Irish Elegance - Small Group
Irish Elegance - Small Group
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:
Tour code:
SB907ZN20
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
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
Itinerary
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
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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.
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Dinners with Wine
Enjoy 4 dinners with wine at selected destinations throughout your tour.
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Breakfasts
Start your day with 7 breakfasts included, offering a variety of local and continental options.
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Exclusive Experiences
Choose between two carefully selected activities to tailor your travel experience.
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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.
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Luxury Transportation
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips Included
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about it.
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Luggage Handling
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Airport Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Specified
Any meals not mentioned in the inclusions are excluded and will be at your own expense.
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Personal Expenses
All personal expenses, such as laundry, phone calls, and shopping, are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned are not included in the tour price and can be booked at an additional cost.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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What are the transfer arrangements at the end of the tour?
At the end of the tour, departure transfers will arrive at Dublin airport.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions