Ireland is an island of many contracts with a deep and rich history. Start your journey in the recently rejuvenated city of Belfast. This is the perfect base to visit the impressive natural phenonema of the Giants causeway and the scenic Antrim coast. Visit the pretty city of Armagh, the ancient capital of Ulster, with its magnificent St Patrick's cathedral. Then stop off to explore Trim castle and the many sites dating from ancient to medieval times. Dublin has the enviable position of being by nestled by the sea and mountains and this makes for a beautiful hinterland that just simply must be explored. Spend some time in County Wicklow - just south of Dublin, in what is known as the Garden of Ireland (due to the many forests, parks and gardens). On top of the beautiful scenery, there are a number of quaint villages to visit and estate homes. Continue your journey to Cork and visit Blarney castle before making your way west to the Bay of Kenmare. This is the perfect spot to base yourself in to see all of the many attractions in the region. Finally, make your way to The Burren in County Clare, a very special place - not just in Ireland, but in the world. This area is a biosphere where a large collection of alpine and Mediterranean species grows together in this limestone area. The Burren is bordered to the west by the Atlantic Ocean and Galway Bay and is tucked in the north-west corner of Clare and is one of the most beautiful locations in the country. Relax in luxurious accommodations throughout your tour and embrace yourselves in the traditional Irish welcome! From pick up to drop off, your Driver will accompany you the length and breadth of the land, ensuring you have a memorable vacation.

Day 1
Belfast
Airport transfer to/from Belfast airport in a private chauffeured vehicle. Belfast has wonderful dining and entertainment options in the city centre. The two most celebrated chefs in the city are Michael Deane and Paul Rankin. Both chefs have a score of restaurants in the city centre called Deane's and Cayenne respectively. There is also Deane's Deli for a lighter more bistro style ambience. We highly recommend visiting the Crown Bar Saloon and marveling the opulent Victorian Décor of Irelands most beautifully crafted bar. Experience the beauty of the Giant's Causeway - one of Irelands most beautiful and least visited beauty spots that stretches from Belfast to Derry along the most North Eastern region of Ireland. Touring will encompass the beautiful highlights of this unique coast that includes The Giants Causeway, The Distillery at Bushmills, Dunluce Castle and Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge as it hangs precariously over the North Atlantic Ocean. A stop for food or a drink at the ancient and historic Bushmills Inn in Bushmills is also a highlight. The Giants Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is made up of 40000 interlocking basalt colums up to 12 metres long that strech along the coast and into the ocean. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Ten Square Boutique Hotel is situated in a particularly attractive listed Victorian building just opposite the City Hall and within walking distance of the whole city centre area. Ten Square is Belfast's most interesting and innovative hotel development of the decade. This chic hotel has established itself as a firm favourite with visiting celebrities and discerning locals alike. One of the most innovative and stylish hotels in Belfast, the 23 bedrooms are a luxury showpiece of Asian splendour. The chic and sophisticated interior has promoted a new aesthetic for hospitality in the province for the cosmopolitan and city-hopping visitors. Belfast has undergone many changes over the years, from a mere village in the 17th century, to a thriving 20th-century metropolis of half a million people. Ringed by high hills, sea lough and river valleys, Northern Ireland's capital has endured a collective suffering during the years of the Troubles. Today, this city offers an irresistible blend of re-energised urbanity and easy access to natural splendour. Compact and easy to explore on foot, what Belfast might lack in world class attractions it makes up for in attitude. There is an international selection of restaurants, bars and cafés to explore and with the rugged natural splendour of coast, lake and moor just outside the city.

Day 2
Belfast
Enjoy a few hours exploring Armagh City, known as the Cathedral City. It is both Irelands oldest city and the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. The ancient capital of Ulster is noted for its fabulous St Patricks Cathedral where Brian Boru is buried. Two miles outside the city is Navan Fort, stronghold of the Kings of Ulster for 700 years. Armagh is the centre for Apple Orchards and in Spring the apple blossoms can be seen in bloom. Areas of interest in the county are Adress House, Clare Glen and the Blackwater River Park. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax in your hotel. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 3
Belfast - Dublin
Enjoy the transfer from Belfast to Dublin stopping off en route at variuos places of interest. From Belfast there is an incredible range of archaeological and architectural treasures as we travel southwards to Dublin. To begin, there is the wonderful Mourne Mountains that sweep majestically down to the sea at Newcastle in Co. Down. An area of major interest is the archaeological region of the Boyne Valley with the prominent sights being Newgrange, The Hill of Tara, Knowth and Dowth, Slane Castle and The Battle of The Boyne site as well as a possible trip to Trim Castle where many scenes from Braveheart the Movie were filmed. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy an afternoon exploring the main mythological sites west of Dublin city. County Meath is a historical wonderland which has many attractions dating from ancient to medieval times. The Hill of Tara stands in the centre of this facinating county with commanding vies in all directions this was the seat of the ancient Kings of Ireland. Little remains but the outline of their kingdom, a church and a small cafe. Trim Castle to the west however is almost perfectly intact and one of Irelands most interesting castles. Used for many film sets including Braveheart the castle sits proudly on the banks of the Boyne and has many ruins in the area that make an interesting walk. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Brooks (4*) is a designer boutique hotel, situated just off St. Stephen's Green, a few minutes walk from Grafton Street. Temple Bar is only a 5-minute walk away. This new building has been constructed in a traditional style, in keeping with the surrounding Georgian buildings.
The guest lounge is very relaxing and the hotel offers an excellent central location in the heart of the city.
Facilities include an onsite gymansium and sauna. The history, charming Georgian architecture and the host of more earthy entertainment on offer will all entice you to Dublin, but it is the people that will leave the biggest impression on you.

Day 4
Dublin
Spend half the day exploring the beautiful area of County Wicklow - just south of Dublin. Wicklow is rightly known as the Garden of Ireland due to the spectacular natural scenery which couple mountains with lakes and meandering glens and a long coastline. The Sally Gap, a high mountain drive, is akin to being in the Wild West and the lush landscapes of Glendalough, the Glen of the two lakes, is nestled deep in the Wicklow Mountains. There are also the delightful villages of Roundwood and Avoca where picturesque mountains meet pretty hamlets. Powerscourt House and Gardens is a spectacular gem shadowed by the Sugarloaf Mountain and the estate is home to the largest waterfall in the British Isles of the same name. From here we continue south to Glendalough and the monastic ruins of St Kevin. The location is one of stunning natural beauty and you may like to take a short stroll around the lake. (Includes entrance to Powerscourt Gardens). Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). The coastline of Dublin City from North to South is as fascinating as the city centre itself. Enjoy exploring with your chauffeured driven vehicle. Beginning in Malahide you'll get to visit one of Ireland's most beautiful castles located on lush gardens. From Malahide visit Howth Island, a rugged outcrop and the most easterly part of the country. On the south side of the city the scenery takes on a more Mediterranean feel with James Joyce's Tower in Sandymount. The two villages of Dalkey and Killiney nestled overlooking the sea are Ireland most opulent and the homes of the stars. The view across Killiney Bay to the Wicklow Mountains is among the most beautiful in Ireland. At the end of the tour you will be brought back to your hotel. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Day 5
Dublin - Cork
From Dublin City travel to Cashel in Connemara via the beautiful pastoral counties of Kildare, Carlow and Kilkenny. En route there are many striking and ancient sights including the High Cross at Moone and Brownshill Dolmen with Europes largest capstone.Visit the medieval city of Kilkenny famous for its Victorian and Tudor architecture. Both the Castle and Cathedral are worth visiting and a shop or lunch in the Kilkenny Design Centre comes highly recommended. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy an excursion to Blarney Castle and environs. North of Cork City is the famous town of Blarney with its castle and expansive park and the world renowned Blarney Stone. This must be kissed in a feat of acrobatic heroics to achieve the gift of eloquence. Also in the town is the excellent Blarney Woollen Mills superstore which has amongst the finest ranges of Irish goods anywhere in Ireland. The tour can be completed with a nice meal in Christy's pub or in one of the local restaurants in the square of Blarney. Entrance fees are included. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Designed by the architect Thomas Dean in 1813 the Imperial Hotel and Spa (4*) has graced the city of Cork since 1813. Located in the prestigious commercial district of South Mall, in the heart of Cork City, the hotel offers warmth and intimacy of times past, with the style and luxury of a contemporary hotel. Ideal location for guests on business or pleasure. The Imperial also hosts Escape Salon & Spa, Ireland's first Aveda lifestyle Salon and Spa. With 9 treatment rooms, Vitality Suite, and relaxation room, Escape is a sanctuary of pure indulgence where time is left at the door. Cork features architecturally notable buildings originating from the medieval to modern periods. St. Patrick's Street, a main street that has been recently remodelled, is known for the architecture of the buildings along its pedestrian-friendly route through a major shopping district.

Day 6
Kinsale - Kenmare
Enjoy touring the famous West Cork coastline - among the most indented, varied and lush coastlines in Ireland. The highlights of this tour include the ancient Drombeg Stone Circle, the quaint fishing villages of Glandore and Union Hall as well as a possible detour to Ireland's most southerly peninsula, Mizen Head. There are also the pretty seaside towns of Baltimore with its islands and Schull with lots of nice shops. Glengariff is located at the foot of the Caha Mountains that separate Cork from Kerry. It is a dense lush sub tropical valley that is famous for its Bamboo Park, seal colony and Italian Gardens. Bantry Town is Irelands deepest port and has a beautiful town square. Inland from here is the solitary chapel on an island by the lake at Gougane Barra. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Kenmare is renowned as one of Irelands prettiest towns nestled between the imposing Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara on the Kenmare River. The town has numerous shops that specialize in all kinds of fine antiques, laces & linen, gourmet and fine arts. Close to the town is Kenmare Stone Circle, an unusual egg shaped circle and one of the oldest and largest in the South West. In summer boats trips from the pier that tour the magnificent Bay of Kenmare can be arranged. On the outskirts of the town are the pretty waterfalls on the Sheen River, where the Sheen Falls Hotel is located. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Built in 1897, the Park Hotel (5*) is an imposing and splendid grey gothic-style manor set in a beautiful and tranquil setting overlooking Kenmare bay. Antiques are everywhere and the ambience is refined. The hotel now has its own 18-hole golf course and is a member of small luxury hotels of the world. Facilities include: Tennis, outdoor swimming pool, 24 hour room service, car rental, laundry, and disabled facilities. Located some 25 km south of Cork City on the coast near the Old Head of Kinsale, it sits at the mouth of the River Bandon and has a population of 2,257 which increases substantially during the summer months when the tourist season is at its peak and when the boating fraternity arrive in large numbers. Kinsale is a popular holiday resort for Irish and foreign tourists which is known for its many gourmet restaurants and leisure activities - including yachting, sea angling, and golf. The town also has several art galleries and a noted school of English. The town is compact with a quaint air of antiquity in the narrow intersecting streets. There is a large yachting marina close to the town centre which attracts sailing enthusiasts.

Day 7
Kenmare - Lisdoonvarna
Kenmare is renowned as one of Irelands prettiest towns nestled between the imposing Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara on the Kenmare River. The town has numerous shops that specialize in all kinds of fine antiques, laces & linen, gourmet and fine arts. Close to the town is Kenmare Stone Circle, an unusual egg shaped circle and one of the oldest and largest in the South West. In summer boats trips from the pier that tour the magnificent Bay of Kenmare can be arranged. On the outskirts of the town are the pretty waterfalls on the Sheen River, where the Sheen Falls Hotel is located. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy a visit to Bunratty Castle - one of the finest medieval castles in Ireland with a wonderful banqueting Hall, Folk Park which relives Ireland in Medieval Times. The castle is immaculately restored and retains many of its original furnishings. There are also clusters of excellent shopping in the area from Avoca and Blarney Woolen Mills. Durty Nelly's on the banks of the River Fergus has been serving Ale since the middle ages and today the dark lighting and sawdust floors retain its air of authenticity. This is a perfect spot for a bit to eat. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Set in its own gardens and amongst the breathtaking scenery of the Burren, the Sheedy's Country House Hotel (4*) is in the centre of Lisdoonvarna. This property is in between Connemara and Killarney, while the Shannon Airport is 64 kilometres away. This hotel offers well-appointed accommodation and each room has been elegantly furnished with an array of in-room amenities to ensure guests a pleasurable stay. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant, which serves delicious traditional dishes or sip your favourite drink at the in-house cocktail bar.



Kenmare town is located at the head of Kenmare Bay and is the gateway town to the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, both beautiful peninsulas. Consider adding a day to your trip to see one of these two areas of stunning natural beauty.

Day 8
Lisdoonvarna
Enjoy an excursion to the Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare - simply one of Irelands most beautiful and must see natural attractions. They stretch for 8km & rise up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean where gulls and sea life play below an awe inspiring panorama. The tour includes parking at the cliffs and entrance to the cliffs as well as use of the world class facilities at the visitor centre. There is an optional extra (not included in tour cost) to take in the Atlantic Edge exhibition which illustrates this unique and fragile environment. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Spend some time exploring West Clare which is among Irelands most rugged and dramatic landscapes with shifting and sculpting stone creating unforgettable scenery such as the Cliffs of Moher, Burren Plateau and Islands. We recommend a visit to the spectacular Aillwee Caves in Ballyvaughan at the heart of The Burren. The ancient Dolmen at Poulnabrune is a relic to the intelligence of the first settlers in this remote lunar like landscape. The villages of Ballyvaughan and Kinvarra are quaint and two of the most pleasant and photogenic in Ireland. Seafood is a specialty of this region and there are many fine pubs serving fresh portions of mussels and oysters, notably Monks in Ballyvaughan, Cornerstone in Lahinch and Moran's in Clarinbridge. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Lisdoonbvarna - Lios Dúin Bhearna, meaning Enclosure at the Fort by the Gap) is a spa town of 822 people (2002 census) in County Clare in Ireland.Famous for its music and festivals, in September each year one of Europe's largest matchmaking events is held in Lisdonnvarna attracting upward of 40,000 romantic hopefuls, bachelor farmers and accompanying revellers. The month-long event is an important tourist attraction. The current matchmaker is Willie Daly, a fourth-generation matchmaker.

Day 9
Lisdoonvarna - Shannon
Your driver will transfer you to Shannon airport this morning in a private vehicle in time for your onward flight. Kensington Tours donates a portion of our proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities. Depart Shannon Airport. End of itinerary. The wide sweep of the River Shannon both gives its name to and defines this varied region of Western Ireland, running through the counties of Clare and Limerick as well as parts of Tipperary and Offaly. From where the rugged coastal cliffs of Clare and Limerick fend off the Atlantic waves, to the lush meadows, ancient woodland and clear-water lakes of inland, the variety of the region's landscape encapsulates the myths and legends of Eire in just a few hundred miles. Dusk sees prehistoric tombs, castles and sleepy villages merge into a landscape steeped in Gaelic traditions. The heartland of Irish folk music and the Gaelic language (parts of the region are in the Gaeltacht, an area where Gaelic is taught in schools and even spoken day to day), the region also boasts the most blue flag beaches in the country, some of Ireland's best known and best-loved landmarks, and one of Europe's most spectacularly bleak limestone landscapes, the Burren. Wherever you wander here, whether hiring a cruiser and exploring the lake islands of the Shannon, getting lost on the boreens of the Burren or exploring the historical towns of Limerick and Ennis, you'll find a warm welcome in this beautiful corner of the Emerald Isle.