Day 1: Dublin - Belfast
Leaving Dublin, our first stop is at the prehistoric site at Newgrange (entry to the tomb itself is conditional on availability), where we will have the chance to step back into the mists of time, to almost the very beginning of history. Next we visit the site of the Battle of the Boyne, one of the defining events in the history of Ireland. From here we travel to the Hill of Tara, historically the foremost spiritual and political centre of Ireland. This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner together in Belfast. (D)
Overnight: Malone Lodge or similar
Day 2: Belfast – Derry
This morning enjoy an escorted tour of Belfast's political murals on a famous Belfast Black Cab tour. Learn more about the city’s turbulent past before finishing in the Titanic Quarter. You will have time to visit the Titanic museum before we leave for Derry. This afternoon we visit the Giant’s Causeway, the jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim and the inspiration for local legends and popular movies. (B)
Overnight: Beech Hill Country House or similar
Day 3: Derry – North Irish Coast – Derry
After a guided walk along the ancient city walls of Derry, we visit Grianan Aileach, an Iron Age fort offering stunning views over the nearby lochs. Our coastal drive will take us to the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, one of the most enchanting and beautiful parts of Ireland. We drive through Buncrana and then through the breathtaking mountain pass of the Mamore Gap to the Isle of Doagh Visitor Centre to hear an alternative view of the devastating Irish Famine. (B)
Overnight: Beech Hill Country House or similar
Day: 4 Derry – Sligo
Our day commences at the Ulster-American Folk Park, which examines why two million people left Ulster for the New World in the 18th and 19th centuries. We then stop in Belleek, home to Ireland’s oldest pottery, and pass through County Fermanagh to County Sligo and W.B.Yeats country, where we visit sites associated with the great poet, including Drumcliffe Church and Parkes Castle. (B,D)
Overnight: Markree Castle or similar
Day 5: Sligo – Connemara – Galway
Enjoy a relaxing drive to the picturesque 18th century town of Westport before we travel towards Connemara, one of Ireland's most iconic destinations. We will visit the award winning Connemara Heritage Centre, which offers an insight into the history and heritage of the region and complete our journey today with a walking tour of the wonderful city of Galway. (B)
Overnight: Park House Hotel or similar
Day 6: Galway
Today is free for you to explore Galway as you wish. Your guide will be on hand to offer advice on how to make the most of this fantastic city. (B)
Overnight: Park House Hotel or similar
Day: 7 Galway – Dingle
Today we visit Kinvara, a picturesque fishing village located on the south shores of Galway Bay and the gateway to the world renowned Burren. We travel through the lunar-like landscape of the Burren before stopping at the prehistoric burial site of the Poulnabrone Portal Tomb. This afternoon we visit the breath-taking Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited attractions. Tonight enjoy a delicious dinner together in a local restaurant. (B,D)
Overnight: Dingle Benners Hotel or similar
Day 8: Dingle Peninsula
The stunningly beautiful Dingle Peninsula is a magnet for visitors attracted by its incredible scenery. This morning we uncover countless historical sites, ancient churches, stone forts and beautiful beaches before we visit the Blasket Islands Centre. Here we learn more about the unique community who once lived on the Great Blasket Island and the flora and fauna of the surrounding area. This afternoon we enjoy a chance to relax with some free time in Dingle. (B)
Overnight: Dingle Benners Hotel or similar
Day 9: Dingle – Blarney
Just when you thought the scenery couldn’t get any better, today we visit the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, home to the highest peak in Ireland, and the Killarney Lakes, which are sure to impress. We take the mountain road from Killarney to the enchanting town of Kenmare, one of Ireland’s most idyllic spots. Spend time exploring its colourful shops and stunning scenery before we journey over the breathtaking Healy Pass to visit Bantry House, renowned for its magnificent setting. (B,D)
Overnight: Blarney Castle Hotel or similar
Day 10: Blarney – Kinsale – Cork – Blarney
The harbour of Kinsale is our first stop of the day where we will enjoy a historical walking tour accompanied by a local guide. We then make our way to Cork, for a panoramic tour of the city before heading to the Midleton Distillery. Here we learn about the production of whisky and taste what is considered by many to be the finest whiskey in Ireland! We then return toBlarney, where we are free to explore the town's many attractions. (B)
Overnight: Blarney Castle Hotel or similar
Day 11: Blarney – Tipperary – Kilkenny
We start today’s tour with one of Ireland’s most popular icons, the Rock of Cashel, overlooking the plains of Tipperary. We explore the site, which incorporates the ruins of a medieval cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque church and a striking round tower. Next we travel through rural Tipperary to Kilkenny, Ireland’s “most perfect medieval city”, where we have plenty of time to relax and explore the many sights here. (B,D)
Overnight: River Court Hotel or similar
Day 12: Kilkenny – Dublin
Before returning to Dublin, we cross the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, one of the best preserved monastic sites in Ireland. We travel through the wild terrain of the Wicklows to Sally Gap before we descend to the Powerscourt Estate. After exploring its beautiful formal gardens wewill make the short journey to Dublin where our tour comes to an end. (B)
Tour departs at 0830hrs and will return at approximately 1730hrs to:
Stauntons on the Green
83 St Stephens Green
Dublin
Ireland
Ireland - A Hundred Thousand Welcomes
