Ashford Castle and Ireland's Icons - Classic Group
Ashford Castle and Ireland's Icons - Classic Group
Ashford Castle and Ireland's Icons - Classic Group
10 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Cong
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BRACZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 45
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Ireland with the "Ashford Castle and Ireland's Icons - Classic Group" tour. This cultural exploration begins in Dublin, where you'll delve into the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Experience the lush landscapes of the Blarney Castle estate, and perhaps kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. Discover the scenic beauty of the Ring of Kerry, the towering Cliffs of Moher, and the enchanting Powerscourt Gardens. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, including a stay at the iconic Ashford Castle, and savor authentic Irish cuisine. With expert guidance and a luxury coach, this tour offers a seamless blend of history, nature, and culture, ensuring an unforgettable Irish adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Hello Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Camden Court, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Camden Court, Dublin
Meals Included: Dinner
Soul-stirring landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling hills, the 'Emerald Isle' has lured the most curious of travelers for centuries. Begin your journey at Powerscourt Gardens for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Across 47 acres, its sweeping terraces, ornamental lakes and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs has earned its status as one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland and the 3rd Best Garden in the world by National Geographic. After a day celebrating the icons of Ireland, embrace its fine cuisine over a Welcome Reception.
Day 2: Discover Diverse Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Camden Court, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Camden Court, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
History dating back to the 1100s awaits as you join a Local Expert on a Dublin city tour to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral. Here at Ireland's largest church, gain all the insights learning how Irish author Jonathan Swift was once installed as Dean and ultimately laid to rest. With rest of the day at leisure, stroll along Grafton Street and see its lively performers, stop for a pint of the 'Black Stuff' in Temple Bar or relax in St. Stephen's Green. Or, join an Optional Experience of food and fun at a Dublin Dinner and Cabaret.
Day 3: Admire County Kilkenny And On To Cork Relaxed Start
Location: Cork
Accommodation: The Kingsley, Cork
Accommodation Name: The Kingsley, Cork
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on an excursion to get up close and personal with Ireland's thoroughbred industry at the Irish National Stud. Next up is Cork, a fusion of castles, gardens and foodie havens will enchant curious travelers like you. Your Travel Director orients you to the sights, sounds and flavors from the circa-18th century English Market lined with local cheeses, fresh seafood and handmade chocolate to Cork City Gaol, a museum offering insight into Cork’s history. Cork is also home to the biggest jazz festival in Ireland. With the evening at leisure, take in the city’s musical culture joining an Optional Experience of Irish entertainment with local musicians including a hearty pub dinner.
Day 4: Journey To Blarney And On To Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney
Accommodation: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Killarney
Accommodation Name: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Killarney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today's Brendan Choice gets you up close and personal to one of the icons of Ireland, Blarney Castle, the Witch's Kitchen and Wishing Steps gardens and, of course, the infamous stone – said to bestow the 'gift of the gab' upon whoever kisses it. Or, go beyond the castle and don’t miss the chance to amble the 1,500-acre grounds. After your visit to the stone or stroll through the grounds, head west to Killarney ushering you into the beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Tonight’s Dine-Around evening invites you to enjoy your pick of Irish specialties. Then finish your day with an Optional Experience of traditional Irish song, music, and dance.
Day 5: A Day On The Ring Of Kerry
Location: Ring of Kerry
Accommodation: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Killarney
Accommodation Name: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Killarney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Famous for its 'forty shades of green,' the Ring of Kerry has inspired writers and poets for centuries. Drink in the beauty of the coastal drive lined with beaches, colorful seaside villages and views of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be astounded by even more icons of Ireland as you venture inland to a mountainous region dotted with lakes and green woodlands. Enhance your discovery over an Optional Experience Jaunting Cart Ride through Bourn-Vincent National Park. Upon arrival back in Killarney, end your day with a decadent three-course dinner infused with Irish flavors.
Day 6: Onwards To The Cliffs Of Moher And Galway
Location: Cliffs of Moher
Accommodation: Radisson Red Galway
Accommodation Name: Radisson Red Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the day with a ferry crossing before arriving at the towering Cliffs of Moher. Perched at 700-feet, take in views of the Clare Coast and the pounding Atlantic, where colonies of puffins make their homes. The area is home to Guillemot and Razorbills, Peregrine Falcon, Kittiwake and Fulmar as well as endangered bird species including Choughs. Full of fascinating insights, make your way through the rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay.
Day 7: Galway
Location: Galway
Accommodation: Radisson Red Galway
Accommodation Name: Radisson Red Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ireland’s cultural center and the festival capital of Ireland, Galway hosts 122 festivals per year. One might say the city’s artistic side is reflected in actor Peter O’Toole, who has a strong connection with Galway. O’Toole claimed that he was born in Galway before being taken to England as a baby and built a house outside Clifden in the county. You’ll feel Galway’s fun, bohemian vibe come to life over an orientation tour. Your Travel Director introduces you to the sights including Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy. With the rest of the day at leisure, continue to explore this bustling port city on your own or join an optional Galway Waking Tour with pub dinner.
Day 8: Kylemore Abbey And Continue To Ashford Castle Stays With Stories
Location: Cong
Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong
Accommodation Name: Ashford Castle, Cong
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Full of curiosities, Kylemore Abbey is a treasure trove of picture-perfect scenery and a storied past as the oldest of the Irish Benedictine Abbeys. Discover more on a Lough Corrib Cruise, where you'll explore one of County Galway's natural jewels and learn about its historical significance. Conclude another grand day arriving at five-star, award-winning, Ashford Castle where a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort you’ve come to enjoy on your Ireland tour. Feel history come alive with past owners including Benjamin Lee Guinness, Lord and Lady Ardilaun and hotelier Noel Huggard who transformed the estate into a hotel in 1939. In addition, celebrities such as John Lennon and Brad Pitt and even royal patrons including King George V have luxuriated at Ashford Castle.
Day 9: Return To Lively Dublin Relaxed Start
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Camden Court, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Camden Court, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Time for a last-minute stroll on the Ashford Estate. Perhaps take in more of the splendid scenery on out joining a leisurely walk with the Irish wolfhounds. Then cross the midlands, also known as Our Hidden Heartlands, a beautifully unspoilt part of Ireland where life moves at its own pace. Return to the capital where the remainder of the day is free. Dinner awaits tonight, where you’ll raise a glass and toast with your new friends.
Day 10: Journey Home
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
As the curtain falls on a memorable journey with new friends, we say a fond slán go fóill to Dublin and the 'Emerald Isle'.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, including the luxurious Ashford Castle.
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Porterage and Restaurant Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips, Charges, and Local Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Meals
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included.
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Luxury Coach with Wi-Fi
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Ferry Across the Shannon Estuary
Enjoy a ferry across the Shannon estuary.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences and free time activities are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, enjoy a ferry across the Shannon estuary, and benefit from all porterage, restaurant gratuities, and local taxes included.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, including the luxurious Ashford Castle, Camden Court in Dublin, The Kingsley in Cork, Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa in Killarney, and Radisson Red in Galway.
Dining Summary
6 Dinner (D)9 Breakfast (B)
Authentic Dining
Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.Ashford Castle: Dine on delicious Farm-to-Table fare in a stylish setting at the iconic George V Dining Room.Dublin: Celebrate a memorable journey in Ireland on your final night out in Dublin -- hub of food and drink culture including the Guinness factory. In 1759, Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on St James Gate Brewery. After your final night out in Dublin, Guinness will be awaiting your return to the Emerald Isle.
Brendan Choice
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 are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts. Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
Brendan Experiences
Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
What's Included
An expert Travel Director and professional DriverCherry-picked hotels, all tried and trustedAll porterage and restaurant gratuitiesAll hotel tips, charges and local taxesBreakfast daily and up to half of your evening mealsMust-see sightseeing and surprise extrasAudio headsets for flexible sightseeingLuxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)Ferry across the Shannon estuaryOptional Experiences and free timeOn occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience does the tour offer at Powerscourt Gardens?
The tour offers a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Powerscourt Gardens, where you can explore 47 acres of sweeping terraces, ornamental lakes, and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs, recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland.
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What can I expect during the visit to Blarney Castle?
During the visit to Blarney Castle, you can choose to explore the lush gardens with a guided tour by a senior gardener, learning about rare trees and mystical formations. You also have the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the 'gift of the gab'.
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What is special about the Ring of Kerry on this tour?
The Ring of Kerry offers a scenic drive through towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, and historical sites. It is renowned for its breathtaking views and is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
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What wildlife might I see at the Cliffs of Moher?
At the Cliffs of Moher, you might see colonies of puffins, Guillemot and Razorbills, Peregrine Falcon, Kittiwake, Fulmar, and endangered bird species such as Choughs.
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What historical insights are provided during the visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin?
During the visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, you will learn about its history dating back to the 1100s, including its association with Irish author Jonathan Swift, who was once installed as Dean and is buried there.
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What is the significance of Kylemore Abbey on the tour?
Kylemore Abbey is significant for its picturesque scenery and storied past as the oldest of the Irish Benedictine Abbeys. The tour includes a Lough Corrib Cruise to explore its natural beauty and historical significance.
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What unique dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a Dine-Around evening in Killarney with a selection of local restaurants, and a Farm-to-Table dining experience at the George V Dining Room in Ashford Castle.
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Is there seat rotation on the coach?
Yes, your Travel Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby all guests will rotate their seats on the coach daily. This allows for everyone to experience the spectacular views from different seats, and you’ll have a better opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
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Is luggage handling provided?
On Guided Vacations and Private Chauffeur Vacations, all luggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes! Our hotels are personally selected by Managing Director Catherine Reilly and personally known for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Note: A few hotels may not have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
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What are the coaches like?
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center. We also have on board WiFi.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Brendan Vacations is an active supporter of the Treadright® Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than $2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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How many people will be on my trip?
You’ll find an average of 40 to 45 guests on trips throughout Europe.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided vacation with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Will I have free time?
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. We also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. If you are travelling solo but would be happy to share your rook with another traveller of the same gender, we offer 'Twin-share' pricing on our trips. However, if you prefer the privacy of your own room, you can opt for our single supplement. The cost will depend on your trip and can be found in the pricing section of the itinerary.
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How much luggage can I bring?
On Guided Vacations, you can bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30" x 18" x 10") and weight not exceeding 23kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
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What is a Travel Director?
Our Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for travel and their homelands. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can't - a true insider's perspective of Ireland and Scotland. Each Travel Director has been through a bespoke training program, and many have at least five years' experience under their belt.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents (important information, itinerary and any relevant vouchers) will be provided 7-10 days prior to your trip's departure.
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What if I have special dietary requirements?
We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we're unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements. We cannot provide salt-free, Kosher, Halal, requests for specific dietary supplements such as soy milk, and high protein or low-carb meals.
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Low Deposit
Brendan Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brendan vacations charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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