Experience all the major attractions in the South of Ireland with this seven day unforgettable trip of a lifetime. Absorb the breathtaking history and culture of Dublins medieval roots with trips to Trinity College Library and St. Patricks Cathedeal. Work your way throughout the South coast stopping by all the famous attractions including Waterford Crystal factory, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher before capping off your magnificent experience with a final night stay in the spectacular Dromoland Castle.
Package Includes:
- 6 Nights Accommodations
- 2 nights Ballsbridge Towers, Dublin
- 1 night Montenotte Hotel, Cork
- 2 nights Scott's Hotel, Killarney
- 1 night Dromoland Castle, Clare
- Full Irish Breakfast Daily
- 6 full Irish breakfasts; 4 three-course dinners including a welcome dinner
- Sightseeing: St. Patrick's Cathedral; Trinity College Library; Glenalough; Waterford Crystal Factory and Showrooms; Blarney Castle; Ring of Kerry; Cliffs of Moher
- Private Luxury Coach with Professional Irish Guide
Itinerary:
DEPART USA Fly transatlantic overnight to Dublin, Ireland. Dinner is served and in-flight entertainment is provided.
ARRIVE IN DUBLIN, IRELAND Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring on your own. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a Welcome Dinner.
DUBLIN Comb the modern city of Dublin for its historical roots. Glimpse Viking and Medieval times as you pass by Christ Church to stately St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a legacy of religious power from the 12th century. On then to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin – Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the old library and see one of Ireland’s greatest treasures – the famed 8th-century Book of Kells. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Perhaps, explore the city’s stylish shops, galleries and museums, stroll through a park or relax in a café or pub.
DUBLIN/GLENDALOUGH/WATERFORD/CORK Travel through the serene Wicklow Mountains to the monastic ruins at Glendalough. Continue on to the ancient town of Waterford. At the renowned Waterford Crystal Factory, watch master craftsmen at work in the centuries-old tradition of glass blowing and engraving. Then, stroll through the splendid showrooms. Continue on to bustling Cork. After dinner tonight, a local historian will share adventurous tales of the sea and explain how Cork’s history is entwined with great ships and majestic liners. You will also hear about Cobh, the last port of call for the RMS Titanic. It was from here that the ship weighed anchor for the last time and sailed west towards her tragic fate in the icy waters of the North Atlantic.
CORK/COBH/BLARNEY CASTLE/KILLARNEY Today, you will visit Cobh. The Heritage Centre brings the Queenstown (as Cobh was once named) story of emigration to life, with exhibits, photographs and original film footage. Then on to the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. You might want to walk across to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. On to the charming market town of Killarney, your home for the next two nights.
THE RING OF KERRY Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the spectacular scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the balance of the day is free.
NOTE: The walk is about 2.5 to 3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes and raingear.
KILLARNEY/CLIFFS OF MOHER/DROMOLAND CASTLE Departing Killarney, cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare to walk along the Cliffs of Moher: a magical vista awaits you. Then north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape dotted with rare flora. Afterward, head to Dromoland Castle in Clare. Enjoy fine dining in the Earl of Thomand Restaurant this evening.
LIMERICK/DEPART SHANNON Your homebound flight arrives the same day. A transfer to the Regency Airport Hotel in Dublin is also available, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m. Extra nights can be booked in Shannon or Dublin.