The best of the Emerald Isle. A wonderful leisurely tour designed to encompass the ‘must-see’ areas of Ireland, but also to go off the beaten track, meet the people, and enjoy the ‘craic’.
What’s Included
- Local coach travel to and from arrival and departure airports
- 11 nights accommodation with ensuite facilities
- All sightseeing tours travelling by air conditioned coach
- Entrance fees and sightseeing experiences
- Services of an experienced tour guide
What’s Not Included
- International air fares
- Meals (meal plans can be devised upon request)
- Optional theatre and gallery entrance charges
- Insurance
- Items of a personal nature
Shannon (1 night)
- Arrive in the land of the great Gaelic Chieftains and enjoy a welcome reception and dinner
Ashford Castle (2 nights)
- Enjoy your stay in one of the finest hotels in the world, located on a private estate along the shores of Loch Corriv
- Join a fishing guide for some of the best salmon fishing in Ireland or participate in a range of activities from horse riding to gentle walks
- Drive through beautiful Connemara, a stunning region of mountains and sparkling lakes
- Visit the impressive Kylemore Abbey
Donegal (2 nights)
- Travel to Knock, a village made famous as a site of religious miracles
- Enjoy free time in Sligo, ‘the land of heart’s desire’ as described by WB Yeats
- Explore the charming villages and fishing harbours of Donegal Bay
- Stop for a pint of Guinness at one of Donegal’s friendly Irish bars
Dublin (2 nights)
- Journey via the picturesque Shannon River to Dublin for independent sightseeing
- Enjoy an Irish evening of song and dance
- Join a guided tour of the city’s parks, gardens and historical buildings
- Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College and some of the many museums and galleries
Glendalough – Kilkenny (1 night)
- Travel to Glendalough, a beautiful secluded valley, for short walks and sightseeing
- Stay at Mount Juliet House, located on a magnificent estate with golf, fishing and horse riding possibilities nearby
- Enjoy a night out in one of Kilkenny’s excellent eating houses
Cork (1 night)
- Visit the fascinating Waterford Crystal Factory to see the highly skilled glass blowers, engravers and cutters at work
- Call in to the Cobh Heritage Centre to view exhibits and records of the town’s role in maritime history and its unique place as a centre for emigration from Ireland
- Guided walks and free time in Cork, Ireland’s second city
Killarney (1 night)
- Visit the 15th Century Blarney Castle, set amidst beautiful grounds
- Enjoy leisure time in Kenmore, a historic small town specialising in Irish crafts
- Enjoy panoramic views of Killarney’s lakes and mountains from your hotel
- Explore the ruggedly beautiful countryside of the Ring of Kerry and a hundred mile circle through some of Ireland’s best scenery
- Take short walks along easy coastline paths
Dromoland (1 night)
- Travel via Limerick to Dromoland Castle, a magnificent baronial estate
- Enjoy a farewell reception and dinner in the stately hotel