Best of Ireland Tour

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Tour through Dublin.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by your friendly private driver and your luggage will be taken care of. Your Irish adventure is officially underway, and you will take a short driving tour of Dublin.

As you weave through the city, you will see the Garden of Remembrance, commemorating those who died fighting for Irish freedom. You will then pass the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, the site of one of the most important battles in Irish history. Your driver will then take you past The Custom House. This architectural masterpiece defines neoclassical buildings and now houses various government departments.

After getting a tantalising taste of this magnificent city, you will be taken to The Merrion Hotel. Perfectly positioned in the heart of Dublin, this luxurious 5-star hotel is within walking distance of The National Gallery and National Museum of Ireland, as well as the Golden Mile of bars, shops, and cafes. Timeless luxury and elegant décor are wrapped in Irish charm. The hotel has a fine array of services on offer. Unwind with an 18m infinity pool, a luxury spa, a fully equipped gym, two exquisite period gardens, and numerous restaurants and bars. Dine in the renowned, 2-Michelin star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud where you will be served food of the utmost quality. We promise you will not be disappointed.

Accommodation – The Merrion, Dublin
Transport – Walking Guide.
Activities – Walking Tour of Dublin.

After a luxurious breakfast, you will embark on a morning walking tour of Dublin. Your walking guide will meet you at reception, and your Dublin adventure will begin. The first stop of the day will be Dublin Castle. The castle was originally built in the 13th century and was a headquarters for the English in Ireland. Following Irish independence, Dublin Castle was passed over to the Irish Government. This grand building is steeped in history, and your guide will explain all the juicy details of the building’s captivating past.

Your next stop will be Trinity College Library. The college was opened in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth and is the oldest university in Ireland. The old library was constructed in the 18th century and, to this day, is home to many ancient manuscripts. You will get the chance to visit the Book of Kells exhibition. The world-famous Book of Kells was written over 1000 years ago and is a hand-decorated copy of the four gospels.

You will then stop off for a well-earned lunch at Trocadero. This prestigious Irish restaurant is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Famous as a treasured spot of stars of the stage and screen, the relaxed atmosphere of the “Troc” is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their menu boasts confit duck, 28-day dry-aged Irish Angus beef, and Wicklow Lamb.

After lunch, you will be escorted to the Guinness Storehouse. Use your “skip the queue” tickets, and you will explore the seven floors of Guinness history. On the ground and first floor, you will learn about the Guinness brewing process, the key ingredients, and the barrelling process. The following floors tell the Guinness story through virtual and interactive displays. Finally, you will reach the gravity bar, where the glass walls allow for panoramic views of the city, and you will be treated to a refreshing complimentary pint of Guinness.

You will then return to The Merrion for an evening of relaxed dining, sampling more of the delights on offer at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud.

Accommodation – Hayfield Manor, Cork.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – The Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, English Market, Cork.

After a relaxing breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting, and you will venture south. Your first stop of the day will be The Rock of Cashel, a fascinating group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of land in the Golden Vale. You will visit the 12th century round tower, which is the oldest building on the outcrop. Other highlights include the 13th century Gothic cathedral and the 15th century castle.

The next stop is lunch at Mikey Ryan’s Bar & Kitchen, an integral part of the local community since the 19th century. Recently refurbished, Mikey’s is back better than ever and continues to offer guests some of the best salmon and hake in Ireland.

You will then meander south, through the breathtaking Irish countryside until you reach Blarney Castle. Blarney Castle dates back to the 12th century but was rebuilt by the McCarthy family in the 15th century. The castle is famously known for the “Blarney Stone”. According to ancient tradition, if you kiss the stone, you inherit the “gift of the gab”. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, each with a different theme. From the Fern Garden to the Poison Garden, you will be constantly mesmerised as you stroll through the enchanting Blarney Gardens.

Next on offer is a visit to the second largest city in Ireland, Cork. Here you will get a chance to browse the internationally renowned English Market, so named to distinguish it from the Irish market which was nearby in the 19th century. An iron fountain, huge archways, and stained-glass windows are sure to leave you in awe as you sample fresh local produce from a huge range of market traders.

After an eventful day of exploring, you will be chauffeured to the award-winning Hayfield Manor in Cork. This luxurious 5-star hotel sits just on the edge of the city centre, 15 minutes from the city’s many attractions. Hayfield Manor is a family-owned and run hotel, so you will receive the warmest Irish welcome and be treated to service which is second to none. The Boutique Spa offers a chance to unwind, with a range of treatments available, as well as an indoor heated pool, outdoor jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna. To round off the evening you will dine in one of Cork’s premium restaurants, Orchids. Delicate lighting, excellent service, and the finest Irish cuisine guarantee a meal you will not forget. From the pan-seared Irish scallops to the Duo of Midleton lamb, there’s sure to be something to enjoy.

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Old Head of Kinsale, Kenmare, Killarney National Park, Muckross House

After breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting to continue your journey south to Old Head of Kinsale. Described as being on the “edge of the world”, this outcrop into the ocean is the official start of the Wild Atlantic Way. Make sure to have your camera at the ready, as the ocean views are simply spectacular.

You will then double back, heading north-east to Kenmare. This quaint town is the perfect spot for lunch, which you will enjoy at No. 35 Kenmare Restaurant. No. 35 prides itself on using local, seasonal produce, including their very own free-range Saddleback pigs. After lunch, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kenmare Bay and soak up the atmosphere of one of the most authentic towns in Ireland.

The sublime scenery only gets better as you travel north through Killarney National Park; the first national park in Ireland and arguably the most beautiful. You will weave through glorious countryside and glistening lakes, with your driver stopping off at all the best photo opportunities. You will then tour Muckross House and Gardens. Set in the heart of the national park, near Muckross Lake, this 19th century mansion was designed by the famous Scottish architect William Burn. After that, it’s off to the town of Killarney. Built around the banks of Lough Leane, the town is surrounded by a mountainous backdrop.

Finally, you will be dropped off at The Europe Hotel. This luxurious 5-star hotel enjoys splendid vistas over the Lakes of Killarney. Enjoy some of Europe’s best spas, a warm Irish welcome, and phenomenal views while enjoying dinner at the Panorama Restaurant. Look out for the oysters, wild seabass, and lamb reared on the hotel’s own farm.

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – The Ring of Kerry.

After breakfast, you will begin your journey around the famous Ring of Kerry. You will weave through Killorglin and Glenbeigh, stopping off to view the breathtaking Rossbeigh Beach. Enjoy the sandy beach, fresh sea breeze, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. You will then continue down the coastline until you reach Cahersiveen. This authentic Irish town is a great stop for lunch and the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most revered political figures.

You will then snake your way down the coast until you can see Valentina Island. If you are a Star Wars fan, make sure to have your camera at the ready. You will pass the famous Skellig Island, which is featured in “The Force Awakens”. You will continue to journey around the awe-inspiring coast until reaching Sneem Village. This charming, quaint town is nicknamed “The Way the Fairies Went”, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled. While you might not see any fairies, the views are certainly exceptional on this stretch of the Ring of Kerry, known as the “knot”, as it ties together where the mountains and water meet.

You will continue north until reaching Moll’s Gap. This famous mountain pass cuts through the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains and is one of the most popular photo stops in Ireland.

Having seen so many wonderful sights, you will be hungry for a spot of lunch at Camo’s, a charming little restaurant and wine bar offering a wide range of food, including the crispy battered fresh fish of the day. From there, you will wind through Killarney National Park and make the short trip back to The Europe Hotel, where you can unwind and relax after a day of adventuring.

Accommodation – Dromoland Castle Hotel, Newmarket on Fergus.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – The Slea Head Drive, Adare

Make sure you have a hearty breakfast, as you are about to embark on one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. Your first stop will be the sweeping golden sands of Inch Beach. Breathe in the crisp ocean air as you amble along the waterfront to admire glistening coastal views with a hazy mountain backdrop.

From here, weave alongside rocky outcrops and emerald countryside on the Slea Head Drive Route. This circular route, which is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, is rich in beauty and history. Travel along the coast until you reach the fascinating Beehive Huts. These Bronze Age dwellings have been well preserved and offer a glimpse of what life was like in the Bronze Age.

Next, you will reach Ballyferriter Village, which provides beautiful views of the Three Sisters. These three peaks are draped in Irish mythology and legend has it that Lindbergh’s first sight of land after crossing the Atlantic was the Three Peaks.

Venture onwards to the Gallarus Oratory. This ancient church divides archaeologists with its origin. Some believe the chapel was constructed in the 12th century while others believe it was a Christian establishment built between the 6th and 9th centuries. Weave East until you reach the colourful and bohemian town of Dingle. Refuel with lunch at one of the vibrant cafes or sip a refreshment alongside the friendly locals. This charming town boasts views across the beautifully rugged Blasket Islands.

Travel North to Adare, nestled in the heart of County Limerick. This historic village is a great venue for an afternoon coffee and a stroll to stretch your legs. You will see thatched-roof houses and traditional Irish pubs.

Finally, journey to your magnificent accommodation for the evening, the 16th Century Dromoland Castle Hotel. Steeped in history and enveloped by five hundred acres of lush woods and parkland, this opulent estate is Irish hospitality at its finest. Recharge after your day’s activities in the castle’s beautiful interior. Stroll the ancient halls roamed by the former High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, during a guided walk with the resident historian. Indulge in a restorative signature massage in the spa or settle in for a sparkling Champagne Afternoon Tea in The Gallery.

For the adventure-seekers, partake in a private falconry display on the lawn, enjoy a scenic cycle, or tee off on the golf course. You are sure to fall for Dromoland’s light-hearted luxury and iconic Irish charm.

Celebrate your special occasion with a wonderfully lavish dining affair in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant. Peruse the seasonal artisan menu and sample fine wines in a sophisticated setting. Foodies will delight in feasting on expertly crafted dishes inspired by the surrounding rural landscape of the Burren. Enjoy glistening chandeliers and grand vaulted ceilings alongside old-world service – the perfect end to a day at Dromoland Castle.

Accommodation – Glenlo Abbey, Galway.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Cliffs of Moher, Burren National Park, Galway.

You have a long day ahead, so we advise an early start. Weaving through the Irish countryside, you will reach the imposing Cliffs of Moher, voted Ireland’s favourite tourist destination in recent years. The cliffs tower above the Atlantic Ocean at over 700 feet high and span 5 miles. For bird watchers, the cliffs are a paradise, with over 20 species of seabirds. Take a deep breath, listen to the waves crashing below and bask in the ambience of Ireland’s most famous beauty spot.

From the Cliffs of Moher, you will travel inland until you reach the Burren National Park. This stunning national park is home to an obscure limestone landscape, that looks almost manmade. The swirling and circular limestone structures demonstrate the creativity of Mother Nature.

You will continue to venture north, passing through the famous town of Galway. If time permits, you can enjoy a quick stroll and take in this authentic Irish town. Your journey will continue until you reach your accommodation for the evening, Glenlo Abbey. This magnificent hotel sits within a 138-acre estate of glorious natural landscape, allowing for peace and tranquillity as you admire the shores of Lough Corrib. You may only be 5 minutes away from Galway City, but you will feel like you’re in a different world as the rugged beauty surrounds you. There is a spa and numerous estate activities, including golfing, falconry, a movie theatre, fishing, cycling, and horse riding.

For dinner, you will be eating in the internationally acclaimed Pullman restaurant. A dining experience like no other in Ireland, the restaurant spans two of the original carriages from the Orient Express which have been lovingly restored and ooze classic grandeur. With a menu to match, this is one dinner you will be bragging about to your friends for years to come.

Accommodation – Ashford Castle, Cong.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Connemara National Park, Clifden, Kylemore Abbey

After a scrumptious breakfast, you will travel west until you reach Connemara National Park. The park consists of natural heathlands and glinting lakes. You will journey through the Roundstone Boglands, where you might catch a glimpse of wild ponies.

You will then stop off for a spot of lunch at Clifden, a quaint marketplace town. Your driver will take you around the Kingstown peninsula. This ten-mile circuit showcases some of the finest natural landscapes in Ireland.

Moving east, you will visit Kylemore Abbey. Situated in a 13,000-acre estate, the abbey is left as a permanent memory of a tragic love story. Mitchell Henry built Kylemore Abbey in the late 1800s for his beloved wife, who unexpectedly died three years after the abbey was finished. Stroll around the manicured walled gardens and explore the archaic walls of the Abbey.

Following another exciting day of exploration, you will be escorted to the opulent Ashford Castle. This stunning estate has been perched on the shores of Lough Corrib for more than 800 years. With grounds of such remarkable scale, every moment spent here leaves lasting memories. Once the residence of the Guinness family, Ashford Castle now welcomes a host of guests and is lovingly overseen by a devoted team.

Tonight, you will dine in the elegant George V Dining Room. Enjoy a refined atmosphere, where rich, paneled walls and sparkling Waterford Crystal chandeliers create a luxurious sense of occasion. This upscale dining venue showcases culinary artistry from the estate, highlighting the team’s talent for excellent ingredients and beautifully crafted dishes.

Accommodation – Lough Eske Castle, Donegal.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Enniscrone Beach, Benbulben, Sligo, Fairy Bridge, Donegal.

After a luxurious breakfast, you will bid farewell to the fabulous Ashford Castle. Your driver will take you to the beautiful and picturesque Enniscrone Beach, where you can get some snaps or take a stroll before heading onwards.

Routing north, you will tour through the town of Sligo. You will pass the famous Benbulben, a famous limestone mountain that stands over 500 meters high. You will then be taken for lunch at Anderson’s Grill and Bar, which was once the site of Ireland’s largest brewing company. Many of the details of the building’s industrial past have been preserved, adding to the rich historic feel of the place. The building may be old, but the food is certainly fresh and you can also enjoy unique cocktails crafted to suit your favourite flavours by in-house mixologists.

After lunch, you will pay a visit to the Fairy Bridges. These sea stacks are thousands of years old and form a delightful little bridge over the Atlantic below. If you’re feeling out of luck, make sure to visit Bundoran’s Wishing Chair. Simply sit, make your wish, and you will be blessed.

You then meander north into County Donegal, or as many call it, God’s Country. Weaving through the sculpted coastline and mountainous terrain, you will reach Lough Eske Castle. This luxurious castle hotel sits in isolation on the edge of Donegal town. The castle was a seat of the revered O’Donnell clan for many years and is steeped in Irish history. The hotel has a long list of accolades, including “Luxury Hotel of The Year”. This castle hotel has it all, a marvellous interior, an archaic outer shell, manicured gardens, and mouth-watering fine dining.

You will dine in the double AA Rosette Cedars Restaurant. Full-height glass doors and windows provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding gardens and woodland, making for a delightful setting in which to enjoy the wide range of first-class food Cedars has to offer.

Accommodation – Lough Eske Castle, Donegal.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Slieve League, Glencolmcille, Ardara, Assaranca Waterfall

After breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting as you embark on another adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. You will travel past Killybegs, the biggest fishing port in Ireland. Then, continuing west, you will drive past Donegal Bay, where you will be treated to stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

You will then stop at Slieve League, cliffs which stand at 600 meters above the choppy Atlantic Ocean below. To put the size of these cliffs into context, they are three times as high as the Cliffs of Moher that you visited on day 7.

You then continue to travel through the awe-inspiring Irish countryside until you reach the coastal town of Glencolmcille. We suggest visiting the local craft shop which has an array of handmade knitwear, tapestries, and a homely tearoom.

For a spot of lunch, your driver will take you to Glen Head Tavern, a hearty pub serving up traditional Irish pub grub to keep your belly full for the second half of the day.

Your driver will take you north-east until you reach Ardara. You will weave through Glengesh Pass enjoying tremendous views. If time permits, your driver can take you to Assaranca Waterfall and Maghera Beach. Make sure you have your camera at the ready, both are flawless natural beauty spots.

After a great day of touring, you will return to Lough Eske Castle. You will be dining in the boardroom adjoining the Father Browne Bar. Father Browne was a photographer, and it is his pictures of the doomed Titanic which secured his title as one of the most important photographers of the 20th century. But Father Browne was no one trick pony and over 200 of his best pictures are on display throughout the bar.

Accommodation – Merchant Hotel, Belfast.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Walking Tour of Derry/Londonderry, Bogside, People’s Gallery

After a relaxing breakfast, you will bid farewell to Lough Eske Castle and travel north-east to Derry/Londonderry. You will meet a knowledgeable walking guide who will show you around this walled city. You will visit the famous Derry Walls, which are 1.5km in circumference and guard the inner city. The walls were built in the 1600s and were used to defend against Scottish and English settlers.

There is only one thing required after a walking tour, and that is a hearty lunch. This is exactly what you’ll get at Badgers Bar and Restaurant, where the staff will ensure you are looked after from the moment you step in the door to the moment you leave again.

You will then visit the Bogside, where you will learn about the Bloody Sunday story in Derry. Next up is the nearby Peoples Gallery to see the 12 large-scale murals, which are the city’s most popular tourist attraction. Your local guide will explain the complex history which surrounds Derry/Londonderry and Northern Ireland.

After another long day of exploring, your driver will take you to Bishop’s Gate Hotel, a Grade B1 listed building which sits within the historic city walls in the Cathedral Quarter. Beautiful Edwardian architecture is matched by an interior which will blow you away. You will be dining in the Gown Restaurant, which is decorated with painstakingly restored wooden panels, creating a lovely, relaxed atmosphere for you to enjoy a menu which changes with the seasons to offer you only the freshest and tastiest produce available.

Accommodation – Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast.
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur.
Activities – Dunluce Castle, The Giant’s Causeway, The Dark Hedges.

After a luxurious breakfast, you will embark on an adventure to visit Dunluce Castle. This archaic castle was built in the 1500s by the MacQuillan family. Dunluce Castle has a turbulent history, and you will hear of legendary tales about the banshee and the night that part of the kitchen collapsed into the sea.

No visit to Ireland, never mind this part of Ireland, would be complete without exploring the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. This impressive natural site consists of basalt columns piled up vertically that jut out into the Atlantic Ocean. There are over 40,000 of these basalt, hexagonal-shaped rocks which date back over 60 million years. Have a camera at the ready, as many hail the Giant’s Causeway is the 8th wonder of the world. If time permits, you can explore the visitor centre and enjoy an audio tour.

For lunch, you will eat at The Nook, a gorgeous, listed building dating back to the 1850s and which was originally the local schoolhouse. Here you will find first-class service, fresh local produce, and a meal with a view.

Your chauffeur will then drive you to ‘The Dark Hedges’ a double row of beech trees which are magnificent in their own right, but you may be more familiar with them as the scene of the “Kingsroad” in Game of Thrones.

You will then arrive at Culloden Estate and Spa, a spectacular 5-star hotel which was first built as a palace for the Bishops of Down. With such grand initial intentions, it’s no wonder that to this day Culloden offers the absolute pinnacle in luxury accommodation. Set within 12 acres of gardens and woodland and boasting one of the best spas in the whole of Ireland, you will not be disappointed with your stay here, that’s for sure.

Dinner will be served in the Vespers restaurant. Enjoy a feast for the senses with tranquil garden views, intricate gothic décor, and a mouth-watering menu featuring pan-fried halibut and beef carpaccio.

Accommodation – Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast.
Transport – Executive Vehicle, Private Chauffeur & Walking Guide.
Activities – Walking Tour of Belfast, Titanic Experience, Belfast.

Fuel up at breakfast as you will be setting off on a walking tour of Belfast. Your experienced guide will delve into the story of one of Ireland’s most richly historic yet troubled cities. For history buffs and leisure-seekers alike, simply walking around Belfast is a sight to behold, with so many landmarks and stunning buildings. This tour is a treat for everyone.

Having used all your energy, it’s time for a refuel at Yum. This colourful eatery offers the freshest, locally sourced, and free-range produce, all made to order and with a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian options. They keep things simple at Yum. No fuss, just great-tasting food, and it works perfectly.

After lunch, you will visit the world’s largest Titanic experience. There are nine interactive galleries in total which include walking the decks, exploring the shipyard and uncovering the slipways where the Titanic was built. We promise this is one of the best visitor attractions in the world.

You will then return to Culloden Estate and Spa for a chance to relax and refresh before yet another marvellous dinner.

Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur

After a wonderful trip around Ireland, it is sadly time to head home. You will leave the Emerald Isle enriched with historic knowledge and a deep understanding of Irish culture. Your private chauffeur will transfer you to the airport and you will bid a final goodbye to Ireland. We hope to see you again soon.