Others

Choose between two carefully selected activities Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees. Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone. Connemara: Taste the unique flavours of DK Connemara oysters, bred in pure water that runs off the limestone hills of the Connemara National Park. Learn about the farm’s sustainability initiatives in an enlightening experience. DK Connemara oysters lead the way in biodiversity and packaging for farming. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 112: Responsible Consumption and Production. Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey’s history, discovering how it was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I. Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe’s elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations. Ring of Kerry: Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they work to protect the fragile ecosystem of the wild Atlantic Irish coasts through their educational courses and passion for the local environment. Irish Atlantic Seaweed’s environmental policy is to respect, enjoy and protect the natural wonders that surround them, and promote the sustainable use of Ireland’s fragile marine ecosystems. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached. Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation. Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland’s scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Shannon: Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry. This large estuary is where the River Shannon flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Galway: Visit the stunning cathedral of the City of Tribes. Admire its Renaissance style dome and unique rose shaped window. Cong: Enjoy time as you wish to explore this delightful, quintessential Irish village, used as the location for 1952 film, ’The Quiet Man.’ See the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey. Ashford Castle: On arrival, you are escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper for a majestic entrance fit for royalty.

Meals

4 Dinner (D) 7 Breakfast (B) Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal. Ashford Castle: Dine on delicious Farm-to-Table fare in a stylish setting at the iconic George V Dining Room.

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Insight Vacations through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. While highly recommended, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are no longer required for guests traveling with us from January 1, 2023 onward. It is your client’s responsibly to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destinations visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than the above. No refunds will be given if they are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to failure to comply with these requirements.

Accommodation

Dublin: Located in the heart of the docklands, the Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is walking distance from Dublin city centre shopping and iconic venues. Killarney: In the heart of the town centre, the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa overlooks Killarney National Park and is the perfect location to enjoy the stunning scenery and the local ’craic.’ Galway: Set on the coast, the Connemara Coast Hotel offers spectacular views of Connemara and continues a tradition in hospitality dating back to 1839. Ashford Castle: Formerly the home of the Guinness family, the magnificent Ashford Castle is now an award-winning hotel boasting sumptuous suites, antique furniture and unique historic features in a regal setting. Its recent multi-million-dollar renovation only adds to its allure. Set in a 350-acre estate in the countryside, it is the perfect destination for those looking for a romantic getaway or for guests who simply want to get back to nature. Expect warm Irish hospitality and charm aplenty.

Transport

Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available). If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport. Enjoy the comfort of Insight’s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

Not included:

Flights

International flights not included.

Guide

Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.

Optional

JAUNTING CAR RIDE Adult Price: EUR 21.00 GAELIC ROOTS Adult Price: EUR 34.00 THE QUIET MAN Adult Price: EUR 35.00 MEDIEVAL CITY WALK WITH PUB SUPPER Adult Price: EUR 48.00 DUBLIN DINNER AND COASTAL DRIVE Adult Price: EUR 64.00

Others

Other activities and services not included

Insurance

Insurance not included.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City

Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a Local Expert that brings to life Dublin’s architectural treasures and history, stretching back more than 1,000 years. Travel along the River Liffey, see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. See the 9th century Book of Kells and enjoy a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College. Back at your hotel, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening.
Day 2 Day 2: Cashel And Blarney, Heading For Killarney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Cashel And Blarney, Heading For Killarney

Depart Dublin, and pass the famous Curragh Racecourse and green meadows where many of the finest Irish racehorses are bred. Driving south, stop to see the spectacular Rock of Cashel, crowned with medieval buildings that dominate the flat countryside for miles around. Then on to explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence. Alternatively, meet a senior gardener for a tour of Blarney Gardens. Head to Killarney, where you may fancy a ‘pint of porter.’ This town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs so in the evening why not join in the ‘craic’?
Day 3 Day 3: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

In the morning, marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts.
Day 4 Day 4: The Cliffs Of Moher And On To Galway
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: The Cliffs Of Moher And On To Galway

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Centre and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of Tribes, and visit the last Cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Day 5 Day 5: Captivating Connemara Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Captivating Connemara Relaxed Start

Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Explore Connemara with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the magnificent, turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and visit one of Ireland’s oldest oyster farms for a tasting. Learn about their commitment to biodiversity and work promoting sustainable packaging.
Day 6 Day 6: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Sitting on the edge of Lough Corrib and nestled on the border of County Galway and County Mayo, is the delightful Cong. You may recognise much of the town as it was used as the location in the 1952 film, ’The Quiet Man.’ With free time to explore this quintessential Irish village, see the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey. Then a short drive down the road leads you to Ashford Castle, the highlight of your travels. As you arrive a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel’s falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. Creative cooking, locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu awaits. Gentlemen, a jacket is required.
Day 7 Day 7: Across The Emerald Isle To Dublin Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Across The Emerald Isle To Dublin Relaxed Start

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the morning and perhaps a stroll on the estate? Then cross the midlands to Dublin where the rest of the day is free for independent activities and maybe some last minute shopping.
Day 8 Day 8: Depart Dublin
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Depart Dublin

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport.

8 days tour

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City

Day 2: Cashel And Blarney, Heading For Killarney

Day 3: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

Day 4: The Cliffs Of Moher And On To Galway

Day 5: Captivating Connemara Relaxed Start

Day 6: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Day 7: Across The Emerald Isle To Dublin Relaxed Start

Day 8: Depart Dublin

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