Country Roads of Ireland (Small Groups, End Dublin, 12 Days) (16 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting 12-day journey through the heart of Ireland and Northern Ireland, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided exploration and leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of the Emerald Isle. From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the dramatic cliffs of Moher, and from the ancient city walls of Derry to the iconic Giant's Causeway, each day promises new adventures and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delightful meals, and the expertise of local guides as you discover the charm and allure of this captivating region. Whether you're exploring medieval castles, savoring farm-to-table cuisine, or marveling at stunning coastal views, this tour is designed to create lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Ireland.
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 – Day 1: Welcome to Dublin
- Dublin - Arrival day
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Kick off your Irish adventure with a warm welcome dinner in Dublin. This evening, you'll have the chance to meet your fellow travelers and your Travel Director, setting the stage for the exciting journey ahead. Enjoy a delightful meal and lively conversation as you settle into the vibrant atmosphere of Ireland's capital city.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Dublin's Rich Heritage
- 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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Embark on a captivating exploration of Dublin with a Local Expert. Stroll through the city's elegant squares and admire iconic landmarks such as the Custom House, Christchurch Cathedral, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Delve into history with a visit to the 9th-century Book of Kells and wander through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College. This day promises a deep dive into Dublin's rich cultural tapestry.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Gardens to Castles
- Kildare
- Dublin
- Kilkenny
- Cork
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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 100-year-old Japanese Gardens. Continue to the medieval city of Kilkenny, where you'll explore the majestic Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. Learn about its history and admire the beautifully restored Victorian rooms. Journey through Cahir, catching a glimpse of its imposing 13th-century castle, before arriving in Cork. Here, your Travel Director will introduce you to the vibrant university city, known for its lively waterfront and grand Georgian architecture.
Day 4 – Day 4: Castles and Culinary Delights
- Killarney
- Cork
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- Blarney Stone
- Garinish Island (Oileán Garinish)
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Today, visit the famed Blarney Castle, where you can partake in the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone. Then, traverse the stunning Derrynasaggart Mountains to reach the lively town of Killarney. Here, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dining experience at the 19th Green Guesthouse, hosted by chef John Sheehan. Enjoy a delicious meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients and gain insights into beloved Irish recipes.
Day 5 – Day 5: Scenic Wonders of Killarney
- Killarney
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- Ross Castle
- Kingdom Falconry
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Start your day with a choice of a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a gentle hike along the lake shore, passing Ross Castle. Then, embark on a journey around the magnificent Ring of Kerry, where mountains, valleys, lakes, and sea create a breathtaking landscape. Visit charming villages like Sneem and admire the views from Moll's Gap. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps by hiring a bicycle to enjoy the scenic trails.
Day 6 – Day 6: The Dramatic Dingle Peninsula
- Killarney
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- Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
- Cill Maoilchéadair
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Today, enjoy a scenic drive through the Dingle Peninsula, known for its stunning coastal views and as the setting for the film 'Ryan's Daughter.' Visit the dramatic Slea Head at the peninsula's far end, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. After a day of breathtaking scenery, return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Cliffs to City
- Killarney
- Galway
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- Cliffs of Moher
- Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail
- Eyre Square
- Lahinch Golf Club
- Salmon Weir Bridge
- Burren National Park
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Visit the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Clare Coast. Continue your journey through the unique rocky landscape of the Burren to reach Galway Bay. In Galway, explore the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square, each offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure in Lively Galway
- Galway
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Today is yours to explore Galway at your own pace. Relax and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere or consider joining an optional excursion to the Aran Islands. Known for their dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal views, the islands offer a quintessential Irish experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Day 9 – Day 9: Into Northern Ireland
- Galway
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- Doagh Famine Village
- Ballymacool Park
- Glenevin Waterfall
- Sand Dunes at Lagg
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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 be guided by one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers. Explore the historic city walls, stroll down Shipquay Street, and visit the Gothic Guildhall, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's storied past.
Day 10 – Day 10: Natural Wonders and Coastal Beauty
Day 10: Natural Wonders and Coastal Beauty
Visit the iconic Giant's Causeway, where you'll learn about the National Trust's efforts to balance farming and biodiversity. Then, embark on a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast, renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Arrive at your hotel overlooking Ballygally Bay, where you can unwind and perhaps explore the intriguing Ghost Room in one of the castle's turrets. Conclude the day with a Celebration Dinner, savoring delicious food and wine in a setting that delights the senses.
Day 11 – Day 11: Belfast's Historical and Cultural Highlights
Day 11: Belfast's Historical and Cultural Highlights
Travel along the Antrim Coast, passing the impressive Norman castle at Carrickfergus, to reach Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Meet your Local Expert for a passionate city tour, taking in views of the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont. Discover the city's vibrant murals, each telling a story of the local residents' political sentiments.
Day 12 – Day 12: Farewell to Ireland
- Dublin - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey through Ireland with an early departure from Belfast, arriving at Dublin airport for your onward travels. Reflect on the memories made and the breathtaking landscapes experienced during this remarkable tour of the Emerald Isle.
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