Off the coast of England and Wales lies the lovely island of Ireland – the land of myth and legend, renowned for its magnificent scenery, stunning coastline and rugged mountains. From our base in Killarney we have a guided tour around the magnificent “Jewel of Ireland” The Ring of Kerry, taking in some of the most beautiful coastal scernery & mountain peaks, as we journey through the stunning landscapes, charming towns and villages, and iconic landmarks of this world-
renowned route in the company of our local knowledgable guide. During our stay we travel south from Dublin via
Limerick, strategically located on the River Shannon and home of King John’s Castle. A short distance away is Bunratty Castle and Folk Village (entrance included) which was restored in 1960 and is Ireland’s most complete medieval castle and home to the Lord Gort collection of furniture and artwork. The folk park encloses farmhouses, a blacksmith, water mill and a complete village street. We complete our journey to Killarney via Adare, reputedly Ireland’s prettiest village. We enjoy a full day excursion around the Ring of Kerry. Dominated by MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, it savours 100 miles of spectacular scenery as we travel along the narrow coastal road of the Iveragh Peninsula. Our journey begins at Killorglin, home of
the world’s oldest market, the famous Puck Fair, through Glenbeigh, calling at the Kerry Bog Village. Continuing through the villages of Rossbeigh and Kells, with their beautiful golden beaches to Caherciveen. Travelling on through Waterville and Derrynane, overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay to Caherdaniel, hometown of political hero Daniel O'Connell, through Sneem, a quaint town with its own village green, and Kenmare to Moll's Gap, a cutting between bleak bogland and mountains. The winding road passes Ladies View, aptly named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who were so
impressed with the view of the lakes and the entrance to Muckross and finally returning to Killarney. We also spend a day exploring the Dingle Peninsula made famous by “Ryan’s Daughter”, the Dingle Peninsula offers some of the wildest natural
scenic beauty in Ireland. Travelling north-west, Tralee beckons with its veritable feast of activities and onto Dingle, a fishing village whose most famous resident is "Fungi" the Dolphin with a circular tour around the most westerly tip of the
peninsula. At Slea Head promontory the Blasket Islands come into full view as we return to Killarney via Annascaul, Inch and Castlemaine. Our itinerary also allows a full day at leisure in Killarney, set in the Irish Lake District and internationally renowned for its scenic beauty with a myriad of pastimes to ensure we will never be left at a loose end. The most popular way to learn about the town and its lakes is to take a Jaunting car ride with Tangney Tours (cost not included) or just enjoy free time browsing the many shops, cafes and St Mary’s Cathedral, which is well worth a visit. We say goodbye to Killarney and head north via Limerick and Portlaoise to Co. Kildare for a visit to the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens (cost included) where in 2020 a new visitor centre was completed. This is the breeding headquarters for some of Ireland's most successful racehorses. We can enjoy a tour of the paddocks and stables to see these magnificent horses before studying their achievements in the museum. With the opportunity to see the adjoining Japanese Gardens, beautifully designed to symbolise the 'Life of Man' from cradle to grave.
Return ferry crossings from Holyhead to Dublin
The Wilton Hotel, Bray
The Wilton Hotel, situated in the seaside town of Bray, Co Wiklow, All of the guestrooms are en suite & offer all of the usual refinements, our stay is on a half board basis. (Outward & Return overnight’s)
The Killarney Towers Hotel, Killarney
The Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Centre, is located in the heart of Killarney. All of the guestrooms are en suite and offer all of the usual refinements. This hotel also boasts an indoor swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasium & Spa
facilities. Our stay is on a half board basis. (4 x nights – Main stay hotel)