This richly layered journey showcases the very best of Ireland, blending coastal beauty, living history, music, and warm hospitality. From a seaside welcome in Howth and lively evenings in Galway to a cruise to Inishmore and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, the itinerary balances iconic sights with authentic local encounters. Guests enjoy castle stays in Roscommon, explore Belfast’s complex past, and travel the spectacular Causeway Coast to the Giant’s Causeway. Along the way, experiences range from traditional pubs and mining heritage to premium distillery visits, culminating in time to explore Dublin’s great cultural landmarks before a celebratory farewell.
A Céad míle fáilte is extended on arrival at Dublin Airport by your friendly driver and experienced local Tour Manager. We travel to the seaside town of Howth where you will have time to breathe in the fresh sea air and grab a coffee and bite to eat. There will be time to relax and unwind at our coastal hotel before heading the Abbey Tavern for an exclusive welcome dinner and live entertainment – including a few songs from the Paddyman upstairs at the Tavern.
Included Meals
Dinner
Overnight
Grand Hotel Malahide, Co. Dublin View All
After a relaxing morning, we begin our journey through Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands to the medieval town of Athlone. Here, we will visit what is considered to be the birthplace of Irish whiskey, Sean’s Bar for a chat and a taste of Sean’s own blend by a cosy peat fire. There will be time to stroll through the town before we are back on the coach. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure in Galway. Tonight, you may wish to venture out to Shop Street, a buzzing pedestrian thoroughfare that is lined with great cafes, restaurants, and pubs, many featuring live music.
We will board a cruise in Galway and sail to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. As we disembark, we will be met by a local guide who will lead us on a tour of the island, that is rich in Irish language and culture with a wealth of Pre-Christian and Christian ancient sites including Dún Aonghasa. On our return journey we will skirt past the mighty Cliffs of Moher for a unique and breathtaking view from the water. Tonight, we will dine at our hotel.
We journey north to the town of Athenry for a photo stop and sing song at Athenry Castle. Onward to County Roscommon with time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Kilronan Castle, before dining on a meal fit for royalty in the Douglas Hyde Restaurant.
We will visit the Arigna Mining Experience, a centre dedicated to the coal mining history of Arigna over a period of 400 years. The tour includes a visit to the mines, with many of the tour guides being former miners. Next, a tour and tasting of the Sheds Distillery, home to the renowned Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Here, you will be introduced to the basics of distilling, as well as learn the story of this distillery. Once you are back at the hotel you may wish to indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or take a rejuvenating swim in the indoor heated pool. This evening we are treated to another delicious meal at our castle hotel. After dinner, enjoy a music session in the Library Bar with the Paddyman.
A later departure this morning! Enroute to Belfast we stop in Dungannon and visit the Hill of the O’Neill, the seat of the O’Neill Clan’s military and political power back in the 14th century. In Belfast we undertake a panoramic tour of the city that will include the political murals along the Falls and Shankhill Roads. The remainder of the day and evening are at leisure to explore the city. Places of interest include Belfast City Hall, Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Botanic Gardens at Queen’s University.
Travelling north we visit Carrickfergus Castle. Built in 1177 by John de Courcy, a Norman knight, the castle played a crucial role in Ireland’s medieval conflicts and power struggles. Continue along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Giant’s Causeway where you can ‘stand on the shoulders of giants.’ We make a stop for a commemorative pint in the Anchor Bar in Portstewart before arriving back in Belfast for a group dinner at our hotel.
We will depart Belfast for Dublin, and the ‘home of the black stuff’ Guinness for a self-guided tour of the Storehouse. Next, a tour and tasting of the ‘water of life’ at Jameson Distillery. Tonight is a free night in Dublin, a great city for dining where you can indulge in traditional Irish fayre but choose from a vast selection of fine dining restaurants and bistros that feature cuisines from around the world.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Overnight
Riu Plaza the Gresham Hotel, Dublin View All
A full day in Dublin using your Dublin Bus Hop On/Hop Off Sightseeing Ticket. During this time, you can visit some of Dublin’s city’s most famous attractions including EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum, Kilmainham Gaol and Trinity College. This evening, a farewell dinner with entertainment at Taylors Three Rock. Music, dancing and more fun!
Included Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight
Riu Plaza the Gresham Hotel, Dublin View All
Activities & Experiences:
Your tour includes a variety of activities, admissions, and tickets for a complete experience.
Whiskey Chat at Sean’s Bar
Full day excursion to Inishmore
Tour and tasting at the Shed’s Distillery
Tour and tasting at Jameson Distillery
Hop on/Hop offDublin bus ticket
Visits and admissions to: Arigna Mining Experience, Hill of the O’Neill, Titanic Belfast, Carrickfergus Castle, The Giant’s Causeway, and Guinness Storehouse
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