Thursday 10th October – Saturday 19th October 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, 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 the island of Ireland’s famous and off the beaten track sites of natural, cultural and political 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, pick up your can rental so that you can hit the road early on Saturday. The drive into the city should take about 20/25 minutes. Check-in may not be available till later today however, you are welcome to leave secure your bags, freshen up, grab a bite to eat and head out to start exploring the city. There is no better introduction to Ireland than with a tour of The Guinness Storehouse, followed by a pint ( soft drink) in their sky bar with commanding views over the capital city and beyond. Within easy walking distance of your hotel are a host of museums including The Natural History Museum where examples of Ireland’s Celtic and Viking artefacts are on display. You have the leafy St Stephens Green, pedestrian shopping streets and Trinity & The Book of Kells.
Booking ref: 22461366
Overnight: Dublin | The Davenport Hotel
Room Type: 1 bed Suite consisting of one bedroom and one living room 2 x roll away beds
Car Rental Company: Enterprise (Car Rental) Ireland
Booking Reference: 1467141168
Pick Up Location: Enterprise Dublin Airport | Pick Up Time: 10:00
Phone: +353 1 844 5848
Enterprise Dublin Airport: Location.
Marcus Tibesar, Seat Tarraco or similar
Dublin Airport – The Davenport: Driving Route.
We recommend Bambino or Nancy Hands.
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 the 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.
Please check the opening hours for the day you will be visiting.
Activity: Guinness Storehouse
Start Location: Guinness Storehouse | Start Time: 16:30
Booking Reference: 902216606
Phone: +353 (0)1 408 4800 | Website: https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/home
Guinness Storehouse: Location.
Your tickets are attached to this email.
We recommend BANG Restaurant & Wine Bar, One Pico or Etto.
Head out this morning to enjoy a walking tour with a local private guide through this vibrant capital city, with its mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the mediaeval to Georgian to modern. See the Georgian style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, as well as O’Connell Street, the site of the ‘1916 Uprising’ that led to Ireland’s independence in 1922. Your guide is also a historian who will bring the city to life with colourful tales of life in the city in times gone by. This afternoon you are free to explore the city – Dublin is best explored on foot or using public transport such as the LUAS, our light rail system. Many of Dublin’s highlights are within walking distance and indeed you will discover it is in the act of wandering from one to another where you will soak up Dublin’s authentic atmosphere.
Overnight: Dublin | The Davenport Hotel
Room Type: 1 bed Suite consisting of one bedroom and one living room 2 x roll away beds
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Historical Walking Tour
Guide: TBC
Start Location: The Davenport Hotel Lobby | Start Time: 10:00
Booking Reference: Maggie Tibesar
Phone: +353 (0)87 688 9412
We will send your guide name 2 weeks before the departure date.
We recommend Bunsen or The Lucky Tortoise.
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.
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.
The GPO The GPO Museum is an immersive, interactive and engaging experience telling the story of the 1916 Easter Rising and Modern Irish History.
The Jeanie Johnston One million Irish people fled Ireland during the famine. 2,500 took a gruelling voyage on the Jeanie Johnston. Take a journey back in time, get an insight into life on board a Famine ship and hear the stories of the people who made the arduous voyage.
Marsh’s Library Marsh’s Library is a beautifully preserved library of the early Enlightenment. It was built with money provided by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh, an academic and book lover with a strong belief in the public utility of education and learning.
Please check the opening hours for the dates you’ll be visiting.
We recommend Delahunt, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud or Matt The Threshers.
Leaving Dublin, it’s time to head out west, to where the roaring wild Atlantic Ocean meets the tide-scarred shores of Ireland. Your destination this evening is the quaint little town of Kenmare along the Ring of Kerry. En route to Kerry, we recommend a stop at the little town of Cashel and a tour of the imposing 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 mediaeval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found, there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
Booking ref: 084453
Overnight: Kenmare | Brook Lane Hotel
Room Type: 2x Interconnecting Standard rooms, one double one twin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dublin to Kenmare via Cashel: Driving Route.
We recommend Mikey Ryan’s in Cashel.
The Irish National Stud Visitors to the Irish National Stud can avail of a free guided tour (included with the purchase of an admission ticket) which runs at regular intervals throughout the day.
The Rock of Cashel We recommend booking tickets in advance.
We recommend No. 35 at your hotel.
Today a local guide will meet you at your hotel and together you will travel to the southern shores of the Iveragh peninsula, also known as The Ring of Kerry, where you will meet one of our favourite characters. A fisherman, foraging expert, storyteller and a true Irish gent, John, will take you on a wander along the shoreline learning about life on Ireland’s west coast all the while regaling you with tales of characters from the region, from lonely monks to 18th century civil rights activists to mythical heroes. Take some time today to tour The Ring of Kerry with your guide stopping at picturesque bays and harbours and points of interest along the way before returning to your hotel.
Overnight: Kenmare | Brook Lane Hotel
Room Type: 2 x Interconnecting Standardrooms one double and one twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Meeting Place: The lobby of your hotel | Meeting Time: 09:00
We will forward your guide’s name the week before your trip.
We recommend The Lime Tree or Mulcahy’s Restaurant.
Killarney National Park is the most famous of Ireland’s national parks – and with good reason, as it is flourishing with breathtaking mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Historic manor houses and abbeys make for an interesting visit but Killarney is best explored via a private boat trip across the lake with a boatman whose furry friends join him daily. Before leaving Killarney we suggest you step back into the past on Muckross Traditional Farms and visit a very different Ireland – the Ireland of the 1930s and 1940s. Then, a trip to the well was still a daily chore for the housewife and electricity had yet to be introduced to the countryside. Leaving Killarney, your destination this evening is the lively town of Dingle.
Booking ref: # 256449
Overnight: Dingle | Dingle Skellig Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Family Room, 2 beds & a rollaway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Private Boat Tour
Guide: Dux
| Start Time: 10:30
Phone: +353 (0)87 269 4646
Kenmare to Ross Castle: Driving Route.
Meet your guide at the pier in front of Ross Castle. Please wear comfortable, waterproof clothing.
Muckross House & Gardens known throughout the world for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions, including the magnificent house itself, craft workshops, Garden Restaurant and 1920’s 1920s-style working farm.
Inch Beach Located just outside Dingle with dramatic expanses of windswept beach, ocean and mountains at their most beautiful by sunset and dawn.
Killarney to Dingle: Driving Route.
We recommend Land To Sea or The Half Door.
Spend today exploring the Dingle Peninsula; there is much to discover. This morning, you’ll meet some feather friends on an exhilarating Hawk Walk. Watch as these magnificent birds of prey swoop and soar with breathtaking speed and learn all about their fascinating habits. Options for the day include an exhilarating Sea Safari and a spot of dolphin and whale watching, strap on the boots and take to the hills and trails for a hike, grab some takeaway coffees and browse the local stores or take the famous Slea Head Drive route along the Wild Atlantic Way with ancient archaeological sites, like the Fahan Beehive Huts. The peninsula delivers breathtaking views around every corner. Be sure not to miss my personal favourite, Dunquin Harbour ( pictured). Round off your day with some award-winning ice cream and today is going to be a perfect day.
Overnight: Dingle | Dingle Skellig Hotel
Room Type: x1 Classic Family Room, 2 Beds & Rollaway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Private Falconry Experience
Start Location: Milltown House | Start Time: 11:00
Booking Reference: KIN-46715689
Phone: +353(0)87 055 23 13
Castlewood House to Milltown House: Route.
We recommend Danno’s Bar & Restaurant or Murphy’s Pub.
Dingle Sea Safari Booking online in advance is recommended.
Slea Head Drive One of the most scenic road trips in Ireland, this is a circular route beginning and ending in Dingle. There are plenty of viewing points en route. Driving route here.
Beehive Huts It’s the simple things in life that create the best memories. Hold a baby lamb is no exception. If you are lucky, you will arrive at feeding time and can even help out bottle-feeding one of the cute lambs. A fun stop-off as make your way around the Slea Head Drive.
The Conor Pass Ireland’s highest mountain pass (elevation of 456m). It is an area of immense natural beauty. Lakes, waterfalls, rivers and valleys that have been etched out by enormous glaciers during the ice age typify the area.
The Blasket Island Heritage Centre A fascinating heritage and cultural centre/ museum, honouring the unique community who lived on the remote Blasket Islands until their evacuation in 1953.
West Kerry Brewery Guided tours will take you through all aspects of production and better still…you will get the opportunity to sample some fantastic produce in the location where they are made!
We recommend Out of the Blue or Ashes Restaurant & Bar.
We take to the road again today, leaving Dingle and Kerry, crossing the Shannon River and entering Clare. Head into the heart of The Burren to meet with a local farming couple for a guided experiential tour of their farm. Discover how a real Irish farm works and learn about the ancient agricultural practices unique to the Burren’s landscape, before settling in with a home-grown picnic lunch among the fields. Use the quiet of the afternoon to visit Ireland’s famed Cliffs of Moher, part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, a special region with outstanding geology. Visually stunning, the Cliffs Stand 702ft at their highest point and stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic coast. Take in the views, stop into the visitors centre, and most of all, take a family selfie for those at home before heading for Doolin. Be sure to pick up some breakfast provisions and snacks en route!
Booking ref: 122538
Overnight: Doolin | Elfin Cottage
Room Type: Family Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Activity: Burren Farm Experience
Guide: Bronagh
Start Location: Burren Farm Experience | Start Time: 13:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +353 (0)86 3990 440
Dingle to Burren Farm: Driving Route. Lunch is included here today and will be provided by your guide.
Burren Farm Experience to Elfin Cottage: Driving Route.
Elfin Cottage to The Cliffs of Moher: Driving Route
The Cliffs of Moher You can buy tickets to the Cliffs on arrival or alternatively, online before you arrive.
We recommend The Ivy Cottage Or Anthonys at Doolin Inn.
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 The Aran Islands. 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. Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands, is your destination today where you will meet two brothers who offer a unique off road tour of the islands.
Overnight: Doolin | Elfin Cottage
Room Type: We suggest either Russel Cottage or Elfin Cottage
Meals Included: None
Operator: Doolin Ferry Company (O'Brien Line)
Contact Number: +353 (0)65 707 5555 / (0) 87 235 9918
Return Journey Departure Port: Inis Mor | Return Journey Departure Time: 16:15
Return Journey Arrival Port: Doolin
Elfin Cottage to Doolin Pier: Driving Route.
Your tickets are attached.
Activity: Aran Off-Road Experience
Guide: Padraig & Aonghus
Start Location: Inis Mor Pier | Start Time: 11:30 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Booking Reference: #234576818
Phone: +353 87 241 8657 | Website: https://www.aranoffroadexperience.ie/
Padraig & Aonghus will meet you at Inis Mor Pier after your ferry.
We recommend Teach Nan Phaidi or Joe Watty’s Bar.
We recommend the Homestead Cottage or The Roadside Tavern. Gus O’Connors is a good spot for some music.
Today you leave Doolin and the wild Atlantic coastline behind you making your way back to where it all began, Dublin. Before departing Doolin, we highly recommend an underground adventure at Doolin Caves, home to Ireland’s largest Stalactite. A firm family favourite the hour long tour sees you passing through caves and under overpasses, deep underground in a magical limestone wonderland. The girls will love it! Drive cross country to the coastal fishing village of Howth and your final night in Ireland. With so much relatively unspoilt upland, cliff, coastal and beach territory, Howth is the perfect location for a final night dinner and drink overlooking the picturesque harbour. We recommend the fish and chips with mushy peas!
Booking ref: 9635803722880
Overnight: Howth | King Sitric
Room Type: Deluxe Room - Second Floor. Double bed Sofa bed used for the girls, with 2 single duvets
Meals Included: None
Doolin to Howth: Driving Route.
Caherconnell Sheepdog Demonstrations Watch the collies showcase their skills in daily herding demonstrations. Take a tour of the 1,000-year-old fort, perfectly preserved.
Doolin Caves One of the oldest caves in Ireland, stroll through beautiful caverns and enjoy a fun and informative guided tour. We recommend booking tickets online.
Clonmacnoise Visit the 6th-century monastery located just outside of Athlone and around the halfway point of your drive.
If you visit Clonmacnoise, there is a cafe onsite. In Athlone, we recommend Bastion Kitchen.
We recommend The Pier House or The Abbey Tavern.
Drop off car at 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
Car Rental Company: Enterprise (Car Rental) Ireland
Booking Reference: 1467141168
Drop Off Location: Enterprise Car Hire - Dublin Airport | Drop Off Time: 11:00
Phone: +353 1 844 5848
Howth to Dublin Airport: Driving Route.
EU: +353 (0)91 457 898
US: 844 235 6240
8/10 Merrion Street Lower |
Dublin |
Dublin |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 607 3500
Web: davenporthotel.ie
Kenamare |
Kerry |
Ireland
Phone: https://www.thegreenhotel.ie/
Web: brooklanehotel.com
The Wood |
Dingle |
Co. Kerry |
V92 XF61 |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)66 915 2788
Web: castlewooddingle.com
Doolin |
Co. Clare |
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)61 411109
Web: doolinvillagelodges.com/about/lodges/elfin-cottage
East Pier |
Howth |
Co. Dublin |
D13 F5C6 |
Ireland
Phone: +353 1 832 5235
Web: kingsitric.ie
Thursday 10th October – Saturday 19th October 2024
