8 Day Secrets of Ireland

Itinerary

Trafalgar Small Group Tour starting in Dublin and finishing in Dublin

A complete circle of Ireland including fairytale castle stays, this incredible itinerary takes you into its many landscapes - from the cityscape of Dublin, the wild Cliffs of Moher and the island's famous 'emerald' countryside.

Day By Day

Day 1 Arrive Dublin - Afternoon Sightseeing

Welcome to Dublin the lively Irish capital. This afternoon meet your Local Specialist for a guided tour. See St. Patrick's Cathedral, colourful Georgian Squares and the vibrant, modern city. Then raise a glass of the 'black stuff" and drink in sweeping Dublin views at the Gravity Bar, atop the Guinness Storehouse as you gain a Cultural Insight into this famous Irish product. Later savour free time and a Welcome Reception with Irish beer or wine. (WR) Stay: Brooks

Day 2 Dublin - Kildare - Cashel - Killarney (2 Nights)

Head across the rolling countryside to Kildare. Stop for a visit to the Irish National Stud for a Cultural Insight into the fascinating world of Ireland's thoroughbred industry. See the foaling unit, museum and of course the powerful and regal stallions. On to visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel with a Local Specialist, where you view its majestic ecclesiastical ruins. Continue to Killarney, the town on the lakes where your evening is free. (FB) Stay: The Malton Authentic Accommodation

Day 3 Ring Of Kerry Excursion

Enjoy a splendid morning of spectacular scenery, driving around the Ring of Kerry. Take in views of coast and sea, hills and green fields as you travel through this unspoiled land that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. At Torc Waterfall, you might wish to join a Local Specialist for a leisurely guided walk. If you prefer, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney. (FB)

Day 4 Killarney - Cliffs Of Moher - Galway - Connemara (2 Nights)

Heading north stop to see the stunning Cliffs of Moher, rising up to 700 feet above the Atlantic. Continue to Galway, and visit the Cathedral. At 50-years-old, it is one of the youngest of Europe's stone cathedrals. Travel on through Connemara to the extraordinary Ballynahinch Castle Hotel. (FB/D) Stay: Ballynahinch Castle Authentic Accommodation

Day 5 Connemara Excursion

Drive through the scenic landscapes of Connemara, taking in views of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes and endless shades of green. Make a stop in the picturesque town of Clifden, set between the Twelve Bens Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Then on to visit Kylemore Abbey, a magnificent castellated structure built as a family home and now inhabited by a group of Benedictine nuns. The extensive walled Victorian garden is a delight to the senses. Later return to your castle hotel for dinner. (FB/D)

Day 6 Connemara - Sligo - Roscommon

Venture north to Sligo. Here, amid the hills and loughs that inspired the lyrical lines penned by the poet William Butler Yeats, you will be welcomed to a private home for a bit of food, fun, and poetry. Damien and Paula Brennan live in, a modern abode with rustic touches overlooking beautiful Lough Gill. Inside, you will find walls adorned with contemporary Irish paintings and a table set for a Be My Guest feast prepared by Paula, a noted chef. Damien is a Local Specialist on W.B. Yeats. Delicious food, fine company, and the poetry of Yeats come together for a heart-warming meal. Then travel to Roscommon and Kilronan Castle Hotel the ancestral home of the Tenison family and the legendary Colonel King Tenison. It is one of a few Irish castle estates that can trace its history back to royal families. (FB/BMGD) Stay: Kilronan Castle Authentic Accommodation

Day 7 Roscommon - Strokestown - Dublin

Stop for a visit to magnificent Strokestown Park House, an 18th century mansion with original furnishings. In the old stables is the Irish Famine Museum, one of the world's best private archives dedicated to the potato famine of the 1840s where you gain a Cultural Insight into the plight of the Irish people. Return to Dublin and visit Trinity College to see its remarkable treasure, the elaborate Book of Kells. Relish a Farewell Dinner with newfound friends. (FB/FD) Stay: Fitzpatrick Castle Authentic Accommodation

Day 8 Depart Dublin

You will be transferred to the airport, where your Emerald Isle adventure concludes. Transfers are available. Conditions apply. (FB)