Scenic Ireland - Small Group
Scenic Ireland - Small Group
Scenic Ireland - Small Group
10 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney, Galway, Sligo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SBIREZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 45
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Ireland with the "Scenic Ireland - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the vibrant streets of Dublin to the medieval charm of Kilkenny, the legendary Blarney Castle, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Ring of Kerry. Discover the rugged beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the cultural vibrancy of Galway, before exploring the literary heritage of Sligo. With expert local guides, enjoy unique experiences like a horse-drawn jaunting car ride in Killarney National Park or a coastal walk in Sligo. Stay in comfort at well-appointed hotels and savor authentic Irish cuisine, all while supporting sustainable travel practices. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable Irish adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin
Meals Included: Dinner
With soul-stirring landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling hills, the 'Emerald Isle' has lured the most curious of travelers for centuries. Get your bearings and discover Dublin’s past and present on an insightful orientation tour with your Local Expert past the Georgian Squares and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Hear stories of Ireland's largest church dating back to the 1100s, gain all the insights learning how Jonathan Swift was once installed as Dean and ultimately laid to rest. After an afternoon celebrating the icons of scenic Ireland, embrace its fine cuisine over dinner.
Day 2: Dublin And Kilkenny
Location: Kilkenny
Accommodation Name: Kilkenny
Meals Included: Breakfast
Learn the story behind the name at the Guinness Storehouse where you’ll sip your way through history, starting with the founder, Arthur Guinness, signed a 9,000 year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin. After an enlightening morning, arrive in the medieval city of Kilkenny, with its majestic castle and river walk. Browse the medieval mile showcasing the hub of Ireland’s arts and crafts scene along its narrow lanes on an orientation. Visit Kilkenny Castle, founded after the Norman conquest of Ireland and rebuilt, extended and adapted over 800 years.
Day 3: Blarney Castle And Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney Oaks
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit Blarney Castle, steeped in centuries of Irish folklore and legend, is famous for its enchanting grounds and the legendary Blarney Stone. Visitors from around the world come to kiss the stone, believed to bestow the 'gift of the gab.' Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million year-old limestone. Next, head to Killarney, gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry, that has been welcoming travelers who appreciate the spectacular scenery of woodlands and lakes, for over 250 years. Enjoy an orientation with your Travel Director and relive the highlights of the day over a Dine-Around evening of local cuisine.
Day 4: Killarney And The Ring Of Kerry
Location: Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney Oaks
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, take in Killarney with Brendan Choice. Choose to join a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, admire incredible scenery on a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of the 15th Century Ross Castle. 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.
Day 5: Killarney To Galway
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Clayton, Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
All aboard the Ferry from Tarbert to Killmer bringing you to an up close and personal encounter with the towering Cliffs of Moher. Take in views of the Clare Coast and the pounding Atlantic, where puffins find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies. Gain insights into the cliffs’ geology and history before driving through the rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay. Upon arriving in Galway, your Travel Director will lead an orientation tour to help you get acquainted with the city. In the afternoon, you can join a Galway Walking Tour to visit notable sights such as the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy. End your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant featuring live music.
Day 6: Galway Free Day
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Clayton, 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 your free day at leisure to discover this bustling port city. You could join an Optional Experience to the iconic Aran Islands, a must-see of scenic Ireland.
Day 7: Galway To Sligo Relaxed Start
Location: Sligo
Accommodation Name: Sligo Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
The seaside town of Westport will charm any traveler. Your Local Expert leads you on a culinary walk for a tasting of the local favorites and to learn about the town's heritage - from its settlement 5,000 years ago to today. The town is famous for its sustainability and Westport House - a heritage home museum celebrating 300 years of Irish heritage, a quaint stone bridge, Rockfleet Castle and Burrishoole Abbey tied to the 16th-century pirate queen Grace O’ Malley. Meaning “abounding in shells,” the town of Sligo will enchant the most curious of travelers. An orientation tour introduces you to the charms of the town. Later, perhaps join an Optional Experience Sligo Drive along the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
Day 8: Sligo Relaxed Start
Location: Sligo
Accommodation Name: Sligo Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on an insightful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to Rosses Point, a small maritime village near the intriguing town of Sligo under the guidance of a Local Expert and maritime archaeologist. With the afternoon free in Sligo, take the opportunity for an in-depth look at one of the historic houses, museums or the Yeats memorial building. The Yeats Building in the heart of Sligo is a gathering space for literary culture and the arts. Its permanent exhibition and contemporary exhibitions and give you local insights into this land that was an inspiration for Yeats.
Day 9: Sligo To Dublin Relaxed Start
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Camden Court, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Sligo this morning to conclude your scenic Ireland tour in Dublin. Your journey finishes with a memorable dinner.
Day 10: Depart Dublin
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
What's Included
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Local Expert Tours
City tours of Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney, Galway, and Sligo with Local Experts are included.
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Kilkenny Castle Visit
Visit Kilkenny Castle to learn the history of this magnificent castle and explore its grounds.
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Blarney Castle Visit
Visit Blarney Castle and take your turn at kissing the Blarney Stone.
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Cliffs of Moher Visit
Visit the Cliffs of Moher and the Exhibition Center to gain insights into the cliffs' geology and history.
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Shannon Estuary Ferry
Enjoy a scenic cruise across the Shannon Estuary.
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Travel Director
A highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide and organizer.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided for freedom during visits to famous highlights.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi where available.
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Baggage Handling
Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as the Galway Walking Tour and Aran Islands visit are not included.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour starting and ending points are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for additional nights' accommodation are not included.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy the comfort of a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, sanitized before the start of your tour, and a scenic ferry cruise across the Shannon Estuary.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Riu Plaza The Gresham in Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney Oaks, Clayton in Galway, and Sligo Park, with luxurious amenities and convenient locations.
Dining Summary
5 Dinner (D)9 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with us, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Authentic Dining
Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.Westport: Embark on a foodie exploration of the town of Westport in a remote area of Ireland full of rugged beauty. The heritage town of Westport is unique in that it is one of the few planned towns in Ireland. Feel inspired by the beauty of the tree-lined boulevard, the Mall, built on the Carrowbeg River. Meet the locals and savor the local delicacies which may include Achill Island fudge, Irish charcuterie and gelato or cupcakes.Dublin: Cross the River Liffey and venture to a local restaurant to toast your unforgettable travels over dinner. Sláinte!
Brendan Choice
Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Brendan Experiences
Kilkenny: Visit Kilkenny Castle to learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came to call it home for so many centuries. Amble through the Picture Gallery, library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendor as well as the rolling parkland formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and man-made lake.
Iconic Experience
Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Summary
• City tours of Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney, Galway and Sligo, with Local Experts • Blarney Castle • Scenic cruise across Shannon Estuary • Visit Cliffs of Moher
Well-being
Enjoy the comfort of the luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Included
Ferry across the Shannon estuary
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are offered in Killarney National Park?
In Killarney National Park, you can choose between a gentle hike with a nature guide to admire the stunning mountains, lakes, woods, and waterfalls, or enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Cliffs of Moher?
During the visit to the Cliffs of Moher, you will have the opportunity to take in the dramatic sea views and towering cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. You can visit the Exhibition Center and gain insights into the cliffs' geology, history, and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
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What is the significance of the Blarney Stone?
The Blarney Stone is famous for bestowing the 'gift of the gab' to those who kiss it. It is said to give the power to persuade, flatter, and coax. The stone is sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
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How does the tour support sustainable travel?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Sligo, where a Local Expert shares insights about the area's connection to the sea and its shipping history. This visit supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
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What is included in the Galway orientation tour?
The Galway orientation tour includes visits to notable sights such as the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
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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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Book with Confidence
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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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