Kreider & Finch Irish Adventure Final Information

Karen, Bob, Geoff & Jen

Saturday 1st June – Wednesday 12th June 2024

Number of Travellers: 4
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

Overview

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, 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.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a distillery tour and tasting in the vibrant Killarney
  • Spot soaring wildlife as you walk along the Cliffs of Moher
  • Marvel at the spectacular scenery during your tee times

Day by Day

Day 1 - Saturday 1st June - Karen & Bob Exploring Kenmare

Arriving in Kenmare today, you’ll be staying in Sheen Falls Lodge, situated amidst the majestic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry. En route, we’ll suggest lots of stops for you to break up the drive and stretch the legs.

Booking reference: 041566

Car rental: Booked by client

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Room Type: x1 classic double
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Suggested Stops Read More +

The Rock of Cashel Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, The Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Book tickets online in advance.

Blarney Castle & Gardens Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy – there are over 60 acres of gardens here to explore. Book tickets online in advance.

Driving route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k2nXs81TTBZNWAmy9

Day 1 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend Mikey Ryan’s in Cashel.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Dine at your accommodation, or alternatively, we recommend No. 35 Restaurant.

Day 2 - Sunday 2nd June - Karen & Bob Begin Tour

Organised by clients.

Day 3 - Monday 3rd June - Welcome to Dublin Geoff & Jen!

On arrival in Dublin, make your way to your centrally located hotel. This afternoon we have organised an engaging walking tour of the lively capital city. Explore some of Dublin’s best-known attractions, while also enjoying the benefit of local knowledge by visiting spots hidden off the tourist trail. Later this afternoon, enjoy some free time, before dining in the hotel’s restaurant or in one of the many delightful eateries that pepper the streets of this vibrant, capital city.

Booking reference: 22382029

Car rental: Booked by client

Overnight: Dublin | The Alex
Room Type: Classic King Room
Meals Included: None

Day 3 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend lunch at your hotel.

Day 3 - Historical Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Historical Walking Tour
Guide: Tommy
Start Location: The lobby of The Alex Hotel | Start Time: 15:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)87 688 9412

Tommy or one of his guides will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Matt The Thresher or The Winding Stair. We are happy to make reservations for you in advance.

Day 4 - Tuesday 4th June - Vintage Afternoon Tea

Enjoy a morning to yourself before heading out for some lunch time fun! Take a step back in time with Vintage Tea Trips and experience Dublin in a unique way. Indulge in afternoon tea treats, great conversation and tap your feet along to some fabulous 1950s jazz while taking in the sights of the city. Board your vintage Routemaster bus in historic Temple Bar. Soak up the nostalgia as your host gets the conversation started, the music begins, and a classic afternoon tea is served. Pass sights such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church, Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, Wood Quay, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and the grand buildings of Georgian Dublin.

Overnight: Dublin | The Alex
Room Type: Classic King Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Suggested Stops Read More +

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.

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.

Day 4 - Vintage Tea Trip Read More +

Activity: Vintage Tea Trip
Start Location: St.Stephen's Green | Start Time: 13:45 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs
Booking Reference: #209177907
Phone: 012551777

Walking route note: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LBaPubRB4CieRZxR9

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Bang Restaurant or Sole Seafood. We are happy to make reservations for you in advance.

Day 5 - Wednesday 5th June - Killarney Distillery & Brewery Tour

Say goodbye to Dublin this morning, make your way to Co. Kerry. Later on today, both couple will get together and embark on an immersive distillery and brewery tour tour, where you’ll discover the art and science of how these products are made. The expert team will guide you through each step and you will finish with a tasting on site. Later on, enjoy a delicious dinner,  settle in for the night or head out and experience some traditional Irish music in one of Killarney’s many famous pubs.

Booking reference: 285126691 & 285126780

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: x2 Superior Manor House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Directions Read More +

Driving route for Geoff & Jen: https://maps.app.goo.gl/22yZRs1PGRGksJ9b9

Note: This is about a 4 hour drive, we recommend checking into your hotel first and then heading for the tour.

Day 5 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend Kitty O Se’s for lunch, located in Killarney town.

Day 5 - Killarney Brewery & Distillery Read More +

Activity: Killarney Brewery & Distillery
Start Location: Killarney Brewing & Distilling Co. - Killalee, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 FA43 | Start Time: 16:00 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs
Phone: +353 64 663 6505

Driving route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jq3bszrmc2MJWxzH6

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder or Treyvaud’s. We are happy to make reservations in advance.

Day 6 - Thursday 6th June - Golf at Waterville & The Ring of Kerry

This morning, make your way to Waterville House for a round of golf. This unique site location ensures a complete and unspoilt visual and audible environment– affording a unique tranquillity that is unmatched in golf.  On the drive back take in the magnificent coastal views before you as you meander through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes on the Ring of Kerry. From coastal cliffs to emerald-green valleys, navigate the winding roads as picturesque villages, lakes and mountains unfold before you.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: Superior Manor House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Golf at Waterville Links Read More +

Activity: Golf at Waterville Links
Start Location: Waterville | Start Time: 12:50 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)66 947 4102 | Website: https://www.watervillegolflinks.ie

Driving route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RxWHtVigK2AsUzMU9

This is the scenic driving route, along the first half of the Ring of Kerry. A quicker route can be taken if needed.

Driving route back: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KPZY9a8UZoLXP2ZPA

Again, this is the scenic route home.

Day 6 - Suggested Stops Read More +

Ladies View A breathtaking view of moorland, mountains and lakes – and great pit stop for some photos!

Kenmare Stone Circle Built during the Bronze Age, this monument is one of the largest stone circles in south West Ireland and is 3,000 years old.

Derrynane House The ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, lawyer, politician and statesman, and one of the great figures in modern Irish history.

Derrynane Beach Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and just south of the village of Caherdaniel.

Kells Bay House & Gardens Kells Bay is one of Ireland’s most spectacular settings, and the scenery offers a wonderful backdrop to Kells Bay Gardens. Known locally as the ‘Jewel on the Ring,’ the Gardens cover just over 17 hectares, containing a large collection of sub-tropical plants.

 

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Your hotel offers delicious dining options. Alternatively, we recommend Bricin or The Tan Yard.

Day 7 - Friday 7th June - Kerry to Galway via The Cliffs of Moher

This morning, leave Co. Kerry behind and make your way north to the vibrant city of Galway. We recommend shortening the drive by taking the ferry to travel across the mouth of the mighty River Shannon – keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you cross! En route, stop off at the famous Cliffs of Moher – quite possibly the most iconic spot in all of Ireland. Rising 700 feet out of the swirling Atlantic, we recommend walking along the cliff-side path for stunning vistas, dramatic panoramas and diving seabirds. Continue on to your accommodation and enjoy a delicious meal onsite.

Overnight: Galway | Glenlo Abbey
Room Type: x2 superior kings
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Directions Read More +

Driving route to Shannon ferry: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fs22X9nhyjCuAm3j6

Ferries leave on the hour, every hour and tickets can be booked online at Shannon Ferries.

Driving route to Galway via Cliffs of Moher: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G5bymLfe2pxLNUGh6

Scenic driving route to Galway via Cliffs of Moher & Black Head: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DSZ3Bm9Ls3PmJmYH7

Day 7 - Suggested Stops Read More +

Moher Cottage The perfect pit stop for a coffee, snacks and gifts en route to the Cliffs.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre You can book online or when you arrive at the carpark. Note: This can be very busy all year round, but if you walk along the Cliffs the crowds will get thinner.

Day 7 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend The Ivy Cottage in Doolin.

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend the Pullman Restaurant, located at your hotel. We recommend booking this in advance.

Day 8 - Saturday 8th June - Galway Food Tour

Galway is the west coast’s most vibrant urban centre and a great place to visit. What better way to spend an afternoon here than a delectable food tour? 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. After your tour, a stroll through shop street and a coffee stop at the Spanish Arch is recommended. Later on, catch a trad music session in one of Galway’s many lively pubs.

Overnight: Galway | Gleno Abbey Hotel
Room Type: Garden Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Galway Food Tour Read More +

Activity: Galway Food Tour
Guide: Sheena
Start Location: Outside McCambridges, Shop Street | Start Time: 12:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)86 733 2885

Sheena or one of her guides will meet you outside shop street. Please contact her directly if you are delayed.

Driving route into the city (we recommend parking at Q Park pay as you go parking): https://maps.app.goo.gl/HBskkNDE59wGDZFeA

Alternatively, take a taxi into town. This can be arranged by the concierge at your hotel.

Day 8 - Suggested Stops Read More +

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.

Salthill Promenade Salthill is a seaside resort area on the northern shores of Galway Bay and features a promenade offering views of the nearby harbour city of Galway and the Aran Islands.

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend Ard Bia or Sangria for dinner tonight (both in the city).

Day 9 - Sunday 9th June - The Aran Islands

it’s time for Geoff & Jen to say goodbye and head to the airport while Karen and Bob set sail for the Aran Islands. It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you will take to the water and ferry to Inis Mor. The history of these islands goes back millennia and today Gaelic is still the daily spoken language of the inhabitants. The Aran islands seem to defy their size by all they have to offer: breathtaking scenery, medieval castles, cliffs and prehistoric forts are all to be found on this little group of islands. Padraig and Aonghus will meet you at the ferry port and together you will explore Inis Mor in style – in a 4×4 jeep! Visit off the beaten track locations that only they can reach and learn the history of this ancient Island from these two native islanders.

Overnight: Galway | Glenlo Abbey
Room Type: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Directions Read More +

Driving route to Dublin airport: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VvBprZa2uVwipGf49

 

Day 9 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Aran Island Ferries
Booking Reference: 2364499
Contact Number: +353 (0)91 568903

Outward Journey Departure Port: Rossaveel | Outward Journey Departure Time: 10:30
Outward Journey Arrival Port: Inis Mor | Outward Journey Arrival Time: 11:30

Return Journey Departure Port: Inis Mor | Return Journey Departure Time: 17:00
Return Journey Arrival Port: Rossaveel | Return Journey Arrival Time: 18:00

Please arrive at the ferry port at least 30 minutes before your departure time. You can collect your tickets from the Pier office, booked under Mr & Mrs Kreider.

Driving route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/c55Vhb5fGnkV6L3r6

Day 9 - Aran Off Road Experience Read More +

Activity: Aran Off Road Experience
Guide : Padraig
| Approx Duration: 4.5 hrs Booking Reference: 208739481
Phone: 083 018 5175

As you depart the ferry, your guides will be a 2 minute walk up the pier and to the right of the Horse and Carriage park. Please ensure that you have your mobile device switched on as they will contact you when the ferry arrives.

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

As you have travelled a lot today, we recommend dining at your hotel this evening.

Day 10 - Monday 10th June - On the Road to County Down

Today you have a long drive ahead of you (4hr) but we will provide lots of recommendations for stops along the way! As you leave the rugged west coast behind the scenery transforms into rolling green hills, picturesque countryside, and quaint villages. You’re officially in the North of Ireland – remember, the currency is pounds here! Your home for the next two nights is a 5 star hotel in the charming seaside town of Newcastle, nestled under the awe-inspiring Mourne Mountains. This evening after dinner, we recommend a lovely walk along the picturesque promenade, offering stunning views of the Irish Sea and the sweeping coastline.

Overnight: Newcastle | Slieve Donard Hotel
Room Type: Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Directions Read More +

Day 10 - Suggested Stops Read More +

Athlone Castle Built for King John of England in 1210, this castle has endured like no other and has a tremendous amount of history attached to it.

Dun Na Si Heritage Park Dún na Sí (pronounced Doon na Shee) translates from Irish as “the fort of the fairies”. It is named after the local folklore that some lone hawthorn bushes (often known as fairy bushes) once marked the presence of a ‘fairy fort’ which previously existed in the park.

Belvedere House A stunning Georgian country house that dates back to 1740.

Day 10 - Lunch Details Read More +

For lunch in Athlone we recommend The Villager. Alternatively, there is a cafe located at Belvedere House & Gardens.

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Tonight, dine at your hotel or alternatively, we recommend Urban Restaurant.

Day 11 - Tuesday 11th June - Ardglass Golf Club

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a tee time surrounded by the raw beauty of the Irish coastline and majestic Mourne mountains. Ardglass Golf Course is one of the world’s oldest clubhouses, house dating back to 1405AD. Later on, why not treat yourself to a spa treatment at your hotel before dinner?

Overnight: Newcastle | Slieve Donard
Room Type: Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Golf Tee Time Read More +

Activity: Golf Tee Time

Start Location: Ardglass Golf Club | Start Time: 11:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Booking Reference: Bob & Karen Kreider
Phone: +44 (0)28 44 841219 | Website: https://www.ardglassgolfclub.com/

Driving route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/A5qVj6xiG7xNdovT9

 

Day 11 - Lunch Details Read More +

We recommend lunch at Ardglass.

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

We recommend The Quays or Ocho Tapas.

Day 12 - Wednesday 12th June - Depart

This morning, make your way to Dublin airport for your flight home. Depending on your flight time you may have time for one last stroll around the promenade before departure. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Directions Read More +

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 (not including day 2) to Day 11
  • Breakfast each morning
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically;
  • Historical Walking Tour of Dublin
  • VIP Vintage Afternoon Tea Tickets
  • Brewery Tour in Killarney
  • Tee time at Waterville
  • Ferry to Inis Mor
  • Private 4×4 Experience
  • Private Food Tour in Galway City
  • Teatime at Royal County Down Golf Club
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24 hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for activities, caddys, accommodations etc.
Important Additional Information Read More
  • Ireland Guide / Information General Info - PDF: View Now
  • On-Call Phone Number - PDF: View Now

Accommodation

Sheen Falls Lodge

Kenmare | Kerry |
V93 HR27 | Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)64 664 1600
Web: sheenfallslodge.ie

The Alex Hotel

2 Fenian Street | Dublin 2 | Dublin |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 607 3700
Web: thealexhotel.ie

Cahernane House Hotel

Muckross Road | Killarney | Kerry |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)64 663 1895
Web: cahernane.com

Glenlo Abbey

Bushypark | Co. Galway |
H91 XD8K | Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)91 519 600
Web: glenloabbeyhotel.ie

Slieve Donard Hotel

Downs Road | Newcastle | Down |
BT33 0AH | Ireland
Phone: +44 (0)284 372 1066
Web: marineandlawn.com/slievedonard