Ireland, the Emerald Isle
with Lakeside Travel September 19 - October 2, 2016
Itinerary
19 SEP 16 - MONDAY WELCOME TO DUBLIN!
Arrive at Dublin airport, meet with your driver and depart to hotel. Depending on time of arrival, see Dublin’s highlights on a walking tour in the afternoon.
Dublin is one of Europe’s oldest cities. As well as retaining its historical and cultural charms, Dublin offers trendy bars, elegant restaurants and stylish, cosmopolitan shops and hotels. There’s never been a better time to visit Dublin! Dublin ranks more than ever among the top tourist destinations in Europe, and this vibrant city hums with a palpable sense that it is creating a new cultural heritage. With a wealth of attractions, many within walking distance of each other, Ireland’s largest city provides a sense of history, culture, music and a bustle that is truly unique.
Guided Walking tour of Dublin
You will see Trinity College, Merrion Square, Dublin Castle, Churches and public squares. There are many great literary names associated with the city including James Joyce and Oscar Wilde.
After your introduction to Dublin, take a look inside one of Dublin’s most famous attractions.
Trinity College’s Old Library and the Book of Kells Exhibition is a “must see” on the itinerary of all visitors to Dublin. Located in the heart of Dublin City, a walk across the cobbled stones of Trinity College Dublin will bring visitors back to the 18th century, when the magnificent Old Library building was constructed. The Book of Kells is a 9th-century gospel manuscript famous throughout the world. Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland, founded in 1592 right in the heart of the city. As well as housing the Book of Kells and the Long Room library (which has featured in movies such as Harry Potter and Star Wars), life beyond the front arch is a bona fide centre of learning for Irish students.
20 SEP 16 - TUESDAY WICKLOW DAY
After breakfast, take a trip to Glendalough where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery in this part of Ireland.
Glendalough
The Garden of Ireland highlights some of the best scenery, gardens and views in Ireland. Glendalough gets its name from the Irish language. Gleann dá locha literally means the ‘Glen of the two lakes.’ Situated right in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough harbours one of Ireland’s most atmospheric monastic sites. Established by St Kevin in the 6th century, the settlement was attacked time and again by the Vikings, but nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.
Enjoy lunch at leisure and then at 4pm, enjoy an afternoon of Irish Scone Making at Ballyknocken Cookery School before returning to Dublin.
Ballyknocken Cookery School
Ballyknocken Cookery School is located on a 350 acre farm only a short drive from Dublin City Centre between Ashford and Glenealy in County Wicklow. Run by celebrity TV chef Catherine Fulvio, the school offers a broad range of cookery classes from southern I talian receipes to gourmet dining and plenty in between. Head chef and food writer Catherine is a true foodie who has a number f TV series and cook books to her name.
Included: Hands on Traditional Irish Scones making whereby with expert instruction everyone learns the art of making the softest of scones, by making them. (B)
21 SEP 16 - WEDNESDAY THE ROAD SOUTH – EAST CORK
After breakfast, depart for the Old Jameson Distillery. On your way, view the Rock of Cashel.
Cashel (photo stop only)
St. Patrick’s Rock or the “Rock of Cashel”, is reputedly the site of the conversion of Aenghus, the King of Munster, by St. Patrick in the 5th century AD. The Rock of Cashel comprises a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden
Vale. This includes a 12th century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.
Old Jameson Distillery Midleton
Set on 15 acres and beautifully restored Old Jameson Distillery Midleton is where the true heart of Irish whiskey beats. This distillery is a unique experience with some of the buildings dating back to 1795. Take a journey through history and see the old kilns, mills and malting, water wheel and old warehouses. The Jameson Experience in Midleton is one of the top attractions in Cork, as rated by Trip Advisor. Expert guides will lead you through the extraordinary story of Jameson Irish Whiskey. A short film sets the scene before our tour guides walk you through the old distillery. Guided tours last one hour and end with a complimentary glass of Jameson Whiskey and a chance to take part in a tutored whiskey tasting to become a certified Irish Whiskey Taster!
In the afternoon, pay a visit to the little seaside village of Cobh and also take a tour of the Cobh Heritage Site where you’ll learn how this small town has a significant history connected greatly with emigration, and especially the Titanic.
Cobh
The town of Cobh is located just east of Cork City and can provide the perfect place to spend the afternoon along with a fine lunch. County Cork produces a large amount of food and craft produce, and this seaside town with its steep streets provides an opportunity to experience all this. Aside from its fine food offering, Cobh, once known as Queenstown, has a rich maritime history. It has a deep and sheltered harbor, and the story of the many peo ple who left Ireland through this port (especially for the United States) is documented in a fine museum in the town. The infamous Titanic stopped at the port on her maiden and only voyage in 1912. On the docks there are commemorative statues to many who lost their lives at sea near here, but equally to Annie Moore and her brothers, the first emigrants ever to be processed in Ellis Island, New York when it opened in January 1892.
Cobh Heritage Centre
This beautiful, informative and sometimes emotive cultural Centre is inventively situated within Cobh’s restored Victorian railway station, a building holding its own historic story.
Because so many people from Ireland’s past travelled through Cobh, one of the world’s finest natural harbours, visitors can learn about the stories of these emigrants. Over 3 million Irish people emigrated from this port, many to leave because of the Great famine, many in search of a new life in a land of opportunity, and many more who left involuntarily as convicts to Australia or as forced labour to the colonies and the West Indies.
The Queenstown Story relays the stories about the maritime, naval and military history of the area, the fortification of the various forts in the harbour such as Hawlbowline, Spike Island, and Fort Camden and takes you on an emigration journey from the 1600’s right through to the 1950’s.
Everything from the early emigrants to Virginia the Carolinas and Canada, the forgotten Irish who endured forced labour in the West Indies during and after Cromwellian times to the sinking of the Titanic and The Lusitania, are inventively displayed in a variety of modern, tasteful and artistic ways.
Now continue to Cork City where you will overnight in the Clarion Hotel, right on the water’s edge!
Cork City
Steeped in history, Cork City is fast gaining a reputation as one of Europe's hippest cities. Like Venice, the city is built upon water, and the city centre is built on an island in the River Lee, just upstream of Cork Harbour. The two channels of the River Lee which embrace the city centre are spanned by many bridges, and this gives the city a distinctive continental air. You will discover unique shopping and dining options, including the English Market, with its stalls selling foods from all over the world, and numerous pedestrian walkways and sidewalks flanked by smart boutiques and major department stores. At every corner you'll come across another panoramic view, another interesting architectural feature and some of the best art galleries. (B)
22 SEP 16 – THURSDAY KINSALE
For a delicious lunch and day of pottering around shops, golf, water sports, or great walks, pay a visit to Kinsale.
Kinsale
Kinsale is a beautiful old seaside town, known for its hill fort, narrow streets, old world charm and crafts. For centuries, Kinsale has been a haven from the sea for travellers and traders alike. Their influence has made Kinsale the most cosmopolitan and charming of ports in Ireland. But where Britons, Spaniards and Irish once fought, yachts now disgorge their sailors to sample "fruits de la mer" in the old world atmosphere of Ireland's Gourmet Capital.
Start the exploration with a heritage town walk with local man, Dermot.
Heritage Town Walks
Dermot Ryan, rated the number one attraction on Tripadvisor, and guiding in Kinsale for over forty years, provides a unique stroll through the past, il lustrated with photographs and maps of the way we were. He shows how the history of Kinsale is the history of Ireland in an enjoyable and informative way. He is the only Kinsale native approved Failte Ireland Guide, and is highly recomm ended by national and international press reviews and travel guides.
Enjoy a delicious lunch in one of Kinsale’s many gourmet restaurants and spend the rest of the day exploring at leisure. Some of our suggestions below!
Scilly Walk (Suggestion)
Your Slí route begins at the Km sign opposite the Perryville Hotel, here you will find a mapsign which illustrates the route. Follow Long Quay away from the town. The road turns to the right into River road and continues to the historic village of Scilly, where you will find a tourist office. Follow the directional arrows straight on, to bring you to the beginning of the Scilly walk. Follow the Scilly walk, known locally as the Salmon Walk, taking in the beautiful views of Kinsale and the harbour. On reaching the end of the Scilly walk, you can walk another 600m to Charles Fort or return along the 2km route to bring you back to Kinsale town.
Charles Fort (suggestion)
Charles Fort is a classic example of a late 17th century star-sha ped fort. William Robinson, architect of the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin, and Superintendent of Fortifications, is credited with designing the fort. As one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. The most significant of these are the Williamite War 1689-91 and the Civil War 1922-23. Charles Fort was declared a National Monument in 1973. Across the estuary is James Fort designed by Paul Ive in 1602.
The Courthouse & Regional Museum (Suggestion)
This interesting building was built about 1600, with additions in 1706. K insale received its first royal Charter in 1334, a mark of the town’s commercial as well as strategic importance. By 1706 it had developed from a simple trading centre into an administrative one. The then mayor and chief justice, Thurston Haddock combined his business under one roof, thus giving rise to the courthouse. It was here in 1915, that the inquest into the sinking of the RMS Lusitania was held and even today sad reminders of this time echo about the walls. The museum houses a large number of local artifacts relating to Kinsale’s maritime, military and secular history from the Battle of Kinsale to the Kinsale Giant.
Desmond Castle (Suggestion)
Desmond Castle was built by Maurice Bacach Fitzgerald, the 9th Earl of Desmond, c.1500. A good example of an urban tower house, the castle consists of a keep with storeh ouses to the rear and domestic offices on the first and second floors.
Originally built as a Custom House, Desmond Castle has also served as an ordnance store, prison and workhouse. It was occupied by the Spanish in 1601 during the Battle of Kinsale. In the succession of European wars in the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle was used as a place of confinement for French and Spanish prisoners of war. During the Great Irish Famine, (1845-1850) Desmond Castle was used as a workhouse for up to 200 people. It was declared a National Monument in 1938. Since 1997, Desmond Castle has housed the International Museum of Wine. This exhibition documents the fascinating story of Ireland's wine links with Europe and the wider world.
Return to Cork City to overnight. (B)
23 SEP 16 – FRIDAY WEST CORK TO KERRY – A DAY OF SPECTACULAR SCENERY!
This morning head to Blarney Castle and Woollen Mills!
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention from across the worl d ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures. There has been a castle on this site since the 10th century but the current ruins are from the castle built by Cormac MacCarthy in 1446. The castle’s popularity owes a lot to the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of the castle’s tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words!
Blarney Woollen Mills
Blarney Woollen Mills was established in 1824 and has been welcoming customers to its Visitor Centre since 1977. The range of merchandise available is impressive, from the extensive collection of Aran sweaters to celtic jewellery, Irish crystal, rugs and throws and other Irish handcrafted gifts.
Continue on for Kerry, stopping for a great scenic walk at Gougane Barra!
Gougane Barra
Gougane Barra is located in a beautiful part of the South West of Ireland, ideal if you are looking for some of Ireland’s scenic countryside to visit. On entering Gougane Barra you are met with the natural beauty of the hills which tower over Gougane Barra Lake and then the well-k nown St Finbarr's Oratory or Small Church out in the Lake on the little island all on its own. The scenery in this area is breath taking and it offers the visitor a little time out in this peaceful valley. Cork's River Lee has its source in Gougane Barra's Lake, where it flows through Ballingeary and onwards towards Cork City. Truly magical and peaceful in a stunning location.
Continue on to Killarney, the gateway to the Ring of Kerry.
Killarney
Killarney has been welcoming visitors for over 250 years - and became an integral part of "The Victorian Grand Tour" circuit after the landmark visit of Queen Victoria in 1861. Since then it has continued to welcome visitors from all over the world.
Killarney is unashamedly a Mecca for tourists – home of the lakes and the start and finish of the Ring of Kerry tour. Lakes, mountains and valleys surround the area making it the perfect place for outdoor adventure including hill walking, boating, fishing and golf. (B)
24 SEP 16 – SATURDAY THE RING OF KERRY
Today, tour the world famous Ring of Kerry, or Dingle Peninsula.
What is the Ring of Kerry? Well, it’s a route. A trail. A road. But this is n o ordinary road. It’s a road that takes you through 10,000 years of dramatic history. It’s a road that takes you from deep forest to the crashing waters of the Atlantic. It’s a road through rugged, majestic landscapes: where wild stag roam and where tumbling waterfalls crash into crystal streams teeming with wild salmon. It’s a road that shows you the real meaning of a holiday in Kerry, Ireland. This 179km circuit of the Iveragh peninsula pops up on every self-respecting tourist itinerary, and for good reason. The road winds past pristine beaches, medieval ruins, mountains and loughs, with ever-changing views of the island-dotted Atlantic.
When describing the Ring, it’s easy to skip through the particulars. Beginning and ending in Killarney, towns dotted along the Ring are well worth a stop off... as places like Sneem, Waterville and Killorglin are homes to famous folks and crowned goats (at the annual Puck Fair!). On the coastal stretches, the sight of monastic marvel of Skellig Michael out in the Atlantic could be THE camera moment of your trip. Jagged Valentia Island is unique in its importance: it’s Ireland’s prime weather station. The foodies of the Valentia Island’s King Scallop Festival in July never have far to go for a forecast.
Time is of the essence on the Ring. The more of it you have, the more you’ll enjoy it. Long lunches are a must and should hunger strike, make for Waterville or Portmagee and a delicious seafood lunch! Time also gives you the option of weaving off the Ring. You’re free to jump off where the whim takes you. Why not visit the Bog Village in Glenbeigh, take a pony trek along the beautiful Rossbeigh Beach, delight your senses at the Victorian Gardens of Kells Bay or Sneem’s Sculpture Park and Garden of the Senses. For the history buffs, delve into the history of the locality in the Old Barracks Heritage Centre, Cahersiveen or, make the home of Daniel O’Connell – a 19th-century political figure often referred to as “The Liberator” a stop off. If you fancy a more active day, try your hand at golf at Waterville’s famous Links Course or angling in Lough Currane. Then there’s Kenmare, where you can enjoy a lovely choice of charming shops, galleries, cafes, pubs and restaurants. To complete the Ring of Kerry, travel north to Killarney via Moll’s Gap. Marvel at the panoramic vistas at Ladies View, with breath taking views of the glorious Lakes of Killarney… Curious? Come with us and discover it for yourself! (B)
25 SEP 16 – SUNDAY THE BURREN
Depart Killarney and enjoy the breath-taking view at the Cliffs of Moher!
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with a magical vista that captures the hearts of one million visitors every year and are a Signature Discovery Point in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. They stretch for 8km (5miles), as the crow flies, along the Atlantic coast of County Clare in the west of Ireland and reach 214m (702 feet) at their highest point at Knockardakin just north of O’Brien’s Tower. Here you can have a world class, one in a million, visitor experience.
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is located almost midway along these spectacular cliffs and the site is home to an environmentally friendly visitor centre set into the hillside, O’Brien’s Tower – a 19th century viewing tower, and 800 metres of protected cliff side pathways, viewing areas and steps.
After this, take a nature walk with our Burren expert to discover the secrets of this fascinating landscape.
The Burren
The word "Burren" comes from an Irish word "Boíreann" meaning a rocky place. This is an extremely appropriate name when you consider the lack of soil cover and the extent of exposed Limestone Pavement. However it has been referred to in the past as "Fertile rock" due to the mixture of nutrient rich herb and floral species.
In 1651 a Cromwellian Army Officer named Ludlow remarked, "of this barony it is said that it is a country where there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury them. This last is so scarce that the inhabitants steal it fro m one another and yet their cattle are very fat. The grass grows in tufts of earth of two or three foot square which lies between the limestone rocks and is very sweet and nourishing."
Continue on to overnight in the city of Galway.
Galway City
Galway City at the mouth of Galway Bay is both a picturesque and liv ely city with a wonderful avant-garde culture and a wonderful offering of locally-owned speciality shops, including many handicrafts such as traditional knits, pottery, glass, jewellery and woodwork.With a large university Galway is also a centre of learning in the west of Ireland. It is also highly immersed in Irish language and culture, mainly due to its proximity to the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) region.The city has many relics of its medieval past and is worth taking time to explore. It has changed considerably over the last number of years and features a fascinating juxtaposition of modern and traditional architecture. The centre of the city is compact and you will easily and enjoyably ramble this intriguing city for hours. (B)
26 SEP 16 – MONDAY CONNEMARA
Drive through the dramatic landscape of Connemara and visit Kylemore Abbey and the Killary Sheep Farm
Connemara
From the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the north to the lake-rich Roundstone Bog and golden beaches reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean, you'll know you're in Connemara by the light that constantly changes the mood and tone of the landscape. Connemara has long been regarded as the real emerald of Ireland. This natural terrain and unspoilt environment offers the visitor a wonderland of sights, experiences, adventure and activities. The people are warm, friendly and extend a hospitality which is the essence of Ireland.
Kylemore Abbey
Set in the dramatic Connemara landscape of mountains and lakes, Kylemore Abbey is an iconic attraction, famous around the world. From its beginnings as a romantic gift in the 1860s to becoming home to the Benedictine Nuns in 1920, Kylemore is steeped in history and tales of tragedy, romance, royal visits, spirituality and education. The Benedictine community welcome visitors to experience the Victorian atmosphere of the restored rooms of the abbey and Neo- Gothic Church. Explore the magical Victorian Walled Garden, nature trails, woodland walks and much more or simply browse the craft and design shop or enjoy a bite to eat in the café, or indeed a tea in the tea house, where special blends of tea are made with the herbs from the walled garden.
Killary Sheep Farm
A traditional working mountain farm with approximately 200 ewes and lambs roaming freely in the mountain overlooking Killary Fjord, on the Wild Atlantic Way. The farm runs mainly blackhead horny sheep which are most suited to survive on the mountains during the harsh winters. On your visit you will be able to step back in time and learn about Bog cutting in the traditional way, enjoy Sheep dog demonstrations and take a walk along country trails, overlooking the Killary Fjord.
Enjoy the evening at leisure in Westport.
Westport Town
A designated Heritage Town and three-time overall winner of the National Tidy Towns Competition, the words picturesque and Westport go hand in hand. A safe haven, Westport kisses the South East shores of the Atlantic inlet of Clew Bay and lies against the backdrop of the protective Croagh Patrick – under the watchful eye of the chapel at its peak. Westport, the third largest towns in Co Mayo is busy and vibrant market town set in the stunning location on the banks of the beautiful Carrabawn River. In addition to a bustling Quay area on the shores of Clew Bay, the town is the gateway to a region of outstanding beauty. (B)
27 SEP 16 – TUESDAY A DAY IN THE HILLS
This morning, you are free to explore Westport town where there are lots to see and do.
Alternately, for the adventurous of spirit, you could take a hike up one or Ireland’s most iconic mountains – the 7 km Pilgrimage route of our Patron Saint Patrick.
Croagh Patrick
The distinctive cone shaped Croagh Patrick towers majestically above the surrounding countryside and provides magnificent views of Clew Bay with its 365 islands, Connemara, Clare Island, Achill Island and south Mayo. The Pilgrim's Path is a 7km route winding through this rich archaeological area. It is said that Saint Patrick fasted for 40 days on the mountain's summit in 441 AD. Climbing the mountain is a custom which has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation and most can go up and down in approximately 2-3 hours.
A video and photo gallery of Croagh Patrick and its ever changing landscapes can be seen at the visitor centre, stop in here afterwards for a cup of tea and a well-deserved slice of cake!
Leaving Westport for Sligo, enjoy a trail with local maritime archaeologist at Streedagh Beach and learn all about the Spanish Armada.
Spanish Armada Trail
In 1588, King Phillip II of Spain had ordered over 130 ships to sail from the port of La Corunna for England with the intention to invade. The attempt failed miserably. On a desperate attempt to flee to Spain, over twenty five Spanish ships became wrecked off Ir eland’s coast. Three of them were wrecked at Streedagh.
Hear about the miraculous escape story of one of the Captains, Captain Francisco De Cúellar who survived brutal treatment when he was washed to shore and had to watch his comrades die. He was aided by Gaelic Irish chieftains and made it back to Spain one year later. He wrote a letter telling of his experiences.
Your guide will meet you at the Spanish Armada Memorial Monument close to Streedagh. On this trail you will visit an ancient tomb hidden in the dunes and discover 330 million year old fossilised seabed on the rocks where the waves sometimes rumble in. Enjoy stunning views to Inishmurray Island and Donegal Bay. It doesn’t get any more Wild Atlantic Way than this!
Transfer to your hotel and spend the night in a Castle! (B)
28 SEP 16 – WEDNESDAY DONEGAL DELIGHTS
After breakfast, transfer to the jaw dropping Slieve League Cliffs before visiting Killybeg!
Slieve League Cliffs
Slieve League Cliffs (or Sliabh Liag in Gaelic), situated on the south west coast of County Donegal, are said to be the one of the highest and finest marine cliffs in Europe. To fully enjoy the spectacle of Sliabh League it is best to leave your car at the car park and walk the few miles to the cliffs so as not to miss the exciting scenery of the area. There are terrific views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay as you walk towards the terrifyingly high top of Sliabh League, where the cliff face of Bunglas rises over 600m above the raging ocean. Experienced walkers only should venture beyond the viewing point onto One Man's Pass which loops around onto the Pilgrim's Path.
This is a sacred mountain, for over a thousand years there was a Christian pilgrimage, but no doubt Sliabh League was a sacred mountain before the Christians arrived here. You should remember this when visiting, so please do not disturb these monuments of Irish cultural heritage. There's much to know about Sliabh League, like the monks who went to Iceland or the eagle and the baby. To learn more visit the award winning Slieve League Cliffs Centre which is all about local culture, food and crafts served with a real warm Donegal welcome and sense of humour.
Return to Lough Eske Castle to enjoy an afternoon at leisure in this beautiful Estate. Time to relax, take a walk around the lake, curl up with a book… the choice is yours! (B)
29 SEP 16 – THURSDAY THE ROAD EAST
This morning hit the road for Belfast, and enjoy the day exploring this city at your leisure. Some suggestions below!
Belfast city
City break or longer stay, Belfast offers the buzz and vibrancy of a capital city whilst being a gateway to the rural retreat of Northern Ireland. At the head of Belfast Lou gh, the city is compact and easy to get around. Belfast is teeming with a multitude of stylish bars, gourmet restaurants, trendy clubs and some great shopping. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music in a local pub or dance the night away to the latest vibes - the choice is yours! Also, the city's many parks, gardens and galleries offer a perfect haven to relax. Visit Belfast Titanic shipyard where the doomed ship was built, City Hall, Queen's University, Albert Memorial Clock, Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast Castle and Stormont.
Crumlin Road Gaol
The Crumlin Road Gaol dates back to 1845 and closed its doors as a working prison in 1996. After extensive renovations the gaol has re opened as a visitor attraction and conference centre. Today you can take a guided tour of the prison and hear about the history of the site from when women and children were held within its walls through to the political segregation of republican and loyalist prisoners and learn about why the decision was taken to close the prison. During the tour of the gaol you will be taken by your tour guide to visit the underground tunnel that used to connect the gaol to the Crumlin Road Courthouse, you will get a chance to sit in the Governor's chair, view all the wings from the circle and of course pay a visit to the condemned mans cell before seeing the execution cell where the majority of the 17 men were hanged.
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum
Step back in time in and uncover a way of life from 100 years ago. Discover cottages, farms, schools and shops as you wander through the beautiful parkland of the Folk Museum chatting to costumed visitor guides demonstrating traditional crafts. Climb on and off majestic steam locomotives or experience the sensation of flight in the Transport Museum bursting with horse drawn carriages, electric trams, motorbikes, fire-engines and vintage cars.
Belfast Black Taxi Tour
This world famous tour will tak e you on an unforgettable cultural, political and educational experience. Travel along the well documented Shankill Road with one of our impartial local Guides who will explain the intriguingly vibrant wall murals and why a peace line has divided two communities for many years. Visit Belfast City Hall, Queen's University, Albert Memorial Clock, Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast Castle and Stormont.
St George’s Market
If you want to enjoy a real taste of Belfast, visit St. George’s Market. One of Belfast’s oldest attractions it was built between 1890 and 1896 and is one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland. It has been selected for numerous local and national titles and awards for its fresh, local produce and great atmosphere. It holds a weekly Friday Variety Market, the City Food and Craft Market on Saturdays and the Sunday Market. It also hosts a range of events throughout the year.
It was named the UK's Best Large Indoor Market 2014 by the National Association of British Market Authorities. St George’s Market was also voted the n ation’s favourite Heritage project in the 2014 National Lottery Awards.
A suggested visit this evening is the famous Crown Liquor Saloon!
The Crown Liquor Saloon
The Crown is both ageless and priceless, a gem of Victoriana and one of the great bars of the world – originally one of the mightiest Victorian gin palaces which flourished in the industrial age. Today wonderfully preserved, the historic Crown is cherished and still well-used by the people of Belfast. It is owned by the National Trust which in 1981 carried out a sympathetic restoration. It is now a unique visual gem, a veritable masterpiece in bar architecture, which has the distinction of being known to millions the world over. The pub dates back to 1826, when the first train ran from Belfast to Lisburn. During the late 1800s, the era of emancipation in Ir eland, the pub owner persuaded some of the skilled craftsmen from Italy employed in the construction of Roman Catholic churches to supplement their income by 'moonlighting' on the building of his saloon. These church craftsmen were responsible for the tiling, glasswork and rich ornamental woodwork which give the Crown its distinctive character. No wonder, at times when the sun beams through the stained glass windows, you would think you were standing in a church. This impression is also enhanced by the wonderful combination of snugs, which resemble confessional boxes. (B)
30 SEP 16 – FRIDAY THE CAUSEWAY COAST
Today enjoy the spectacular scenery of the NE Coast!
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Spanning a chasm some eighty feet deep is the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Its construction once consisted of a single rope hand rail and widely spaced slats which fishermen would traverse with salmon caught off the island. However, since the demise of salm on fishing along the north coast it is no longer used by fishermen and the single handrail has been replaced by a two. The current caged bridge was installed by the National Trust during Easter of 2000 as a further safety.
The Giant’s Causeway
Marvel at the 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago. The Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s most famous landmark and a World Heritage Site. It takes its name from the legends of Finn MacCool and is renowned fo r its scenic beauty. There is a state-of-the-art Visitor Centre which unlocks the mystery and stories of the landscape, and offers a unique glimpse into this amazing place. Explore the upgraded walking trails and enjoy spectacular coastal scenery accompanied by an outdoor audio-guide available in a range of languages or join in an hourly guided tour. (B)
01 OCT 16 – SATURDAY TITANIC BELFAST
Start your day in Belfast with the immense and fascinating ‘Titanic Experience’.
Titanic Belfast®
Titanic Belfast® is the world's largest Titanic visitor experience. Located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland, on the very slipways where she was built, Titanic Belfast® extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features to explore the Tita nic story in a fresh and insightful way; from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. The journey goes beyond the aftermath of the sinking, to the discovery of the wreck and continues into the present day with a live undersea exploration centre.
Take a panoramic city tour before turning south for Dublin again. Time permitting, stop in the pretty fishing village of Howth for a walk around Howth head before settling into the city for the night.
Howth Fishing Village
Howth, a fishing and yachting port and popular suburban resort on the north side of Dublin, is 15km north of the city centre. Howth Head gives fine views of Dublin Bay, the Wicklow Mountains and Boyne Valley beyond. In the bay is the rocky bird sanctuary and monastic island of Ireland's Eye, to which boat trips may be taken in summer. Cliff paths lead around the coastline, through Howth village and its ruined abbey, and past Bailey Lighthouse. In the village itself the promenad e provides sea breeze enough for those unable for the steeper climb at the ‘Head’.
Continue to your hotel in Dublin. (B)
02 OCT 16 – SUNDAY DEPARTURE
Enjoy your last day in Ireland before transferring to the airport for your flight home or onward journey. (B)
Our Host: Lakeside Travel
Deb and Mel McCallum of Lakeside Travel have been sharing their love of travel over the past 32 years! Worldwide Ecotours has successfully worked with Deb and Mel for several years. Their infectious enthusiasm makes their tours a memorable experience.
They recently took a group of 16 people to Ireland on this tour in the Spring of 2016 and it was such a success they decided to offer it again.
This is an incredible opportunity to visit the Emerald Isle!
To book this tour, contact Worldwide Ecotours at 1-888-778-2378 or Lakeside Travel at 1-866-310-4111.
Tour Information
Tour Length: 14 days / 13 nights
Date: September 19 - October 2, 2016
Land Price: $3999CAD per person. This price is based on a minimum of 16 participants.
Single Supplement: $1400CAD per person
Prices quoted are effective as of June 25, 2016. The final price although not expected to change, may be modified if the minimum number of people (16 people) is not met or the currency exchange rate fluctuates widely.
Single Supplement: Accommodation is based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who request single accommodation. Single accommodation is subject to availability and may be limited. If you prefer single occupancy it is advised to book early. If you are travelling alone and wish to share accommodation, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender.
Ireland, The Emerald Isle Includes:
- All transfers and transportation per itinerary
- 13 nights accommodation
- Meals: Breakfast daily
- Visits and activities as noted in the itinerary
- Entrance fees as noted in the itinerary
- Professional Guide
Ireland, the Emerald Isle Doesn’t Include:
- International Fare
- Travel Insurance
- Pre- or post-tour accommodation
- Meals not included in the itinerary
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Excursions, activities, and entrance fees not included in the itinerary
- Gratuities to guides and driver
- Personal Items
