Country Roads of Ireland (Classic, End Belfast, 12 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through the heart of Ireland and Northern Ireland, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience, from the vibrant streets of Dublin to the dramatic cliffs of Moher, the serene beauty of the Ring of Kerry, and the ancient walls of Derry. With expert guides and unique experiences, you'll explore iconic landmarks, savor local cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Irish people. Whether you're kissing the Blarney Stone or marveling at the Giant's Causeway, each day promises new adventures and cherished memories. Join us for a tour that captures the essence of the Emerald Isle, blending tradition with modern comforts, and discover why Ireland is a destination like no other.
Included
5 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.
Ballygally: The Irish call it 'craic' - the warm feeling resulting from the confluence of music, drink, good food, laughter, and conversation. And after circumnavigating the Emerald Isle, there's bound to be a fair share of craic at your grand finale Celebration Dinner. Sláinte!
Killarney: Meet passionate restaurant owners John and Freda at their beautiful guesthouse in Killarney, where you'll hear more about their Farm-to-Table concept, while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients sourced within a five mile radius. John and Freda have a policy that all food is sourced locally from farms and the coach of the Emerald Isle. On the farm they also grow and harvest all their own fruit and veg. They educate their visitors about sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
Handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels in great locations
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.
Ballygally: Explore this seaside town with your Travel Director.
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.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe’s elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
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.
Kilkenny: Visit Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. On a guided tour, learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came to call it home for so many centuries. Amble through the Picture Gallery, library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendour as well as the rolling parkland formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and man-made lake.
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.
Londonderry: There's no better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
Giant's Causeway: Visit the legendary Giant's Causeway, site of wonders. At the visitor centre, learn about the efforts to protect biodiversity and ecosystems, participating in habitat restoration. The National Trust charity has been undertaking replanting activities in Innisfree Farm, adjacent to the Causeway. By sowing a field of Herbal Ley seed mixes containing up to 17 different species, they have prioritized biodiversity and quality food production leaving a low carbon footprint. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Cahir: See one of the largest castles in Ireland dating back to the 13th century.
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.
Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive to Slea Head past the sandstone mountains.
Carrickfergus: See the immense Castle as your drive around it.
Belfast: Meet Hilda, a true Belfast local, having lived in the same house her entire life. During your panoramic tour, hear about the history of the city and learn why Hilda is proud of its progress and current prosperity. You'll also see the City Hall, Queen's University, Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents.
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.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1
- Dublin - Arrival day
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Kick off your adventure in Dublin with a delightful dinner hosted by your Travel Director. This evening provides the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow travelers, setting the stage for the journey ahead.
Day 2
- Dublin
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- The Book of Kells Experience
- Castletown House
- Miners Village
- Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
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Explore the elegant squares of Dublin with a Local Expert. Discover the city's rich history as you visit the Custom House, Christchurch Cathedral, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy a special visit to see the Book of Kells and stroll through the historic courtyards of Trinity College.
Day 3
- Dublin
- Cork
- Kildare
- Kilkenny
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- Kilkenny Castle
- Cahir Castle
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Begin your day with a visit to a renowned racehorse breeding center, followed by a serene walk through the Japanese Gardens. Continue to the medieval city of Kilkenny to explore the majestic Kilkenny Castle. Learn about its history and admire its Victorian-era rooms. Journey through Cahir, passing by its 13th-century castle, before arriving in Cork. Here, your Travel Director will guide you through the vibrant university city, showcasing its waterfront and Georgian architecture.
Day 4
- Blarney
- Cork
- Killarney
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- Blarney Stone
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Visit the legendary Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous stone for the gift of eloquence. Continue your journey across the scenic Derrynasaggart Mountains to the lively town of Killarney. In the evening, enjoy a Farm-to-Table dining experience at the 19th Green Guesthouse, where you'll savor delicious Irish cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 5
- Killarney
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- Ross Castle
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Choose between a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a gentle hike along the lake shore and past Ross Castle. Then, embark on a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry, where you'll witness breathtaking landscapes of mountains, valleys, and lakes. Visit charming villages like Sneem and admire the views from Moll's Gap. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure.
Day 6
- Dingle
- Killarney
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- Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
- Cill Maoilchéadair
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Experience the stunning coastal scenery of the Dingle Peninsula, a location made famous by the film 'Ryan's Daughter.' Travel to the dramatic Slea Head at the peninsula's far end, taking in the breathtaking views before returning to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 7
- Galway
- Dingle
- Killarney
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- Cliffs of Moher
- Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail
- Eyre Square
- Lahinch Golf Club
- Salmon Weir Bridge
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Visit the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, offering panoramic views of the Clare Coast. Travel through the unique landscape of the Burren before arriving in Galway. Explore the city's historical sites, including the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square, dedicated to John F. Kennedy.
Day 8
- Galway
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Enjoy a day at your own pace in Galway. Relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city. For those seeking adventure, consider an optional excursion to the Aran Islands, a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way, known for their stunning cliffs and coastal views.
Day 9
- Galway
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Cross into Northern Ireland, admiring the Blue Stack Mountains of Donegal along the way. Arrive in the ancient walled city of Derry, where you'll enjoy a guided tour with a local storyteller. Explore the historic city walls, Shipquay Street, and the Gothic Guildhall.
Day 10
- Antrim
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Visit the iconic Giant's Causeway and learn about the National Trust's efforts to balance farming and biodiversity. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast, arriving at your hotel overlooking Ballygally Bay. For the brave, explore The Ghost Room in one of the castle's turrets. Conclude the day with a Celebration Dinner, blending traditional hospitality with fine food and wine.
Day 11
- Antrim
- Belfast
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Travel along the Antrim Coast, passing the impressive Carrickfergus Castle, to reach Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Join a Local Expert for a passionate city tour, taking in views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont, and the city's famous murals.
Day 12
- Belfast - Departure day
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Conclude your incredible journey with departure transfers to Belfast George Best City Airport and Belfast International Airport. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and friendships made during this remarkable tour of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
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