Butterfield & Robinson

Day 1 - Saturday 24^th May - Welcome to Dublin

Arriving in Dublin this morning, Fionnuala will meet you at the airport and after some brief introductions, set out from the city and travel west to the real Ireland and home to the Wild Atlantic Way.

We stop on the way to explore Clonmacnoise. A stunning early Christian monastic site nestled along the River Shannon, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual and scholarly past. Spend a peaceful afternoon exploring its ancient round tower, cathedral ruins, and beautifully carved high crosses.

This evening, check into the 800-year-old Ashford Castle. Once owned by the Guinness family, today it is one of Ireland’s premier castle hotels.

We have made reservations for you this evening in Cullen’s on the Ashford Estate.

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: Corrib lake
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Sunday 25^th May - Sheepdogs in Connemara National Park

After a leisurely breakfast, we venture into Connemara National Park. Located in County Galway, spans over 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, bogs, and woodlands, offering visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s natural beauty.

Enjoy a visit to a working sheep farm. While you watch the brilliant sheepdogs work the flock, chat to the local farmer about a life spent on the rugged west coast.

Spend the rest of the day enjoying the park with your guide, with options to walk the pristine beaches, much in the little tea rooms and craft shops of the local villages or visit the Benedictine Abbey of Kylemore.

Tonight, arrive at your cosy hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner inspired by the seasons.

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: Corrib Lake
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Monday 26^th May - Cooking Class

Join a local chef today for your hands-on Taste of Ireland cookery workshop.
From Irish starters to traditional scones to the main course and not forgetting dessert, Sinéad will walk you through all the steps in producing a delicious meal. At the end, you can sit down, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labour…

This afternoon, journey south from Ashford to Adare, a majestic Manor House and one of Ireland’s finest stays. We have made reservations for you this evening in Aunty Lena’s, a local pub and restaurant.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Tuesday 27^th May - The Burren National Park and The Cliffs of Moher

This morning, head out to explore the fascinating Burren landscape – fissured plateaus of limestone and shale, vast in their captivating and barren beauty. Accompanied by your guide Fionnuala, wind your way over the stark rocky terrain, past prehistoric tombs and through wildflower grasslands.

We stop for a delicious lunch at The Burren Perfumery, a charming little oasis within the heart of this dramatic landscape.

Later, visit the striking Cliffs of Moher, absorbing their majesty in a quiet, secluded spot away from the crowds. Home to thousands of seabirds, including razorbills, fulmars and puffins, the cliffs are alive with activity above the crashing waves far below.

This evening, return to your luxury hotel retreat for a drink or two by the crackling fire.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Wednesday 28^th May - Adare to Ballyfin Demense

Relax on site at Adare Manor this morning, take a stroll or a bike ride around the grounds. Borrow a golf cart and visit the onsite chocolate shop,  or check out the spa and pool facilities. If you need a little movement, we highly recommend a game of pickleball at the Adare Paddle Club.

After check-out, we transfer to Laois and to Ballyfin Demense, where Fionnuala will leave you and the Ballyfin team will treat you like one of the family.

Enjoy lunch in the Library, before your afternoon massage treatments.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Thursday 29^th May - On site at Ballyfin Demense

Begin your day at the luxurious Ballyfin estate with a charming horse and carriage ride through the lush grounds, past serene lakes, manicured gardens, and sweeping views of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. In the afternoon, enjoy a refined traditional tea followed by an elegant dinner in the grand State Dining Room, where gilded ceilings, candlelight, and fine Irish cuisine create a timeless and unforgettable experience.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Friday 30^th May - Ballyfin to Dublin- Afternoon Food Tour

A morning transfer takes you an hour and a half to Dublin, back to where it all began.

Check-in may not yet be available at The Merrion, but you are free to store your bags, freshen up and get ready for your food tour with Eveleen at 1 pm.

Enjoy the best of the lively food scene in Dublin with a Fab Food Trail! On a gentle stroll, visit up to six different places with wonderful tastings to reflect both the traditional and Irish table today.

We have not made a dinner reservation for you this evening, but we thought you might appreciate the options to grab a light bite after today’s tour.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Saturday 31^st May - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast