Irish Elegance - Small Group

Irish Elegance - Small Group

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8 Days From

$5025

$4271

Irish Elegance - Small Group

8 Days Starting and ending in Dublin

Visiting: Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Connemara National Park, Cong

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SB907ZN20

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 24

Physical rating:

Leisurely

Age range:

5-99

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5025 $4271 Operator discount: -$754 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Experience the Wild Atlantic Way and journey from Galway to Killarney on this once in a lifetime tour of Ireland. In Dublin explore the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College, before gazing upon the 9th century Book of Kells. After an exploration of County Mayo and sojourn through picturesque Cong, indulge in a taste bud tantalizing Ashford Castle Dinner. The exquisite dining and locally sourced produce are matched only by the luxurious facilities of this vast estate, which include a falconry school, spa and an Irish Piper to signal your arrival. Look out at Galway Bay from the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and contemplate the beauty of County Clare on this weeklong, Irish experience.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.
    • Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.

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    Top Rated Highlights

    • Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
    • Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
    • Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
    • Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
    • Shannon: Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry. This large estuary is where the River Shannon flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
    • Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
    • Galway: Visit the stunning cathedral of the City of Tribes. Admire its Renaissance style dome and unique rose shaped window.
    • Connemara: With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey’s history, discovering how it was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
    • Cong: Enjoy time as you wish to explore this delightful, quintessential Irish village, used as the location for 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' See the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey.
    • Ashford Castle: On arrival, you are escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper for a majestic entrance fit for royalty.

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    Make Travel Matter

    Ring of Kerry: Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they work to protect the fragile ecosystem of the wild Atlantic Irish coasts through their educational courses and passion for the local environment. Irish Atlantic Seaweed's environmental policy is to respect, enjoy and protect the natural wonders that surround them, and promote the sustainable use of Ireland's fragile marine ecosystems. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.

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    Authentic Dining

    Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.

    Ashford Castle: Dine on delicious Farm-to-Table fare in a stylish setting at the iconic George V Dining Room.

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    Insight Choice

    Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.

    Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.

Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin

Meals Included: Dinner

Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a Local Expert that brings to life Dublin’s architectural treasures and history, stretching back more than 1,000 years. Travel along the River Liffey, see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. See the 9th century Book of Kells and enjoy a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College. Back at your hotel, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening.

Day 2: Cashel And Blarney, Heading For Killarney

Location: Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Killarney

Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.

Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Dublin, and pass the famous Curragh Racecourse and green meadows where many of the finest Irish racehorses are bred. Drive south and take a photo-stop to see the spectacular Rock of Cashel, crowned with medieval buildings that dominate the flat countryside for miles around. Then on to explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence. Alternatively, meet a senior gardener for a tour of Blarney Gardens. Head to Killarney, where you may fancy a ‘pint of porter.' This town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs so in the evening why not join in the ‘craic’?

Day 3: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Killarney

Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.

Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts.

Day 4: The Cliffs Of Moher And On To Galway

Location: Killarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway

Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel, Galway.

Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast, Galway

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of Tribes, and visit the last Cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Day 5: Captivating Connemara Relaxed Start

Location: Galway, Connemara National Park, Galway

Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel, Galway.

Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast, Galway

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Visit the magnificent, turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey.

Day 6: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Location: Galway, Cong

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Accommodation Name: Ashford Castle, Cong

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sitting on the edge of Lough Corrib and nestled on the border of County Galway and County Mayo, is the delightful Cong. You may recognise much of the town as it was used as the location in the 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' With free time to explore this quintessential Irish village, see the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey. Then a short drive down the road leads you to Ashford Castle, the highlight of your travels. As you arrive a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. Creative cooking, locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu awaits. Gentlemen, a jacket is required.

Day 7: Across The Emerald Isle To Dublin Relaxed Start

Location: Cong, Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.

Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the morning and perhaps a stroll on the estate? Then cross the midlands to Dublin where the rest of the day is free for independent activities and maybe some last minute shopping.

Day 8: Depart Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport.

What's Included

  • Welcome Dinner in Dublin

    Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal with wine.

  • Dinners with Wine

    Enjoy 4 dinners with wine at selected destinations throughout your tour.

  • Breakfasts

    Start your day with 7 breakfasts included, offering a variety of local and continental options.

  • Exclusive Experiences

    Choose between two carefully selected activities to tailor your travel experience.

  • Expert Local Guides

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Luxury Transportation

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips Included

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about it.

  • Luggage Handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Airport Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.

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What's Not Included

  • Meals Not Specified

    Any meals not mentioned in the inclusions are excluded and will be at your own expense.

  • Personal Expenses

    All personal expenses, such as laundry, phone calls, and shopping, are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities mentioned are not included in the tour price and can be booked at an additional cost.

  • Airport Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    If your flights are outside the itinerary start and end dates scheduled times, transfers are not included.

Mode of Transport

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of the Tribes, and visit the last Cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way at Galway Bay.

Accommodation

Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. Creative cooking, locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu await at your Celebration Dinner. Gentlemen, a jacket is required.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)

Insight Experiences

  • Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe’s elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience can I expect at Blarney Castle?

    At Blarney Castle, you can choose between two activities: visiting the castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence, or taking a guided tour of the lush gardens with a senior gardener who will provide insights into the arboretum's rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations, and the Bog Garden with its 600-year-old yew trees.

  • What is special about the dining experience at Ashford Castle?

    Dining at Ashford Castle is considered one of the finest culinary experiences in the world. The George V Dining Room offers creative cooking with locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket for dinner.

  • What kind of activities are available at Ashford Castle?

    At Ashford Castle, you can explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Cliffs of Moher?

    During the visit to the Cliffs of Moher, you will stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the cliffs, which rise approximately 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Your Travel Director will provide insights into the cliffs' geology, history, and the species that find sanctuary there.

  • What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on this tour?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on this tour includes a visit to a family-run seaweed farm on the Ring of Kerry. You will meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator, who will teach you about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts.

  • What historical sites will I see in Dublin?

    In Dublin, you will see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the 9th-century Book of Kells at Trinity College.

  • What can I do during my free time in Cong?

    During your free time in Cong, you can explore the quintessential Irish village, see the statue of the lead characters from the 1952 film 'The Quiet Man,' and visit the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey.

  • What is included in the tour's meals?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners. Any meals not mentioned in the inclusions are excluded and will be at your own expense.

  • What are the transfer arrangements at the end of the tour?

    At the end of the tour, departure transfers will arrive at Dublin airport.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$5025 $4271

Operator discount: -$754

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$5025 $4271

Operator discount: -$754

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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