Treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland | September 29th, 2024
$6599 $6299 per person
⭐⭐⭐⭐+
*Prices are CAD per person, based on 2 people sharing and reflects early booking discount (land only)
Single Supplement: $1000 CAD (If you’re a single traveler and looking to be matched up with a roommate (of the same gender), please reach out to us for details)
If wanting to add 1 Pre- Night at the Address Connolly Hotel in Dublin:
$285 CAD, per person based on double occupancy and includes airport transfers and breakfast
$369 CAD for Single Occupancy and includes airport transfers
Approximate Round Trip International Airfare Including Taxes from the following Air Gateways
Toronto – $1195
Vancouver – $1395
Calgary/Edmonton – $1495
Early Booking Price Expires March 17th, 2024 | Or until sold out
September 29th to October 13th, 2024 | 16 to 24 Passengers
Join this Hosted Trip Merchant Journeys Small Group Departure!
The Emerald Isle, known for its 40 shades of green! Explore the dramatic landscapes of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland! Kiss the Blarney Stone, Walk along the dramatic coastline of the Cliffs of Moher, taste a dram or two of whiskey at the Jameson Distillery, drive along the Ring of Kerry and experience the wonders of the Giants Causeway and much more…..
We’re excited to share this incredible destination with you!
Accommodations:
3 Nights: Dublin (Address Connolly Hotel)
2 Nights: Belfast (Stormont Hotel)
1 Night: Derry/Londonderry (Everglades Hotel)
1 Night: Galway (Salthill Hotel)
2 Nights: Tralee/Killarney (Ballygarry House Hotel)
1 Night: Cork (The River Lee Hotel)
2 Nights: Carlow Town/Kilkenny (Seven Oaks Hotel)
1 Night: Dublin (Fitzpatrick Castle Dublin)
Highlights:
- Sightseeing tours of Dublin and Belfast
- Guinness Storehouse and pour a perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse and admire 360 degree views of the city from the Gravity Bar
- Titanic Belfast Experience
- Dinner and Traditional Show at Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub in Dublin
- Sheepdog Experience at Glenshane Country Farm
- Visit Treacy’s Farmhouse for a Baking Demonstration and Lunch
- Visit the Giant’s Causeway and Antrim Coast
- Tour & Tasting at the Jameson Midleton Distillery
- Visit the Cliffs of Moher
- Experience the natural beauty of the Ring of Kerry
- Kilkenny Walking Tour
- Rock of Cashel
- Visit the Blarney Castle and Kiss the Blarney Stone (not mandatory)
What’s Included:
All sightseeing and meals as per itinerary (13 Breakfasts – 4 Lunches – 7 Dinners), all tipping for drivers and guides, all entrance fees as per itinerary, *arrival and departure transfers, private English Speaking guide throughout the entire trip, local specialty guides, all taxes
*Arrival Transfers are included if arriving on the regular arrival date of this tour or if booking a pre-night with us.
Not Included:
*International airfare
*Trip Merchant is happy to assist you with booking the international airfare from your preferred Canadian air gateway
Out of Country Trip Cancellation and Medical Insurance is recommended
Terms and Conditions:
$500 CAD per person non-refundable deposit due upon reservation (if you cancel by January 30th, 2024 you will receive $250 per person refund and the remaining $250 deposit will convert to a Trip Merchant Future Travel Credit valid for travel for 2 years beyond the original date of travel)
Final Balance: Due by July 15th, 2024 (100% non-refundable after final payment)
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext 3
Mention Group Booking Number: TMJIRE924
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Destination
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Arrival City
Dubin, Ireland -
Departure City
Dublin, Ireland -
Activity Level
This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs, or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected. -
Passenger Limit
24 pax
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Sunday, September 29th, 2024: Depart from Home | Overnight Flight
*Begin your journey from Canada to the Emerald Isle, as you depart from your desired airport gateway. *International Airfare is not included in the package. Flights from Canada to Ireland are overnight flights. If wanting to arrive on the regular start date of this tour in Ireland then you would depart today to arrive in Dublin on September 30th. If wanting to add a pre-night (s) please ask us.
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Monday, September 30th, 2024: Dublin | Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
This morning arrive in Ireland after your overnight flight, and meet your touring driver/guide at Dublin Airport. Meet with your English-speaking guide and driver and transfer to Dublin city centre. Enjoy a Walking tour of the city. Here you will discover the north and south side of the River Liffey. This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe. The south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde’s House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops. Not so far from St. Stephen’s Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula.
This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College, where the famous book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library. The university is facing the medieval district where Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found.
Accommodation: The Address Connolly, Dublin (Deluxe)
The Address Connolly is in the heart of Dublin City Centre. This design driven hotel offers an eclectic mix of luxe interiors and traditional design pieces all sourced from and crafted in Ireland. The Address Connolly promises the ultimate 4 star hotel experience full of special touches that surprise and delight.
Meals Provided: No Meals Provided
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Tuesday, October 1st, 2024: Dublin | Epic Museum - Guinness Storehouse - Welcome Dinner and Show
This morning visit EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a state-of-the-art interactive experience located in the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin’s Docklands, the original departure point for so many of Ireland’s emigrants. It will inspire and guide you on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration around the world, from early times to the modern day. Over the centuries, some 10 million people have left the island of Ireland. At EPIC you can step through 20 themed galleries to find out why people left, see how they influenced the world they found, and experience the connection between their descendants and Ireland today. Immerse yourself in the stories of some of the most remarkable tales of sacrifice, endurance, adventure, and discovery the world has ever known. EPIC brings these amazing stories to life in a unique and spectacular way. Lunch under own arrangement Then visit the Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion. The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once the tour has finished, the guest is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy their pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse. Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, “Five” at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce. Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford. This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home.
In the evening enjoy a Dinner & Traditional Show at Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub. The show takes place in the ideal location, a pub owned and run by musicians who have been performing to audiences in Dublin since 1989. The Merry Ploughboys live in concert is widely regarded as the best traditional music show in Dublin and also as a must see for any visitors to Dublin city. The show is a highly entertaining performance of live traditional Irish music, song and Irish dancing. From start to finish, this is a show based on fantastic interaction between the performers and the audience.
Accommodation: The Address Connolly, Dublin (Deluxe)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024: Dublin Full Day at Leisure
Today enjoy a full day of leisure in this fair city to explore on your own.
Accommodation: The Address Connolly, Dublin (Deluxe)
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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Thursday, October 3rd, 2024: Dublin to Belfast
This morning, depart for Belfast city touring the Boyne Valley in the morning. Visit Treacy’s Farmhouse for a Baking Demonstration & Lunch Based in Comber, County Down on the shores of Strangford Lough, Tracey Jeffrey has a beautiful traditional cottage where she provides a traditional Irish bread making experience. The session starts with a traditional Irish Fruit Soda Cake, a sweet treat and delicious with lots of homemade Irish butter. While the Fruit Soda Cake is baking in the stove oven, guests will make some potato bread (or fudge as it is known locally). Fillings of scallions or cheese can be added to the potato mix. Soda bread will also be made, with various alternative ingredients, including treacle, currants, sultanas or cinnamon. Tray-bakes are a typical sweet treat from Northern Ireland, and are delicious served with tea or coffee. Guests will take home a bag filled with their handmade products and all of the recipes.
Arrive in Belfast and enjoy a Panoramic Tour of the city There are just under half a million people living in Belfast today, and one of the city’s principal landmarks can be seen upon arrival –the two Harland & Wolfe Cranes –nicknamed Samson and Goliath. It was here that many great ships were built –most notably for White Star Line, whose ships included the Olympic, Britannic and –perhaps the most famous ship of all –RMS Titanic. Dinner at a local restaurant
Accommodation: Stormont Hotel, Belfast (Deluxe)
The beautiful 4 star Stormont Hotel Belfast is located just minutes away from Belfast City Centre, adjacent to Stormont Estate overlooking the immaculately maintained wooded landscape. With 106 bright and spacious, bedrooms tastefully decorated and furnished to the highest standards, an inviting and relaxing cocktail lounge, city centre shopping, theatres, museums and restaurants are just minutes away
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Friday, October 4th, 2024: Belfast
This morning visit the Titanic Belfast Experience Located in the heart of Belfast, the Titanic Belfast recreates the story of the world’s most famous ship in an iconic, six floor building right beside the historic site of the original ship’s construction. Opened in April 2012 to coincide with the centenary of its launch, the self-guided journey begins on entering the building's giant atrium, where the visitor is surrounded by the four ‘ship’s hull’ shaped wings which house the Titanic Experience. As you journey through the nine large galleries of the interactive exhibition, you will uncover the true story of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900's, through her construction and launch, to her famous maiden voyage and subsequent place in history. Lunch under own arrangement In the afternoon, travel to Glenshane Country Farm for a Sheepdog Experience
Glenshane Country Farm is set high in the heart of the Sperrin Mountains. We are the 4th generation of family sheep farmers, offering our guests a hands on authentic experience of an Irish working farm. With over 250+ sheep on the farm.. come see our Sheepdogs at work with an option of sheering the wool while taking in the delights of the beautiful countryside. Our guests leave smiling with stories and memories to tell family and friends back home. Dinner under own arrangement
Accommodation: Stormont Hotel, Belfast (Deluxe)
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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Saturday, October 5th, 2024: Antrim Coast - Giant's Causeway
Depart towards the Antrim Coast Your drive up from Belfast will take you along the coast road (known as the Causeway Coastal Route) via the Glens of Antrim. There are stunning views of the sea to the right; and the mountains –or the Glens of Antrim –to the left. Most impressive are the spectacular views of Mull of Kintyre, Scotland –clearly visible on a fine day. Along the coast road you will pass the quaint coastal villages of Glenariff, Cushendall and Cushendun. Visit the Giant’s Causeway
Encounter Northern Ireland’s favourite giant Finn McCool at the new Giants Causeway Visitor centre on the North Antrim coast which opened in the summer of 2012. According to legend Finn McCool created the Giants Causeway by building stepping stones to Scotland to challenge the Scottish giant Benandonner! The new Visitor centre explores the major themes of mythology, geology, landscape, ecology, culture and social history based on the UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of 40,000 basalt polygonal columns formed 60 million years ago after a volcanic eruption. There are various interactive exhibits and short video presentations within five designated interpretive exhibition areas and the self guided visit will culminate with a spectacular two minutes audio-visual projection of a volcanic eruption flowing over the walls and onto the floor. Other services and facilities include a large craft and souvenir shop, Tourist Information and restaurant. To enhance the wider visitor experience around the site, a hand held audio guide is available in a range of languages which will bring the wider World Heritage Site to life and inform visitors of unique features to look out for across this amazing landscape. Guided tours of the site are also available. The walks and trails around the World Heritage Site have been upgraded, with the addition of a new accessible cliff top walk for families and people with disabilities. In 2015, Conde Nast Traveler magazine included hopping the stones of the Giant's Causeway as one of the '50 things to do in Europe before you die'. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the way Dinner at a local restaurant
Accommodation: Everglades Derry Hotel, Derry (Superior)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Sunday, October 6th, 2024: Derry to Galway
Today travel towards Galway. On the way make a stop in Belleek Pottery The world famous brand of Belleek pottery has its home in an imposing Victorian building in the village of Belleek on the river Erne. Awarded a 4 star visitor attraction grading in 2013 and 'Best Visitor Experience Of The Year 2014'at the Northern Ireland Tourism Awards, it features a museum, tearoom, video theatre and a showroom. The guided tour covers all of the production areas offering guests the possibility of meeting with the craftspeople, observing their craftmenship working on the different handmade pieces (no production on Sundays). As you walk through the museum you will experience the journey through the life of the Pottery from the early earthenware days to the present day fine translucent Parian China. *Only AV Presentation available on Sundays Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the way Then visit the Marble Arch Caves Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is host to one of the finest show caves in Europe. Visitors are guided through a fascinating natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers while stunningly beautiful cave formations glisten all around.
Accommodation: Salthill Hotel, Galway (Deluxe)
The 4-star Salthill Hotel in Galway is situated on the spectacular Salthill promenade with panoramic views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Monday, October 7th: 2024: Burren & Cliffs of Moher
Depart for a day in the Burren Region. Stop at the famous Cliffs of Moher Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren region, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O' Brien's Tower built by Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru, to entertain his lady friends. A visit of the tower is also possible. The sweeping view across the Atlantic has recently been ranked the best 'cliff-view' on the planet by Conde Nast Traveler. The respected travel publication has voted the world-famous landmark at the top of a new chart of ' Nine Gorgeous Cliff Views That Rival The Grand Canyon'. Atlantic Edge is the exciting new interpretive centre at the Cliffs of Moher and is built into the natural landscape. The centre is a huge domed cave that contains images, exhibits, displays & experiences exploring different elements of the mighty Cliffs of Moher: Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man. The visitor centre has a restaurant, shop facilities and ample coach and car parking. A spectacular upgraded 13 km of scenic coastal pathway along the Cliffs of Moher links Doolin to Hags Head. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the way
Accommodation: Ballygarry House Hotel, Tralee, County Kerry (Deluxe)
A Luxurious Estate Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. Discover the charm, warmth and personal welcome that has become synonymous with Ballygarry. This Tralee Hotel has been in the McGillicuddy family for three generations and is set on 180 acres of land in the heart of the Kerry countryside, overlooking the glorious Sliabh Mish Mountains. As one of Ireland’s finest hotels, the team aim to consistently deliver the highest of service values and standards, whilst maintaining the character and charm which embody our estate hotel.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
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Tuesday, October 8th, 2024: Ring of Kerry
Enjoy a day touring the Ring of Kerry The Ring of Kerry (166km) is the most famous and panoramic route in Ireland. The astonishing beauty of this large peninsula, Iveragh, comes from the great diversity of its scenery, which offers incessant contrasts. En route around the Ring, take in spectacular scenery - mountains, peat bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean as one travels along the coast road. Leaving Killarney pass through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, then to Glenbeigh where the cliff road affords panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula and Dingle Bay. Continuing to Cahirciveen, you’ll pass the birthplace of our National hero, Daniel O’Connell. Next, continue on through peat bogs to the town of Waterville. Continue to Sneem Village, famous for its brightly coloured houses. The road then continues through the mountains to Molls Gap and Ladies View with superb views of the famous Lakes of Killarney.
Accommodation: Ballygarry House Hotel, Tralee, County Kerry (Deluxe)
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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Wednesday, October 9th, 2024: Kerry to Cork
Today travel towards Cork, with a stop in Blarney on the way Lunch under own arrangement Continue towards Cork and visit Blarney Castle Attracting visitors from all over the world, Blarney Castle is situated in Blarney village, 8 km from Cork city. An ancient stronghold of the McCarthy's, Lords of Muskerry, it is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, and one of the strongest fortresses in Munster. Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney stone, the Stone of Eloquence, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it. Many legends tell the story of the Stone, but why not kiss it and find out the truth behind the legend. The Castle gardens covering 60 acres of land are under constant change and over the past few years, a water garden, fern garden and poison garden have been developed and are all open to visitors. This evening enjoy an included dinner.
Accommodation: The River Lee Hotel, Cork (Deluxe)
On the banks of Cork’s River Lee, this luxurious hotel is a 5-minute walk from central Cork. It boasts air-conditioned rooms, bistro, and secure, on-site car parking. The spacious rooms at the River Lee Hotel have floor-to-ceiling windows and are decorated in fresh light colours and modern fabrics. They feature a flat-screen satellite TV, free internet access and bathrooms with a power shower and under-floor heating. The River Club Bar, Terrace and The Grill room is an exciting addition to the Cork food and drinks scene. With glamorous décor and a relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect place to eat, drink and be social. At NRG Fitness, guests can enjoy the gym and regular fitness classes. St. Finnbar’s Cathedral and the Beamish Brewery are both 300 metres away. Cork Opera House is a 10-minute walk away.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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Thursday, October 10th, 2024: Midleton | Rock of Cashel | Kilkenny
This morning experience the Jameson Midleton Distillery Whiskey has been distilled in the town of Midleton, County Cork since the early 9th Century. The Midleton Distillery Experience was founded by the Murphy brothers in 1825. The 45 minute guided tour of the distillery commences with a short audio-visual, after which visitors are taken on a tour of the old distillery by local guides. Follow the old distillery trail through mills, maltings, stillhouse, warehouses and kilns and view the largest pot still in the world - some of these buildings date back to 1795. The tour ends in the Distillery pub, where all are invited to enjoy a glass of Irish Whiskey. During the visit a number of volunteers are selected to take part in a tasting session to compare a Jameson whiskey with a Scottish Whisky and American bourbon. Participants will receive a diploma for their achievement! It is possible for the whole group to participate in the whiskey comparison tasting. The visitor attraction has a Malt House Restaurant and a shop where guests can buy a range of whiskeys and souvenirs. Lunch under own arrangement Continue towards Cashel for a visit of the famous Rock of Cashel
Possibly the most photographed site in Ireland, the Rock of Cashel towers over the town of Cashel from its perch on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster. St. Patrick visited the rock in 450 AD, while Brian Boru was crowned the first high King of Ireland here in the tenth century. Granted to the church in the twelfth century, by the O'Brien clan, today the impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque chapel and high crosses. The Vicars Choral has been recently restored and its basement houses a small museum of artefacts found on the site. One of the leading visitor attractions in Ireland, in 2011 it was visited by Queen Elizabeth II on her historic first visit to the Republic of Ireland.
Accommodation: Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow Town (Superior)
A warm welcome to the 4 Star Seven Oaks Hotel and Leisure Club, Carlow where timeless elegance and decades of excellence combine to make the hotel an impeccable choice for the discerning guest. From the moment you step into our magnificent reception area you will receive the warmest of Irish welcomes from our friendly, professional staff, whose attention to your every need will ensure an enjoyable stay. Nestled in Carlow’s bustling town centre and within short walking distance of Carlow’s new cultural quarter. Guests can also enjoy complimentary car parking, high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and an array of dining options during their stay. Renowned for this impressive dining experience. The Seven Oaks Hotel serves fresh local produce in mouth-watering dishes. Outdoor dining is available or you can enjoy the more luxurious setting of TD Molloy's Restaurant.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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Friday, October 11th, 2024: Kilkenny
Today enjoy a Walking tour of Kilkenny Capital of County Kilkenny, the town of Kilkenny is often referred to as “the Marble City”. It is the most interesting and best preserved of the medieval Irish cities. It owes its immense charm to the various impressive historical monuments. A medieval city of 24,000 people it is characterised by many beautifully restored buildings and winding slipways ~ it is small and compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of fascinating historical buildings and contemporary shops, design galleries and restaurants. The ancient city of Kilkenny was named after a 6th century monk St Canice. A native of the area, St Canice built a monastic enclave on the site where today we find the beautifully restored 13th St Canices Cathedral. The town is dominated by 12th century Kilkenny Castle, built by the Normans on their arrival in this part of Ireland. There are a number of other interesting visits to be made while in Kilkenny. No visit of Kilkenny can be considered complete without a visit to the following venues, the Black and Grey Abbeys, Rothe House, the Smithwicks Brewery and the Shee Alms house ~ which today is used as the local tourist office. Lunch under own arrangement And visit Kilkenny Castle
One of the most instantly recognised buildings in Ireland, Kilkenny Castle has been an important site since it was built by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century. The castle has been remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands which was the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde. Due to major restoration works, the central block now includes a library, drawing room, and bedrooms decorated in 1830's splendour, as well as the beautiful Long Gallery. A suite of former servant's rooms is now the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art. The Parade Tower is the Castle's conference venue. In the afternoon, depart for Jerpoint Park for a heritage tour and a tea & scone break. Dinner under own arrangement
Accommodation: Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow Town (Superior)
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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Saturday, October 12th, 2024: Kilkenny to Dublin
Today depart for Dublin via Wicklow Wicklow is known as the garden of Ireland. Close to Dublin, it offers its visitors mountains, lakes, rivers, bogs and an array of beautiful scenery. Home to Powerscourt, Mount Usher and Russborough, to name a few of its many houses and gardens. This region features all the various types of scenery that makes Ireland so beautiful. The coastline is bordered by charming sea resorts such as Bray or Greystones. In the heart of its gentle and rounded hills are nestled Enniskerry and Avoca, both very picturesque villages. Discover its romantic and quiet beauty, the deserted mounts where nothing but heather grows, the small forests and the lush prairies illuminated by yellow gorse in spring.
The Wicklow Mountains national park consists of 20,000 hectares of conserved landscapes, plant & animal inhabitants, not to mention the beautiful scenery that makes it the only area of its kind in the East of Ireland. Lunch under own arrangement Enjoy a stop at Powerscourt House & Garden & Waterfall
Situated at the foot of the Wicklow mountains, Powerscourt is one of the most beautiful estates in Ireland. Powerscourt Gardens are a magnificent example of aristocratic gardens from the 19th century. The gardens were initiated around 1745 and restyled in the 19th century. The gardens have many features including the Triton pool with its 30m fountain. To the left are American and Italian gardens, while below them is a Japanese garden. The Bamberg Gates to the walled garden are believed to come from a German Cathedral in Bamberg in Bavaria. There are many rare plants and wonderful views of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain. Not to be missed is the pet cemetery with its headstones dedicated to the family dogs. Originally built as a castle in 1300 and home to the Wingfield family from 1603 fro 350 years Powerscourt House was much altered in the 18th century, when the famous German born architect Richard Castle remodelled the castle and grounds. It involved the creation of a magnificent mansion in the Palladian style around the shell of the earlier castle. The house was gutted by fire in 1974 but recently has been reborn as an exceptional tourist destination. A small exhibition brings to life the rich history of the estate, while the double height Georgian ballroom has been restored and hosts weddings and corporate events. The house is now home to the best of Irish design in gifts, clothes, and furniture in the Avoca Stores and the Interiors Gallery. You can also treat yourself to a dish from the Avoca Cookbook in the Terrace Cafe. Visitors to Powerscourt can also enjoy a visit to Tara's Palace on the upper floor of the House. Visitors are attracted by the beautiful cascade set in magnificent surroundings. The waterfall is the highest in Ireland at 121 meters and is surrounded by woods and specimen tress. In 1821 King George IV visited Ireland and travelled to Powerscourt. A special viewing platform was constructed near the waterfall and to ensure a sufficient flow of water for the cascade a dam was put in place above the falls. The King spent too much time at the table and fortunately for him never saw the waterfall because, as the dam was removed the rush of water was too strong and it swept away the viewing platform. Imagine how this event could have changed the course of Irish History! The waterfall is located approximately 5 km from the Powerscourt House and is accessed by a completely separate entrance. This evening we have our final farewell dinner!
Accommodation: Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Dublin (Superior)
Welcome to Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel Dublin. Our 18th century 4 star luxury castle hotel is located near the historic village of Dalkey and the coastal town of Dun Laoghaire & only minutes from Killiney Beach, nestled next to Killiney Hill, with panoramic views over Dublin Bay and beyond. The Family owned & run Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, now in its third generation offers guests tranquility, breathtaking scenery and old world elegance which blends seamlessly with the hotels modern luxury
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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Sunday, October 13th, 2024: Depart for home
Transfer to Dublin airport for your departing flight back home.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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