Road Trip: Highlights of Ireland

Set off at a convenient time on this interesting self-guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse set in the heart of the Guinness Brewery. Begin your exploration at the huge pint glass located at the center of the building. On the ground floor, familiarize yourself with the main ingredients that are used to produce the beer. At your own pace, stroll across all seven floors of the erstwhile fermentation plant as you trace the history of this iconic 250-year-old brand. Get a glimpse of the intricate process of brewing fine beer that has helped Guinness reach its current stature. Before you wrap up your visit, head to Gravity Bar located on the top floor. Unwind with a complimentary pint at the bar as you savor stunning views of the city’s skyline. (Flexible Duration; Transfer not Included; Admission Included; No Guide Inside; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Explore the cultural and historical attractions of Dublin through an walking tour. Your friendly local guide will pick you up at your hotel and will be only too happy to tailor the itinerary according to your preferences and interests. Stroll past the majestic Dublin Castle dating back to the 13th century or the imposing St Patrick’s Cathedral that goes back by another two centuries. Explore the scenic landscapes of St Stephen’s Green or the Georgian aesthetics of Merrion Square. Take in the grandeur of the City Hall and the magnificence of Trinity College, founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. Learn more from your guide about the fractious history of the former Houses of Parliament and then savor the hip vibes of Temple Bar, Dublin’s eclectic riverside neighborhood. Take in interesting stories of famous Dubliners who are as much a part of the cultural landscape of the city as its iconic buildings. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity; Transfer not required; No Admissions Included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Discover the delights of the ancient city of Dublin at your own pace. Set off at a convenient time to soak in the local culture as you wander down the Creative Quarter with its array of local handicraft and souvenir stores. Stop by Merrion Square for some great photo opportunities with quaint brick townhouses in the backdrop and a statue of famous Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde nearby. Settle down on a bench at Iveagh Gardens with a sandwich and an interesting book or soak in the sun as you rest a while. Or, pop into one of the cozy pubs in the downtown area where you can grab a bite to eat while you listen to traditional Irish music. Wrap up your exploration with a refreshing pint of Guinness and head back to the hotel at your own pace. (Half Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admissions; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Head out to Dublin’s oldest pub for an evening of fun and relaxation in this interesting activity. Settle in for a cozy candlelit dinner during which you will feast on traditional Irish delicacies. In between courses, relax as the pub’s renowned storytellers regale you with mystical tales of a bygone era and take you on a journey of imagination with their wonderful insights. Come to know the importance of the humble potato in Irish history and understand how the locals lived off the land in the past. Listen to magical tales about fairies, sprinkled with a healthy dose of superstitions. Savor dinner to the accompaniment of live traditional Irish music and melodious ballads. Socialize with fellow guests in the relaxed ambiance of the pub and participate in an exchange of experiences while the night is still young. (Times: 1800; Duration: 3 hrs; Meal Included: Dinner, Drinks from bar not included; Shared Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness Level: Easy. Please inform in advance if you have any special dietary requirements for dinner.)

Set off in your rental car on your own timing from your hotel for Kilkenny, stopping en route to explore a picturesque valley, mountains, and beautiful gardens in County Wicklow. Stop by in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, the valley abounds in walking trails, wildlife species, and picnic areas. Walk around the remnants of a sixth century monastic settlement founded by Saint Kevin as your local expert explains the significance of the ruins. Next, head over to Powerscourt House and Gardens, which sits tucked into the foothills of the mountains. Originally dating back to the 13th century, the house, a favorite venue for celebrations, was renovated in 1996. The sprawling gardens around it have been voted among the world’s most beautiful by National Geographic magazine. Stroll across the manicured lawns, past ornamental lakes and secret hollows, before resuming your journey. (En route Activity; Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy)

Get a taste of Ireland’s most popular ale on this guided tour through Smithwick’s brewery and discover brewing innovations by an establishment that has over 300 years of experience in the field. Find out more about how the ale is harvested from the land, right at the heart of Kilkenny. Listen closely to the local staff as they explain what makes the ale so unique. This tour is truly a treat for your senses; take the opportunity to mill the malt, stir the mash and smell the hops firsthand. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy yourself on this delightful tour! (Duration: 1 hr; Shared Activity; Self Drive Transfer; Please note that children between 0-5 years of age can enter for free, while children between 6-17 years of age receive child rates and a soft drink during the tour.)

Acquaint yourself with hitherto unknown facets of the vibrant city in this interesting walking tour. Weave your way across the streets as you learn unusual facts, such as the origin of the phrase ‘stinking rich’. Decipher the reason why people of Kilkenny are known as cats and how a 12 inch needle was used to expose witches! Watch your knowledgeable guide regale you along the way with unique anecdotes and historical events sprinkled with just the right amount of humor and magic. Wind your way across the iconic Medieval Mile trail that bisects the city right down the middle, running from a 13th century cathedral to an imposing castle. Pass by the many historical landmarks that line the route and return to your hotel with lasting memories. (Duration: 1.5 hrs; Shared Activity; Chauffeur Transfers Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Set off in your rental car from your hotel in Kilkenny as you head to Killarney, stopping en route to explore the medieval Blarney Castle and charming coastal villages as you wish. Built in the 15th century, this majestic castle has it all – dungeons, rock gardens, lake walks, and the famous Blarney Stone. Climb up the steps that lead to this mystical stone believed to endow the power of eloquence on those who kiss it. Journey on to the Rock of Cashel, a complex of ecclesiastical buildings of immense archeological significance. Take a close look at the oldest surviving structure in the cluster, a well-preserved round tower dating from the 12th century. Saunter around the ancient Romanesque chapel with its vaulted ceilings and frescoes. Pass by the high cross and on to the Gothic cathedral built without aisles. Stop by the museum at the Hall of the Vicars for a glimpse of the original Cross of Saint Patrick. Drive on to the picturesque region of West Cork, known for its rustic charm. Breathe in the aroma of fresh seafood delicacies as you enter the charming oceanfront town of Kinsale dotted with colorful flower beds and cheery storefronts. Feel the sea breeze as you walk down the pier at the heart of Glandore village. Watch sailing and whale watching excursions set off to sea, before you resume your journey to Killarney. (En route Activity; Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy)

Explore the sparkling waters of the lakes of Killarney by kayak! Hop on board and sail out from the 15th century Ross Castle, accompanied by a seasoned expert, and paddle into Lough Lein. Discover limestone caves, local history and wooded islands as you work on your kayaking skills with the guide. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed sea eagles as they fly overhead, soaring above Killarney National Park. Dock at the mystical ruins of the sixth century Innisfallen Abbey; what used to be a leper colony is now inhabited only by native red deer. Gaze out at the waters and take a moment to appreciate the beautiful swans and islands around. Make your way back by kayak to Ross Castle after sunset; if you’re lucky you might even be sailing in the picturesque moonlight as the blanket of night falls over the oak and yew woods. (Time of Day: During the day or during sunset; Duration: 3 hrs; Self Drive Transfer; Please note that the meeting point Ross Castle, in the second car park; Only children above three years are allowed on this private tour.)

Soak in the natural beauty and splendid views of the famous Ring of Kerry coastal route at your own pace. Drive out with your rental car from Killarney out to the Iveragh Peninsula as you pass by ancient forts and the scenic rocky landscape. Pass through the town of Killorglin known for the Celtic festival of Puck Fair and travel on to the Dingle Peninsula. Savor stunning views of the bay and white sandy beaches before you make your way to the lovely village of Waterville known for its views of Skellig Rocks and the Christian monastery. Arrive at the vibrant village of Sneem that sits on an estuary and was a popular holiday destination for Charles de Gaulle. Keep driving to reach Killarney National Park that gives you ample opportunities to explore its famous attractions such as Black Valley, Torc Waterfall, and the Lakes of Killarney. Along the way, stop at local pubs to feast on fine food to the accompaniment of traditional music. (Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Discover the treasures of Dingle Peninsula, part of the Wild Atlantic Way in your rental car at your own pace. Drive through Ireland’s westernmost peninsula, where thousands of the Neolithic Age monuments are scattered across this open-air museum! Be greeted by panoramas of the Slieve Mish Mountains, including Mount Brandon – Ireland’s second-highest peak. Soak up the fascinating Gaelic culture as you navigate between traditional Irish market towns and fishing villages. Making pit stops at the pristine Inch Beach next to Castlemaine Harbour, and the Carhoo Beach at Ventry Bay, enjoy beach walks and watersports. Passing through Dingle town, mingle with locals at rustic pubs. Halfway on Slea Head, take in stunning waterscape vistas highlighted by the Blasket Islands. Enroute, trace filming locations that have popularized the Dingle Peninsula on the big screen. Drop by the Reask monastic site, Dunquin Pier, and the upturned boat-shaped Gallarus Oratory. Enjoy stunning scenery, as you traverse meandering roads of the mist-laden Conor Pass flanked by corrie lakes and waterfalls as you continue to your onward to County Clare. (En route Activity; Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy)

Drive out at a convenient time to see the Cliffs of Moher, one of the country’s top attractions. Make your way to the eco-friendly visitor center that sits tucked within the hillside without marring the beauty of the landscape. Take a look at the Cliffs exhibition that narrates the tale of this UNESCO Global Geopark site. Afterward, walk out to O’Brien’s Tower set on the edge of the cliffs for stunning views over the ocean and surrounding landscape. Capture stunning images of the iconic cliffs soaring over the Atlantic Ocean to a height of 702 feet (214 m). All the while, keep an eye out for over 20 species of seabirds that inhabit and visit this spectacular region. On your way back, you could stop by one of the quaint village pubs for a hearty meal or refreshments. (Half Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Set off for the pier next to the castle in Carrigaholt as you embark on an exciting river adventure. Settle into the comfortable boat as it cuts through the water and heads to the mouth of the River Shannon. Listen to the skipper talk about the dolphins and their habitat, as well as the geology and history of the region. Enjoy stunning views of the rugged cliffs and historic landmarks that dot the shoreline. Watch out for dolphins moving in pods as your boat enters the special conservation area. With two zoologists on board, soak in lesser known details about the dolphins and seabirds, such as peregrine falcons and gannets, that are found in the region. Return to shore with lasting memories of your trip to the spot with the largest group of resident bottlenose dolphins in Europe. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Shared Activity; Self Drive Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that tours are not conducted at fixed times but depend on tide and sea conditions as well as passenger demands.)

Explore the fun side of the Connemara coastline with this morning or afternoon activity. Choose from Sea Kayaks, Sit on Tops and Single Cockpit Playboats to get splashing in Killary fjord. Safely in your lifejackets, paddle forth to admire the timeless beauty of fjord’s deep blue waters and the mighty mountains that stand silent sentinel on the horizon. Enjoy the chilled spray on your face and feel the exhilaration of gliding through water in the wild outdoors. (Shared Activity; Group size: 4-15 ppl; Duration: 3 hrs; Times: 10:00 or 12:00 hrs; Seld Drive Transfer; Life jackets are provided. Please wear appropriate shoes. Children below 8 yrs are not permitted.)