Ireland has romantic preconceptions with its amazing diversity of terrain for such a small island, and is interspersed throughout with lakes and primeval bogland. In the east, the folded granite of the Wicklow Hills sit in contrast to the brilliant green plains of the Curragh, and in Connemara on the west coast, you can walk from beach to mountain to fen in a matter of hours. 21st-century Ireland is a modern destination, yet rooted in the strongest of traditions, a country marked by humour, hospitality and late-night bonhomie. Although the landscapes are delightfully appealing, it is very much the wonderful charm and hospitality of the people that make Ireland a top destination.
DUBLIN & THE GRAND HIBERNIAN
HIGHLIGHTS
- Dublin's legendary 'craic' and vibrant atmosphere.
- Imposing Blarney Castle and the fabled Blarney Stone,
- Beautiful Lough Leane and Killarney.
- Stunning scenery of the Connemara National Park.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive in Dublin
Arrive in Dublin where you will be met on arrival and transferred to your elegant 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. You'll have the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: The Merrion
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Day 2 Dublin
Meet your guide for a private sightseeing tour of Dublin. A visit will be made to Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells, 12th century St Patrick's Cathedral and the lively Temple Bar district. Lunch is at leisure and the rest of the day is free to explore independently.
Overnight: The Merrion
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Day 3 Board the Grand Hibernian
After a morning at leisure, board the luxury Grand Hibernian train for the start of your Irish discovery. Travel southwards to Cork, enjoying afternoon tea en route. Arrive in Cork in the early evening, where you'll have a private tour of Jameson, to learn about the whisky-making process, followed by a whisky tasting session. Rejoin the train for a spectacular dinner as your journey continues.
Overnight: The Grand Hibernian
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Day 4 Blarney Castle and the Lakes of Killarney
Visit Blarney Castle and Gardens this morning, home to the legendary Blarney Stone. After lunch, continue to the beautiful Lakes of Killarney, where you can enjoy a ride in a traditional horse and carriage (or 'jaunting car') and then boat across Lough Leane. Return on board for dinner as the train stables for the night.
Overnight: The Grand Hibernian
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Day 5 Galway and the Cliffs of Moher
Enjoy breakfast this morning as you continue northwards, to Galway. After a private city tour, there will be time at leisure for you to visit one of the many local craft centres. Lunch will be a lively affair, served in a local restaurant with champagne, local oysters and live music. A journey to see the dramatic Cliffs of Moher is also highly recommended during the day, before you return on board the Grand Hibernian in time for dinner.
Overnight: The Grand Hibernian
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Day 6 Ashford Castle and Connemara National Park
A relaxing start to the day as the train winds its way through beautiful, unspoilt countryside towards Westport. Alight in Ashford Castle for an interactive falconry experience along with a guided walk around the castle grounds. Afterwards, head to the magnificent, otherworldly Connemara National Park before returning on board for your final dinner.
Overnight: The Grand Hibernian
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Day 7 Dublin and Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board the Grand Hibernian this morning as you return to Dublin.
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Depart
