Ultimate Ireland (Small Groups, 12 Days, Door To Door)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the vibrant streets of Belfast to the serene shores of Galway, this journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Ireland's most iconic destinations. Delight in luxurious accommodations, savor exquisite cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Irish heritage. Whether you're marveling at the geological wonders of the Giant's Causeway or sipping Prosecco in a Dublin museum, each day offers a new adventure. Join us for an unparalleled experience that captures the essence of Ireland's charm and allure.
Included
6 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
Belfast: Introduce yourself to Belfast the right way, with a hearty meal. Check in to the luxurious Grand Central Hotel and let your Travel Concierge take you for an à la carte dinner in a specially selected local restaurant.
Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favourite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
Killarney: Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Irish tonight as you join a local family at their home for dinner with entertainment, dancing and laughter.
Ashford Castle: Celebrate in royal style amongst the chandeliers and panelled walls of the historic George V Dining Room, named for the monarch who dined here in 1906 when he was the Prince of Wales. Chef Philippe Farineau presents a delicious menu for your evening.
Ashford Castle: Dine in the cosy surrounds of Cullen's at the Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage where you’ll be greeted with delicious aromas. Savour freshly-cooked local and international dishes in this former cinema, which premiered ‘The Quiet Man’ before Hollywood.
Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavours during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.
Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.
Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
Included at all hotels.
Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life and what it means to be a Dubliner.
Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.
Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations.
Belfast: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
Dublin: Explore historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Local Expert, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbour city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.
Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Concierges, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Belfast
- Belfast - Arrival day
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- Cave Hill Country Park
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Upon your arrival in Belfast, a private chauffeur will whisk you away to your luxurious accommodation at a top-tier hotel (or similar). As the evening unfolds, indulge in a sumptuous a la carte dinner at The Observatory Bar, where panoramic views of the city skyline set the perfect backdrop for the beginning of your Irish adventure.
Day 2 – Exploring Belfast's Heritage
- Belfast
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- Giant's Ring
- Cave Hill Country Park
- Whitehead Railway Museum
- National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain
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Dive into Belfast's rich maritime history at the Titanic Museum, where the story of the ill-fated ship comes to life. Customize your day with a guided tour of the city's iconic landmarks, including the grand City Hall, the prestigious Queen's University, and the stately Parliament Building at Stormont. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene with a visit to a renowned street artist's studio.
Day 3 – Natural Wonders and Historical Tales
- Belfast
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Embark on a private tour of the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a knowledgeable Local Ranger. Later, journey to Londonderry, where you'll be captivated by the city's rich history and political narratives, expertly recounted by Local Guide Ronan.
Day 4 – Dublin's Distinctive Flavors
- Strangford
- Dublin
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- Giant's Ring
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Travel to Dublin and delve into the city's brewing heritage at the Guinness Storehouse, where you'll learn the art of pouring the perfect pint. Alternatively, enjoy a private tour and cocktail at the Pearse Lyons Distillery, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Dublin's distilling traditions.
Day 5 – Cultural Treasures of Dublin
- Dublin
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- Miners Village
- Little Museum of Dublin
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
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Uncover the ancient secrets of the Book of Kells at Trinity College, followed by a guided tour of Dublin's iconic landmarks, including O'Connell Street and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Conclude your day with a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, where you'll sip Prosecco and hear fascinating local stories from the museum's founder.
Day 6 – Medieval Marvels and Natural Beauty
- Glendalough
- Kilkenny
- Dublin
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- Kilkenny Castle
- Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
- Glendalough Cathedral
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Explore the serene landscapes of Glendalough, known as the 'glen of two lakes,' with a Local Expert. Continue to Kilkenny, where you'll wander the Medieval Mile, linking the majestic Kilkenny Castle and the historic St. Canice's Cathedral. Retreat to the luxurious Lyrath Estate (or similar), nestled amidst picturesque lakes and gardens.
Day 7 – Legendary Castles and Local Hospitality
- Blarney
- Kilkenny
- Killarney
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- Rock of Cashel
- Blarney Stone
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Discover the storied Rock of Cashel, a symbol of Ireland's monastic heritage. Continue to Blarney Castle, where you can partake in the age-old tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone. In the evening, enjoy a warm Irish welcome with a home-hosted dinner, complete with lively entertainment and dancing.
Day 8 – Scenic Splendor of Killarney
- Killarney
- Kenmare
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- Killarney National Park
- Kingdom Falconry
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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Killarney National Park, where majestic mountains and tranquil lakes await. Traverse the iconic Ring of Kerry, taking in the stunning vistas of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks. Experience a traditional jaunting car ride, offering a unique perspective of Ireland's natural beauty.
Day 9 – Charming Villages and Coastal Wonders
- Limerick
- Adare
- Killarney
- Galway
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- Adare Town Park
- Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
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Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, where dramatic cliffs and windswept beaches captivate the senses. In the quaint village of Adare, explore charming thatched-roof cottages and ancient abbeys. Continue to Galway, where you'll unwind at the elegant Glenlo Abbey (or similar), overlooking the serene Lough Corrib.
Day 10 – Majestic Cliffs and Castle Elegance
- Galway
- Limerick
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- Cliffs of Moher
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Journey through County Clare to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, where the Atlantic Ocean meets towering cliffs. Arrive at the opulent Ashford Castle (or similar), where a royal welcome awaits. Savor a gourmet dinner at Cullen's at the Cottage, featuring seasonal Irish specialties.
Day 11 – Relaxation and Elegance at Ashford Castle
- Galway
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- Joyce Country Sheepdogs
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Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast in the comfort of your room. Engage with majestic birds of prey at Ireland's oldest falconry school or explore the castle's storied past on a guided tour. Indulge in a spa treatment or stroll the castle's magnificent grounds. Conclude your day with an exquisite dinner at the George V Dining Room.
Day 12 – Farewell to Ireland
- Shannon - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey through Ireland comes to a close, enjoy a private transfer to Shannon Airport, where you'll depart with cherished memories of your luxurious adventure.
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