Ashford Castle & Ireland's Icons (Small Group, 10 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
Dublin
Duration
10 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
5 years

Description

Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour of Ireland, where the lush landscapes and rich history promise an unforgettable experience. From the stunning Powerscourt Gardens to the vibrant streets of Dublin, each day offers a new adventure. Discover the charm of Cork, the iconic Blarney Castle, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and explore the cultural hub of Galway. Conclude your journey with a luxurious stay at Ashford Castle, where history and elegance intertwine. With carefully curated experiences, delightful accommodations, and the warm hospitality of the Irish, this tour is a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion.

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Included

6 Dinner (D)

9 Breakfast (B)

Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.

Ashford Castle: Dine on delicious Farm-to-Table fare in a stylish setting at the iconic George V Dining Room.

Dublin: Celebrate a memorable journey in Ireland on your final night out in Dublin - hub of food and drink culture including the Guinness factory. In 1759, Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on St James Gate Brewery. After your final night out in Dublin, Guinness will be awaiting your return to the Emerald Isle.

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Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

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Handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels in great locations

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From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You’ll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.

Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.

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Choose between two carefully selected activities

Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.

Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

Dublin: History and famous figures. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin. It is also on this site where St. Patrick reputedly baptized the local Celtic chieftains in the 5th century. The cathedral was later built between 1191 and 1270 and has come to be famous for its choir, also Ireland’s oldest. The cathedral’s burial site of author Jonathan Swift is one of approximately 700 burials on the site.

Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.

Wicklow: The walled gardens and rambling walks of Powerscourt Gardens will enchant any traveller. On your visit, these carefully curated and maintained gardens and magnificent mansion house will delight your senses and inspire your imagination. Stroll through the manicured formal gardens and terraces passing striking statues, lakes and secret hollows. You’ll savour taking in the wonder of nature curated by world-class gardeners. Your visit directly supports UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land.

Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.

Connemara: With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey’s history, discovering how it was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.

Sligo: Sit back and relax as you learn from a Local Specialist how, at this largest lake in Southern Ireland, archaeologists are just beginning to learn how this lake’s importance in trade in their discovery of several preserved 5000-year-old boats.

Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

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Map

Attractions

Photo of amazing Cliffs of Moher at sunset in Ireland, County Clare.Cliffs of Moher
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, Pollacappul, Rinvyle ED, Conamara Municipal District, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandKylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
photo of view of Croagh Patrick, Ireland.Croagh Patrick
Irish National Stud & Gardens, Tully East, Kildare ED, The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge, County Kildare, Leinster, IrelandIrish National Stud & Gardens
Killarney National Park, Glenna, Muckross ED, Killarney Municipal District, County Kerry, Munster, IrelandKillarney National Park
Greenan Maze, Ballinanty, Ballinacor ED, The Municipal District of Arklow, County Wicklow, Leinster, IrelandGreenan Maze
Photo of fountain depicting Galway Hookers in Eyre Square with Browne doorway in background in Galway, Ireland.Eyre Square
photo of view of Aughnanure Castle in Ireland.Aughnanure Castle
People's Park, Glasthule, Dun Laoghaire-Glasthule ED, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, County Dublin, Leinster, IrelandPeople's Park
photo of Blarney Castle, Co.Cork, Ireland, home of world famous Blarney Stone .Blarney Stone
photo of Front old City Gaol in County Cork. Republic of Ireland. Historic prison was built in 1824.Cork City Gaol
Powerscourt House & Gardens, Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry ED, The Municipal District of Bray, County Wicklow, Leinster, IrelandPowerscourt House & Gardens
Bailick Park
Photo of the St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland.St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower, Ballymackean, Ballymackean ED, The Municipal District of Bandon – Kinsale, County Cork, Munster, IrelandLusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower
St. Mary's Abbey, Howth, Howth ED, Fingal, County Dublin, Dublin 13, Leinster, IrelandSt Mary's Abbey

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Powerscourt Gardens

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Powerscourt House & Gardens
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Begin your Irish adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Powerscourt Gardens. Spanning 47 acres, these gardens boast magnificent terraces, ornamental lakes, and a diverse array of trees and shrubs. Recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens globally, this is the perfect introduction to Ireland's natural beauty. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner with fellow travelers.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Dublin

  • Dublin
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  • Greenan Maze
  • People's Park
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
  • St Mary's Abbey
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Explore Dublin's rich history with a guided tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's largest church. Learn about its fascinating past, including its connection to Jonathan Swift. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, wandering along Grafton Street, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Temple Bar, or relaxing in the serene St. Stephen's Green. Alternatively, opt for an evening of food and entertainment at a Dublin Dinner and Cabaret.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Cork

  • Kilkenny
  • Cork
  • Dublin
  • Kildare
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  • Irish National Stud & Gardens
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Bailick Park
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Delve into Ireland's equestrian heritage at the Irish National Stud before heading to Cork. Discover the city's charm with a visit to the historic English Market, where local delicacies await. Explore Cork City Gaol, a museum that offers a glimpse into the city's past. With the evening free, immerse yourself in Cork's vibrant music scene or enjoy a traditional Irish pub dinner.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Blarney Castle to Killarney

  • Blarney
  • Killarney
  • Cork
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  • Blarney Stone
  • Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower
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Visit the iconic Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous stone to gain the 'gift of the gab.' Explore the enchanting Witch's Kitchen and Wishing Steps gardens. Later, journey to Killarney, a gateway to the stunning Ring of Kerry. Enjoy a Dine-Around evening, sampling Irish specialties, followed by an optional experience of traditional Irish music and dance.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Ring of Kerry

  • Killarney
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  • Killarney National Park
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that showcases Ireland's stunning coastal landscapes. Marvel at the vibrant seaside villages and the majestic Atlantic Ocean. Venture inland to explore the lush greenery and serene lakes of the region. Enhance your journey with an optional Jaunting Cart Ride through Bourn-Vincent National Park. Return to Killarney for a sumptuous three-course dinner.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Cliffs of Moher to Galway

  • Galway
  • Killarney
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  • Cliffs of Moher
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Begin your day with a ferry crossing to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, where you'll be captivated by the dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Discover the diverse birdlife that inhabits this natural wonder. Continue your journey through the unique rocky landscape of the Burren before arriving at the vibrant city of Galway, known for its lively arts scene and cultural festivals.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Galway

  • Galway
  • Clifden
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  • Eyre Square
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Immerse yourself in Galway's vibrant culture, known as Ireland's festival capital. Explore the city's artistic side with an orientation tour, including a visit to Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. With the rest of the day at leisure, continue to explore Galway's lively streets or join an optional walking tour with a pub dinner.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Kylemore Abbey to Ashford Castle

  • Galway
  • Cong
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  • Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
  • Croagh Patrick
  • Aughnanure Castle
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Discover the picturesque Kylemore Abbey, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning scenery. Enjoy a cruise on Lough Corrib, exploring one of County Galway's natural treasures. Conclude your day at the luxurious Ashford Castle, where a lone piper welcomes you. This five-star hotel, with its rich history and celebrity guests, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and elegance.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Ashford Castle to Dublin

  • Dublin
  • Cong
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  • Aughnanure Castle
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Take a leisurely stroll around the Ashford Estate, perhaps accompanied by the estate's Irish wolfhounds. Journey through Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, a serene and unspoiled region, before returning to Dublin. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace, exploring the capital's attractions. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships made on this unforgettable journey.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Departure from Dublin

  • Dublin - Departure day
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As your memorable journey through Ireland comes to an end, bid farewell to Dublin and the enchanting Emerald Isle. Reflect on the incredible experiences and friendships formed during this unforgettable tour.

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