A Grand Irish Adventure – SOLD OUT

JULY / AUGUST  2024

Start Point – Dublin
Finish Point – Dublin
Tour Style – Hosted Tour
Accommodation – Boutique Hotels, Luxury Hotels
Meals – As per itinerary
Transport – Private Coach / Van, Boat
Max Group Size – Min 10 guests

DATES:

21 July – 04 August 2024

RATES:

– from Euro 9, 395 per person Twin Rate
– from Euro 11, 890 per person Single Rate

*Rates are per person based on Twin Share & Single Room.
*Prices are subject to change until paid in full.
*International Airfares are not included. PLEASE ASK US FOR A QUOTE.

Day 1 – Arrive Dublin

Arrive in the vibrant and historic city of Dublin, known for its lively pubs, charming architecture, and rich cultural heritage.  Be met on arrival by your private transfer into the city and your hotel for the next few nights.  Check-in, chill out and get ready to meet the rest of your tour crew this afternoon.

You may have some time to explore before meeting your guide and group in the afternoon for an overview of the tour itinerary. Later this evening, you’ll enjoy a lovely welcome dinner with the rest of the group, savouring traditional Irish food and drinks while getting to know your fellow travellers.

Overnight Accommodation:  The Davenport Hotel (Welcome Dinner)

Day 2 – Dublin

Begin the day with a guided historical walking tour of Dublin, led by a knowledgeable local guide who highlights the city’s rich history and architecture. Then visit The Little Museum of Dublin for a private experience, where we learn about the city’s fascinating past through its unique exhibits and artifacts.

This evening, the group heads to The Guinness Storehouse for a tour and to enjoy a pint of the famous Irish stout while taking in panoramic views of the city. The day ends on a high note as you reminisce about the day’s experiences and toast to your adventure in Dublin.

Dinner is at leisure to get organized for your departure tomorrow morning.

Overnight Accommodation:  The Davenport Hotel, (B / L)

Day 3 – Kilkenny

Begin the day by leaving Dublin with our tour guide and heading to Kilkenny, a picturesque town known for its medieval castle and fascinating history. There, we explore the castle and visit the Kilkenny Design Centre, where you will discover local crafts and handmade products.

Later in the day, continue on to Cork City, for the night and enjoy a group dinner.  Immerse yourself into the city’s lively atmosphere and local cuisine.

Overnight Accommodation:  The Imperial Hotel, (B / L / D)

Day 4 – Kinsale

We start the day by visiting the charming town of Kinsale, known for its rich culinary scene and picturesque coastal views. There, we embark on a food tour with a local guide, savouring the town’s delicious seafood and other specialties.

Afterward, we take a short seaside hike to Charles Fort, an impressive 17th-century fortification with stunning views of the harbour and surrounding landscape.

Tonight dinner is at leisure and you have the opportunity to explore more of Cork City with plenty of choice for dinner or time out for you.

Hike Distance: 5 km’s

Overnight Accommodation:  The Imperial Hotel, (B / L)

Day 5 – Bantry

After breakfast and checking out today, begin the day by exploring the picturesque West Cork region, with its rolling hills and scenic coastal landscapes.   Along the way, you visit an eco retreat and savour a delicious home-cooked lunch and experience a rejuvenating yoga session with the owners (good to stretch out those muscles).

Afterwards, well and truly relaxed, continue your journey, taking in the stunning views of the countryside as we make our way to our accommodation in Bantry, where we will spend the next few nights.

There, you can unwind and enjoy the stunning views of Bantry Bay, surrounded by the natural beauty of West Cork.

Overnight Accommodation:  Eccles Hotel & Spa, (B / L / D)

Day 6 – Cape Clear Island

Enjoy your breakfast and then start the day by taking a ferry to Cape Clear Island, a remote and unspoiled island off the coast of West Cork.

Once there, time for a short hike, exploring the island’s rugged coastline and taking in its stunning natural beauty. You also visit a local goat farm, where you learn about the island’s farming traditions and sample some of the delicious cheese made from the goats’ milk.

After a full day of adventure,  return to the mainland, feeling invigorated from our time on this beautiful island.

Dinner in the hotel this evening.

Hike Distance: 3 km’s

Overnight Accommodation:  Eccles Hotel, (B / L / D)

Day 7 – Spa, Costal Hike, Farmers Market

Today indulge in a relaxing seaweed bath at the spa in your hotel, a perfect way to rejuvenate and unwind. An Irish seaweed bath is a relaxing spa treatment that involves soaking in a tub filled with hot water and seaweed, known for its detoxifying properties and ability to soothe the skin.

We head out to explore the breathtaking Sheeps Head peninsula on a short hike, taking in the stunning coastal views and rugged terrain. Later in the day, we visit the local farmers market, where we can sample and purchase locally grown produce and artisanal goods, while learning about the community and its rich agricultural traditions.

Hike Distance: 8 km’s

Overnight Accommodation:  Eccles Hotel, (B / L / D)

Day 8 – Ring of Kerry

Today it is time to leave Seaview House and move to the beautiful Bantry Bay.

We gather as a group to embark on a fun-filled sea safari in the stunning Bantry Bay, guided by a local expert who shares their knowledge of the diverse marine life and stunning coastal landscape. After this gorgeous adventure, enjoy a delicious mussel boil on the beach, savouring the taste of locally sourced seafood.

Later in the day, its time to head to our hotel in Killarney, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Ring of Kerry along the way. The day ends with a sense of satisfaction, having experienced the best of the sea and land in this beautiful corner of Ireland.

Overnight Accommodation: Cahernane House, (B / L / D)

Day 9 – Skellig Islands

Today you will enjoy  an exciting day trip to the Skellig Islands, located off the coast of County Kerry. These islands are known for their rugged beauty, as well as the large bird colonies that make their home here, including puffins and gannets.

There is also the opportunity to visit the well-preserved ruins of a 6th-century monastic settlement, a testament to the island’s rich history. A

This evening is spent listening to traditional music in Killarney, a lively, fun-filled and atmospheric experience, with the sound of jigs and reels filling the air as locals and visitors gather to enjoy.  Dinner is at leisure.

Overnight Accommodation:  Cahernane House, (B / L)

Day 10 – Ring of Kerry

Today you will visit Atlantic Irish Seaweed and meet a fun and knowledgeable local who takes us on a unique foraging experience along the beautiful beach, where you discover a variety of seaweed and their uses. After the foraging, enjoy a delicious meal with dishes that feature the seaweed collected, showcasing the versatility and nutritional value of this remarkable ingredient.

Later in the day, visit Derrynane House, the former home of Irish civil rights leader Daniel O’Connell, where you learn about his life and legacy while taking in the stunning surroundings of this historic estate.

Dinner is at leisure this evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  Cahernane House, (B / L)

Day 11 – Killarney National Park & Burren

This morning check out of the hotel and it is time to explore Killarney National Park, a vast and beautiful expanse of protected land that is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of deer and golden eagles.

Then embark on a private boat trip on the Lakes of Killarney, taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests from the water.

As we transfer northward, we spend the night in the Burren, a unique landscape of limestone pavements and rare wildflowers that provides a striking contrast to the lush greenery of Killarney.

Dinner in-house this evening.

Hike Distance: 7 km’s

Overnight Accommodation:  Gregans Castle Hotel, (B / L / D)

Day 12 – Aran Islands & The Cliffs of Moher

Start the day by taking a ferry to the rugged and picturesque Aran Islands, where you have the opportunity to visit a knitter of traditional local knitwear. The islands are a unique and stunning landscape of rocky fields, stone walls, and ancient ruins that create a sense of timelessness and natural beauty.  Later, head to the Cliffs of Moher.

The Cliffs of Moher are a dramatic and iconic coastal landscape, consisting of sheer cliffs that rise up to 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs stretch for over 8 kilometres and offer stunning views of the rugged coastline, the ocean, and the distant horizon.

Overnight Accommodation:  Gregans Castle Hotel (B / L / D)

Day 13 – Hike the Burren

Embark on a morning hike through the Burren, a unique and ancient landscape of exposed limestone that stretches across County Clare. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the region’s fascinating geology and learn about its rich history, including the remains of ancient settlements and tombs.

After the hike, take a visit to a local perfumery and indulge in a sensory experience of the fragrances of the region and the perfumes inspired by the landscape.

This evening enjoy a dinner of traditional Irish cuisine and live music in a local pub, surrounded by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Irish countryside.

Hike Distance: 5.5 km’s

Overnight Accommodation:  Gregans Castle Hotel (B / L / D)

Day 14 –  Dublin

Begin the day with a scenic drive across Ireland, stopping at various points of interest such as the Irish Workhouse Centre, a living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the harsh reality of life in Ireland’s workhouses during the 19th century.

Continue on towards Dublin, enjoying the Irish countryside along the way.

Arrive in Dublin in the late afternoon and enjoy some  free time before coming together for a final farewell dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.

Overnight Accommodation:  The Mont Hotel (B / L / D)

Day 15 –  Depart

As they say in the classics, that’s a wrap!  Enjoy breakfast, check out and enjoy a private transfer to Dublin Airport in time for your onward flight. (B)

Included:

• Fully escorted from Dublin by Andrea Powis, Founding Diva
• 2 nights’ luxury accommodation, The Davenport Hotel, Dublin
• 2 nights’ luxury accommodation, The Imperial Hotel, Cork
• 3 nights’ boutique country house accommodation, Eccles Hotel & Spa, Glengarrif
• 3 nights’ luxury accommodation, Cahernane House, Killarney
• 3 nights’ luxury accommodation, Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan
• 1 night’s boutique design accommodation, The Mont Hotel, Dublin
• Welcome dinner
• 23 other main meals, including all lunches & most dinners
• Drinks included with welcome and farewell dinners
• Breakfast daily
• *Private arrival and departure airport transfers
• Experiences, activities, private touring and hiking as detailed in the itinerary
• Services of a professional guide throughout
• Private transport throughout
• Gratuities for hotels, included meals and third-party providers
• Government taxes
• 24/7 in-country support

*If on suggested group Flights. If outside of these flights, then you will need to pay a Private Transfer supplement service.

Not Included:

• Airfares: PLEASE ASK US FOR A QUOTE
• Travel Insurance: PLEASE ASK US FOR A QUOTE
• Transfers, unless stated in the itinerary
• Items of a personal nature
• Phone calls
• Passports and visas
• Laundry, unless stated
• Tips at meals and bars
• Excess baggage
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages unless specifically described.
• Optional excursions or activities that may be offered
• Any COVID-required testing or documentation required by the countries of entry.