Cliffs Of Moher & The Burren
he rugged rural and costal scenery of County Clare, awaits you on this fabulous excursion to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher.After meeting you at your accommodation,we travel westwards towards the seaside towns of Lahinch and Liscannor, catching sight of the wild Atlantic Ocean as we drive.
The Cliffs of Moher are world renowned as the longest single drop in Europe, rising some 700ft. Viewed from O’Brien’s Tower on the headland, we can spend time here to experience the awesome coastal views before calling into the Visitor Centre. Not far way is the little coastal village of Doolin, where you have the option to take a Small Boat Trip to view the Cliffs - they depart every half hour. Meantime why not drop by The McGann’s Family Pub, which is a firm favourite for a break for lunch. The rest of our day is spent exploring ‘The Burren’ (Bhoireann in Irish) one of the most unusual landscapes in Ireland, and classified a one of the 120 UNESCO World Heritage Parks.
Lough Gur, Limerick & Bunratty Castle
reland’s rich heritage is intriguing, from the Bronze Age to Medieval Castles, and not least the Georgian Architecture of Limerick City itself, one of the finest remaining examples outside of Dublin. After collection from your accommodation, we head directly to Lough Gur where a well laid out Visitors Centre showcases how life was over 6000 years ago - from the Megalithic period to present day. A terrific interactive museum for all age groups.
As we head back towards the great River Shannon, we travel into the heart of Limerick, a city first settled in by Vikings during the 9th Century. It’s also the home of the author Frank McCourt who wrote Angela’s Ashes, and Sir Richard Harris, who starred in the Film, ‘The Field’, a story of the harshness of Irish Life, after the famine years. Our visit starts with a tour, taking in the riverside esplanade, the ‘Treaty Stone’ and King John’s Castle at the centre of Medieval Limerick, along with St Mary’s Cathedral, foundered in 1168, and which is still in use today.
Stopping for Photo’s and Lunch, we then make our way to the world renowned Bunratty Castle Folk Park, one of the Country’s largest visitor attractions outside of Dublin. Here you can discover a Folklore Village set amongst 26 acres, which depicts rural Irish life through the ages. And of course its magnificent Castle dating back to 1425 and fully restored in 1954. Containing furnishings, Tapestries and relics of Medieval times it’s a real highlight to anyone’s visit to Ireland.
The Ring of Kerry
visit to Killarney National Park, tops the list for every visitor. The kindom of Kerry offers breathtaking coastal views as mountains rise high above the Atlantic. The rustic villages that we meet along the route, all contibutes to a great day out. Once we’ve collected you, we drive to Killarney stopping at Ross Castle on the way to Muckross House, where we have an opportunity for a short break. The House and Gardens are set against the majestic backdrop of Lough Leane.
Afterwards we head out for the 179km round trip of the ‘Ring of Kerry’ we first pass through Killorglin, famous for its annual ‘Puck’ Fair, next we drive though Glenbeigh to arrive at Cahersiveen. We stop to view the Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church, established in recognition of O’Connell gaining the rights for Irish Catholics to become members of the British Parliament. We travel on across the coastal headland to Waterville, a small town where Charlie Chaplin once had his summer house. After a photo stop drive on through the rugged coastal scenery to Sneem, catching a glimpse the Skellig Islands as we go. We stop here before heading back over the mountains to Molls Gap and Ladies View, where we are greeted by spectacular views of the Lakes and Killarney beyond.
As we pass through County Kerry enjoying is scenery, don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other opportunities this great County offers before heading back.
Shannon Estuary Adventure
he Shannon winds its way through 27 of Ireland’s counties, and we take an opportunity to appreciate its influence, not only on sustaining Ireland, but its importance in connecting the country to the wider world. After meeting you, we head to Foynes the site chosen by Aviator Charles Lindenburg, as the ideal location for the first commercial flights by Flying Boat to Ireland. Here we can watch a short film, view iconic displays, try our hand at a flight simulator, and step aboard a replica of a Sutherland Aircraft flying boat. What’s more we discover the origins of Irish Coffee too!
Traveling down the estuary we take a short ferry crossing, to Killimer and head to Kilrush the second largest town in Co.Clare, and the first major port on the River. As we reach Kilkee, we catch the sea air from the esplanade of this local seaside town before driving along the coast to Loophead and its Lighthouse, where at the Visitors Centre, you are assured of some spectacular coastal views when ascending the tower.
Our journey down the Shannon, would not be complete without visiting the village of Carrigaholt, where taking an optional boat ride out into the estuary, offers a chance to catch a glimpse of the Dolphins who have made this region their home. As we make our return don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other opportunities this great excursion offers before heading back to your accommodation
Blarney Cork & Kinsale
he rich heritage that surrounds Ireland’s second largest city, welcomes every visitor. In addition to Cork City’s thriving merchant sea tradition, the County itself occupies much of Ireland’s South West and enjoys a mild gulf stream climate, which lends itself to exotic gardens and enchanting views. After meeting you at your accommodation, we head first to Blarney Castle, world renown for gifting eloquence to all who kiss the ‘Blarney Stone’ we also have the option to stroll through the exquisite Castle Gardens, and drop by Blarney Woollen Mills, retail outlet.
Our journey continues south into the busy City of Cork, where we can catch sight of many landmarks including St Finbar’s Cathedral. We have time in the City to visit The English Market, a thriving emporium for food lovers. After lunch, we leave the city and take a short drive to the picturesque fishing town of Kinsale a 17th Century fortified port and the site of the sinking of the Lusitania just offshore. It’s now the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Here at Kinsale we can stroll through the quaint harbour front, with its craft shops, or visit the 16th Century Courthouse Museum (site of the official inquest into the sinking of the Lusitania, by a German U boat in WW1) or take the walk out to the ‘Head of Kinsale’ (3.7 miles - 2 hrs).
As we make our return northwards don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other opportunities this great region offers before heading back to your accommodation.
Dingle & Slea Head
he rugged charm of Dingle captivates every visitor with its bustling harbour front. Local fishermen ensures the community has a great supply of produce for the towns fine eateries and bars. Each September Dingle hosts the Blas na h’Eireann, the Irish Food Awards, a superb recognition of it seafood producing heritage. After meeting you, we drive to Tralee famous its beauty pageant 'The Rose Festival', and then onwards to the Dingle peninsular. Travelling through the Conor Pass, one of highest mountain passes in Ireland, we reach Dingle Town catching glimpses of the Atlantic weather permitting.
On arrival, we can enjoy the harbour views. After lunch we have the option to drop by the artisan ‘Dingle Distillery’, makers of fine Irish Whiskey, and Gin, before heading out around Slea Head with its breath-taking views of the Atlantic, its isolated inlets, beaches and of course dramatic cliffs. As we travel we stop for photo opportunities, and time permitting we call in at the Fahan Sheep Dog demonstration.
Having continued to Ballyferriter, with views of the ‘Blaskets’, the road then takes us back to Dingle and onwards along the Peninsula to Annascaul. Here we stop at the South Pole, named by it owner the Antarctic explorer Tom Creen, who sailed three times with Captain Scot and Ernest Shackleton, and later retired here. The Pub is now a magnificent shrine to Victorian Polar exploration. As we head back don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other opportunities this great County offers.
Rock of Cashel & Waterford
alk in the footsteps of Ireland’s Kings at the Rock of Cashel and stroll through Ireland’s oldest city Waterford, foundered by Vikings in 914 AD, and now home of the world famous Waterford Crystal Glassware. After meeting you at your accommodation, we head to the Rock of Cashel. This iconic ancient Medieval Monastic building has stood dominating the skyline since the 12th Century. However, the history of the site goes way back to the conversion of Aenghus the King of Munster by St. Patrick in the 5th century AD, long before the Norman invasions. Reputedly the home of one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe, we spend time here in Cashel at the Visitors Centre, before moving on to Waterford in time for lunch.
Notably a seaport in southeast Ireland, Waterford is the country’s oldest city and parts of its ancient wall and harbour frontage remain. Reginald’s Tower, a fortification dating back to 1003 now houses the Waterford Museum of Treasures, which displays local archaeological finds and a great place to discover more. The manufacturing of Waterford Crystal began here in the city in 1783, and is now located on the Mall,. The House of Waterford Crystal makes a visit to the city most memorable. Guided tours are available where you can view exquisite pieces of crystal created before your very eyes. As we make our return journey don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other opportunities this great County offers
Galway & The Burren
oted European City of Culture 2020, Galway welcomes visitors to an enchanting network of cobbled street, traditional Irish busker music, and a fine array of stone clad restaurants, bars and shops - all enticing you to stay just a little longer. After meeting you, we head straight for the city located by the shores of Galway Bay. Once here, we visit Galway Cathedral. Constructed on the banks of the River Corrib, and on the site the old Galway Prison, is was completed in 1965, and is perhaps the last solid stone Cathedral ever to be built in Europe. A glimpse inside captures the true magnificence of its green marble columns and stain glass windows. Having spent time in Galway city, we drive out towards the headland of The Burren, a world renowned UNESCO Park. Passing through Kinvarra, we hug a rugged coastline which overlooks Galway Bay, stopping for photo opportunities at Dunguaire Castle.
On reaching Lisdoonvarna, famous for its traditional Match Making Festival, we take the opportunity to drop by The Burren Smoke House, an award winning Artisan Food producer. As we continue through The Burren we arrive at Kilfenora. We stop at the heritage centre to learn more of what makes the Burren unique and of course discover the world famous Kilfenora Ceili Band, 111 years old and still thrilling audiences.
As we make our return journey don’t forget to ask your driver what other opportunities Co. Clare offers before heading back.
Cork, Cobh & Middleton
reland’s second City is Cork, where the Lee estuary meets the sea. The city itself straddles two tributaries, offering a very Venetian feel, and more so as features some very impressive Civic Buildings and Georgian facades which all harks back to its great merchant history.
After collecting you at your accommodation we drive southwards to the busy city, where we can catch sight of historic landmarks such as St Finbar’s Cathedral, and the English Market, a thriving emporium for foodies and souvenir hunters. We then travel out of Cork to the picturesque Port town of Cobh, once known as Queenstown. It was here that the Titanic collected its last passengers and provisions embarking on its fateful maiden voyage in April 1912. Here there’s time for lunch and an optional visit to the Titanic Experience, based in the original ‘White Star Line’ Offices, or the nearby Cobh Heritage Centre. By mid-afternoon, we drive the short distance to Middleton, home of the world famous Jameson Distillery.
With an option of a guided tour at the Visitors Centre, you can experience the distillery process, and of course shop for memorabilia and the exceptionally rare Midleton Whiskey.
As we make our return journey don’t forget to ask your Driver Guide what other opportunities this great County offers before heading back.
Bunratty Castle
mmerse yourself in Ireland’s rich medieval heritage at Ireland’s most popular visitor attraction outside of Dublin and discover how life was like throughout the ages to present day. After meeting you at your accommodation, we drive directly to Bunratty Castle. This magnificent fortress was built in 1425, and was later restored in 1954. It contains furnishings, tapestries and relics of medieval times it’s a real highlight to anyone’s visit to Ireland. Venturing to the top, you’ll see some impressive views of the Shannon estuary. The Castle is also renowned for its superb Medieval Banquets held all year round.
The Folk Park itself is set amongst 26 acres of meadow and woodland, and offers a spectacular depiction of rural Irish life throughout the ages. All visitors walk in and out of a historic time line of crofters cottages, before reaching a superb replica of a Victorian village main street, complete with working shops, pubs and eateries.
What’smore, there’s an adventure playground and woodland walks to be enjoyed too. Apart from the Village, Bunratty also features a superb gift shop, full of treasures to take home. And as it has its own distillery, Bunratty Mead and Potcheen, (Irish Moonshine) is also on offer. Outside of the complex, Bunratty also offers visitors two superb pubs, world Famous ‘Durty Nelly’s’ and ‘The Creamery’, plus the Blarney Woolen Mills Retail Outlet, with instore cafe. As we drive along enjoying the scenery, don’t forget to ask your chauffeur what other opportunities this great county offers before heading back.
Limerick City & St John's Castle
elcome to a city steeped in history, from the first Viking settlers to leafy Victorian suberbs, medieval sieges and tales of citizen’s up risings in-between. After meeting you at your accommodation, we travel into the city for a short familiarisation tour of the key sights.
We’ll visit avenues of fine Georgian Facades, along O’Connell Street, The Crescent and Perry Square; the best architectural examples outside of Dubin. There’s exhibits of old Limerick at the Frank McCourt Museum, author of Angela’s Ashes, and of course St Mary’s Cathedral. Plus the magnificent King John’s Castle situated on the banks of the mighty Shannon, this too has a superb visitors centre. Here you will be told of the Siege of Limerick between 1689/91, where Jacobite defenders retreated after being defeated at the Battle of the Boyne. And of course the Limerick Soviet declared in 1919, as workers briefly took over the city, even creating their own currency. Limerick being the largest port city on the Shannon, also became a hub for merchants of all kinds, and is noted especially for its production of Bacon and Ham, which saw its way to the tables of Queen Victoria. Now the city is a superb cosmopolitan shopping centre and boasts some great places to eat both in the town and along the river front.
As we pass through this city enjoying the scenery, don’t forget to ask your chauffeur what other opportunities there are before heading back to your accommodation
Lough Gur & Visitors Centre
ocated between Herbertstown and Bruff this idyllic Lakeland setting offers visitors a glimpse in to Ireland’s diverse history.
After collecting you at your accommodation, we head off to this tranquil woodland setting, where you can take time out to stroll the peaceful and picturesque lakeshore, and of course discover over 6,000 years of early history from Neolithic house sites to medieval castles, as we call by the superb visitors centre. Apart from interactive displays, trained guides talk you though the region’s history, folklore and archaeology of the local region. On the eastern side of the lake, is Ireland’s Largest Stone Circle, ‘The Grange’.150 feet in diameter and surrounded by 113 standing stones. This impressive circle is made up of continuous upright stone flags, and precise orthostats, which together with its nearby embankment forms a ‘henge’. Leading archaeologists believe the sites significance was moreover ritual rather than merely symbolic.
The largest stone is ‘Rannach Chruim Duibh’ (Crom Dubh’s Division) and is over 13 feet high and weighs 40 tons and on excavation the site was also found to be littered with late Neolithic Beaker pottery, which is on display.
As we pass through this rural scenery, don’t forget to ask your Chauffeur what other great opportunities this region offers before heading back.
