Embarking on a magical journey through Ireland's Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way reveals a breathtaking masterpiece of stunning views and ancient stories. Every turn in the road unveils a new chapter of old legends. And as the sun sets, a cozy pub invites you in with lively Irish music, creating a mesmerizing blend of cultural magic.
This tour includes:
- 9 nights exclusive hotel accommodation
- 9 breakfasts
- 3 group dinners
- 2 group lunches
- Full size luxury coach
- Entrance fees to all group activities
- Activities planned in 7 counties with a tailored route to minimize driving time
We recommend flying into Dublin and out of Shannon for this tour and allowing one additional day on the front of the trip in case of travel and luggage delays.
PLEASE NOTE
This is a summarized itinerary and there are more activities, music sessions and surprises planned that are not detailed. All activities are optional and subject to change due to weather or other influencing factors.
Questions? Contact us at [email protected]
Morning pick-up in Dublin. We will have a brief meet-and-greet then leave for the ancient monastic city at Glendalough, Co. Wicklow. The site dates back to the 6th century and is a part of Wicklow's National Park.
Next, we will head to Johnny Fox's, nestled in the Dublin mountains, where we'll have our first group lunch. This pub was built in 1798 and is world renowned for being the highest pub in Ireland.
Our final destination on this first day is the medieval city of Kilkenny where we'll stay for 2 nights at the 4-star River Court Hotel, overlooking Kilkenny Castle. For those with stamina we'll head to Kilkenny's longest running traditional Irish music session. Dust off those party pieces and be ready to join in!
NO DRIVING DAY
After breakfast we explore Kilkenny with a guided tour of "The Medieval Mile," followed by a tour of Kilkenny Castle. Then, the group will have free time to adventure and explore the many cathedrals and castles of the medieval city before we gather in the evening for a group dinner at the hotel. After dinner, we head to the pub for some traditional Irish music and Craic!
We leave Kilkenny and head to West Cork. Along the way we will explore Midleton and see the Kindred Spirit monument as well as enjoying The Jameson Experience at the iconic Jameson Distillery.
Dust yourselves off and then put on your dancing shoes for a set dancing lesson. Afterwards we will retire to the pub for a traditional Irish session with a special guest.
Today we explore west Cork and get our first glimpse of the Wild Atlantic Way. Cork is known as the "rebel" county and had a major role to play in the War of Independence, as depicted in the movies The Wind That Shakes the Barley and Michael Collins. We will explore 2 of these important historical sights.
The afternoon will be spent in the serene surroundings of Gougane Barra where we will have a gourmet lunch and free time to explore.
Dingle Peninsula
We take you to our home ground where we stay for 3 nights at the 4-star Skellig Hotel and Peninsula Spa.
Among the highlights of the next 3 days will be:
- Inch Beach
- Folk concert at St. James Church
- Archeological tour of Slea Head
- A short hike back west, where the most westerly point in all of Europe is found and some of the most breathtaking views to be seen on Ireland's Wild Atlantic way
- Traditional concert at our own O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub
- Plenty of other special surprises to be announced
Drive to Ennis, Co. Clare, where we stay for 2 nights at the 4-star Old Ground Hotel, a beautifully restored 18th century manor house hotel in Ennis town center.
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We will meander to a favourite traditional pub.
Until you've seen the Cliffs of Moher from the sea you haven't seen them at all. Today we will take a boat to see these majestic sea cliffs named from the ancient Gaelic word "Mhothair" which means ruined fort. They rise to over 700 feet. The boat will meander just north of O'Brien's Tower, the furthest point of the cliffs. Here we'll see the 1st century fort, Moher Tower, that it's named for.
Stroll around the picturesque village of Doolin. Farewell lunch and session in Doolin.
There will be 1 shuttle from the hotel to Shannon Airport. The time is TBD by guests' flight schedules.
