Ring of Kerry & Southern Sights
8 Days
from
$4,936
to
$5,728
per person*
Highlights:
Ireland
(Newmarket on Fergus, Killarney, Cork, Dublin)
Trip Start/End:
Shannon
/
Dublin
Ireland is an island of many contracts with a deep and rich history.
Start your journey with a drive through 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 grow 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. Take in the famous Ring of Kerry on your way to Kenmare, then continue your journey to Cork and visit Blarney castle before making your way east to Waterford and its magnificent crystal offerings. End your visit to Ireland in it's fair capital of Dublin with a city tour of its elegant Georgian squares, beautiful parks, including a visit to see The Book of Kells in Trinity College. Stop off at the prehistoric area of Newgrange to round off your visit.
On top of the beautiful scenery, there are a number of quaint villages to visit and estate homes. 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.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Shannon - Newmarket on Fergus
| - Transfer - Private - Airport & Afternoon vehicle & Driver at disposal - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Ireland - Welcome Package
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Dromoland Castle (5*)
Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Shannon - Newmarket on Fergus
| - Private - Cliffs of Moher & Surrounding Countryside - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Dromoland Castle (5*)
Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Shannon - Killarney
| - Transfer - Private - Shannon - Killarney [Ring of Kerry - National Park, Muckross Estate & Gap of Dunloe] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Killarney Park (5*)
Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Killarney - Cork
| - Transfer - Private - Killarney - Cork [1.5 hrs + Vehicle & Driver at disposal for remainder of day] - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Hayfield Manor (5*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Cork
| - Private - 1/2 Day Blarney Castle Visit & Afternoon Vehicle & Driver at disposal - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Hayfield Manor (5*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Cork - Dublin
| - Transfer - Cork - Dublin [via Waterford (Visit to Waterford Crystal)] - Saloon/Driver-guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Merrion (5*)
Standard Garden Wing (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Dublin
| - Private - 1/2 Day Newgrange, Knowth & Boyne Valley - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 Day City Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Merrion (5*)
Standard Garden Wing (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Dublin
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Newmarket on Fergus
Dromoland Castle
Day 1: Shannon - Newmarket on Fergus
Avail of a private airport transfer in Shannon in a private chauffeured vehicle. Depending on your arrival time today, you may have your vehicle and driver at your disposal for the remainder of the day. In order to give as much flexibility as possible, we have not included entrance fees and these can be paid in person on site.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Accommodation: Dromoland Castle (5*) With an extraordinary history stretching back to the 5th Century, the Dromoland Castle Hotel (5*) in Ireland was originally the ancestral home of one of the few families of Gaelic Royalty; direct descendants of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Approached by a meandering drive that passes acres of magnificent lawns, this Irish 5 star luxury Castle Hotel overlooks its own Championship Golf Course and a glistening lake which commands the panoramic beauty of the surrounds.
Cliffs of Moher
Day 2: Shannon - Newmarket on Fergus
Drive today through The Burren, an eerie landscape of limestone outcrops, to the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs, over five miles long, and towering up to 660 feet, reign unrivaled over the Atlantic Ocean coastline, offering amazing views. In order to give as much flexibility as possible, we have not included entrance fees and these can be paid in person on site.
Accommodation: Dromoland Castle (5*) 
Killarney
Killarney Park Hotel
Day 3: Shannon - Killarney
Your drive from Shannon area to Killarney should take approximately 2 hours. Upon reaching Killarney, you will get to see the Highlights of The Ring of Kerry as your driver-guide takes in the very best of this magical peninsula in a unique and unforgettable drive through the heart of the National Park. From Killarney and the Muckross Estate the narrow road winds up to Ladies View and Molls Gap where panoramic view of the lakes and distant peaks form a picturesque stop. We continue to explore this region in depth by travelling into the Black Valley where a blanket bog land is still harvested. Finally we ascend at the Gap of Dunloe driving though a magical valley of quintessential Irish beauty. Ending the tour we can make a stop at Kate Kearney's Cottage where the adventitious can end the tour on foot or by horse drawn cart, before returning to Killarney and your accommodation.
Accommodation: Killarney Park (5*) Welcome to The Killarney Park Hotel (5*), Killarney, one of the premier 5 star hotels in this scenic part of Ireland. The warm smile and gentle service after a long days travel aren’t simply things this hotel offers, but rather a reflection of the great staff who work here. The log fire burns brightly, the concierge smiles warmly... your journey is over. The Killarney Park Hotel is situated on its own private grounds. This family owned, luxury hotel in Killarney, is committed to ensuring that every moment will be memorable, relaxing and enjoyable.
Cork
Hayfield Manor Hotel
Day 4: Killarney - Cork
Enjoy your private transfer from Killarney to Cork today. The transfer should take approximately 1.5hours. Yopur vehicle and driver are at your disposal for the remainder of the day.
Accommodation: Hayfield Manor (5*) Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork (5*), is set within 2 acres of mature gardens, encompassing an oasis of calm within the Cork city in the south west of Ireland. As you make your way up the winding, tree lined path to our welcoming door, let calmness envelope you as Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork becomes your home away from home with luxury leisure facilities. A few minutes from Cork city centre and across from UCC, see why Hayfield Manor remains the premier 5 Star Cork hotel.
Blarney
Day 5: Cork
Blarney Castle, reputed to bestow the gift of the gab on hearty souls who climb its ramparts to kiss a magical stone, is our stop today. This afternoon your vehicle and driver-guide is at your disposal. In order to give as much flexibility as possible, we have not included entrance fees and these can be paid in person on site.
Accommodation: Hayfield Manor (5*) 
Dublin
Merrion Hotel
Day 6: Cork - Dublin
Continue your adventure as you travel from Cork to Dublin today, taking your time to stop at variuos places of interest enroute. One of the highlights of the day may well include a visit to the wonderful Waterford Crystal facility which has been producing beautiful decorative and functional galssware for over a century. Enjoy the scenic views throughout the day as you journey towards the cosmopolitain city of Dublin.
Accommodation: Merrion (5*) The Merrion Hotel (5*) , is an exclusive Dublin Hotel that comprises of 123 rooms and 19 suites. The interior is designed using Irish fabrics and antiques to reflect the architecture and original interiors of the Main House. Throughout this luxurious Dublin hotel guests benefit from the latest technology. There is a choice of two restaurants and two bars. A luxurious Spa and swimming pool, six magnificent meeting and private dining rooms, and a private car park complete The Merrion's impressive list of facilities. Over the last eleven years, The Merrion luxury hotel in Dublin City has established itself as the epitome of relaxed grandeur, welcoming Dubliners and visitors to the city with stunningly appointed rooms, crackling turf fires and a host of facilities. This hotel has received many prestigious awards and accolades over recent years and hope their guests appreciate what they feel is at the cornerstone of its success - excelling in the art of hospitality.
Newgrange
Christchurch Cathedral
Day 7: Dublin
Enjoy a half day private tour in the company of a private vehicle, driver and guide exploring the ancient site of Newgrange - one of the great wonders of western ancient civilization that needs to be seen close up to be fully appreciated. Predating the Pyramids, it is a complex chamber that is perfectly aligned to catch the morning sun on the winter solstice. There are two other major tombs at Knowth and Dowth, both equally impressive and different in character. Nearby is the River Boyne where the famous Battle of the Boyne took place. The land here is lush and full of ancient and medieval ruins that are testaments to Irelands great heritage. In order to give as much flexibility as possible, we have not included entrance fees and these can be paid in person on site.
We will take you on a guided tour of Dublin City today. Our guide will show you Dublin’s major attractions such as Trinity College and the Book of Kells, perhaps the world’s most beautifully illustrated book. In the city centre region there is also St Patrick's Cathedral, Christchurch and the famous Guinness Brewery. There are a host of shopping and museums and galleries to explore in the historical Georgian district near St Stephens Green. We highly recommend the National Museum, Natural History Museum and the National Gallery to name a few. (Entrance fees not included). In order to give as much flexibility as possible, we have not included entrance fees and these can be paid in person on site.
Accommodation: Merrion (5*) Day 8: Dublin
Meet your driver for an airport transfer in a private vehicle.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle (5*) - Newmarket on Fergus
With an extraordinary history stretching back to the 5th Century, the Dromoland Castle Hotel (5*) in Ireland was originally the ancestral home of one of the few families of Gaelic Royalty; direct descendants of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Approached by a meandering drive that passes acres of magnificent lawns, this Irish 5 star luxury Castle Hotel overlooks its own Championship Golf Course and a glistening lake which commands the panoramic beauty of the surrounds.
- Killarney Park Hotel
Killarney Park (5*) - Killarney
Welcome to The Killarney Park Hotel (5*), Killarney, one of the premier 5 star hotels in this scenic part of Ireland. The warm smile and gentle service after a long days travel aren’t simply things this hotel offers, but rather a reflection of the great staff who work here. The log fire burns brightly, the concierge smiles warmly... your journey is over. The Killarney Park Hotel is situated on its own private grounds. This family owned, luxury hotel in Killarney, is committed to ensuring that every moment will be memorable, relaxing and enjoyable.
- Hayfield Manor Hotel
Hayfield Manor (5*) - Cork
Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork (5*), is set within 2 acres of mature gardens, encompassing an oasis of calm within the Cork city in the south west of Ireland. As you make your way up the winding, tree lined path to our welcoming door, let calmness envelope you as Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork becomes your home away from home with luxury leisure facilities. A few minutes from Cork city centre and across from UCC, see why Hayfield Manor remains the premier 5 Star Cork hotel.
- Merrion Hotel
Merrion Hotel - Guest Room
Merrion (5*) - Dublin
The Merrion Hotel (5*) , is an exclusive Dublin Hotel that comprises of 123 rooms and 19 suites. The interior is designed using Irish fabrics and antiques to reflect the architecture and original interiors of the Main House. Throughout this luxurious Dublin hotel guests benefit from the latest technology. There is a choice of two restaurants and two bars. A luxurious Spa and swimming pool, six magnificent meeting and private dining rooms, and a private car park complete The Merrion's impressive list of facilities. Over the last eleven years, The Merrion luxury hotel in Dublin City has established itself as the epitome of relaxed grandeur, welcoming Dubliners and visitors to the city with stunningly appointed rooms, crackling turf fires and a host of facilities. This hotel has received many prestigious awards and accolades over recent years and hope their guests appreciate what they feel is at the cornerstone of its success - excelling in the art of hospitality.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Ireland
VISA/PASSPORT
Ireland is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Ireland for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/ireland.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Dublin.
Government: Republic.
Language: Although Irish (Gaelic) is the official language, English is the majority language.
Religion: Roman Catholic 92%, with Protestant, Jewish and Islamic minorities.
Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs are in use.
Telephone: Country code +353 followed by the area code, omitting the initial zero.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with a wide range of international mobile phone carriers. Coverage is good.
Internet: Internet is readily available; Internet cafes exist in nearly every town.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Breakfasts, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Experienced and knowledgeable Driver-Guide for all touring days - Luxury vehicle for all touring days as per itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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