Countryside of the Emerald Isle
| Resort: | Countryside of the Emerald Isle |
| Operator: | |
| Destination: | Europe, Ireland, UK & Ireland, United Kingdom |
| Price From: | £1589.00 |
OverviewFrom ancient castles and historic Dublin to less-traveled roads and charming villages, this adventure brings together the best of the Emerald Isle. Come to know the culture and welcoming hospitality of the Irish in Dublin, Irelands rollicking capital city, with a choice of ways to explore. Tour Kilkennys Medieval castle. Step off the beaten path in the seaside village of Kinsale, known as Irelands gourmet capital. Make yourself at home as an Irish family welcomes you for a homestay. Discover the windswept terrain of West Corks Wild Atlantic Way before arriving in charming Killarney. Travel through the tranquil countryside of the Ring of Kerry. Explore the Neolithic site of Newgrange. Feel like special guests of royalty when you spend two incredible nights in an elegant historic castle. Experience farm to table cuisine. Raise a glass and celebrate a journey through the many sides of Ireland. ItineraryDay 1: Overnight FlightSet out for the rolling hills, warm people and rollicking fun of the Emerald Isle. Day 2: Dublin, Ireland – Tour BeginsDiscover the traditions and deep history of Dublin. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at one of Dublins best local restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Day 3: DublinToday opens with a choice of two cultural experiences. You may opt to set out on a drive with a local guide to visit St. Patricks Cathedral and see St. Stephens Green, Grafton Street, and the historic Phoenix Park. Or, perhaps you will select a walking tour of the citys historic center, exploring OConnell Street, the General Post Office, and the River Liffey. Spend the remainder of your day relaxing or set out to explore more of charming Dublin on your own. Day 4: Dublin – Midleton – KinsaleLeave Dublin behind for the country roads of Ireland. Stop for photos at the impressive Rock of Cashel, where St. Patrick preached. Explore Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Give it a go with a tasting of the distillerys production. Continue on to the quaint coastal village of Kinsale. Join a local expert on a walking tour of this historic port. This evening, its Diners Choice…tonight your dinner is included and youll choose the perfect spot from a menu of Kinsales great restaurants. Day 5: Kinsale – Choice of Cobh or Kinsale Harbor CruiseToday the choice is yours! You may opt to visit the historic coastal town of Cobh for a locally guided tour. Reflect on the site where the Titanic last dropped anchor before its fateful voyage; plus, learn about the port where millions of Irish left their native land forever. Or, you may choose to spend a leisurely day in beautiful Kinsale and enjoy an included cruise of the towns famed harbor. Day 6: Kinsale – Bantry – Kenmare – KillarneyEmbark on a beautiful drive along West Corks Wild Atlantic Way, one of the worlds most stunning coastal routes. Take in the atmosphere of the quaint seaside villages of Timoleague and Skibbereen before arriving at the regal Bantry House.* During a tour of the home and gardens, you will uncover centuries of history and be awed by the inspiring grandeur of this place. Next, travel to County Kerry and the resort town of Kenmare. Enjoy free time to explore its many boutiques and cafs. Continue to Killarney and top off your day with dinner on the town at one of Killarneys best restaurants. Day 7: Killarney – Ring of Kerry – KillarneyDrive across Molls Gap into Killarney National Park. Take in awe-inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and be amazed by the famed Ladies View. At the Gap of Dunloe you will have time to browse for traditional Irish goods handcrafted by local artisans. Next, traverse the spectacular Ring of Kerry, one of Europes great coastal roads, and discover the serene beauty of this magical land. Day 8: Killarney – Kilkenny – Home-Hosted StayLeave the rugged southern coast behind as you travel west to Kilkenny, Irelands medieval capital. Stroll through the elegant halls of majestic Kilkenny Castle during a guided tour before enjoying free time to explore this historic city. This evening, make yourself right at home when an Irish family welcomes you into their household for the night.** Take in your surroundings and get to know the family as you enjoy a homemade traditional dinner. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience! Day 9: Kilkenny – Irish National Stud – County Louth or County CavanBid a fond Irish farewell to your newfound friends. Make a stop at the Irish National Stud to learn about the Sport of Kings and its long connection with this land. Head north for a relaxing 2-night stay at a regal castle. You will feel like a royal guest at this exclusive and historic castle. Day 10: Boyne Valley – County Louth or County CavanEnjoy a leisurely morning to explore your castles beautiful grounds. Later, visit the Neolithic monument of Newgrange. Built around 3,000 B.C., this prehistoric site pre-dates the Great Pyramid of Giza and Stonehenge. Continue through the lush Boyne Valley before returning to your magnificent castle for a memorable farewell dinner. Day 11: County Louth or County Cavan – Tour EndsYour tour comes to a close today, leaving you with the spirit of Ireland in your heart forever. |
