EPIC Landscapes, Cities & Castles

Welcome to Dublin, the starting point for your grand adventure through the Emerald Isle! Here you’ll venture to see historic sights and modern marvels. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private transfer. Meet your local host who will settle you in with the warmest of welcomes and answer any questions on your planned trip. This afternoon, your voyage of discovery begins with a tour of Ireland’s capital city on a Hop on Hop off tour. Visit stately St. Patrick’s Cathedral, tour Dublin’s Georgian squares with their brightly colored doors, and walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to see the ornate 8th-century Book of Kells.

Revel in the great outdoors along Dublin’s beautiful coast, as you discover hidden routes and nooks across Howth’s cliff paths. First make the 30-minute trip to Howth from Dublin City centre, embarking on either the Safari Hike across stunning coastal paths with views of crystal-clear seas and the charming harbour and village, or the gentler, charming Harbour Village. Breathe in sea air and why not cap your tour with delicious salted chips from an authentic takeaway or a frothy pint in a nearby pub. Later this evening enjoy a masterclass in cocktail making at The Jameson Distillery on Bow Street. Led by a skilled Jameson bartender, learn how to create a cocktail masterpiece with professional bar tools and ingredients, before enjoying your creation.

After a relaxing breakfast, your luxury car rental will be dropped to your hotel. Stop to visit Powerscourt Estate’s glorious formal gardens. The superb blend of sweeping terraces, fine statuary, ornamental lakes, rambling walks, and walled gardens are a magnificent sight to behold. Next, visit Glendalough, the ‘Valley of the Two Lakes,’ famous for its early monastic ruins and scenic setting. Be sure to find St. Kevin’s cross. Legend holds that those who can wrap their arms around it will receive their wish. Perhaps the luck of the Irish will be on your side. Onto Waterford with colorful terrace houses, cafés, and bars overlooking the quayside. Enjoy a night in the intimate Cliff House Hotel with dinner in their Michelin star restaurant for a quaint and cozy evening.

Your day starts with a visit to Blarney Castle, home to the magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. This timeless tradition is yours to participate in today. Stroll through the castle’s grounds full of gardens, arboretums, and waterways. If you dare, enter the Poison Garden – just don’t touch the plants! Then continue on to the charming town of Killarney.

Admire the breathtaking scenery of rugged landscapes and crashing seas along the famous Ring of Kerry on a day tour, and delight in traditional Irish life as you stop in quaint villages along the way. You’ll be mesmerized by this unspoiled land that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Returning to Killarney, the rest of your day is free.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher, rising up to 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves and stretching 5 miles along the coast. Perhaps visit the interpretive center, a huge, domed, underground building with images, exhibits, and displays, a delight for young and old alike. Then on to bask in the royal glow of Dromoland Castle, one of the most luxurious castle hotels in Ireland.

Drop your car off at Shannon Airport where your vacation ends. Slán go fóill – goodbye until we meet again.