The Irish Romance Tour

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Dinner in the 2-Michelin Star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud

You will fly into Dublin Airport. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your friendly Luxury Ireland Tours chauffeur who will help you with your bags and escort you to your luxury vehicle.

You will then be dropped off at The Merrion Hotel. Perfectly positioned in the heart of Dublin, this luxurious 5-star hotel is within walking distance of many attractions, including 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, such as fitness suites, swimming pool, spa, not one but two period gardens, and numerous restaurants and bars, including the renowned, 2-Michelin star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud where you will be served food of the utmost quality. We promise an unforgettable experience at The Merrion.

Accommodation – Hayfield Manor, Cork
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, Cork

After a luxurious breakfast, you will sweep across the rugged Irish countryside. The first stop of the day will be at the Rock of Cashel. Buried in the heart of the Ancient East, the Rock of Cashel is home to over 1000 years of Irish history. Without a doubt, the highlight is the round tower standing at over 25 meters high and is the oldest remaining part of the structure.

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.

After lunch, travel south where you will reach Blarney Castle, a medieval stronghold dating back to the 12th century and built by the notorious Clan Chief, Cormac MacCarthy. Tour the ancient castle and gardens and find the Blarney Stone; legend has it that if you kiss the stone, you’ll be rewarded with the “gift of the gab”.

You will continue south with your driver, travelling through the charming city of Cork. Cork is a trendy city which enjoys a refreshing blend of cosmopolitan bars and traditional Irish pubs. Why not stop off and enjoy a well-earned pint of Guinness. Cork has some very impressive architecture, the standout of which is probably the Church of St. Anne, Shandon, which was built all the way back in the 1720’s.

After a 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 Beautique 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 Midelton lamb, there’s sure to be something to enjoy.

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

After breakfast, you will begin your day by visiting Bantry House and Gardens. This stunning building was constructed in the 1710’s and for most of its existence has been the home of the White family, who were formerly the Earls of Bantry. Equally impressive are the Bantry House Gardens. Why not enjoy a romantic stroll among the garden’s 7 terraces and magnificent fountain. If you’re feeling fit, there are 100 steps to climb to reach the garden’s woodland area.

You will then head 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. Weave through the glorious countryside and glistening lakes, stopping off at all the best photo opportunities. Arrive at Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th century mansion set in the heart of the national park with views over Muckross Lake.

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 and phenomenal views while enjoying dinner at the Porterhouse. This cosy spot offers it all, with delicious food, a wonderful ambience, and a huge selection of drinks on offer, including specialised whisky and gin.

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

Set off this morning for a great adventure around the famous Ring of Kerry. You will work your way through Killorglin and Glenbeigh, stopping off to view the breath-taking Rossbeigh Beach. Enjoy the sandy beach, fresh sea breeze, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Then, continue to journey down the coastline until you reach Cahersiveen. This authentic Irish town is the birthplace of the revered Irish political figure Daniel O’Connell.

Meander down the coast until you reach a point where you can view Valentina Island. If you are a Star Wars fan, make sure to have your camera at the ready as you will pass the famous Skellig Island that featured in “The Force Awakens”. Continue around the awe-inspiring coast until reaching Sneem Village, otherwise known as “The Way the Fairies Went” — so make sure to keep your eyes peeled! The views are simply outstanding on this stretch of the Ring of Kerry, known as “the knot”, because it ties together where the mountains and water meet.

You will continue north until reaching Moll’s Gap, a famous mountain pass that cuts through the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains and is one of the most popular photo stops in Ireland. From Moll’s Gap, you will weave through Killarney National Park, one of the most spectacular national parks in the world. 

You may be thinking that’s an awful lot of stops without anything to eat, but don’t worry, halfway around the Ring of Kerry you will be stopping 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 which is not to be missed if you’re a fish lover.

Arrive back at The Europe Hotel, where you will dine at the Panorama Restaurant, offering breathtaking views over the Lakes of Killarney and surrounding mountains and gardens. Look out for the oysters, wild seabass, and lamb reared on the hotel’s farm.

Accommodation – Glenlo Abbey, Galway
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Killarney Jaunting Cars, Adare, Cliffs of Moher, Galway

After breakfast you’ll take a ride on the famous Killarney Jaunting Cars, a unique and magical experience. These traditional horse-drawn carriages offer a leisurely and enchanting way to explore the natural wonders of Killarney National Park. As you glide through the park, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and pristine lakes, with knowledgeable drivers sharing tales of the area’s folklore and history.

Next, travel to Adare with your chauffeur. In this idyllic and historic village, you will see traditional thatched roofed cottages and find many traditional Irish pubs.

On your journey up the west coast, you will reach the famous Cliffs of Moher. This iconic tourist stop was voted the best tourist attraction in 2019 and 2020. The cliffs tower above the Atlantic Ocean at over 700 feet high and 5 miles wide. You may have built up an appetite by now, and where better to fill up than Cliffs View café. This eco-friendly spot focuses on serving up the tastiest local produce County Clare has to offer.

Continue your journey until you reach the famous town of Galway where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll while taking in the gorgeous sights of this authentic Irish town. There are many churches, cathedrals, cafes, and museums to enjoy.

You will then be taken to your accommodation for the evening, Glenlo Abbey. This magnificent hotel sits within a 138-acre estate of glorious natural landscape, allowing for perfect 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 and silence surround 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 is actually two of the original carriages from the Orient Express which have been lovingly restored and simply ooze grandeur. With a menu to match, this is one dinner you will be bragging about to your friends for years to come.

Accommodation – Lough Eske Castle Hotel, Donegal
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Lough Corrib Cruise, Enniscrone Beach, Sligo, Fairy Bridge

After a luxurious breakfast, you will be going on an adventure that’s a little bit different to what you’ve been doing so far, a delightful cruise along Lough Corrib. As it’s a family-run business operating this cruise, you will be treated with the utmost care and attention as they describe the magical scenes around you and give you some historical context of the surrounding area.

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 to the seaside town of Sligo. Sligo has a rich history dating back to the medieval period, with some of the streets in the centre of the town following the ancient layout. There are many impressive buildings to admire in Sligo, but none older than the remnants of Sligo Abbey, built in 1252.

Having explored Sligo, you will head for some lunch at Hooked, the home of artisan food in Sligo. Using local and fresh produce from a range of Irish producers is at the very heart of everything they do at Hooked, so be prepared to sample some of the finest ingredients Ireland has to offer.

After lunch pay a visit to the Fairy Bridges, , sea stacks which 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.

Weaving through the sculpted coastline and mountainous terrain, you will eventually reach Lough Eske Castle. This luxurious castle hotel sits in splendid isolation on the edge of Donegal town. For many years, the castle was a seat of the famous O’Donnell clan, and it is steeped in Irish history. The hotel has a long list of accolades, including “Luxury Hotel of The Year”. This castle hotel really does have it all: a marvellous interior, Victorian outer shell, picture-perfect gardens, and mouth-watering fine dining. Enjoy dinner this evening 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 – Culloden Estate and Spa, Belfast
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, The Dark Hedges

Today you will meet the north-east coastline and stop at Dunluce Castle. Perfectly perched on the edge of a cliff, Dunluce Castle was a former stronghold of Clan MacDonnell. Enjoy the breathtaking views and learn fascinating tales of the castle, from a mysterious banshee to the kitchen falling into the sea one stormy night long ago.

You will meander along the majestic coastline until you reach The Giant’s Causeway. Described by many as the 8th wonder of the world, over 40,000 basalt columns are rising out of the sea. These hexagonal rocks are over 60 million years old and really are an incredible site to see.

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, 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 certainly not be disappointed with your stay here.

Dinner will be served in the Vespers restaurant. with views of the grounds and elegant décor it is fitting surroundings for your final evening in Ireland.

Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer

After a magical time in Ireland, , you will bid a fond farewell to the Emerald Isle. Your chauffeur will be waiting and you will be taken to Dublin airport.
As you depart your trip of a lifetime, we wish you safe onward travel.