Irish Cities, Landscapes & 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 your private chauffeur. This afternoon, your voyage of discovery begins when you join a Local Specialist who will proudly share the riches of Ireland’s capital city on your own private walking tour. See 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. 

Recommended Experiences: Private Walking Tour of Dublin, Trinity College

Travel to the Boyne Valley in County Meath. This river valley was the cradle of Irish civilization, and it supported a sophisticated society in Neolithic times. Get ready for some ancient Irish history when you stop at the Bru-na-Boinne Centre to visit one of the Megalithic Passage Tombs at Newgrange or Knowth. Next, tour the Slane Whiskey Distillery where you are taken through their heritage room, barley room, cooperage, and maturation warehouse before a final stop to view the pot stills and production areas that includes a tasting of course!

Recommended Experiences: Brú na Bóinne Centre, Slane Whiskey Distillery

First this morning, 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. Watch the master craftsmen of the House of Waterford Crystal as they create delicate works of art on your private tour with a Local Specialist. Enjoy a night in the intimate Cliff House Hotel with dinner in their Michelin star restaurant for a quaint and cozy evening.

Recommended Experiences: Glendalough, Private tour of the House of Waterford Crystal

Start your day with stunning walk along the Ardmore cliff. Next a visit to Blarney Castle, home to the magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Stroll through the castle’s grounds and gardens, arboretums, and waterways, on your private adventure with the estates head gardener. If you dare, enter the Poison Garden – just don’t touch the plants! Then continue to the charming town of Killarney.

Recommend Experience: Private adventure with the Head Gardener of Blarney Castle

Admire the breathtaking scenery of rugged landscapes and crashing seas along the famous Ring of Kerry, 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. 

Recommended Experience: Ring of Kerry

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. Participate in the ancient art of Falconry as you stroll through this stunning estate.

Recommended Experiences: Cliffs of Moher, Falconry at Dromoland Castle

You will be transferred to Dublin Airport where your vacation ends. Slán go fóill – goodbye until we meet again.

Optional Extension Departing from Dublin

If you’re departing from Dublin, why not extend your trip and stay in Dublin’s Doorstep. You can explore a list of our hand-selected accommodations here and our sightseeing activities here.