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10 Day Ireland Signature
Highlights: Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Lisdoonvarna
Trip start: Belfast
Trip end: Shannon
Price Range from £3,911pp *
* GBP per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

National Geographic Adventure Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth '98.33 Client Satisfaction Rating'

Winner National Geographic 'Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth'
2008 & 2009

Trip Summary
Map of Itinerary
Expand [+]

Ireland is an island of many contracts with a deep and rich history.
Start your journey in the recently rejuvenated city of Belfast. This is the perfect base to visit the impressive natural phenomenal of the Giants causeway and the scenic Antrim coast. Visit the pretty city of Armagh, the ancient capital of Ulster, with its magnificent St Patrick's cathedral. Then stop off to explore Trim castle and the many sites dating from ancient to medieval times. Dublin has the enviable position of being by nestled by the sea and mountains and this makes for a beautiful hinterland that just simply must be explored.
Spend some time in County Wicklow - just south of Dublin, in what is known as the Garden of Ireland (due to the many forests, parks and gardens). On top of the beautiful scenery, there are a number of quaint villages to visit and estate homes. Continue your journey to Cork and visit Blarney castle before making your way west to the Bay of Kenmare. This is the perfect spot to base yourself in to see all of the many attractions in the region.
Finally, make your way to The Burren in County Clare, a very special place - not just in Ireland, but in the world. This area is a biosphere where a large collection of alpine and Mediterranean species grows together in this limestone area. The Burren is bordered to the west by the Atlantic Ocean and Galway Bay and is tucked in the north-west corner of Clare and is one of the most beautiful locations in the country.
Relax in luxurious accommodations throughout your tour and embrace yourselves in the traditional Irish welcome! From pick up to drop off, your Driver will accompany you the length and breadth of the land, ensuring you have a memorable vacation.

Day Activities Hotel
Day 1
Belfast
  • Belfast: Transfer - Airport - Saloon/Driver/Guide
  • Welcome Package
  • Lunch at leisure
  • Afternoon at leisure
  • Dinner (not included)
Ten Square (4*) (B)
Day 2
Belfast
  • Touring Driver Guide
  • Touring Vehicle - Mercedes Saloon
  • Private - City Tour, South Coast & Giants Causeway - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Ten Square (4*) (B)
Day 3
Dublin
  • Transfer - Belfast - Dublin [via Boyne Valley (Newgrange) & Trim Castle & Mythological sites] - Saloon/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Merrion Hotel (5*)
(Alt: Davenport Hotel) (B)
Day 4
Dublin
  • Dublin: Private - North & South Coastal Tour - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Merrion Hotel (5*)
(Alt: Davenport Hotel) (B)
Day 5
Cork
  • Transfer - Private - Dublin - Cork [via Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Blarney Castle] - Saloon/Driver-guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Hayfield Manor (5*) (B)
Day 6
Killarney
  • Transfer - Cork - Killarney [Tour Private: West Cork Coastline & picturesque villages] - Saloon/Driver
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Killarney Park Hotel (5*) (B)
Day 7
Killarney
  • Killarney: Private - Ring of Kerry - National Park, Muckross Estate & Gap of Dunloe - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Killarney Park Hotel (5*) (B)
Day 8
Lisdoonvarna
  • Transfer - Private - Killarney - Lisdoonvarna [Bunratty caslte, Cliffs of Moher & Visitor Experience] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Sheedy`s Country House (4*) (B)
Day 9
Lisdoonvarna
  • Lisdoonvarna: Private - Connemara National Park & Kylemore Tour - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Continuation of day tour
  • Dinner (not included)
Sheedy`s Country House (4*) (B)
Day 10
Shannon
  • Transfer - Lisdoonvarna - Shannon [Approx. 1hr] - Saloon/Driver-Guide
Depart 
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Options
All of our itineraries may be customized as you wish, add extra days, change a hotel, see different sights. Contact one of our expert consultants for your free, no-obligation vacation plan.

Itinerary

Day 1 Belfast

Belfast has undergone many changes over the years, from a mere village in the 17th century, to a thriving 20th-century metropolis of half a million people. Ringed by high hills, sea lough and river valleys, Northern Ireland's capital has endured a collective suffering during the years of the Troubles. Today, this city offers an irresistible blend of re-energised urbanity and easy access to natural splendour. Compact and easy to explore on foot, what Belfast might lack in world class attractions it makes up for in attitude. There is an international selection of restaurants, bars and cafés to explore and with the rugged natural splendour of coast, lake and moor just outside the city.

Avail of a private airport transfer in Belfast in a private chauffeured vehicle.

A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

Belfast has wonderful dining and entertainment options in the city centre. The two most celebrated chefs in the city are Michael Deane and Paul Rankin. Both chefs have a score of restaurants in the city centre called Deane's and Cayenne respectively. There is also Deane's Deli for a lighter more bistro style ambience. We highly recommend visiting the Crown Bar Saloon and marveling the opulent Victorian Décor of Irelands most beautifully crafted bar.

Take time to stroll through the heart of the city - there are lots of shopping opportunities! A great way to see the city is to take a black cab tour which brings you through the various parts of the city divided by religion. Your Driver will explain the meaning behind the many murals which are on many of the gable side of houses in residential areas. These murals give a pictorial account of some of the most dramatic events of the turbulent years.

Ten Square Boutique Hotel is situated in a particularly attractive listed Victorian building just opposite the City Hall and within walking distance of the whole city centre area. Ten Square is Belfast's most interesting and innovative hotel development of the decade. This chic hotel has established itself as a firm favourite with visiting celebrities and discerning locals alike. One of the most innovative and stylish hotels in Belfast, the 23 bedrooms are a luxury showpiece of Asian splendour. The chic and sophisticated interior has promoted a new aesthetic for hospitality in the province for the cosmopolitan and city-hopping visitors.

Overnight at Ten Square (4*).


Belfast
Belfast
Ten Square Hotel
Ten Square Hotel
Day 2 Belfast

All of our driver guides are experts on the areas you will be visiting on your tour of Ireland. We bring experienced driving skills, expert touring routes as well as knowledge and insight into the places you will be visiting and staying on your tour. Our driver guides will also recommend places to shop, have a drink, and dine in the various towns and villages and cities of Ireland. Your driver guide can arrange all kinds of activities, events and generally show you Ireland in such depth and quality that is only possible using a local expert. - Simply the best and most enjoyable way of seeing the Emerald Isle, in style!

The Mercedes S Class Sedan is the preferred vehicle for luxury individual groups travel in Ireland. It has an elegant style and grace along with a smooth interior finished with leather, air conditioning, and electric windows, reclining seats and individual climate controls. It allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery in a space that is both comfortable and relaxing. We carry maps, guide books, water, fridge and music to make your journey as comfortable and entertaining as you wish.

South of Belfast City Centre is the historic and preserved town of Hillsborough, the home of visiting dignitaries which has magnificent Georgian Buildings and a well preserved Garrison. The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum is perhaps the finest outdoor museum in Ireland and has excellent exhibitions which include Titanic, de Lorain and the best outdoor theme park in Ireland which houses buildings which have been reconstructed brick for brick from locations all over the north of Ireland.

This afternoon, experience the beauty of the Giant's Causeway - one of Irelands most beautiful and least visited beauty spots that stretches from Belfast to Derry along the most North Eastern region of Ireland. Touring will encompass the beautiful highlights of this unique coast that includes The Giants Causeway, The Distillery at Bushmills, Dunluce Castle and Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge as it hangs precariously over the North Atlantic Ocean. A stop for food or a drink at the ancient and historic Bushmills Inn in Bushmills is also a highlight. The Giants Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is made up of 40000 interlocking basalt colums up to 12 metres long that strech along the coast and into the ocean.

Overnight at Ten Square (4*).


Giant's Causeway
Giant's Causeway
Day 3 Dublin

The history, charming Georgian architecture and the host of more earthy entertainment on offer will all entice you to Dublin, but it is the people that will leave the biggest impression on you.

Enjoy the transfer from Belfast to Dublin stopping off en route at variuos places of interest. From Belfast there is an incredible range of archaeological and architectural treasures as we travel southwards to Dublin. To begin, there is the wonderful Mourne Mountains that sweep majestically down to the sea at Newcastle in Co. Down. An area of major interest is the archaeological region of the Boyne Valley with the prominent sights being Newgrange, The Hill of Tara, Knowth and Dowth, Slane Castle and The Battle of The Boyne site as well as a possible trip to Trim Castle where many scenes from Braveheart the Movie were filmed.

Enjoy an afternoon exploring the main mythological sites west of Dublin city. County Meath is a historical wonderland which has many attractions dating from ancient to medieval times. The Hill of Tara stands in the centre of this facinating county with commanding vies in all directions this was the seat of the ancient Kings of Ireland. Little remains but the outline of their kingdom, a church and a small cafe. Trim Castle to the west however is almost perfectly intact and one of Irelands most interesting castles. Used for many film sets including Braveheart the castle sits proudly on the banks of the Boyne and has many ruins in the area that make an interesting walk.

The Merrion (5*) , is an exclusive Dublin Hotel that comprises of 123 rooms and 19 suites. The interior is designed using Irish fabrics and antiques to reflect the architecture and original interiors of the Main House. Throughout this luxurious Dublin hotel guests benefit from the latest technology. There is a choice of two restaurants and two bars. A luxurious Spa and swimming pool, six magnificent meeting and private dining rooms, and a private car park complete The Merrion's impressive list of facilities. Over the last eleven years, The Merrion luxury hotel in Dublin City has established itself as the epitome of relaxed grandeur, welcoming Dubliners and visitors to the city with stunningly appointed rooms, crackling turf fires and a host of facilities. This hotel has received many prestigious awards and accolades over recent years and hope their guests appreciate what they feel is at the cornerstone of its success - excelling in the art of hospitality.

Overnight at Merrion Hotel (5*).


Dublin
Dublin

Merrion Hotel
Merrion Hotel
Day 4 Dublin

The coastline of Dublin City from North to South is as fascinating as the city centre itself. Enjoy exploring with your chauffeured driven vehicle. Beginning in Malahide you'll get to visit one of Ireland's most beautiful castles located on lush gardens. From Malahide visit Howth Island, a rugged outcrop and the most easterly part of the country. On the south side of the city the scenery takes on a more Mediterranean feel with James Joyce's Tower in Sandymount. The two villages of Dalkey and Killiney nestled overlooking the sea are Ireland most opulent and the homes of the stars. The view across Killiney Bay to the Wicklow Mountains is among the most beautiful in Ireland. At the end of the tour you will be brought back to your hotel.

Overnight at Merrion Hotel (5*).


Howth
Howth
Day 5 Cork

Cork features architecturally notable buildings originating from the medieval to modern periods. St. Patrick's Street, a main street that has been recently remodelled, is known for the architecture of the buildings along its pedestrian-friendly route through a major shopping district.

Spend half the day exploring the beautiful area of County Wicklow - just south of Dublin. Wicklow is rightly known as the Garden of Ireland due to the spectacular natural scenery which couple mountains with lakes and meandering glens and a long coastline. The Sally Gap, a high mountain drive, is akin to being in the Wild West and the lush landscapes of Glendalough, the Glen of the two lakes, is nestled deep in the Wicklow Mountains. There are also the delightful villages of Roundwood and Avoca where picturesque mountains meet pretty hamlets. Powerscourt House and Gardens is a spectacular gem shadowed by the Sugarloaf Mountain and the estate is home to the largest waterfall in the British Isles of the same name. From here we continue south to Glendalough and the monastic ruins of St Kevin. The location is one of stunning natural beauty and you may like to take a short stroll around the lake.

This afternoon, enjoy an excursion to Blarney Castle and environs. North of Cork City is the famous town of Blarney with its castle and expansive park and the world renowned Blarney Stone. This must be kissed in a feat of acrobatic heroics to achieve the gift of eloquence. Also in the town is the excellent Blarney Woollen Mills superstore which has amongst the finest ranges of Irish goods anywhere in Ireland. The tour can be completed with a nice meal in Christy's pub or in one of the local restaurants in the square of Blarney.

Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork (5*), is set within 2 acres of mature gardens, encompassing an oasis of calm within the Cork city in the south west of Ireland. As you make your way up the winding, tree lined path to our welcoming door, let calmness envelope you as Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork becomes your home away from home with luxury leisure facilities. A few minutes from Cork city centre and across from UCC, see why Hayfield Manor remains the premier 5 Star Cork hotel.

Overnight at Hayfield Manor (5*).


Cork
Cork
County Wicklow
County Wicklow
Hayfield Manor Hotel
Hayfield Manor Hotel
Day 6 Killarney

Killarney town is located north of the MacGillicuddy Reeks, on the northeastern shore of the Lough Lein/Leane which are part of Killarney National Park. The town is home to St. Mary's Cathedral, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall and Gap of Dunloe.Killarney was awarded the "Best Kept Town" award for 2007 in a cross-border competition jointly organised by the Department of the Environment and the Northern Ireland Amenity Council. Owing to its natural heritage, history and proximity to the Dingle Peninsula, Skellig Michael island and its location on the Ring of Kerry, Killarney is a popular tourist destination.

The bucolic West Cork coastline is among the most indented, varied and lush in Ireland. Enjoy the beautiful viwsas you are driven to Killarney today. Among the highlights of your tour is the ancient Drombeg Stone Circle, the quaint fishing villages of Glandore and Union Hall as well as a possible detour to Ireland's most southerly peninsula, Mizen Head. There are also the pretty seaside towns of Baltimore with its islands and Schull with lots of nice shops and cafes to browse through. Glengariff is located at the foot of the Caha Mountains that separate Cork from Kerry. It is a dense lush sub tropical valley that is famous for its Bamboo Park, seal colony and Italian Gardens visited by boat from The Blue Pool in Glengariff. Inland from here is the solitary chapel on an island by the lake at Gougane Barra, one of Irelands most romantic locations.

Welcome to The Killarney Park Hotel (5*), Killarney, one of the premier 5 star hotels in this scenic part of Ireland. The warm smile and gentle service after a long days travel aren’t simply things this hotel offers, but rather a reflection of the great staff who work here. The log fire burns brightly, the concierge smiles warmly... your journey is over. The Killarney Park Hotel is situated on its own private grounds. This family owned, luxury hotel in Killarney, is committed to ensuring that every moment will be memorable, relaxing and enjoyable.

Overnight at Killarney Park Hotel (5*).


Killarney
Killarney
Killarney Park Hotel
Killarney Park Hotel
Day 7 Killarney

On your chauffeur driven tour today, you will Highlights of The Ring of Kerry Tour takes in the very best of this magical peninsula in a unique and unforgettable drive through the heart of the National Park. From Killarney and the Muckross Estate the narrow road winds up to Ladies View and Molls Gap where panoramic view of the lakes and distant peaks form a picturesque stop. We continue to explore this region in depth by travelling into the Black Valley where a blanket bog land is still harvested. Finally we ascend at the Gap of Dunloe driving though a magical valley of quintessential Irish beauty. Ending the tour we can make a stop at Kate Kearney's Cottage where the adventitious can end the tour on foot or by horse drawn cart.

Overnight at Killarney Park Hotel (5*).


Muckross Estate
Muckross Estate
Day 8 Lisdoonvarna

Lisdoonbvarna - Lios Dúin Bhearna, meaning Enclosure at the Fort by the Gap) is a spa town of 822 people (2002 census) in County Clare in Ireland.Famous for its music and festivals, in September each year one of Europe's largest matchmaking events is held in Lisdonnvarna attracting upward of 40,000 romantic hopefuls, bachelor farmers and accompanying revellers. The month-long event is an important tourist attraction. The current matchmaker is Willie Daly, a fourth-generation matchmaker.

Enjoy a visit to Bunratty Castle - one of the finest medieval castles in Ireland with a wonderful banqueting Hall, Folk Park which relives Ireland in Medieval Times. The castle is immaculately restored and retains many of its original furnishings. There are also clusters of excellent shopping in the area from Avoca and Blarney Woolen Mills. Durty Nelly's on the banks of the River Fergus has been serving Ale since the middle ages and today the dark lighting and sawdust floors retain its air of authenticity. This is a perfect spot for a bite to eat.

This afternoon, enjoy an excursion to the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare - simply one of Ireland's most beautiful and must see natural attractions. They stretch for 8km & rise up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean where gulls and sea life play below an awe inspiring panorama. The tour includes parking at the cliffs and entrance to the cliffs as well as use of the world class facilities at the visitor centre. There is an optional extra (not included in tour cost) to take in the Atlantic Edge exhibition which illustrates this unique and fragile environment.

Set in its own gardens and amongst the breathtaking scenery of the Burren, the Sheedy's Country House Hotel (4*) is in the centre of Lisdoonvarna. This property is in between Connemara and Killarney, while the Shannon Airport is 64 kilometres away. This hotel offers well-appointed accommodation and each room has been elegantly furnished with an array of in-room amenities to ensure guests a pleasurable stay. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant, which serves delicious traditional dishes or sip your favourite drink at the in-house cocktail bar.

Overnight at Sheedy`s Country House (4*).


Lisdoonvarna
Lisdoonvarna
Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher
Sheedy's Country House Hotel
Sheedy's Country House Hotel
Day 9 Lisdoonvarna

Connemara is one of Ireland most wild and beautiful regions best explored in a full day touring. There are lots of wonderful villages from Clifden, the alpine like Capital to Leenane on the banks of Killary Fjord as well as Roundstone with its beautiful beaces on the Western coast. The jewel of this rugged mountainous region is Kylemore Abbey and Walled Gardens as well as a serene chapel on the banks of the lake adorned with local Connemara marble and stained glass. A hike along the wilds of Killary Harbour as well as the deep valley at Delphi is also an option.

Overnight at Sheedy`s Country House (4*).


Day 10 Shannon

Your driver will transfer you to Shannon airport this morning in a private vehicle in time for your onward flight. The travel time is approximately 1 hour.

Depart Shannon Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.


Shannon
Shannon

Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Experienced and knowledgeable Driver-Guide for all touring days - Luxury vehicle for all touring days as per itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.