Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle Preview 2018

Day 1: Arrive Dublin (2 Nights)

Welcome to the Emerald Isle. This afternoon drive south to Powerscourt Gardens. These spectacular gardens first began to take shape in the 1740s. The superb blend of sweeping terraces, fine statuary and ornamental lakes together with secret hollows, rambling walks, walled gardens and over 200 variations of trees and shrubs are a delight to behold. Together they form one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland. Returning to Dublin, raise a glass over a light meal at an exclusive Welcome Reception at 'Epic Ireland' which tells the story of the 10 million people who left the island of Ireland.Welcome Reception

Day 2: Dublin Sightseeing

This morning, a Local Specialist takes you on a city tour. You'll visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, where Jonathan Swift was once Dean. Then on to admire the colourful doorways in stately Georgian Squares and stroll along the cobbled courtyard of Trinity College to see the ornate Book of Kells. The balance of the day is at leisure to explore this welcoming city at your own pace.Full Breakfast

Day 3: Dublin – Co. Kilkenny – Kinsale

Leave the city life behind as you travel to County Kilkenny. Visit Newtown Jerpoint, one of Ireland's best surviving examples of a deserted, 12th century medieval town and reputedly the final resting place of St. Nicholas. Then relish a Be My Guest lunch with Joe and Maeve O'Connell at their home, Belmore House. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this rural setting and be ready for a few surprises. Continue south to picturesque Kinsale, hailed as the "Gourmet Capital of Ireland". Your evening is free and there's no shortage of cafés, pubs, and restaurants to explore.Full Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Day 4: Kinsale – Blarney – Killarney (2 Nights)

Meet a Local Specialist this morning for a walking tour of the historic town of Kinsale. On to Blarney Castle to kiss the fabled Stone that bestows the "gift of the gab". Then head west to Killarney, the gateway to magnificent Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry.Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Ring of Kerry Excursion

Enjoy a relaxing morning and free time in Killarney or you can join a Local Specialist for a leisurely guided walk at Torc Waterfall. Later take in views of the famous "forty shades of green" as you travel around the Ring of Kerry. This unspoiled area has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Please Note: This leisurely paced walk meanders over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. Walkers should wear good walking shoes for a stroll through picturesque surrounds.Full Breakfast

Day 6: Killarney – Cliffs of Moher – Galway – Connemara (2 Nights)

Traveling north, stop for a walk along the iconic Cliffs of Moher which make up part of a tourism trail on the West Coast called the Wild Atlantic Way. These dramatic cliffs rise some 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic. The views of endless ocean are awe-inspiring. The next stop is Galway for an orientation of the city including impressive Galway Cathedral. End the day in Connemara.Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Connemara Excursion

Discover why some consider this rugged realm of mountains, lakes, rivers and little towns to be the real emerald of Ireland. Stop for a visit to Kylemore Abbey with its beautiful lakeside setting, then gain a Cultural Insight at the Connemara Marble Factory, crafters of Connemara marble for generations.Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Connemara – Ashford Castle (Cong)

Board 'The Isle of Innisfree' for an exclusive cruise on shimmering Lough Corrib. Captain Patrick, Ashford Castle's Local Specialist, will share his local knowledge as you glide through the peaceful waters. Disembarking, a lone piper will escort you over the drawbridge to Ashford Castle. Tonight gather in the castle's sumptuous restaurant for an elegantly royal dining experience (gentlemen are requested to wear a jacket).Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Cong – Dublin

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll on the estate before returning to Dublin. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping or sightseeing on your own. This evening celebrate a memorable trip as you relish a delicious Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.Full Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 10: Depart Dublin

You will be transferred to Dublin Airport where your holiday must come to an end. Slán go fóill - goodbye until we meet again! Transfers are available. Conditions apply.Full Breakfast