FTM Travel
tel: US: 844 235 6240 Out of Office: +353 873 7223
Monday 1st July – Sunday 14th July 2024
Picturesque coastal towns and villages, green pastoral fields, soaring cliffs, wild barren landscapes, the crash of the ocean, the laugh of a local. Ireland is romantic, and authentic, a home away from home where both old and modern seem to cohabit seamlessly on a small island in the middle of the sea. Packed with history and tradition your days are spent exploring Ireland’s famous and off-the-beaten-track sites of natural, cultural, and ancient interest. A world-renowned food scene means your evenings are spent dining in style and with the promise of a pub just around the corner, music and laughter are never far away. Your trip to Ireland will surprise and delight you but the people of Ireland will stay with you, long after your journey has taken you home.
Arriving in Ireland today, a private transfer will pick you up from the airport and whisk you to your boutique hotel in the city centre. Check in, grab a bite and Dublin is yours to explore for the afternoon. We’ll give you plenty of recommendations to keep you busy throughout the day. This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Dublin’s many award-winning restaurants before ending the night in a cosy pub.
Hotel ref: 229003672
Overnight: Dublin | Brooks Hotel
Room Type: x1 Triple Room
Meals Included: None
Supplier: Dublin Chauffeurs
Pick Up Location: Arrivals Hall, Dublin Airport | Pick Up Time: 13:15 | Approx Duration: 0.5 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)87 233 8396
Justin or one of his drivers will meet you in the arrivals hall. They will have a sign with Bivens on it. They have your flight details so please don’t be alarmed if you are delayed.
Your hotel offers lunch onsite. Alternatively, we recommend Bloom Brasserie.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral As the largest cathedral and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Ireland, Saint Patrick’s has been at the heart of Dublin and Ireland’s history and culture for over 800 years.
EPIC Museum You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold here, but you will discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists, and even outlaws all over the world.
Kilmainham Gaol For over 100 years Kilmainham Gaol held thousands of men, women, and children for crimes that ranged from minor offences to being involved in some of the most momentous events in Irish history.
Dublin Castle Constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland.
Dublinia See Dublin from a new perspective as you travel back to the heart of the old city at Christchurch. Walk where Vikings walked, find out about Dublin’s rich past and even climb an original Medieval tower.
14 Henrietta Street When you enter 14 Henrietta Street you’ll experience over 300 years of city life in the walls of one address. By connecting to the personal stories of those who called 14 Henrietta Street home, the building’s hidden histories are revealed. See the house, hear its stories, and discover the layers of Dublin’s history within its walls.
Please check the opening hours for your specific dates.
We recommend The Winding Stair, Sole Seafood & Grill or The Boxty House (a modern take on tradtitional Irish food).
For pubs we recommend Doheny & Nesbitt’s, The Hairy Lemon or No Name.
After a delicious breakfast head out to enjoy a walking tour with a private guide through the rich musical heritage of Dublin. Led by a knowledgeable local, you’ll stroll through the streets of Dublin and discover the stories and songs of the city’s most impactful musicians. From traditional Irish music to the sounds of rock, pop, and beyond, Dublin has been a melting pot of musical creativity for centuries. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic landmarks and venues associated with legendary artists such as U2, Thin Lizzy, The Dubliners, and more, hearing tales of their rise to fame and the lasting impact of their music on the city. Grab lunch in a traditional pub with a cosy open fire before spending the remainder of your day wandering around Dublin. We have some great experiences and tours to suggest from Whiskey to Guinness to history and the natural world.
Overnight: Dublin | Brooks Hotel
Room Type: x1 Triple Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Musical Walking Tour of Dublin
Guide: Joseph Jordan
Start Location: Brooks Hotel | Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: + 353 83 177 1144
Joseph will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
The Guinness Storehouse Savour the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of Guinness. The story of Guinness is a living one. It is one that started with such optimism that its founder, Arthur Guinness, signed a 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin.
National Gallery of Ireland At the corner of Merrion Square West and Clare Street, the recently renovated National Gallery is a treasure trove of permanent and temporary art exhibitions. Highlights include Ireland’s National Portrait Collection, the Yeats Archive and stained glass by Harry Clarke.
Jameson Distillery Founded by John Jameson in 1780, today the former factory stands as a monument to Irish Whiskey.
Please check the opening hours for your specific dates.
We recommend Boeuf & Frites, The Church or Agave.
This morning, you’ll drop Jay off at his program, pick up your rental car, and head south out of the city to your next accommodation, located in a secluded County Wicklow Valley. Spend the afternoon relaxing or take a walk along the nearby trails before grabbing dinner – we recommend the Strawberry Tree Restaurant!
Hotel ref: 169204
Overnight: Wicklow | Brooklodge
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K89302662F0
Pick Up Location: Hertz, South Circular Road | Pick Up Time: 10:00
Phone: +353 (0)53 915 2552
We recommend getting a taxi to Hertz.
Fuel – vehicle provided with a full tank of fuel once returned full no additional fuel charge to be applied.
Brooks Hotel to Brooklodge: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QFkq1TKyTizLZB8N7
Powerscourt Estate & Gardens Named 3rd Best Garden in the world by National Geographic, lose yourself in 47 acres of carefully curated and maintained gardens.
The Spa at Brooklodge We recommend booking treatments in advance.
Beyond The Trees Avondale The first of its kind in Ireland, the fully accessible Treetop Walk and Viewing Tower takes everyone to the very heart of the forest at Avondale, and beyond. Driving route here.
The Macreddin Trail The Macreddin Trail provides the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely stroll and admire the magnificent surrounding views.
There are a number of dining options at your accommodation.
One of Ireland’s six national parks, the Wicklow Mountains are the epitome of Irish countryside. Meet a local hiking guide this morning, pull on your hiking boots to trundle through the heather-topped Wicklow Mountains, following trails once traversed by pilgrims and monks. On your way, bask in panoramas of patchwork fields dotted with white fluffy sheep, each lined with hedgerows and old stone walls. With a few different options through the Wicklow Mountains, work with your guide to find the best one for you. In the evening, tuck into a cosy pub for a satisfying end-of-hike pint.
Overnight: Wicklow | Brooklodge
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Name:
Tom Meehan
Contact Number: +353 (0)86 258 1071
Meeting Place: Upper Lake Car Park - Glendalough - 2M44+X3 Knockfadda, County Wicklow | Meeting Time: 10:30
Please wear appropriate hiking gear and waterproof clothing if needed. Tom will provide lunch for you. Driving route to meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GXBvrF7XT7aAx48i6
Glendalough Monastic Site We recommend sticking around Glendalough after your hike to explore one of the most famous religious centres in Europe.
We recommend The Wicklow Heather in nearby Laragh for dinner.
The medieval town of Kilkenny is certainly one of our best-kept secrets. An artsy, colourful town, Kilkenny is home to local artists such as ceramics and other hand-made crafts found in the craft village. Probably the most impressive sight in town is Kilkenny Castle. One of the most fascinating castles in Ireland, you’ll take a guided tour to learn about the massive restoration process behind the castle, following clues back through the years to restore the castle to its former glory. As the hometown of Smithwick’s beer, you’ll certainly have to enjoy some of the local brews.
Hotel ref: 353223
Overnight: Kilkenny | Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Brooklodge to Kilkenny Hibernia Hotel: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MjQKQufnGxfYoTRn7
Activity: Guided Tour of Kilkenny Castle
| Start Time: 11:30
Phone: +353 (0)56 770 4100
Your voucher is attached.
We recommend The Fig Tree Restaurant.
Medieval Mile Museum Located in the heart of Kilkenny, on the site of 13th-century St Mary’s church and graveyard, the Medieval Mile Museum represents an immense treasure trove of artifacts encompassing more than 800 years of history.
Smithwicks Experience Smithwick’s ale has been brewed here in Ireland since 1710. Immerse yourself in the story of Smithwick’s, where over 300 years of history combine with extraordinary brewing innovations to create the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny.
Nicholas Mosse Pottery & Mill Cafe A beautiful studio set in a former flour mill in the picturesque village of Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny. Browse the range of intricately detailed pottery, linen, and glass, and enjoy food and drinks in the upstairs café.
We recommend Statham’s or La Rivista.
Today you will meet a local historian for a guided tour of Kilkenny city. Admire the Medieval architecture and stories of those who built it, and visit all the major Medieval sites, such as Rothe House, the Black Abbey, St. Canice’s Cathedral, St. Francis’ Abbey, the market area and St. Mary’s Church. Learn all about the fascinating stories of the people who lived during these times. Afterward, take some time to wander around Kilkenny’s picturesque streets, lined with colourful buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafes.
Overnight: Kilkenny | Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Guided Tour of Kilkenny
Guide: Aidan
Start Location: Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel | Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 87 672 3889
Nevin will meet you in the lobby of your hotel.
We recommend Cafe La Coco or Aran Bakery.
Butler Gallery Butler Gallery is one of Ireland’s leading contemporary art galleries and museums with a permanent collection.
Jerpoint Glass Studio Take a trip to the glass studio where each piece is lovingly made by hand. Pop over to the viewing area and watch a glassblowing demonstration.
We recommend Statham’s by Pembroke Kilkenny or Sullivan’s Taproom & Brewing Company.
This morning you will continue your journey south to Kinsale. A foodie haven and the end of the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale is a bolthole for Ireland’s most culinary-minded and its pretty harbour with mystical sea views is an idyllic place for an adventure. En route, we have booked you tickets to the Rock of Cashel, an immaculately preserved cathedral overlooking the sweeping landscape below. Continue on after lunch and check into your accommodation with stunning harbour views.
Overnight: Kinsale | Perryville House
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kilkenny to Kinsale via The Rock of Cashel: https://maps.app.goo.gl/facenM6Ptn1bFGzQA
Activity: Guided Tour of The Rock of Cashel
| Start Time: 10:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)62 614 37
Your voucher is attached below.
We recommend Mikey Ryan’s Bar.
Charles Fort A massive star-shaped structure of the late seventeenth century, well preserved despite its history. We recommend walking here and back.
Kinsale Mead Co. Discover the world’s oldest alcohol made in Ireland’s first meadery in 200 years.
We recommend Malay Kitchen or Man Friday Kinsale.
After breakfast, it’s time to explore Kinsale. Historically a medieval fishing port, its spectacular waterfront setting, and candy-coloured houses, shops, and restaurants, make it a glorious blend of old and the new. You’ll embark on a delightful culinary journey where every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and local flavour. As your local guide regales you with stories of the town, enjoy fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, and vibrant produce sourced from nearby farms. Afterward, enjoy a stroll through the village and a browse in the stores before heading back to your accommodation.
Overnight: Kinsale | Perryville House
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Kinsale Food Tour (Public)
Start Location: The Mast on Pier Road opposite Actons hotel | Start Time: 14:00 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs
Phone: +353 851076113
Walking Route to Meeting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UKBf5CU9CnXCokXQ7
Desmond Castle The early-16th-century tower house was occupied by the Spanish forces in 1601 and served as a customs house, prison, and famine workhouse before housing the small International Museum of Wine.
Old Head Signal Tower & Lusitania Museum 13 kilometres south of town, The Old Head of Kinsale Signal Tower is a beautifully restored viewing point and museum.
Walking & Hiking There are plenty of hiking trails of different levels to choose from.
We recommend Supper Club or The White Lady.
Checking out of your hotel this morning, say goodbye to Cork as you make your way further north to Killarney. Before doing so, the first port of call is Blarney where you will visit the castle and kiss the Blarney Stone. Continue on after lunch to check in to your accommodation, stopping by a sheep farm where you can watch their sheepdogs at work. Your hotel is nestled on a private estate on the edge of Killarney National Park. Enjoy some free time to explore the colourful Killarney town this afternoon, known for its bustling atmosphere and traditional Irish pubs. Finish the day listening to some tunes by an open fire.
Hotel ref: 333672680
Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x1 Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving route via Blarney & Kissane Sheep Farm: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rmWNuW8CocGegrJz8
Activity: Admission to Blarney Castle
| Start Time: 10:30
Your tickets are attached below.
We recommend stopping in Kemare for lunch. Bean & Batch is a delicious lunch spot.
Kenmare Stone Circle Locally known as ‘the Shruberries’, the Kenmare stone circle is probably the largest one in the southwest of Ireland and it is composed of 15 heavy boulders, with 13 standing and two prostrate at the north.
Kissane Sheep Farm Meet the sheep in their natural environment and see the skilled Border Collie dogs at work.
We recommend Celtic Whiskey Bar or Treyvaud’s.
This morning you’ll make your way in to Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown. Today the park encompasses 26,000 acres of mountains, woodlands, lakes, waterfalls, and history. Enjoy Kerry’s most breathtaking scenery on your doorstep. A local guide will meet you here and together you will visit the medieval tower house at Ross Castle, visit Torc Waterfall, and enjoy a hike around the woodlands. A day spent in Killarney National Park will always be memorable.
Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x1 Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Name:
Katie Gordon
Contact Number: + 353 874748735
Meeting Place: Ross Castle | Meeting Time: 10:00
Please wear comfortable hiking boots and waterproof clothing if needed. Katie will provide lunch for you. Driving route to meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SWLDnzp8VhuPP1Qs7
We recommend Bricin or you can dine at your hotel.
Leaving the Kingdom of Kerry behind this morning, make your way into the neighbouring counties of Limerick and Clare. Your first stop this morning is into the buzzing village of Adare, where you can stretch your legs with a wander between its traditional thatched-roof cottages, local art galleries, and warming cafes. Further up on your drive north, the real treat for the day is to see the famous Cliffs of Moher up close. Dropping some 700 feet below to the sea, the Cliffs are set among a jaw-dropping landscape with the cobalt waters swirling below and rolling green sheep-laden fields toward the land. Retire for the evening in Galway city, the unofficial capital of Ireland’s west coast with a rich history and strong culture which we will explore more tomorrow.
Hotel ref: 133194459
Overnight: Galway | The Dean
Room Type: x1 Super Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving Route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sFeuyymACQbFBHwG6
Longer driving route via Black Head (scenic drive with lots of viewing points): https://maps.app.goo.gl/GWeXcNWk4umGHU1YA
Adare Village Voted “Ireland’s Prettiest Village” this is a great half way point to stop, stretch the legs, and grab a bite to eat. Enjoy the quirky storefronts and thatched-roof cottages. We recommend Oak & Apple for lunch.
The Cliffs of Moher One of Ireland’s favourite visitor experiences, the Cliffs of Moher towers over the rugged west Clare coast. Enjoy the spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands.
We recommend Sangria or dining at Sophie’s, located at your accommodation.
Known as the ‘town of the tribes’ the small centre of cobblestone streets and colourful store fronts is vibrant, fun, and cosmopolitan. What better way to spend an afternoon here than a delectable food tour? Stop off in the city and tantalise your taste buds with a delightful journey through Galway’s culinary scene. From artisanal cheeses, craft beers, to handcrafted chocolate, this will be a true feast for the senses. To top off the day and to celebrate your final night in Ireland, we have organised an intimate performance of Irish dance in one of the oldest pubs in Galway. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere, music and dance unique to this island while enjoying a glass of uisce beatha (water of life).
Overnight: Galway | The Dean
Room Type: x1 Super Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Galway Food Tour
Guide : Danny
Start Location: The lobby of the Dean | Start Time: 13:45 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +353 85 8309 643
Danny will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. We advise having a small breakfast this morning.
Eyre Square Eyre Square is the focal point of Galway and it was renamed Kennedy Memorial Park in 1965, after J.F.K himself had visited. Today Galway’s main square is a large, open plaza, home to mini festivals, local and international buskers, musicians and street performers.
Galway City Museum & The Spanish Arch Learn all about the history of Galway city through the archaeology, art, geology, natural history, social, political and industrial materials preserved here. Take a peek at the historical Spanish Arch, located where Galway’s River Corrib meets the sea. This is a tranquil spot that tourists and locals alike enjoy. Visit the remnants of a 16th century bastion which was used to protect merchant ships from looting.
Galway Cathedral One of the city’s biggest buildings, Galway Cathedral is home to a huge octagonal dome visible for miles. Building of the cathedral began in 1958 on the site of an old county jail. The modern cathedral houses some interesting statues, a rose window and a huge crucifixion mosaic. It is built of Galway limestone and locally-quarried Connemara marble.
Shop Street Packed with buskers, restaurants, pubs and people – Shop Street is the beating heart of the city. It’s worth a browse in the local shops and at the street art.
Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop A must visit for book lovers! Explore their labyrinthine maze of over 100,000 books: new, second-hand, bargain and antiquarian.
We recommend Ard Bia or Kai Restaurant.
It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you and a local guide will take to the water and ferry to The Aran Islands. The history of these islands goes back millennia and today Gaelic is still the daily spoken language of the inhabitants. Experience breathtaking scenery, mediaeval castles, cliffs, and prehistoric forts on Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands. Your walk today can be tailored to you and there is plenty of exploration to be done if that suits you better!
Overnight: Galway | The Dean
Room Type: x1 Super Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Name:
Pearse O Toole
Contact Number: 353 (0)86 0215412
Meeting Place: Rosaveel Pier | Meeting Time: 10:00
Driving Route to meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KZ1anxussgNZKS2F8 Please wear comfortable hiking shoes and waterproof clothing if needed. Your return ferry is at 5pm.
We recommend dining at your hotel as you have a long day.
This morning it’s time to check out and drive to Dublin to drop your car at the branch there. We hope you had a wonderful time exploring Ireland and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K89302662F0
Drop Off Location: Hertz, South Circular Road | Drop Off Time: 13:00
Phone: +353 (0)53 915 2552
Driving Route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/52KZZNpJvmWA8XWr5
Please note Hertz closes at 3.30 pm. Please arrive at the drop-off location before this time.
Please see our booking terms here.
Macreddin Village |
Aughrim |
Co. Wicklow |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)402 36444
Web: brooklodge.com
1 Ormonde Street |
Kilkenny |
Co. Kilkenny |
R95 WTK3 |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (56) 777 1 888
Web: kilkennyhibernianhotel.com
Long Quay |
Kinsale |
Cork |
P17 RK16 |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)21 477 2731
Web: perryvillehouse.com
Muckross Road |
Killarney |
Kerry |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)64 663 1895
Web: cahernane.com
80 Prospect Hill |
Galway |
Co. Galway |
H91 T9C4 |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)91 749 200
Web: thedean.ie/galway