Castles and Manors Summer 2018

Day 1: Arrive Dublin – Afternoon Sightseeing

Set your watch to the lively pace of Ireland's capital city - the springboard for our in-depth Hidden Journey through the lush landscapes and enduring charm of Ireland. Our exploration of Dublin with a Local Specialist will see us view St. Patrick's Cathedral and the colourful Georgian Squares. Spend some time at leisure meandering through Dublin's pretty cobblestone streets before joining your travel companions and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception celebrating traditional Irish flavours. Welcome Reception

Day 2: Dublin – Kildare – Cashel – Killarney (2 Nights)

We traverse picturesque landscapes to Kildare, delving into Ireland's thoroughbred industry at the Irish National Stud during a Cultural Insight where we'll have a rare opportunity to see the foaling unit, museum and of course the magnificent stallions that continue to make racing history. Our journey south brings us to the haunt of St. Patrick and the spectacular Rock of Cashel where we will view its majestic ecclesiastical ruins with a Local Specialist. We continue to Killarney, with its beautiful lakeside setting and enjoy an evening at leisure to soak up the lively atmosphere of one of Ireland's friendliest towns. Full Breakfast

Day 3: Ring of Kerry Excursion

Enjoy a slow start to your morning by joining a Local Specialist for a leisurely guided walk at Torc Waterfall, meandering over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. We embark on an epic drive, exploring the enduring beauty of the Ring of Kerry whose enchanting coastal landscapes have inspired writers and poets for centuries. Please Note: This leisurely paced walk meanders over wooden paths and lakeshore trails. Walkers should wear good walking shoes for a stroll through picturesque surrounds. Full Breakfast

Day 4: Killarney – Cliffs of Moher – Galway – Connemara (2 Nights)

The beautiful views continue as we visit the Cliffs of Moher that rise imposingly up from the Atlantic, 700 feet above the waters below. Continue to County Galway and visit the Connemara Marble artisan workshop for a fascinating Cultural Insight where you will learn first-hand about the famous green jade-like marble for which the area is so famous. Your home for the next two nights is Ballynahinch, one of the finest luxury castles in the world. Admire the beautiful Twelve Bens Mountain range in the background as you relax in sumptuous surrounds. Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Connemara Excursion

Drive through the "savage beauty" of Connemara, as described by Oscar Wilde who was inspired by the region's craggy mountains, shimmering lakes and endless shades of green. We stop in the picturesque town of Clifden before visiting Kylemore Abbey, a magnificent castellated structure built as a family home and now inhabited by a group of Benedictine nuns. Venture into the secret nooks and crannies of its extensive walled Victorian garden before returning to your castle accommodation for a delicious dinner. Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Connemara – Sligo – Roscommon

Our Hidden Journey continues north to Sligo. Here, amid the hills and loughs that inspired the lyrical lines penned by William Butler Yeats, we join Damien and Paula Brennan for a hearty and heart-warming Be My Guest lunch, some Irish craic and the beautiful poetry of W.B. Yeats against the enchanting backdrop of Lough Gill. We journey to Roscommon, where our hotel this evening is the ancestral home of the Tenison family and legendary Colonel King Tenison. Wander through the grand halls and admire the luxurious furnishings of Kilronan Castle Hotel - an up-close encounter with royal heritage. A leisurely afternoon could see you take a luxurious relaxing cruise on the River Shannon. Full Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Day 7: Roscommon – Strokestown – Dublin

Our first stop is a visit to Strokestown Park House, a magnificent 18th century mansion with original furnishings and fabric. We delve into Ireland's tragic potato famine history, gaining a Cultural Insight into the plight of starving Irish tenants, many of whom died or emigrated to the New World in the 1840s. This evening we return to Dublin for a Farewell Dinner celebrating an intimate encounter with the natural beauty and fascinating heritage of Ireland. Full Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 8: Depart Dublin

We say a fond farewell to our newfound friends and Dublin today. You will be transferred to the airport, where your Hidden Journey through the Emerald Isle comes to an end. Transfers are available. Conditions apply. Full Breakfast