create a pocket of respectability within the lawlessness of Connemara.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Tonight, you will overnight in the Hardiman Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world down the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Travelling down the Atlantic seaboard, our journey will take you via Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle at Kinvarra (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) and Ballyvaughan.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue down the Atlantic coast via the coastal towns and villages of Ennistymon and Lahinch before turning east to Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Cross the Limerick/Kerry border, and you are now in the "Kingdom of Kerry" and you will travel on to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Killarney Plaza Hotel. This four-star hotel sits in the centre of Killarney Town, overlooking the majestic Killarney National Park.

  Included today:

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Killarney Plaza Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10 Itinerary

  Depart for Kinsale.

  Journey west to the “county bounds” through the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - “Whiskey in the Jar”.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Continue on to Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Travel onto Kinsale.

  Tonight you will overnight at Actons Hotel. Located in the picturesque fishing village of Kinsale, County Cork, this four-star boutique is the perfect spot for anyone spending time in the area.

  Included today:

  • Blarney Castle
  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Actons Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 11

  Day 11 Itinerary

  Morning visit to Charles Fort. This star-shaped fort was built in the 1670s by the English to protect Kinsale harbour against foreign naval forces.

  Travel to Cork City. Founded on the banks of the River Lee. The rebel city is home of Murphy's Original Irish Stout, and is considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland!

  Afternoon free in Cork.

  We would suggest a visit to the English Market in the heart of Cork City. It is a covered market for fish, fruit, meat, and vegetable. The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. Please note: The English Market is closed on Sundays.

  Return to Kinsale.

  Tonight you will overnight at Actons Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Charles Fort
  • Actons Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 12

  Day 12 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey north to Dublin. Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding, and training.

  Visit the Irish National Stud. This is a state–run bloodstock farm, which was founded in 1900 by an eccentric Anglo–Irish man by the name of Colonel William Walker. On finishing the tour of the stud farm, take a walk through the Japanese Gardens—laid out in 1906 to represent the "Life of Man".

  Continue on to Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included today:

  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Irish National Stud
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 13

  Day 13 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Ireland's capital; Dublin City. Dublin is Ireland's economic and political hub, and took centre stage in Ireland's 1916 Rising against British rule, and subsequent independence. The city's history can be explained in detail, each step of the way, by your guide. Each question asked will lead you further and further into the depths of this ancient city. Experience the famous Dublin wit first-hand, along with the city's slang and somewhat impenetrable accents. Experience all that Ireland's 'Fair City' has to offer as your guide introduces you to its world-renowned landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems..

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  From here, you will visit Christ Church Cathedral. Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta. Please note: Getting to the Belfry in Christ Church Cathedral involves climbing 86 stone steps in a medieval building and crossing the roof at the South transept – quite the experience!

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Enjoy a Traditional Music Night at The Merry Ploughboy Pub—one of Dublin's iconic trad music venues.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Dublin City Step-on Guide
  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Christ Church Cathedral.
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Merry Ploughboy Dinner and Show
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 14

  Day 14: Departure

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Ireland & Scotland - 11 Days

• 11 Days

  Eleven days of adventure

• Three Countries

  Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland

• Point-to-Point Tour

  A point to point tour; a new destination at every step

What some might call the alternative Ireland and Scotland tour. Taking in major attractions and lesser-seen gems throughout Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland. This is the ideal tour for anyone who may have taken a previous tour of the three countries and is looking for something a little different.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart for Galway City across the centre of Ireland through the counties of Kildare, Meath, Offaly and Westmeath.

  Visit Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Travel on to Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes". Today, it is a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included Today

  • Clonmacnoise
  • Hardiman Hotel

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Continue on to Clifden, the largest town in the region, nestled between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Clifden was founded in 1812 by the High Sheriff of Galway to create a pocket of respectability within the lawlessness of Connemara.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Tonight you will overnight in the Hardiman Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Hardiman Hotel (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey north to Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different".

  Your route will take you through Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Travel on via Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben, which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Visit Drumcliffe. Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

  Continue on to Lough Eske Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the grounds. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

  Included Today

  • Drumcliffe
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Morning tour of the Highlands of Donegal.

  Visit Glenveagh National Park, the park is located in the serine wilderness of the Derryveagh Mountains in north-west County Donegal. Comprised of scenic mountains, lakes, waterfalls and oak woodlands. Glenveagh Castle is nestled on the shores of Lough Veagh. Built in 1870 by John Adair, a landlord who became notorious for his eviction of many families from the area after the Famine of 1847.

  Depart for the historic fortified walled city of Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

  Join up with your local Derry/Londonderry City guide as they walk you through the historic city of Derry. Also known as Londonderry, which remains its legal name, Derry/Londonderry City is Northern Ireland's second-largest city (after Belfast), and is famed for being the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. Built, between 1613 and 1619, as a means of protecting the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal, the walls form a walkway through the inner city. Ranging in height from 12 to 35 feet, you can walk across them and view the city from above as your guide lays out the turbulent history of this once troubled region of Northern Ireland.

  Tonight you will overnight at Tonight you will overnight at Maldron Hotel Derry, the only hotel within the famous city walls of Derry. This modern and spacious hotel is the perfect base to explore the historic city.

  Included Today

  • Glenveagh National Park and Castle
  • Derry Walking Tour
  • Maldron Hotel Derry (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Depart for Belfast City via The Antrim Coast.

  Visit the Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

  Continue on to Belfast City.

  On arrival in Belfast welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

  Tonight you will overnight at Clayton Hotel Belfast. Found in the stylish Linen Quarter, this four-star hotel is ideal for exploring all that Belfast City has to offer.

  Included Today

  • Giant's Causeway
  • Belfast City Step-on Guide
  • Clayton Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Take the Stena Line ferry from Belfast Port, in Northern Ireland to Cairnryan, in Scotland.

  Travel on to Glasgow City.

  Welcome your local Glasgow guide on board as they join you on a journey through Glasgow City. Discover Glasgow's key landmarks as well as its hidden gem. Take in the unique architecture, ranging from Medieval to post-modern, and uncover the history of this once troubled city; from its 18th century heyday as a commercial and trading hub to its economic decline of the late 20th century. The real essence of Glasgow is found in its people, affectionately known as 'Glaswegians', they are renowned for their unique 'patter'; a slang and accent combined that is almost impenetrable to the outside world. Your guide can give you a general breakdown of the patter, this will come in handy should you converse with a Glaswegian that you may otherwise struggle to understand.

  Visit Glasgow Cathedral. A truly rare example of an almost complete 13th century church.

  Tonight you will overnight at voco Grand Central Glasgow, residing in one of the most spectacular and historic structures in the city.

  Included today:

  • Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry
  • Glasgow City Step-On Guide
  • Glasgow Cathedral
  • voco Grand Central Glasgow (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Depart for the picturesque town of Pitlochry, nestled amongst the stunning forested hills of Highland Perthshire.

  Travel via the stunning beauty Loch Lomond. Enjoy the Bonnie Banks of Scotland's largest lake on board a leisurely cruise.

  Continue onto the beautiful burgh of Pitlochry, lying on the River Tummel via Perth.

  Tonight you will overnight at Atholl Palace Hotel. Tucked away in woodland, a mile from the quaint village of Pitlochry. Featuring extensive gardens and an indoor pool.

  Included today:

  • Loch Lomond
  • Loch Lomond Cruise
  • Atholl Palace Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  Depart for the Scottish Highlands via Cairngorms National Park and Aviemore. Visit the Capital of The Highlands- Inverness. Travel along the western shores of Loch Ness to Fort Augustus via the scenic Great Glen.

  Take in the beauty of Cairngorms Mountains. Located in the majestic Scottish highlands, the Cairngorms range is part of the larger Grampian Mountains. Cairn Gorm Mountain is the sixth highest mountain in the British isles (standing at 4,084 ft).

  Visit Culloden Battlefield. The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

  Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Loch Ness. Here you see the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch.

  Return to Pitlochry via the rugged terrains of Spean Bridge and Dalwhinnie and the backdrop of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

  Tonight you will overnight at Atholl Palace Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Culloden Battlefield
  • Loch Ness Cruise
  • Atholl Palace Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Depart for Edinburgh City. Scotland's Capital, famous for its wonderful museums and galleries

  Travel via St. Andrew's. Scotland's oldest university town. Also referred to as the Home of Golf, the Old Course at St Andrew's Links is the oldest golf course in the world. Enjoy some free time walking its historic cobbled alleyways.

  Visit Kingsbarns Distillery Tour.

  Continue on to Edinburgh.

  Tonight you will overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City, the perfect base for anyone looking to explore Scotland's capital.

  Included today:

  • Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Scotland's capital; Edinburgh City. Edinburgh is a city of two halves, broken into Old Town and New Town. Both are equally stunning areas, and 'Edinburghers' in general are known to be both friendly and welcoming. Old Town, the area that lies outside the old city walls, covers the area between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. New Town, which is actually 200 years old, is the area to the north and is seen as the more upmarket of the two, particularly noted for its multitude of dining and shopping options. To really get to the core of this ancient and fascinating city, a local guide is essential. Wander the cobbled streets of the charming Old Town and take in the beauty of the Georgian era buildings of New Town. Edinburgh has a unique atmosphere during the summer months, as the city is home to numerous music and comedy festivals, and the streets take on a charming, jovial feel.

  Visit Edinburgh Castle, dating from the 12th century that has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its turbulent past. It houses the oldest crown jewels of Britain - The Honours of Scotland.

  Visit Holyrood Palace. The official Scottish residence of the British monarchy.

  Afternoon free in Edinburgh.

  Tonight you will overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City.

  Included today:

  • Edinburgh City Step-on Guide
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Holyrood Palace
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh (Breakfast Included)

• Day 11

  Day 11 Itinerary

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Edinburgh Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight, to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Ireland & Scotland - 14 Days

• 14 Days

  Two weeks of exploration

• Three Countries

  Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland

• Point-to-Point Tour

  A point to point tour; a new destination at every step

The best of Ireland and Scotland in one tour. Covering all the major attractions in Ireland and Scotland in two weeks. This is the perfect tour for those looking to experience the Gaelic lands of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Edinburgh! On your arrival at Edinburgh Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart on a panoramic orientation tour of Edinburgh City with your Driver-Guide .

  1500 Check into the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City.

  (The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City will store your luggage prior to check in time).

  Afternoon free in Edinburgh City. Edinburgh is a city of two halves, broken into Old Town and New Town. Both are equally stunning areas, and 'Edinburghers' in general are known to be both friendly and welcoming. Old Town, the area that lies outside the old city walls, covers the area between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. New Town, which is actually 200 years old, is the area to the north and is seen as the more upmarket of the two, particularly noted for its multitude of dining and shopping options.

  Tonight you will overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City, the perfect base for anyone looking to explore Scotland's capital.

  Included Today

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Scotland's capital; Edinburgh City.

  Visit Holyrood Palace. The official Scottish residence of the British monarchy.

  Visit Edinburgh Castle, dating from the 12th century that has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its turbulent past. It houses the oldest crown jewels of Britain - The Honours of Scotland.

  Afternoon free in Edinburgh City.

  Tonight you will overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City.

  Included Today

  • Edinburgh Guide
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for the picturesque town of Pitlochry, nestled amongst the stunning forested hills of Highland Perthshire.

  Visit Kingsbarns Distillery Tour.

  Continue onto Scotland’s oldest university town of St. Andrews. Also referred to as the Home of Golf, the Old Course at St. Andrew's Links is the oldest golf course in the world. Enjoy some free time walking its historic cobbled alleyways. Continue onto the beautiful burgh of Pitlochry, lying on the River Tummel via Perth.

  Travel on via Perth to Pitlochry.

  Tonight you will overnight at Tonight you will overnight at Atholl Palace Hotel. Tucked away in woodland, a mile from the quaint village of Pitlochry. Featuring extensive gardens and an indoor pool.

  Included Today

  • Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
  • Atholl Palace Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Depart for the Scottish Highlands.

  Take in the beauty of Take in the beauty of Cairngorms Mountains. Located in the majestic Scottish highlands, the Cairngorms range is part of the larger Grampian Mountains. Cairn Gorm Mountain is the sixth highest mountain in the British isles (standing at 4,084 ft).

  Visit Culloden Battlefield. The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

  Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Loch Ness. Here you see the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch.

  Return to Pitlochry via the rugged terrains of Spean Bridge and Dalwhinnie and the backdrop of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

  Tonight you will overnight at Atholl Palace Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Cairngorms Mountains
  • Culloden Battlefield
  • Loch Ness Cruise
  • Atholl Palace Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Depart for the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond via the dramatic Glencoe Valley.

  Your route today will take you through the market town of Crieff on your way to Glencoe. Take in the views of the majestic Three Sisters Mountains and continue on via Connel and Tyndrum to take in the stunning beauty of Loch Lomond.

  Stop in the village of Luss before continuing on to Aberfoyle.

  Tonight you will overnight at Tonight you will overnight at MacDonald Forest Hills Hotel. Found on the summit of Ben Lomond and on the banks of Loch Ard, this is a hotel full of charm in a picturesque setting.

  Included Today

  • Loch Lomond
  • Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Depart for Glasgow City.

  Welcome your local Glasgow guide on board as they join you on a journey through Glasgow City. Discover Glasgow's key landmarks as well as its hidden gem. Take in the unique architecture, ranging from Medieval to post-modern, and uncover the history of this once troubled city; from its 18th century heyday as a commercial and trading hub to its economic decline of the late 20th century. The real essence of Glasgow is found in its people, affectionately known as 'Glaswegians', they are renowned for their unique 'patter'; a slang and accent combined that is almost impenetrable to the outside world. Your guide can give you a general breakdown of the patter, this will come in handy should you converse with a Glaswegian that you may otherwise struggle to understand.

  Visit Glasgow Cathedral. A truly rare example of an almost complete 13th century church.

  Continue on to Cairnryan Ferry Port.

  14:15 Check-in at Ferry Port.

  15:30 Take the Stena Line ferry from Cairnryan, in Scotland, to Belfast Port, in Northern Ireland.

  17:45 Arrive at Belfast Port and journey into Belfast City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast. Known for hosting many of Belfast's prestigious events, as well as being home to many of the city's visiting celebrities and VIPs.

  Included today:

  • Glasgow Guide
  • Glasgow Cathedral
  • Cairnryan to Belfast Ferry
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board, as they join you on a journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

  Depart for Lough Eske Castle in Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity, and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different". Your journey today will take you via the spectacular The Antrim Coast.

  Visit Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

  You will cross the border outside Derry and you are now in Donegal in the Republic of Ireland.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

  Included today:

  • Belfast City Step-on Guide
  • Giant's Causeway
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes". Your route will take you through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world, and has been in operation since 1857.

  Visit Drumcliffe. Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

  Travel on via Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Continue on along the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland and is considered by many as the best fishing lake in Europe, to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Tonight you will overnight at Park House Hotel. This grand Victorian-style hotel is located in the heart of Galway City, a two-minute walk from Eyre Square..

  Included today:

  • Belleek Pottery
  • Drumcliffe
  • Park House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Continue on to Clifden, the largest town in the region, nestled between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Clifden was founded in 1812 by the High Sheriff of Galway to create a pocket of respectability within the lawlessness of Connemara.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Tonight you will overnight in the Park House Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Park House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world down the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Travelling down the Atlantic seaboard, our journey will take you via Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle at Kinvarra (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) and Ballyvaughan.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue down the Atlantic coast via the coastal towns and villages of Ennistymon and Lahinch before turning east to Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Cross the Limerick/Kerry border, and you are now in the "Kingdom of Kerry" and you will travel on to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight at Randles Hotel. Offering four-star luxury, just a five-minute walk from Killarney Town Centre in County Kerry.

  Included today:

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Randles Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 11

  Day 11 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town..

  Tonight, you will overnight at Randles Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Randles Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 12

  Day 12 Itinerary

  Depart for Cork, known as the Rebel County. Journey west to the “county bounds” through the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - “Whiskey in the Jar”.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding, and training.

  Continue on to Dublin.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included today:

  • Blarney Castle
  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 13

  Day 13 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Ireland's capital; Dublin City. Dublin is Ireland's economic and political hub, and took centre stage in Ireland's 1916 Rising against British rule, and subsequent independence. The city's history can be explained in detail, each step of the way, by your guide. Each question asked will lead you further and further into the depths of this ancient city. Experience the famous Dublin wit first-hand, along with the city's slang and somewhat impenetrable accents. Experience all that Ireland's 'Fair City' has to offer as your guide introduces you to its world-renowned landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems..

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  Visit Christ Church Cathedral. Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Enjoy a Traditional Music Night and dinner at The Merry Ploughboy Pub—one of Dublin's iconic trad music venues.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Dublin City Step-on Guide
  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Merry Ploughboy Dinner and Show
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 14

  Day 14: Departure

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Wild Atlantic Way

• 10 Days

  A week and a half of adventure

• West Coast

  Travel this world-famous Atlantic coast

• Point-to-Point Tour

  A Circuit Tour ; beginning and ending in Dublin

The definitive Wild Atlantic Way tour. See all the major sights and a few of the hidden gems along Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way. From Mizen Head to Malin Head and more in between, this itinerary has it all. Perfect for those looking to explore the famous west coast.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Journey south to Cork. On leaving Dublin you will enter Kildare and travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding and training.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border. Cross the River Blackwater and you are now in County Cork, known as "The Rebel County".

  Overnight in Maldron Hotel South Mall. This hotel is located in the city centre, giving you a great opportunity to explore the magic of its neighboring pubs. A few of the pubs that always rank highly, amongst both Cork locals and visitors alike, include Mutton Lane, Sin é and The Oval.

  Included Today

  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Maldron Hotel South Mall

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Morning in Cork City. Founded on the banks of the River Lee. The rebel city is home of Murphy's Original Irish Stout, and is considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland!

  We would suggest a visit to the English Market. Found in the heart of Cork city, it is a covered market for fish, fruit, meat and vegetable. The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. Please Note: the market is closed on Sundays.

  Travel to Kinsale.

  Visit Charles Fort. This star-shaped fort was built in the 1670s by the English to protect Kinsale harbour against foreign naval forces.

  Afternoon free in Kinsale. The Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale is one of the most picturesque towns on the southwest coast of Ireland. Boland's Craft Shop is just one of the many unique stores that are well worth a visit.

  Return to Cork.

  Overnight in Maldron Hotel South Mall.

  Included Today

  • Charles Fort
  • Maldron Hotel South Mall (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for the beautiful town of Kenmare via west Cork. Travel via the towns and villages of Clonakility and Skibbereen to Bantry.

  Take the Harbour Queen Ferry to the magical Garnish Island. Located off harbour of Glengarriff in the Beara Peninsula, the gardens on the island have become famous for their unique beauty and seldom seen plants and trees.

  Travel over the majestic Caha Mountains to Kenmare.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Brook Lane Hotel. A boutique four-star hotel in the stunning town of Kenmare, Brook Lane Hotel is the definition of style. Featuring elegant, sleek furnishings and locally handcrafted art pieces.

  Included today:

  • Garnish Island Ferry
  • Brook Lane Hotel (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killarney Town, Killorglin, Glenbeigh and on to Cahersiveen.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O'Connell, known as 'The Liberator', Caherdaniel, Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem, through Blackwater, Templenoe and onto Kenmare.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Brook Lane Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Brook Lane Hotel (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Tour the spectacular Dingle Peninsula, or Corca Dhuibhne as it is known in the Irish language. The peninsula stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, and the region is officially recognised as a bastion of Irish language and culture. A range of mountains forms its spine while the magnificent coastline consists of sandy beaches such as Coomenoole beach, which was used as one of the film locations for the filming of 'Ryan's Daughter' and craggy cliffs such as Slea Head. The Blasket Islands, famous for Irish-language memoirs documenting rural life in the 1800s and 1900s, lie to the west of the peninsula.

  Evening free in the much-loved Dingle town to explore its quaint shops, restaurants, and bars.

  Tonight you will overnight at Heaton's Guesthouse. An Irish Bed and Breakfast with an upscale country manor feel. Located on the edge of Dingle Bay in County Kerry.

  Included today:

  • Gallarus Oratory
  • Heaton's Guesthouse (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world up the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance. Your journey will take you through North Kerry to Tarbert.

  Here you will journey across the majestic Shannon estuary on board the Shannon Ferry.

  Visit the Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue up the Atlantic seaboard via Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan to Dunguaire Castle (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) at Kinvarra.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Continue on to Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes".

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included today:

  • Shannon Ferry
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.

  Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.

  Visit Killary Fjord. The fjord is a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point. At Nancy's Point, just outside Leenane Village, you will board the "Connemara Lady" for a spectacular 90-minute cruise on Ireland's only fjord. A cruise is the ideal way to take in the dramatic sweep of the landscape, as you pass between the Twelve Bens and the Maam Turk mountains to the South, in County Galway; and the Mweelrea mountains to the North in County Mayo, as well as the views out to the Atlantic at the mouth of the fjord. Killary's sheltered waters are perfect for mussel farming, and you will see the ropes at several points on the cruise. You will also see some circular salmon farms, closer to the shore. Sheep dot the hills and now ramble freely over the remnants of potato ridges which stand testimony to The Great Famine of the 1840s.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.

  Continue on to Clifden, the largest town in the region, nestled between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Clifden was founded in 1812 by the High Sheriff of Galway to create a pocket of respectability within the lawlessness of Connemara.

  Return east to Galway City.

  Tonight you will overnight in the Hardiman Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Killary Fjord Cruise
  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey north to Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different".

  Travel via Mayo famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Our route will now take us through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeates, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Visit Drumcliffe. Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

  Continue on to Lough Eske Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

  Included today:

  • Drumcliffe
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Take a guided minibus tour to Slieve League Cliffs. These famous cliffs are the highest accessible cliffs in Europe at 601 metres (three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher). Facing into the majestic Atlantic Ocean, on the coast of County Donegal, the journey to the cliffs, through the land that surrounds them, has become a pilgrimage to thousands of people for centuries. Even though the walkways around the Slieve League Cliffs are not classed as dangerous, it is worth paying heed to your guide every step of the way.

  Depart east for Dublin.

  You will cross the border into Fermanagh and travel on via Enniskillen Town, on the shores of Lough Erne, before again crossing the border once again into Cavan, renowned for its many lakes and rounded hills called Drumlins that are typical of the border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

  Your journey to Dublin will now take you through the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned.

  Once your luggage has been unloaded, bid a fond farewell to your Driver-Guide (1 Person) taking with you many great memories from your journey together.

  Tonight you will overnight at Portmarnock Hotel. Located just 11km from Dublin Airport on a picturesque coastal road and featuring a 180-acre golf resort.

  Included today:

  • Slieve League (Guided Return Minibus Journey)
  • Portmarnock Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10: Departure

  Bid a fond farewell to Ireland! Please have hotel reception staff call you a taxi to take you directly to Dublin Airport. We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight, to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in. Depart on your return flight home with fond memories.

Ireland's Ancient East

• 8 Days

  Ample time to discover Ireland's East

• Eastern Region

  Explore Ireland's ancient royal heritage

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

See the other side of Ireland. Take in the timeless sites of Ireland's Ancient East on this circuit tour of the central and eastern counties. Ideal for those who wish to see the history and culture of east Ireland.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel, located in a grand Georgian building on Dublin City's main street; O'Connell Street. This is a luxury hotel in a dream location.

  Included Today

  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Today you will tour the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned.

  Visit Bru na Boinne. Take in all that the visitor centre has to offer. Showcasing such mysterious monuments as the treasured Newgrange tomb and megalithic passage grave of Knowth. (Please note, a visit to Bru na Boinne is subject to securing both a booking and a suitable time slot.)

  Visit Trim Castle. The largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30-year period and finished it in 1206. Trim Castle was also a film location for the movie "Braveheart".

  Return to Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Bru na Boinne
  • Trim Castle
  • Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for the idyllic rural setting of Ballymacbery on the Tipperary / Waterford border.

  Your journey will take you via the Wicklow Mountains. Such was the level of rebel activity in these hills outside the capital city of Dublin that the British Government built a military road crossing the mountains to enable troops to be deployed into the area quickly. Today the principal activity is mountain sheep farming and recreation with over 54,000 acres of woods, bogs and upland heath forming Wicklow National Park.

  Visit Glendalough. Nestled in the deep in the spectacular Wicklow Mountains. The steep wooded slopes of Glendalough, the "valley of the two lakes", harbour one of Ireland's most atmospheric monastic settlements. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Continue on to Kilkenny City. As you walk the medieval streets of Kilkenny, you might want to visit the Kilkenny Design Centre or take time for a pint of Smithwicks, an Irish Red Ale brewed in Kilkenny.

  Visit Kilkenny Castle. This imposing structure dominates the skyline of Kilkenny City. It has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first building; a wooden tower, in the 12th century. William the Earl Marshall built the first stone castle on the site, in 1260.

  Travel on to Ballymacarbry.

  Overnight and dine at Glasha Farmhouse. Nestled between the Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains, the farmhouse will give you a unique insight into rural Irish life. Tonight you will enjoy a hearty home-cooked dinner and conversation with your Irish hosts..

  Included Today

  • Glendalough Monastic Site
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • Glasha Farmhouse (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Cork City, considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland! Your route will take you through less frequented idyllic rural villages and hamlets on the Tipperary and Waterford borders before travelling over the spectacular Knockmealdown Mountains through the beautiful Vee Pass. Take a few moments at the top of this mountain pass to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains.

  The scenic drive continues as you follow The Vee into the beautiful heritage town of Lismore. On crossing the River Blackwater you are greeted by the imposing Lismore Castle situated on a steep hill overlooking the town. Over its 800-year history, it has been owned by some notable figures from history including Sir Walter Raleigh, the English Statesman who introduced the potato to Ireland, and Robert Boyle considered the father of modern chemistry to its current owner the Duke of Devonshire. The American actor Fred Astaire was a frequent visitor to Lismore Castle, as his sister was married to the son of the 9th Duke of Devonshire.

  Free time in Lismore, and we would suggest you take a few moments to visit the beautiful medieval St. Carthage's Cathedral.

  Today, you will visit Lismore Castle Gardens. Once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh and said to be Ireland's oldest continuously cultivated gardens, Lismore Castle Gardens invites its visitors to explore its seven acres of manicured lawns and stunning selection of flowers, including; rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias.

  Cross into County Cork and travel on via Tallow and Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Continue on to Cork City. Founded on the banks of the River Lee. The rebel city is home of Murphy's Original Irish Stout, and is considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland!.

  Tonight you will overnight at Imperial Hotel Cork. A landmark of Cork City since 1810. One of the few four-star boutique hotels in the city.

  Included Today

  • Lismore Castle Gardens
  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Imperial Hotel Cork (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Morning free time in Cork City. We would suggest a visit to the English Market in the heart of Cork City. It is a covered market for fish, fruit, meat, and vegetable. The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. Please note: The English Market is closed on Sundays.

  Visit Cobh Town. Situated on the southern shores of Great Island in Cork Harbour, this historic town was known as Queenstown until 1920. Cobh is most famous for being the unintentional final port of call for the RMS Titanic, before it sank in the North Atlantic Ocean on 15 April 1912.

  Visit Cobh Heritage Centre. Where the history is recalled in the mass emigration to the United States and Canada and the transportation of convicts to Australia. The "Queenstown Story" is the story of Irish Emigration.

  Continue on to the village of Blarney.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Return to Cork City

  Tonight you will overnight in Imperial Hotel Cork.

  Included Today

  • Cobh Heritage Centre
  • Blarney Castle
  • Imperial Hotel Cork (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Visit Cork City Gaol. Seen as a marvel of architecture and a feat in logistics when it originally opened in 1824, Cork City Gaol was home to some of Ireland's most notorious prisoners during its heyday of the 19th and 20th century. Today, the gaol is a museum that aims to recreate day-to-day lives of prisoners and guards during that time.

  You will journey north to Kinnitty Castle.

  Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on to Kinnitty Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Kinnitty Castle, in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains of County Offaly, the Hidden Heartlands of Ireland. This unique castle has had a long and turbulent history from the Norman's in the 12th century to its destruction by Republican Forces in 1922 to the present day. It now stands as an intimate and cosy castle hotel..

  Included today:

  • Cork City Gaol
  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Kinnitty Castle Hotel (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Depart for Dublin City across the centre of Ireland.

  Visit Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding, and training.

  Visit Irish National Stud. This is a state–run bloodstock farm, which was founded in 1900 by an eccentric Anglo–Irish man by the name of Colonel William Walker. On finishing the tour of the stud farm, take a walk through the Japanese Gardens—laid out in 1906 to represent the "Life of Man".

  Continue on to Dublin City.

  Enjoy a Traditional Music Night and dinner at The Merry Ploughboy Pub—one of Dublin's iconic trad music venues.

  Once your luggage has been unloaded, bid a fond farewell to your Driver-Guide (1 Person) taking with you many great memories from your journey together.

  Tonight you will overnight at Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Clonmacnoise
  • Irish National Stud
  • Merry Ploughboy Dinner and Show
  • Gresham Riu Plaza Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8: Departure Day

  Bid a fond farewell to Ireland! Please have hotel reception staff call you a taxi to take you directly to Dublin Airport. We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight, to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in. Depart on your return flight home with fond memories.

Best Of Northern Ireland

• 8 Days

  Just over a week of adventure

• The North

  Explore the real Northern Ireland

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

The best of Northern Ireland. Discover the very best that Northern Ireland has to offer. Ranging from Donegal to Belfast and everything in between. This is the perfect itinerary for those looking to see the Ulster-Scots way of life.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Depart for Belfast City via the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned, before turning west out along the hilly Cooley Peninsula in Louth to the deep-water port of Greenore on Carlingford Lough.

  Here you will board the Carlingford Lough Ferry and journey across the lough with its magnificent views of the majestic mountains of Mourne.

  Welcome to Northern Ireland!

  Your journey north will now take you via along the coastal towns and villages of Kilkeel and Newcastle, where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, before turning inland and travelling on via Lisburn to Belfast.

  Visit Titanic Belfast. The world's largest Titanic-themed visitor attraction, located on the very slipways where she was built in the heart of Belfast.

  You might want to stroll down to the Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street, the perfect spot for a pint of Guinness or Bass. This pub dates back to the 1880s and is the only pub owned by the National Trust!

  Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast. Known for hosting many of Belfast's prestigious events, as well as being home to many of the city's visiting celebrities and VIPs.

  Included Today

  • Carlingford Lough Ferry
  • Titanic Belfast
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board this morning as they join you on a journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

  Visit Hillsborough Castle & Gardens. Located in County Down, Hillsborough Castle is the official Northern Ireland residence of the British Royal family during their time in the region. In 2014, the castle and its gardens — set across 100 acres of stunning waterways, lawns and woodlands — were officially opened to the public.

  Return to Belfast City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast.

  Included Today

  • Belfast City Step-on Guide
  • Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for the historic fortified walled Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

  Travel via the spectacular Antrim Coastal Route through the nine Glens of Antrim and picturesque villages of Ballygalley, Carnlough, Cushendall and Cushendun to Ballycastle.

  Visit Bushmills Distillery. Known around the world as the oldest licensed distillery. We will stop here for a whiskey tasting. Its grant to distil whiskey was given in 1608, but it is believed that the spirit was probably made here 200 years before that!

  Visit Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

  Tonight you will overnight at Maldron Hotel Derry, the only hotel within the famous city walls of Derry. This modern and spacious hotel is the perfect base to explore the historic city..

  Included Today

  • Bushmills Distillery
  • Giant's Causeway
  • Maldron Hotel Derry (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Join up with your local Derry/Londonderry City guide as they walk you through the historic city of Derry. Also known as Londonderry, which remains its legal name, Derry/Londonderry City is Northern Ireland's second-largest city (after Belfast), and is famed for being the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. Built, between 1613 and 1619, as a means of protecting the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal, the walls form a walkway through the inner city. Ranging in height from 12 to 35 feet, you can walk across them and view the city from above as your guide lays out the turbulent history of this once troubled region of Northern Ireland.

  This afternoon, tour the Inishowen Peninsula — pushing out into the Atlantic, Inishowen is the largest peninsula on the island of Ireland. Shaped by the Ice Age and carved by the endless crash of the ocean, the landscape here is one of the stony green hills and jagged coastal rocks, of fire-warmed pubs in scenic villages and tumbledown thatched cottages on remote headlands.

  At the tip of the peninsula sits Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point and if you are feeling energetic you can walk up to the clifftop tower which dates from 1805 where you'll be greeted with panoramic views of the Inishowen Hills and to the east and you will see Inishtrahull Island;- the last sight of Ireland for emigrants leaving Derry for North America.

  Return to Derry.

  Tonight you will overnight at Maldron Hotel Derry.

  Included Today

  • Derry City Walking Guide
  • Maldron Hotel Derry (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Today you will depart for Lough Eske Castle in Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different".

  Visit Glenveagh National Park, the park is located in the serine wilderness of the Derryveagh Mountains in north-west County Donegal. Comprised of scenic mountains, lakes, waterfalls and oak woodlands.. Glenveagh Castle is nestled on the shores of Lough Veagh. Built in 1870 by John Adair, a landlord who became notorious for his eviction of many families from the area after the Famine of 1847.

  Leisurely evening on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

  Included Today

  • Glenveagh National Park and Castle
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Depart for the beautiful Enniskillen Town, in County Fermanagh, located between Upper and Lower Lough Erne.

  Visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world, and has been in operation since 1857.

  Once in Enniskillen, enjoy a Lough Erne Cruise. Boasting a rich combination of natural and historic sights, a haven for many species of water birds and Devenish Island.

  Tonight you will overnight at Westville Hotel. Enjoy a stay in this modern, stylish hotel located just outside the picturesque town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh.

  Included Today

  • Irish Breakfast
  • Belleek Pottery
  • Lough Erne Cruise
  • Westville Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Depart for Dublin City via County Cavan and Meath. Your journey today will take you through Cavan, renowned for its many lakes and rounded hills called Drumlins which are typical of the border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Travel on via the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned.

  Visit Trim Castle. The largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30-year period and finished it in 1206. Trim Castle was also a film location for the movie "Braveheart".

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at The Alex Hotel. Located near Merrion Square in the middle of Dublin City, this hotel makes the perfect base for anyone looking to explore the Irish capital and beyond..

  Included Today

  • Trim Castle
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • The Alex Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8: Departure Day

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Luxury Castles Tour

• 9 Days

  Over a week of exploration

• Stay In Castles

  Live like royalty

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

Stay in luxury, stay in castles! This is the quintessential Irish castle stay tour. Taking in some of the most luxurious and historic castles in Ireland. If you wish to wake up in history and stay in luxury, this is the tour for you.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Today you will depart for Lough Eske Castle in Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different". Your journey today will take you through the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned. Travel on via Cavan, renowned for its many lakes and rounded hills called Drumlins that are typical of the border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. You will cross the border into Fermanagh and travel on via Enniskillen Town, on the shores of Lough Erne, before again crossing the border once again into Donegal.

  Visit Trim Castle. The largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30-year period and finished it in 1206. Trim Castle was also a film location for the movie "Braveheart".

  Visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world, and has been in operation since 1857.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

  Included Today

  • Trim Castle
  • Belleek Pottery
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  A leisurely morning on the grounds Lough Eske Castle.

  Depart for the historic fortified walled Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

  Join up with your local Derry/Londonderry City guide as they walk you through the historic city of Derry. Also known as Londonderry, which remains its legal name, Derry/Londonderry City is Northern Ireland's second-largest city (after Belfast), and is famed for being the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. Built, between 1613 and 1619, as a means of protecting the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal, the walls form a walkway through the inner city. Ranging in height from 12 to 35 feet, you can walk across them and view the city from above as your guide lays out the turbulent history of this once troubled region of Northern Ireland.

  Return to Lough Eske Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle.

  Included Today

  • Derry City Walking Guide
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Ballynahinch Castle in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. Our route will take us through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeates, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Travel on to the beautiful heritage town of Westport on the shores of Clew Bay. You will have some free time in Westport, one of the few planned towns in Ireland, and we suggest you take a stroll along its tree-lined boulevard — the Mall, built on the Carrowbeg River.

  Continue along the southern shores of Clew Bay to Louisburgh with its commanding views of Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Journey down the spectacular famine relief road, where in the Spring of 1849, hundreds of starving people from the Louisburgh area walked in the hope of receiving hunger relief. To this day you can still see the ridges and hollows of their failed potato beds on which they were so dependent for food and the ruins of their tiny stone dwellings on this hauntingly beautiful landscape.

  You are now in the wilds of Connemara a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages.

  Visit Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

  Return to Ballynahinch Castle.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Ballynahinch Castle, an unrivalled experience of true Irish hospitality. Formerly the home of "Humanity Dick" Martin and The Maharajah Ranjitsinhji, Ballynahinch Castle has been welcoming visitors to Connemara for over 250 years. This unique castle is spectacularly located on a private 450-acre estate of woodlands, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara.

  Included Today

  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Ballynahinch Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  A leisurely morning on the grounds of Ballynahinch Castle.

  Depart for Galway City.

  Afternoon free in Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes", it is located right on the famous Wild Atlantic Way. Here you can take a ramble to Salthill Promenade, a Wild Atlantic Way discovery point, or down Quay Street with its many great pubs including "The Quays" and "Ti Neachtain" — a townhouse which belonged to "Humanity Dick", an 18th-century MP who promoted laws against cruelty to animals.

  Return to Ballynahinch Castle.

  Tonight, you will overnight and dine in Ballynahinch Castle.

  Included Today

  • Ballynahinch Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world down the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Travelling down the Atlantic seaboard, our journey will take you via Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle at Kinvarra (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) and Ballyvaughan.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury"..

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue down the Atlantic coast via the coastal towns and villages of Ennistymon and Lahinch before turning east to Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Cross the Limerick/Kerry border, and you are now in the "Kingdom of Kerry" and you will travel on to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight at Cahernane House Hotel, situated less than 2 miles from Killarney National Park. The hotel is set in a beautiful mansion dating back to the 1870s and on impeccably manicured grounds.

  Included Today

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Cahernane House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight at Cahernane House Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Cahernane House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Depart for Cork, known as the Rebel County. Journey west to the “county bounds” through the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - “Whiskey in the Jar”.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Continue your journey north to Dublin. Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on via "The Curragh" a flat open plain of common land, the home of the Irish Defence Forces and world-renowned for Irish horse racing, breeding, and training.

  Tonight you will overnight at The K Club. Set amidst over 550 acres of historic and intriguing gardens, walkways and parkland with magnificent views of the Kildare countryside and the River Liffey. Steeped in history, The K Club combines old-world elegance with indulgent luxury. Formerly the home of the Barton's, founders of the famous wine firm Barton and Guestier, The K Club today is home to two golf courses including the Arnold Palmer-designed Ryder Cup Golf Course and the K Spa.

  Included today:

  • Blarney Castle
  • The Rock of Cashel
  • The K Club (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Ireland's capital; Dublin City. Dublin is Ireland's economic and political hub, and took centre stage in Ireland's 1916 Rising against British rule, and subsequent independence. The city's history can be explained in detail, each step of the way, by your guide. Each question asked will lead you further and further into the depths of this ancient city. Experience the famous Dublin wit first-hand, along with the city's slang and somewhat impenetrable accents. Experience all that Ireland's 'Fair City' has to offer as your guide introduces you to its world-renowned landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems.

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  Visit Christ Church Cathedral. Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Continue on to County Kildare.

  Tonight you will overnight at The K Club.

  Included today:

  • Dublin City Step-on Guide
  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • The K Club (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!

Whiskey Lovers Tour

• 11 Days

  Eleven days of exploration

• Includes Distilleries

  Learn how your favourite Irish whiskies are made

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

See the famous distilleries of Ireland. Taking in all the major whiskey producers of Ireland and a few other stops in between. This is the tour for those who love a good Irish Whiskey.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  Visit the Irish Whiskey Museum, where you will be treated to the story of Ireland's whiskey heritage and a few samples of it's most loved, and up and coming, whiskey brands.

  Tonight you will overnight at Trinity City Hotel. This centrally located Dublin City hotel is a four-star getaway in the ideal location for both relaxing and exploring in Ireland's capital..

  Included Today

  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Irish Whiskey Museum
  • Trinity City Hotel

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Depart for Belfast City via the Royal County of Meath, where centuries past the High Kings of Ireland once came to be crowned, before turning west out along the hilly Cooley Peninsula in Louth to the deep-water port of Greenore on Carlingford Lough.

  Here you will board the Carlingford Lough Ferry and journey across the lough with its magnificent views of the majestic mountains of Mourne.

  Welcome to Northern Ireland!

  Your journey north will now take you via along the coastal towns and villages of Kilkeel and Newcastle, where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, before turning inland and travelling on via Lisburn to Belfast.

  Welcome your local guide on board, as they join you on a journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

  You might want to stroll down to the Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street, the perfect spot for a pint of Guinness or Bass. This pub dates back to the 1880s and is the only pub owned by the National Trust!

  Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast. Known for hosting many of Belfast's prestigious events, as well as being home to many of the city's visiting celebrities and VIPs.

  Included Today

  • Carlingford Lough Ferry
  • Belfast City Step-on Guide
  • Europa Hotel Belfast (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for the historic fortified walled Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

  Visit Bushmills Distillery. Known around the world as the oldest licensed distillery. We will stop here for a whiskey tasting. Its grant to distil whiskey was given in 1608, but it is believed that the spirit was probably made here 200 years before that!

  Visit Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

  Continue on to Derry/Londonderry City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Maldron Hotel Derry, the only hotel within the famous city walls of Derry. This modern and spacious hotel is the perfect base to explore the historic city.

  Included Today

  • Bushmills Distillery
  • Giant's Causeway
  • Maldron Hotel Derry (Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  Today you will depart for Lough Eske Castle in Donegal, this spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different".

  Visit Glenveagh National Park, the park is located in the serine wilderness of the Derryveagh Mountains in north-west County Donegal. Comprised of scenic mountains, lakes, waterfalls and oak woodlands. Glenveagh Castle is nestled on the shores of Lough Veagh. Built in 1870 by John Adair, a landlord who became notorious for his eviction of many families from the area after the Famine of 1847.

  Visit Sliabh Liag Distillers. Situated in the wilds of Ireland's Atlantic Coast. This family-owned craft distillery is bringing the distilling heritage back to Donegal through their main spirits of An Dúlamán Gin and The Silkie Irish Whiskey.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed..

  Included Today

  • Glenveagh National Park and Castle
  • Sliabh Liag Distillers
  • Lough Eske Castle (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”. Your route will take you through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben, which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

  Visit Drumcliffe. Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

  Your route today will take you past the majestic Ben Bulben, a flat-topped mountain in County Sligo. Ben Bulben is a protected site and is classed as a County Geological Site.

  Travel on to Leitrim to Visit The Shed Distillery. Located in the heart of rural Ireland in the village of Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim, The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney is where you can find Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Sausage Tree Pure Irish Vodka.

  Continue on via Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.

  Continue on along the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland and is considered by many as the best fishing lake in Europe, to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Tonight you will overnight at Hardiman Hotel, located in Galway City's Eyre Square, this luxurious Victorian hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions in the City of Tribes.

  Included Today

  • Drumcliffe
  • The Shed Distillery
  • Hardiman Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world down the Atlantic west coast of Clare to the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Travelling down the Atlantic seaboard, our journey will take you via Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle at Kinvarra (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) and Ballyvaughan.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Visit the Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue down the Atlantic coast via the coastal towns and villages of Ennistymon and Lahinch before turning east to Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  Cross the Limerick/Kerry border, and you are now in the "Kingdom of Kerry" and you will travel on to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight at Randles Hotel. Offering four-star luxury, just a five-minute walk from Killarney Town Centre in County Kerry.

  Included Today

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Randles Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  Tour the Ring Of Kerry. Officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula, it is a captivating journey of spectacular mountain and coastal scenery dotted with colourful small towns and villages. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel.

  Visit Skellig Six18 Distillery. This wonderful modern distillery is located in the village of Cahersiveen.

  Visit Blind Piper Pub. Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch. Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

  Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney Town.

  Tonight you will overnight at Randles Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Skellig Six 18 Distillery
  • Blind Piper Pub
  • Randles Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  Depart for Cork, known as the Rebel County. Journey west to the “county bounds” through the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - “Whiskey in the Jar”.

  Visit Blarney Castle. Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills, boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

  Continue on via the valley of the river to Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Evening free in Cork City. Founded on the banks of the River Lee. The rebel city is home of Murphy's Original Irish Stout, and is considered by many Corkonians to be the real capital of Ireland!

  Tonight you will overnight at Imperial Hotel Cork. A landmark of Cork City since 1810. One of the few four-star boutique hotels in the city.

  Included today:

  • Blarney Castle
  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Imperial Hotel Cork (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey north to Dublin. Cross the River Blackwater and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains on the Tipperary/Limerick border.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on to Offaly.

  Visit Tullamore D.E.W Distillery. Here you will learn about the art of Irish whiskey-making and discover the secret that gives Tullamore D.E.W. its unique complexity on this whiskey tasting tour.

  Continue on to Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Trinity City Hotel. This centrally located Dublin City hotel is a four-star getaway in the ideal location for both relaxing and exploring in Ireland's capital..

  Included today:

  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery
  • Trinity City Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10 Itinerary

  Visit Teeling Distillery, based in Dublin's inner-city — Teeling is another, relatively, new Irish whiskey brand and one that is competing well amongst the old guard.

  Visit Pearse Lyons Distillery. Learn all about the whiskey-making heritage of The Lyons family. Having moved from Ireland to Kentucky in 1976, to work at the Gems Whisky distillery, they've come back to take the Irish whiskey scene by storm. Take in the impressive Trilogy Tasting Experience at their distillery, located in the former Church of St. James.

  Evening free in Ireland's capital city also known as "Fair City". Dublin City is a treasure trove of historic buildings and famous landmarks, including the Ha'Penny Bridge, the General Post office and the modern addition to O'Connell Street; The Spire of Dublin.

  Once your luggage has been unloaded, bid a fond farewell to your Driver-Guide (1 Person) taking with you many great memories from your journey together.

  Tonight you will overnight at Trinity City Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Teeling Distillery
  • Pearse Lyons Distillery
  • Trinity City Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 11

  Day 11: Departure Day

  Bid a fond farewell to Ireland! Please have hotel reception staff call you a taxi to take you directly to Dublin Airport. We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight, to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in. Depart on your return flight home with fond memories.

Roads Less Travelled

• 10 Days

  A week and a half of discovery

• Alternative Ireland

  Venture through lesser-known Ireland

• Circuit Tour

  This Circuit Tour lets you start and finish in Dublin

The alternative "Best of Ireland" tour. This tour takes in all the places the other tours rarely go to. See the sights less seen but still worth a visit. This tour is perfect for those on their second visit to Ireland.

What you will experience each day...

• Day 1

  Day 1 Itinerary

  Welcome to Dublin! On your arrival at Dublin Airport, once you have collected your luggage, make your way to the Arrivals Hall where your Driver-Guide will be waiting for you with a sign.

  Once all introductions have been made and your luggage loaded on your luxury air-conditioned touring vehicle, your journey begins!

  Enjoy a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

  Afternoon free in Ireland's capital city also known as "Fair City". Dublin City is a treasure trove of historic buildings and famous landmarks, including the Ha'Penny Bridge, the General Post office and the modern addition to O'Connell Street; The Spire of Dublin.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included Today

  • EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Brooks Hotel

• Day 2

  Day 2 Itinerary

  Travel south to tour Wicklow Mountains. Such was the level of rebel activity in these hills outside the capital city of Dublin that the British Government built a military road crossing the mountains to enable troops to be deployed into the area quickly. Today the principal activity is mountain sheep farming and recreation with over 54,000 acres of woods, bogs and upland heath forming Wicklow National Park.

  Visit Powerscourt Estate. The gardens at Powerscourt are amongst the finest in Ireland, both for their design and for their dramatic setting at the foot of the Great Sugar Loaf.

  Visit Glendalough. Nestled in the deep in the spectacular Wicklow Mountains. The steep wooded slopes of Glendalough, the "valley of the two lakes", harbour one of Ireland's most atmospheric monastic settlements. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Return to Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Brooks Hotel.

  Included Today

  • Powerscourt House & Gardens
  • Glendalough Monastic Site
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 3

  Day 3 Itinerary

  Depart for Ballymacarbry on the Tipperary/Waterford border.

  Visit Kilkenny Castle. This imposing structure dominates the skyline of Kilkenny City. It has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first building; a wooden tower, in the 12th century. William the Earl Marshall built the first stone castle on the site, in 1260.

  Free time in Kilkenny City. As you walk the medieval streets of Kilkenny, you might want to visit the Kilkenny Design Centre or take time for a pint of Smithwicks, an Irish Red Ale brewed in Kilkenny.

  Continue on to Tipperary.

  Visit The Rock of Cashel. Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

  Travel on to Ballymacarbry.

  Tonight you will overnight and dine at Glasha Farmhouse. Nestled between the Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains, the farmhouse gives you a unique insight into rural Irish life. Enjoy a relaxed evening with your Irish hosts.

  Included Today

  • Kilkenny Castle
  • The Rock of Cashel
  • Glasha Farmhouse (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

• Day 4

  Day 4 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Kinsale.

  Your route will take you through less frequented idyllic rural villages and hamlets on the Tipperary and Waterford borders before travelling over the spectacular Knockmealdown Mountains through the beautiful Vee Pass. Take a few moments at the top of this mountain pass to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Golden Vale, the name given to some of Ireland's finest rolling pastureland, and the Galtee Mountains.

  The scenic drive continues as you follow The Vee into the beautiful heritage town of Lismore. On crossing the River Blackwater you are greeted by the imposing Lismore Castle situated on a steep hill overlooking the town. Over its 800-year history, it has been owned by some notable figures from history including Sir Walter Raleigh, the English Statesman who introduced the potato to Ireland, and Robert Boyle considered the father of modern chemistry to its current owner the Duke of Devonshire. The American actor Fred Astaire was a frequent visitor to Lismore Castle, as his sister was married to the son of the 9th Duke of Devonshire.

  Free time in Lismore, and we would suggest you take a few moments to visit the beautiful medieval St. Carthage's Cathedral.

  Today, you will visit Lismore Castle Gardens. Once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh and said to be Ireland's oldest continuously cultivated gardens, Lismore Castle Gardens invites its visitors to explore its seven acres of manicured lawns and stunning selection of flowers, including; rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias.

  Cross into County Cork and travel on via Tallow and Midleton.

  Visit Midleton Distillery Experience. You will experience a fully guided tour. Here you will find the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons.

  Continue on to Kinsale.

  Tonight you will overnight at Actons Hotel. Located in the picturesque fishing village of Kinsale, County Cork, this four-star boutique is the perfect spot for anyone spending time in the area.

  Included Today

  • Lismore Castle Gardens
  • Midleton Distillery Experience
  • Actons Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 5

  Day 5 Itinerary

  Morning free in Kinsale. The Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale is one of the most picturesque towns on the southwest coast of Ireland. Boland's Craft Shop is just one of the many unique stores that are well worth a visit.

  Visit Charles Fort. This star-shaped fort was built in the 1670s by the English to protect Kinsale harbour against foreign naval forces.

  Depart for the world-famous Killarney Town, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

  Tonight you will overnight at Great Southern Killarney. Built in 1854, this iconic hotel is the very definition of luxury, with a rich and interesting history and the most up-to-date guest amenities.

  Included Today

  • Charles Fort
  • Great Southern Killarney (Breakfast Included)

• Day 6

  Day 6 Itinerary

  Tour the spectacular rugged Beara Peninsula, one of Ireland's most compelling and beautiful locations. The Miskish and the Caha mountains form the rugged spine of the Beara Peninsula which pokes into the wild Atlantic Ocean, . This maritime influence allows subtropical trees and shrubs to escape domesticity and go native in the endless hedgerows lining the leisurely roads that meander between Beara's cosy, colourful villages, and parishes.

  The Beara Peninsula is densely studded with Bronze Age remains, including wedge tombs, stone circles and standing stones. Rich deposits of copper drew prehistoric settlers to the peninsula and, for a time at least, the industrial revolution in the 19th century. The economic importance of the sea has never waned, however, and Ireland's largest whitefish fleet is based in the busy fishing port town of Castletownbere.

  Return to Killarney.

  Tonight you will overnight at Great Southern Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Helen's Bar (Pub Lunch)
  • Great Southern Killarney (Breakfast Included)

• Day 7

  Day 7 Itinerary

  This morning, after breakfast, you will begin one of the great coastal scenic routes of the world up the Atlantic west coast of Clare to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.

  Your journey will take you through North Kerry before crossing into Limerick to visit the beautiful, thatched village of Adare, considered by many as Ireland's prettiest village and home to the 2027 Ryder Cup.

  See The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

  Visit Cliffs of Moher. Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

  Continue up the Atlantic seaboard via Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan to Dunguaire Castle (This is a drive-by only and only noted for its scenic location overlooking Galway Bay) at Kinvarra.

  Continue on to Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”.

  Tonight you will overnight at Park House Hotel. This grand Victorian-style hotel is located in the heart of Galway City, a two-minute walk from Eyre Square.

  Included today:

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Park House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 8

  Day 8 Itinerary

  Depart for Rossaveal in South Connemara to visit Aran Islands. The three islands found at the mouth of Galway Bay, have remained virtually unchanged for centuries and the majority of its population of 250 people still speak the old Gaeilge (pronounced "gail-ga") language — a language once spoken by Irish people throughout Ireland.

  Please note the driver-guide and vehicle will not travel to Aran Islands.

  10:30Travel by ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands.

  12:00 Guided Tour on local mini-bus of the largest of the Aran Islands with its several large prehistoric forts including a visit to Dun Aengus.
  

  16:00 Return ferry from the island
  

  Meet your Driver-Guide in Rossaveal and return to Galway City.

  Tonight you will overnight at Park House Hotel.

  Included today:

  • Aran Islands Ferry (From Rossaveal)
  • Aran Islands Ferry (Minibus Tour)
  • Aran Islands Ferry (Dun Aengus Admission)
  • Park House Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 9

  Day 9 Itinerary

  Depart for Dublin City across the centre of Ireland through the counties of Westmeath, Offaly, Meath and Kildare.

  Visit Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.

  Continue on to Dublin.

  Visit Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.

  Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.

  Included today:

  • Clonmacnoise
  • The Guinness Storehouse
  • Brooks Hotel (Breakfast Included)

• Day 10

  Day 10: Departure Day

  Meet your driver-guide at the agreed time in the lobby of your hotel and make the short journey to Dublin Airport.

  We would advise that you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your international flight to allow you sufficient time for a stress-free check-in.

  Depart on your return flight home with wonderful vacation memories!