October 20, 2015

Journey Through Ireland Castles & Manors Escorted Tour

Written By Admin

Day 1: 
Arrive in Dublin, Ireland

On arrival into Dublin enjoy a city tour of Ireland’s capital. Highlights of this morning city tour include to Trinity College where you will see the famous ‘Book of Kells’, a tour of Christchurch Cathedral which dates back to 1028 and hosts a medieval crypt and stunning interior and no trip to Dublin would be complete without a stop at Guinness Storehouse where you will get to sample a pint of the “Black Stuff” in the gravity bar with panoramic views of Dublin. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner with your driver/guide.

Accommodation: The Davenport Hotel, 1 night.

Day 2:

Waterford

Today you will head to Waterford with a stop in Kilkenny to visit the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. Two wings of the castle have been restored to their 19th Century splendour and include a library, drawing room and the noted Long Gallery. A suite of former servants rooms now houses the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art. Then you will visit the Waterford Crystal showrooms, where you will get an up close insight into the making of the crystal. The perfect place to pick up some presents. Then on to Waterford which is Ireland’s old city and was established by the viking raiders. You will enjoy dinner in your hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Waterford Castle, 1 night

Day 3: 
Cork

On to Midleton where you will visit the Old Midleton Distillery which is home to Jameson Irish whiskey. Learn about craftmanship and complete the tour with a whiskey tasting. Then you will visit the Cobh Heritage centre. Cobh was one of the major embarkation points of emigrants during the 19th and 20th centuries and also the last port of call for the Titanic before she sank on her maiden voyage. Continue to Cork City on the River Lee, a city more than 800 years old, the second largest city of the Irish Republic, lively and prosperous with a keen sense of its own cultural identity.

Accommodation: Maryborough Hotel, 1 night.

Day 4: 
Killarney

Head to Bantry Bay and on to Glengarriff.  Cross the spectacular Caha Pass into Kenmare situated on the Kenmare River, a very picturesque town. Tour north through Moll’s Gap and enjoy the ‘Short Ring of Kerry,’ and stop at Ladies View for a panoramic view over the Lakes of Killarney and Killarney town.  Enjoy dinner in your hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Cahernane, 2 nights.

Day 5:

Killarney

Tour the “Ring of Kerry” which is one of the most scenic routes in Ireland. Beginning and ending in Killarney, it traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula. The combination of ocean, islands, mountains with its many towns and villages makes it an exciting journey of discovery. Take an Irish Jaunting Cart ride through the Killarney National Park, to Muckross House where we visit this wonderful museum of Irish life in the 18th century.

Day 6:

Dromoland

On route to Limerick City you will enjoy a stop at one of Ireland’s prettiest villages Adare. You will have a city tour of the historic city of Limerick. Next visit Bunratty Folk Park, a living reconstruction of the homes and environment of Ireland of over a century ago. Roam through the park and see the rural farmhouses, village shops and streets which have been recreated and furnished to a time that once was. You will enjoy dinner in your hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Dromoland Castle, 1 night

Day 7:

Galway

Travel to the majestic Cliffs of Moher which soar over 700 feet over the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Travel through the Burren, an eerie expanse of land scraped bare by the glaciers during the Ice Age. Enjoy an orientation tour of Galway city before heading to ‘Trad on the Prom’ a contemporary Irish Show featuring a mix of traditional irish music, song and dance.

Accommodation: Glenlo Abbey, 2 nights

Day 8:

Aran Islands

Take an air excursion to the largest of the Aran Islands – Inismor.  The Aran Islands represent a  precious sanctuary of Irish cultural tradition. Enjoy a two hour tour of the island, including a visit to the ancient fort – Dun Angeus.  Explore the island before taking your return flight back to the mainland.

Day 9:

Dublin

Today we head back to Dublin, enroute we visit the National Stud and Gardens. The world renowned National Stud is home to some of Ireland’s finest thoroughbreds. The stud also boasts a fascinating horse museum, which explores the history of Ireland’s long standing relationship with her horses. The Japanese Gardens were planned to symbolise the life of man from the cradle to the grave, they are considered the finest of their kind in Europe. Next it’s on to Newbridge Silver and Museum of Style. For 70 years, Newbridge Silverware has been designing and producing quality giftware and tableware. The museum features signature pieces from Ireland’s most notable designers and showcases artefacts associated with some of the most legendary stars of the silver screen including Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Enjoy a farewell dinner in your hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Fitzpatricks Killiney, 1 night

Day 10:

Depart Ireland

This morning you are transferred to Dublin airport for your return flight home.

Slan Leat!

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