Explore the heart of Ireland on a fascinating Small Group tour that combines the best-known icons of the ‘Emerald Isle’ and local lesser known gems. Take a journey through this charismatic country, from north to south, east to west, steeped in history, offering wild open vistas, spectacular coastlines of towering cliffs, pristine sandy beaches and picturesque local villages. Enjoy a Guinness or two off the beaten track to get a taste of the true Irish way of life. The south west of Ireland is simply stunning. More relaxed and less populated than the east, the west coast has many things going for it, not least the rugged, majestic coastline along the Ring of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula and the Dingle Peninsula. The relics of times past is evident as ancient vestiges can be seen scattered around the countryside. The quaint, picturesque towns are a delight to stroll through and stop for a hearty bite to eat or a cup of tea before resuming your exploration of the region.

Small group tours typically depart every Monday (with a few exceptions) from April 23, 2012 - October 1, 2012 and are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants. In general, the maximum group size is 16.

Consider adding additional days to your trip with the services of a private guide and/or driver to see more of the country - your time on either side of your small group tour can be customized to suit your needs (and private guided tours can be added throughout your small group experience as desired).

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.

After being picked up at the airport, your Driver Guide will give you a Panoramic Tour of Dublin City's highlights based on your expressed interests. He will point out the major attractions and places of historical and cultural importance from the monuments of the Phoenix Park, Custom House, Millennium Spire and Trinity College in the City Centre. Once you are familiar with the city your driver will take you to your hotel to relax after your flight. You may also be dropped at any of the attractions in the city centre such as the Guinness Storehouse or Trinity and your luggage taken to your Hotel. There are a host of shopping and museums and galleries to explore in the historical Georgian district near St Stephens Green. We highly recommend the National Museum, Natural History Museum and the National Gallery to name a few.

Spend the afternoon as you wish, perhaps visiting one of the many attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson distillery.

Located in the heart of the St James’s Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is Ireland’s No. 1 Dublin Tourist attraction. The state of the art interactive museum and audio visual exhibition takes one on an incredible journey through the history and making of Guinness and includes some very entertaining advertisements that were used throughout the past fifty years. Finish off your discovery by sipping on a complimentary pint from the birds eye viewing room located at the top of the building and take in the panoramic views of the city and coast.

The Jameson Distillery provides a fascinating visit of its factory and introduces the visitor to the various stages that go in to the process of premium whiskey. At the end of the tour you can sit down and do a tutored vertical tasting of various whiskeys from around the world and you'll be sure to appreciate Jameson's premium whiskey all the more!

Other places of interest in the city include St Patrick's Cathedral, Christchurch and Trinity College incorporating The Book of Kells. You may also enjoy Irelands historic and cultural resourses at the world class museums on Kildare Street. There is also excellent shopping on Grafton Street and nearby Nassau Street as well as Dublin's European Style Boulevard of O'Connell Street.

Number 31 Guesthouse is famed for its unique hospitality, excellent service and probably the best breakfast in Ireland. What makes Number 31 a truly unique experience is its situation between a Classical Georgian townhouse and a stunning modernist mews by noted architect Sam Stephenson. Each of the 21 ensuite bedrooms reflects this, through an exciting use of light, color and texture. Every room is fitted with luxurious Hastens beds, pillows and duvets finished off with stunning linens.

Overnight at Number 31 (Urban Guesthouse).

Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

You will meet you r guide and fellow adventurers for your multi day small group tour this morning and Staunton's on the Green Hotel for an 08.30am departure. You are advised to be at the lobby for 8am to ensure time to load you bags into the group vehicle. (Stauntons on the Green: 83 St Stephens Green, Dublin).

Your tour departs from Dublin where you begin your journey to the amazing prehistoric site at Newgrange (entry to tomb itself conditional on availability). Here, step back into the mists of time, to almost the very beginning of history. This New Stone Age passage grave is regarded as among the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Europe. Next, stop at the site of the Battle of the Boyne, one of the defining events in the history of Ireland, where the Protestant William of Orange defeated James II’s troops. Ultimately, this battle led to the continuation of Protestant supremacy in Ireland. Even now, celebrations of this battle are an important and controversial event in the North of Ireland.

From here you travel a short distance to the Hill of Tara, historically the foremost spiritual and political centre of Ireland. Enjoy a wonderful drive through the Mountains of Mourne as you make your way to your overnight accommodation.

The Glassdrumman Lodge is a special place nestled in the foothills of the majestic Mourne Mountains where you can escape to the perfect retreat, and hide away from the demands of everyday life. With ten bedrooms featuring wonderful mountain and sea views, open fires and a fantastic restaurant, Glassdrumman Lodge is the perfect home from home and the ideal base to explore the spectacular scenery of the Down coast, in the North of Ireland. There is plenty to do from world famous Royal County Down Golf courses located just ten minutes away, walking, picnicing or hiking in the beautiful Mourne Mountains, visiting the local National Trust home, gardens and nearby castles or simply taking refuge by the fire with a good book from our library and a pint of Guinness or Bushmills whiskey.

Overnight at The Glassdrumman Lodge (B) or similar.

Enjoy a fascinating morning tour of Belfast, a Victorian city currently experiencing a cultural and economic resurgence. Pass the rejuvenated Titanic Quarter (where a new Titanic Museum is due to open in the spring of 2012), as well as a drive through both sides of this divided city with a trip up the Falls Road and down the Shankill Road. Learn more about the history of the area as you see the famed political wall murals, which are fast disappearing as the communities learn to live side by side.

This afternoon, visit the intriguing Giant’s Causeway, a World Heritage Site and the jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim. The sheer strangeness of the place and the bizarre regularity of the 37,000 basalt columns have made it the subject of many legends. Finally, you head to your friendly Irish accommodation along the winsome Northern Ireland coastline.

Overnight at Beech Hill Country House Hotel (B) or similar.

This morning, enjoy a historical guided walk along the ancient city walls of Derry and hear how the shutting of the city gates, prohibiting entry to an English king, led to over 300 years of hostility. The day continues with a visit to an Iron Age fort, Grianan Aileach, offering stunning views of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. The coastal drive will take you to the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, a lesser known, but one of the most enchanting and beautiful parts of Ireland.

Drive through Buncrana and then through the breath-taking mountain pass of the Mamore Gap. At the Isle of Doagh Visitor Centre you will hear an alternative view of the devastating Irish Famine and look at the social customs of the area. You end your touring day with a scenic drive through the northernmost parts of Ireland.

Overnight at Beech Hill Country House Hotel (B) or similar.

Your day commences at the Ulster-American Folk Park. Arguably one of the best of its kind, it examines why two million people left Ulster for the New World in the 18th and 19th centuries. The park has more than thirty historic buildings, including a variety of thatched Irish cottages, a Pennsylvanian farmstead, a reconstructed shopping street and a full size replica emigrant ship. In addition, costumed guides re-enact this bygone era, bringing it back to life.

Stop in Belleek, home to Ireland’s oldest pottery, and pass through County Fermanagh, along the shores of Lough Erne, to County Sligo and W.B.Yeats country. For those already familiar with the great 20th century poet, a visit to sites associated with him will be a real highlight and for those as yet unfamiliar with his work and times, it will be a fascinating introduction. These sites include Drumcliffe Church, located at the foot of magnificent Ben Bulben and the location of Yeat’s grave, as well as Parkes Castle, a well preserved 17th century fortified Plantation manor house on the shore of lovely Lough Gill.

Markree Castle Hotel (4*) is one of the finest family run castle hotels in Ireland. Home of the Cooper family for more than 350 years it is now run as a small family hotel by Charles and Mary Cooper, 10th generation of the family to live at Markree. Set in a secluded 500 acre estate in County Sligo, peace and relaxation combined with good food, fine wine and old-world charm make a stay at Markree a step back in time.

Overnight at Markree Castle (4*) (B) (Classic).

It is a relaxing drive to the picturesque 18th century town of Westport, in County Mayo, where you will enjoy a rest before heading westward towards Connemara. The west of Ireland is one of the principle motivations for visiting the country and the Connemara region is considered by many to be ‘the best of the west’. Connemara is much visited, but there are many scenic roads you travel down, such as the spectacular Sky Road overlooking Clifden Bay.

There are also other less frequented attractions in the area. Roundstone, a picturesque fishing village where Ireland’s championship bodhran (traditional Irish drum) maker has a workshop, is just one example. If there is time, you visit the modest traditional cottage of Patrick Pearce, father of independent Ireland and leader of the 1916 uprising. Complete today’s tour in the wonderful city of Galway, where your guide takes you on a walking tour.

Overnight at The Imperial Hotel Galway (B) or similar.

There is time to enjoy the freedom of Galway City on a day of “organised independence”. Your guide will offer advice on how to make the most of this small jewel in Ireland’s crown. Galway is a “walking city” so you may enjoy wandering its shopping alleyways, cathedral, waterfront areas and local pubs at your own pace.

Those who like an adventure might choose to take an excursion to the Aran Islands, considered the foothold of Irish culture and an area of outstanding beauty. Ferries leave from Ros a Mhil, 23 km west of Galway city and have 1 morning departure and 1 evening departure to/from Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands and home to the impressive site of Dun Aengus. There is a shuttle bus from the city centre to Ros a Mhil which departs 1.5 hrs prior to sailing time. Refer to www.aranislandferries.com for more details. The ferry ride  takes approx. 1.5hrs. and tickets can be purchased directly at the ferry terminal.

Overnight at The Imperial Hotel Galway (B) or similar.

You have a wonderful day planned ahead, with a mix of must-see icons and sights, as well as a range of additional attractions that are not always visited by the tourist masses. Following the coastal road you visit some traditional Galway Bay harbours such as the charming Kinvara and then tour through the lunar-like landscape of the Burren, including a stop at the prehistoric burial site of the Poulnabrone Portal Tomb.

As well as taking you behind the tourist façade, your day will include a visit to the world-famed Cliffs of Moher.

Overnight at Overnight in Dingle.

This part of Ireland is a magnet for visitors attracted by the incredible scenery of the area. Spend most of your time on the Dingle Peninsula, less crowded than the Ring of Kerry. Uncover ancient churches, forts, local arts and craft centres and beautiful beaches. Highlights include a visit to the Blasket Islands Centre, which offers a wealth of information on island life, language and literature and the Louis Mulcahy pottery studio.

Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Dingle.

Overnight at Overnight in Dingle.

Just when you thought that the scenery you’ve seen couldn’t be bettered, it does! See the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks from the Aghadoe Heights and the famous “Ladies View” of the Killarney Lakes, which are sure to impress, then take the mountain road from Killarney to the enchanting town of Kenmare, where you have time to explore at your leisure. Perhaps visit the lace museum, which exhibits exquisite examples of traditional Irish lace made locally, or investigate the ancient Druidic stone circle.

Leaving Kenmare, journey over the breathtaking Healy Pass, a spectacular drive en route to Bantry Bay where you visit Bantry House, renowned for its magnificent setting among formal gardens overlooking the bay. Then on to Blarney, where you might want to kiss the famous Blarney Stone in the Castle or maybe visit the Blarney Woollen Mills for a little shopping.

Overnight at Blarney Castle Hotel (B) or similar.

The harbour of Kinsale, considered by some to be the prettiest in Ireland, is your first stop of the day. The town is renowned as the gourmet centre of Ireland but it also has a fascinating history, with two forts as well as a tower house standing as testament to its former strategic importance.

In the afternoon, travel to the city of Cork and visit Cork Gaol, where you step back in time to experience what life was like both in and outside the prison walls in the 19th century. It is full of lifelike wax figures and realistic sound effects, all adding to the authenticity.

Overnight at Blarney Castle Hotel (B) or similar.

Start today’s tour with one of Ireland’s most popular icons, The Rock of Cashel, located on a high rocky outcrop overlooking the plains of Tipperary. You can explore the site, which incorporates the ruins of a medieval cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque church and a striking round tower.

Next, travel through rural Tipperary to Kilkenny, Ireland’s “most perfect medieval city” and your resting place for this evening. There is plenty of time to relax and explore the many sights here, including the castle, restored to its 19th century grandeur, the 13th century St Canice’s Cathedral, where it is possible to climb the ancient round tower, Rothe House, a 16th century merchant’s home and Black Abbey, a fully restored 13th century Dominican establishment. The Kilkenny Design Centre, offering the best of Irish crafts, and the adjacent National Craft Gallery are also well worth a visit.

Overnight at Rivercourt Hotel (B) or similar.

Before returning to Dublin, you will cross the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, one of the best preserved and most beautiful monastic sites in Ireland. The monastery was founded by St Kevin in the 6th century and much survives, despite many raids by both Vikings and the English before its final dissolution during the Reformation. 

Leaving Glendalough, drive via the Military Road, passing through some of the wilder terrain of the Wicklows, to the Sally Gap. Descend to the Powerscourt Estate with its beautiful formal gardens in a superb setting within view of Sugar Loaf Mountain. From here it is only a short journey to Dublin, where you complete your fascinating Small Group Irish tour.

Your Small group tour will finish at Stauntons on the Green on St. Stephens Green, Dublin at approximately 5.30pm.

Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

Enjoy an evening of hearty Irish fare and traditional Irish music in the16th century Abbey Tavern - a genuine tavern located in the lovely fishing village of Howth, with blazing turf fires, original stone walls flagged floors and gas lights. The "Traditional Irish Evening" in The Barn, features the Abbey Tavern singers and musicians with a live performance of music, song and Irish dancing. The Restaurant has a warm and unique atmosphere, and offers a tasty menu selection with local specialties from the Harbor each evening. The Pub is one of the oldest in Dublin and enjoys a genuine old world atmosphere. A car and driver service can be arranged if desired - please contact your Sales Advisor if you would be interested in adding this service for your evening.

Overnight at Number 31 (Urban Guesthouse).

Meet your driver for an airport transfer in a private vehicle.  

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).