SUNDAY An early morning departure as we travel to Holyhead for our sailing to Dublin. We then continue to the Carlow area for dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation.
MONDAY Continuing our journey to Bantry, we visit Waterford en route. Established by the Vikings in the 9th century, Ireland’s oldest city is compact, and a delight to explore. Enjoy the treasure-trove of ancient artefacts, the ‘Waterford Viking Triangle’, elegant architecture and great local food. We continue to the hotel for our four night stay.
TUESDAY We head out for a day touring the Beara Peninsula, the Southwest’s third largest ‘ring’ after Dingle and Kerry, taking in spectacular vistas, unspoilt beauty and wild landscapes. Our first stop is Molly Gallivan’s Cottage and Traditional Farm, where we experience the simple country lifestyle of rural Ireland before the days of electricity & modern conveniences. On next to Kenmare, with rolling mountains as the backdrop and colourful streets lined with charming shops and restaurants. We round off the day of exploration with a visit to the fishing port of Castletownbere located on the southern coast of the peninsula before returning to the hotel.
WEDNESDAY This morning we visit Garinish Island. Located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff, and accessed via a short boat trip, Garinish is a small island known to horticulturists and lovers of trees and shrubs all around the world as an island garden of rare beauty. (Please note: the boat journey there is 10-15 mins long, sturdy footwear is recommended, the site includes some steep inclines, and it is a cash only site). We then continue into the Mizen Peninsula, to Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point on the Wild Atlantic Way, with a stop at the visitors centre to explore this iconic landmark.
THURSDAY A day at leisure in Bantry, famed for its celebrations of food, music & maritime history.
FRIDAY After breakfast we depart the hotel and journey to Cobh (pronounced “cove”), a charming, walkable seaside gem that was ranked as one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe, and made famous for being the last port of call of the Titanic. Explore the town, keeping an eye out for St Colman's Cathedral, the neo-Gothic building that took decades to build, towering above the town, set against a backdrop of picturesque brightly coloured houses. We then continue on to the Dublin area, for dinner and overnight accommodation.
SATURDAY An early departure as we head to Dublin to board an early morning ferry to Holyhead. Breakfast is included on board, and from Holyhead we continue homeward.
Please note: a valid form of photo ID is required for travel to Ireland for British/Irish citizens.
Euros are the local currency in the Republic of Ireland.