Inclusions :
Famous cities, sights, historical locations, varying accents and dialects, stunning scenery, cosy pubs, haunting music, humorous and friendly locals - all accompanied by Ireland s gloriously unpredictable weather! This Best of Ireland self-drive itinerary is the perfect way to experience the beautiful Emerald Isles.
LAND ONLY PACKAGE INCLUDES:
7 Nights accommodation in 3/4* Hotels on a bed and Irish Breakfast basis
- 1 Night in Co. Dublin Hotel outside city centre (Maldron Newlands Cross or similar)
- 2 Nights in Co. Galway Hotel (Leenane Hotel or similar)
- 2 Nights in Co. Kerry Hotel (Killarney Court Hotel or similar)
- 1 Night in Co. Cork Hotel (Blarney Woollen Mills Hotell or similar)
- 1 Night in Co. Dublin outside city centre (Maldron Newlands Cross Hotel or similar)
8 Days Car Hire - Vauxhall Isignia Automatic or similar
Unlimited mileage
All taxes & fees
1 Additional driver
Damage Waiver
ITINERARY :
DAY 1: DUBLIN
Arrive in Dublin. Take in the attractions of Europe s most popular city. Don t miss Trinity College, the Book of Kells, the National Museum, the National Gallery and trendy Temple Bar. Overnight in Co. Dublin.
DAY 2: DUBLIN - CONNEMARA
Spend the morning walking around Dublin, including St. Patrick s Cathedral, Christchurch, Dublin Castle, the Irish Whiskey Centre and the Guinness Storehouse. Leaving Dublin travel via Clonmacnoise (a monastic site overlooking the River Shannon. Arrive in Galway where you can visit the Galway Crystal Factory, the Spanish Arch and Galway s Cathedral. Overnight in Co. Galway.
DAY 3: CONNEMARA
Spend a full day touring the unspoilt area of Connemara. Highlights of this magical region include Clifden, the Sky Road, Roundstone, Killary Harbour, the Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey and the Maam Valley. Irish is still spoken in many parts of this area. Overnight in Co. Galway.
DAY 4: CONNEMARA - KILLARNEY
An early morning start to catch the spectacular Cliffs of Moher — which fall 200m steeply into Atlantic ocean. Pass through the haunting area of the Burren - a leftover from the last glacial period, visiting Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, where one can stop for a pint of stout at Durty Nellies. Continue on to Adare Village before arriving in Killarney. In the afternoon stroll around Muckross House and Gardens where the nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney Lakes and National Park. Overnight in Co. Kerry.
DAY 5: RING OF KERRY
A full day tour of the famous Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland s most scenic touring routes. At 110 miles long, it circles the awe-inspiring Iveragh Peninsula. You ll feel as if you have moved into nature s mystic arena, and truly you have, as you pass between soft mountains, through forest glades, around bogs, rivers, lakes and pristine beaches. The road between the magnificent MacGillycuddy Reeks Mountains presents secret passes and valleys dotted along the fabled shores of Dingle and Kenmare Bays. Overnight in Co. Kerry.
DAY 6: KILLARNEY - CORK
Drive to Cork, Ireland s second city. One must visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone followed by a browse in the Woollen Mills. Either head for Kinsale or explore the Jameson Heritage Centre and finally before the end of the evening see the Shandon Bells and the Cork City Goal. Overnight in Co. Cork.
DAY 7: CORK - DUBLIN
Head for Cashel where you will catch sight of its Rock. The Rock of Cashel is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of limestone, looming above the town of Cashel, County Tipperary. There is a 12th Century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century castle and the Hall of the Vicars. In the afternoon stop in medieval Kilkenny. Take time to visit Kilkenny Castle and the Kilkenny Design Centre before making your final journey back to Dublin. Overnight in Co. Dublin/Co. Wicklow.
DAY 8: DUBLIN (DEPARTURE)
Morning at leisure to either shop for those souvenirs on Grafton Street or spend a few hours taking in more of all the wealth of attractions that you may have missed earlier. Depart for Dublin Airport.
Terms & Conditions : Valid for fully vaccinated travellers from South Africa.
Prices are based on a from price, per person sharing, subject to availability and currency fluctuation for international holidays. The exact amount will be confirmed at the time of booking. High season surcharges, block out periods and minimum stay conditions may apply. Group rates available on request. For Standard Terms and Conditions please refer to www.thompsons.co.za. E&OE
Exclusions
Flights, airport taxes, fuel, drinks and meals not mentioned, travel & medical insurance, entrance into attractions, items of a persona nature and Covid Tests.