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Ireland 14 Day Grand Tour!

14 Days

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August 11, 2024 - August 24, 2024 Guaranteed $4,295 USD
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Overview

Come with us on this unforgettable voyage of exploration across Ireland and the enchanting Wild Atlantic Way.

Embark on a journey to marvel at the majestic Cliffs of Moher, delve into the wonders of Northern Ireland, and unearth the hidden gems of remote Donegal. Have the quintessential Irish experience by staying in an authentic castle hotel. Revel in the beauty of Connemara during a two-day exploration, followed by two lively evenings in the charming town of Dingle.

This 12-day Discover Ireland Tour will offer you an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the essence of Ireland by getting to know its culture, people, and astounding beauty.

Itinerary

We leave from the US for an overnight flight to Dublin, arriving the next morning.

After arriving in Dublin, we will transfer to our hotel in the middle of Dublin, leave our luggage, and then have the afternoon to explore Dublin on a walking tour with a local. Our first dinner will be in a classic Irish pub. Fish and chips anyone?

Dinner

This morning we will take a private transport to the Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast via Belfast. Our day includes a guided tour of the British Royal Family’s residence in North Ireland, Hillsborough Castle & Gardens. The remainder of the day will be used explore Belfast before meeting up at a local pub for our Welcome Dinner.

We will get to enjoy the famous Black Cab Tour, where we will unpack the complicated history of the Troubles of Belfast in a London Black Cab. Our guide – one of the drivers that shuttled passengers along the Falls Road and Shankill Road – and learn all about this challenging moment in Ireland’s history. We will see murals and peace walls while listening to 4 versions of the history.

Then we will head to our hotel

Average drive time for today: 3 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at the Ballygally Castle Hotel, featuring a 17th century tower and resident ghost!

Breakfast

Following breakfast, we embark on an awe-inspiring journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, renowned as one of the world’s most breathtaking drives. Here, we’ll trace the mythical footsteps of Finn McCool at the legendary Giants’ Causeway and pause for a visit to the clifftop marvel of Dunluce Castle.

For those seeking an added layer of experience, we will attend a Bushmills whiskey tasting session that includes, offering a delightful taste of Ireland’s rich heritage of spirits.

A whiskey educator will introduce us first-hand to the craft of whiskey- making and how it is carried out here at Old Bushmills Distillery. We will walk with them through the living history of our grain-to-glass processes, experiencing the impressive sights and rich scents of each stage from mash tun to pot still to barrel. Our tour ends in the Master Distilleries Room. Here our whiskey tutor will guide you through the rich aromas and complex flavors of three blended and three single malt whiskies, each with their own unique color and character.

You will sample:

• Bushmills Original

• Blackbush

• 10 Year Old Malt

• 12 Year Old Malt

• 16 Year Old Malt

• 21 Year Old Malt

Average drive time for today: 3 hours

Accommodation tonight is at The Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

Breakfast

Before bidding farewell to Northern Ireland, we’ll embark on a guided walking tour of Derry/Londonderry, the country’s sole intact walled city. Following this, we’ll take a brief hike to the ancient stone ringfort at Grianan of Aileach, where we’ll soak up the panoramic vistas of Inishowen, the Atlantic Ocean, Donegal, and Derry.

In the afternoon, our journey continues with a guided tour of the 15th-century Donegal Castle, and then pay homage to WB Yeats at his final resting place in Sligo.

Average drive time for today: 3 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at The Mount Falcon Estate & Spa.

Breakfast

In the morning, we’ll journey westward from Mayo to Clifden, Galway, beginning our day with a captivating visit to the majestic Killary Fjord, where we’ll tour a working sheep farm and immerse ourselves in rural life.

Our scenic drive will lead us through the awe-inspiring Doolough Valley, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Along the way, we’ll explore the charming towns of Westport and Clifden, each offering its own unique charm and allure.

Average drive time for today: 3 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at The Clifden Station House Hotel.

Breakfast

Today we explore the enchanting region of Connemara, where untamed landscapes, picturesque villages, artisanal boutiques, cozy pubs, and quaint cottages await us.

Our journey includes a visit to the magnificent Kylemore Abbey, a gem among Ireland’s architectural treasures, as well as a captivating vista of the Twelve Bens mountain range

Average drive time for today: 2 hours

Accommodation tonight is at The Clifden Station House Hotel.

Breakfast

Today promises a captivating journey as we depart from Connemara and venture south to Galway Bay en route to our next stop, Clare.

Amidst our travels, we’ll delve into the rich history of the 16th-century Aughnanure Castle with a guided tour, absorb the vibrant energy of Galway, known as the City of Tribes, and wander through the otherworldly landscapes of the Burren National Park.

Our day ends with the awe-inspiring sight of the Cliffs of Moher, towering 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Average drive time for today: 3 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at The Lahinch Coast Hotel.

Breakfast

Today, we explore the Clare coastline, enjoying its scenic beauty, before witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of a Kerry sunset. Amidst our adventures, we’ll have the opportunity to tour a working sheep farm (depending on earlier stops), pay a visit to the historic South Pole Inn, owned by Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant ambiance of Dingle’s colorful pubs, resonating with live music.

Average drive time for today: 4 hours

Accommodation tonight is at Dingle Benners Hotel.

Breakfast
Day 10 :
Dingle

Today offers a chance for you to discover Dingle at your own pace or opt for one of the following activities:

  • Embark on a breathtaking scenic tour (50km) of the Dingle Peninsula along the iconic Slea Head Drive.
  • Enjoy a scenic boat trip across Dingle Bay

Average drive time for today: 1 hour 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at Dingle Benners Hotel.

Breakfast

As we bid farewell to Dingle, our journey continues towards Glengarriff in Cork, passing through the charming town of Killarney.

Be sure to have your cameras ready to capture the enchanting beauty of Killarney National Park. During our visit, we’ll marvel at a majestic 1,000-year-old yew tree nestled within Muckross Abbey and admire the picturesque Torc Waterfall.

We will also get to experience the scenic wonders of Killarney National Park with a horse-drawn carriage ride

Average drive time for today: 2 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at Eccles Hotel Glengarriff.

Breakfast

Today our explorations take us to the remote Beara Peninsula. We will imagine ancient life along rugged roads, superb scenery, and a mysterious Neolighic stone circle, move into more recent history on a tour of Bantry House and Gardens, which has been in the same family since the 18th century, and drive over the scenic mountain roads of either the Caha or Healy Pass.

Average drive time for today: 3 hours

Accommodation tonight is at The Gougane Barra Hotel or The Castle Hotel Macroom.

Breakfast, Dinner

Today marks the start of our journey back to Dublin, but not before Kissing the Blarney Stone! Along the way, we’ll explore the historic Rock of Cashel, steeped in centuries of Irish history and folklore. Finally, we’ll return to Dublin for a farewell dinner, reminiscing on the incredible experiences shared during our adventure.

Average drive time for today: 4 hours, 30 minutes

Accommodation tonight is at The Grand Canal Hotel.

Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14 :
Departure

Today we say goodbye to this magical land and depart for home.

Breakfast

What's included in your trip:

  • Mercedes mini-coach
  • Expertly trained tour guide
  • First arrival day in Dublin, followed by 11 full days of touring 
  • 11 nights' accommodation, including 1 night castle stay
  • 10 delicious Irish breakfasts
  • Most daily activities, tours, and visits (see Tour Options below for extras)
  • Entrance into the magnificent Blarney Castle and Gardens
  • Entrance into the epic Rock of Cashel
  • A working sheep farm experience
  • Shannon ferry tickets 
  • Optional Activities:
  • Black Cab Tour of Belfast (£20.00, cash £GBP Sterling)
  • Titanic Centre Experience, self-guided tour (£24.95)
  • Garnish Island Boat Trip and botanical gardens (£19.00)
  • Boat Trip in Dingle Bay (£10.00)
  • Golf in Dingle (variable)
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride in Killarney National Park (£20.00, cash)
Is a passport required for U.S. citizens to travel to Ireland?

Yes, all U.S. citizens are required to provide a current passport and also confirmed reservations for leaving Ireland upon arrival.

What is the currency used in Ireland?

The Euro is the official currency in Ireland. We recommend getting local currency from an ATM upon arrival.

Is tipping expected?

No tipping is expected or mandatory, but if you wish to show your appreciation for good service it is considered good practice.

Are there COVID travel restrictions to enter Ireland?

No, all COVID travel restrictions have been removed. You may enter the country with no test or need to show a vaccination certificate. American citizens do not need to test or show documentation to reenter the country.

What are the electrical outlets in Ireland?

Ireland uses a large type G outlet with 3 square prongs (NOT the standard round two-prong outlet used throughout the European Union).

 Ballygally Castle Hotel, Northern Ireland

Have you ever spent a night in a haunted castle? Well, now you can!

Nestled on the picturesque Northern Ireland coast, Ballygally Castle Hotel boasts a 400-year-old tower house that is said to be inhabited by a friendly ghost. How spooky!

Remarkably, Ballygally is the sole 17th-century structure still serving as a residence in present-day Northern Ireland.

This charming and hospitable hotel has captured the hearts of many guests on our intimate small-group tours of Northern Ireland.


Bishops Gate Hole, Derry/Londonderry

Built in 1899, Bishop’s Gate Hotel is located in the center of the fully walled city of Derry/Londonderry.

Our guests tend to love the historic building’s blend of Edwardian architecture and stylish rooms.


Mount Falcon Estate Hotel, Moy Valley, Mayo

A 4-star Victorian Gothic manor, originally built as a wedding gift is situated on 100 acres of magical woodlands. 


Clifden Station House, Clifden

The historic railway station buildings of Clifden, originally built in 1895, have been lovingly restored and now serve as the home of the Clifden Station House Hotel & Spa.

This delightful, family-operated hotel embraces a railway motif, with the red-brick structures preserving numerous original Victorian elements, such as the former railway platform.

It truly encapsulates the essence of old-world Ireland.


Lahinch Coast Hotel, Wild Atlantic Way, Lahinch

Located steps from a beautiful sandy beach, this 4-star, contemporary hotel is perfectly placed along the Wild Atlantic Way. 

You will sleep soundly to the crash of the Atlantic waves in your cozy spacious room. 

Amenities include a full bar & restaurant, gym and indoor lap pool.


Dingle Benners Hotel, Dingle

Old-world charm meets modern comfort at Dingle Benners, a 350 year old historic boutique hotel. 

The central location makes a perfect base from which to explore Dingle town at your own pace. 

And, be sure to test out the all day award winning menus from Irish Breakfast to “Ireland’s Best Afternoon Tea” to evening dinner, and a bar with premium whiskeys and locally distilled gin and vodka.


Eccles Hotel, Glengarriff

Overlooking Bantry Bay, the Eccles Hotel is a mix of authentic old world charm and modern comfort in the quaint village of Glengarriff. 

As a special note, the Eccles Hotel restaurant features a vegan a la carte menu.


Gougane Barra Hotel, Cork

A fifth-generation family-run hotel, known for its wholesome food, relaxed atmosphere and personal service, is set in a spectacular landscape. You can walk, cycle, or fish along the edge of the Gougane Barra lake.


Macroom Castle Hotel, Cork

Unwind at this comfortable 4-star hotel, managed by the same family for three generations. Dine on award-winning food from local artisan food producers and the hotel’s own organic kitchen garden and sourdough bakery. Toast to your trips at Dan Buckly’s Bar, voted “The Black & White Munster Hotel Bar of the Year”.

Places We Will Visit

Cliffs of Moher

 

Guinness Storefront, Dublin

 

Skellig Islands

 

Hiking in Ireland’s National Parks

 

Sheep and Lamb on Irish Hilltop

 

Ring of Kerry

 

Market in Galway

From $4,295 USD
/ Shared Room (Double Occupancy)
From $4,795 USD
/ Private Room (Single Occupancy)
  • Small Groups of 8 - 15 people
  • Flexible Payments
  • Pre-trip Educational/Preparation Meetings
  • TravelAvidly Trip Leader
  • Immersive Experiences

Trip Information

Activity Level: Active (see all ratings)

Curator: Dianna Germany

Trip Leader/CSR: Dianny Germany