Best of Ireland

Welcome to Ireland

Write your own lively tale of legends and iconic landscapes during this epic encounter with Ireland's treasures. Begin your journey in the capital of Dublin, joining a Local Specialist to see the sights. This evening sees you visiting EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, for some drinks and canapes.

Clayton Ballsbridge, Sandymount

• Dublin

Through the Scenic County Wicklow and Waterford to Kilkenny Dive Into Culture

Journey through the scenic countryside of County Wicklow, 'The Garden of Ireland', and on to New Ross – the ancestral home town of John F. Kennedy. Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the plight of the starving Irish emigrants who boarded the Dunbrody Famine Ship to flee the potato famine. Continue to Waterford. This afternoon, celebrate the centuries-old craft of flint glass creations, as you Dive Into Culture at the House of Waterford Crystal and witness talented master crafters at work. Arrive in Kilkenny where you will stay for the night.

Kilkenny

• Dublin
• New Ross
• Waterford
• Kilkenny

Journey to Blarney and on to Killarney

Today, pursue the 'gift of the gab' at Blarney Castle, where you'll have a chance to kiss the famous stone. Consider joining an Optional Experience for a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. Arrive in Killarney for a two-night stay. During your journey, your Local Specialist will share fascinating anecdotes about the area and Ireland. In the evening perhaps join an optional Gaelic Roots show. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honoured folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.

Killarney, Killarney Towers

• Kilkenny
• Blarney Castle
• Killarney

A Day on the Ring of Kerry

Ireland's soul-stirring Ring of Kerry takes centre stage today as you embark on a scenic drive past its mountains, lakes and lush green countryside – unquestionably one of the most scenic routes in Ireland. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, Moll's Gap and the Black Valley, whose remoteness saw it become the last area in Ireland to receive electricity.

Killarney, Killarney Towers

• Killarney
• Ring of Kerry
• Killarney

Onwards to Lively Limerick

Continue through the windswept countryside, arriving in Adare, one of the prettiest villages in Ireland. On arrival in Limerick, you will enjoy views of St. Mary's Cathedral, the Treaty Stone and the 13th-century King John's Castle during an orientation tour. Delve into an Ireland of old, as you discover the day-to-day life of the Irish during the 18th and 19th centuries on your included visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this afternoon.

The Inn at Dromoland, Greenhills

• Killarney
• Adare
• Limerick

Admire the Cliffs of Moher and Onwards to Galway

The sheer Cliffs of Moher plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean, providing endless ocean views and wonderful photographic opportunities during your experience at this UNESCO-listed highlight along the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll be enchanted by its irresistible landscapes, but more so the interactive visitor centre which will bring the whole experience to life from the perspective of the resident wildlife that find sanctuary here. Later, arrive in Galway with some time at leisure to see its beautiful stone Cathedral or stroll through Eyre Square.

Connacht

• Limerick
• Cliffs of Moher
• Galway

A Day Exploring Stunning Connemara

Connemara's 'savage beauty' is yours to explore today as you tread in the footsteps of Oscar Wilde who described its 'wild and mountainous splendor' as magnificent. Admire the views on the scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey, now a Benedictine monastery, where you will embark on an included visit to the country's most romantic castle and walk through its exquisite Victorian Walled Garden.

Connacht

• Galway
• Connemara
• Galway

A Pilgrimage to Knock and on to Sligo Connect with Locals

Your journey takes you to Westport House to indulge in a memorable Be My Guest experience with tales of the Pirate Queen, and enjoy Banoffee and Baileys flavours in the Drawing Room of this stately 18th-century home. Heading north, stop in the pilgrimage town of Knock to view the Marian Shrine where villagers witnessed an apparition of Our Lady in 1879. Arrive in Sligo this evening, your home for the night.

Clayton

• Galway
• Westport
• Knock
• Sligo

Return to Lively Dublin

Continue south to Dublin. Here you’ll enjoy some free time to take a walk down Grafton Street or stroll along the Liffey. This evening, close the chapter on an epic journey through Ireland, joining your fellow travellers for a memorable dinner.

Clayton Dublin Airport

• Sligo
• Dublin

Farewell Ireland

After a hearty Irish breakfast, bid your Travel Director and fellow travellers a fond farewell as your Irish holiday comes to an end.

• Dublin