Cobh | County Cork | Ireland
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FROM: CAD $2,059 pp

HOTEL UPGRADE: Uncover the best of Ireland's south east on this 5-day escorted tour, staying in 3-star hotels. From Dublin, discover the historic Rock of Dunamase and see the famous Rock of Cashel. Take in Blarney Castle, spend two nights in the charming fishing village of Kinsale and see the Neolithic stone circle of Drombeg. Enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery at Mizen Head, at the far end of the Wild Atlantic Way, and taste traditional Irish whiskey at the Midleton distillery. Visit the town of Cobh, spend two nights in Waterford, visit Kilkenny and see Kells Priory, one of Ireland's biggest medieval monuments.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Rock of Cashel - Take in the medieval hilltop ruins, offering amazing views of the surrounds and hundreds of years of history
Mizen Head - Soak in the jaw-dropping scenery of the most southern point of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline
Cobh - Wander the pretty port town, which was the final stop of the Titanic on its fateful maiden voyage
Blarney Castle - Explore the famous castle grounds and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence!
Midleton Distillery - Join a tour and tasting at this famous whiskey distillery, previously known as Jamesons!
Kilkenny - Visit the interactive Smithwick’s Experience and spend free time exploring this lively town

Included

4 breakfasts
Escorted by a local driver-guide 
Tour and tasting at Jameson Midleton Whiskey Distillery
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
4 nights 3-star hotels
Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
All road tolls
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

Not Included

International flights & visas
Meals not specified in itinerary
Entry fees unless specified
Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!

Itinerary

Day 1

Rock of Dunamase, Cashel & Blarney Castle

Dublin - Rock of Dunamase - Cashel - Blarney Castle - Kinsale. Departing Dublin, we head south to the Rock of Dunamase. This imposing Celtic fortification was once a thriving early Christian settlement before it was pillaged by Vikings in 842 AD. You'll have free time here to explore.

Continuing south, we arrive in Cashel, a charming town where you can enjoy lunch and discover the iconic Rock of Cashel. Perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop, this medieval cluster of buildings is globally renowned. If time allows, visit the nearby Hore Abbey, the haunting ruins of Ireland’s last medieval Cistercian monastery.

Our tour then takes us to Blarney Castle on the outskirts of Cork. Wander through the castle grounds, stroll through the woodland, and perhaps even kiss the famous Blarney Stone to acquire the legendary "gift of the gab."

We then skirt the picturesque coastline southwards to Kinsale. This charming fishing village is our overnight destination. Why not head out to one of the local pubs to sample a top notch lcoal Guinness?

Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.

Accommodation: Actons Hotel, Trident Hotel or similar
Overnight: Kinsale

Day 2

Ancient sites & Wild Atlantic Way

Kinsale - Drombeg Stone Circle - Mizen Head - Bantry - Kinsale. Our first stop this morning is the Old Head of Kinsale - a headland view that will surely jolt you awake.

Next, we take in the eerie Drombeg Stone Circle, locally known as the Druid’s Altar. Excavations at this site revealed a burial urn at the center of these 17 standing stones. We then move on to the Altar Wedge Tomb, a megalithic tomb that has stood since the end of the Stone Age.

Next, we venture to Ireland’s most southwestern point along the Wild Atlantic Way - Mizen Head. They say photos can never quite capture the majesty of Mizen Head, but you’re welcome to try. You'll want to snap a few to immortalize the untamed beauty of the Atlantic waves crashing against the rocks below. Even if you're afraid of heights, crossing the bridge is worthwhile for that iconic cliffside view and a visit to the Signal Station. You'll also have time to grab a bite at the visitor centre.

Our final stop of the day is the picturesque harbour of Bantry Town. There is free time to explore the charming shops, meet friendly locals, or perhaps visit Bantry House & Gardens, inspired by the grand palazzos encountered by the second Earl of Bantry during his European travels. We then return to Kinsale for the evening.

Accommodation: Actons Hotel, Trident Hotel or similar
Overnight: Kinsale  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Whiskey, Cobh & Waterford

Kinsale - Charles Fort - Midleton Distillery - Cobh - Waterford. Our first stop today is the spectacular Charles Fort - one of Ireland’s largest and most impressive military installations. This massive star-shaped fortress has played pivotal roles in Irish history.

We then enjoy a visit to the Midleton Distillery Cork (formerly Jameson) for a fascinating tour of their facility and a taste of their exceptional whiskey.

Our journey continues to the picturesque town of Cobh, where you’ll have free time for lunch and exploration. Will it be the Titanic Experience, the grand cathedral, or the historic centre that captures your interest?

Our overnight stop is in the seaside town of Waterford. Along the way, we’ll take a scenic coastal route, making spontaneous stops for photos. On arrival in Waterford, the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Waterford  |  Breakfast

Day 4

Exploring Kilkenny

Waterford - Jerpoint Abbey - Kilkenny - Kells Priory - Wateford. This morning we explore Jerpoint Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, now in beautiful ruins. The abbey showcases captivating Romanesque and Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe.

Our next stop is the lively city of Kilkenny, nestled along the banks of the River Nore. Kilkenny boasts a vibrant personality, so we're granting you ample time here to acquaint yourself. Kick things off with an interactive tour at the Smithwick's Experience, an 18th-century brewery where you can savour some of their renowned ale. After that, the city is yours to explore at your leisure. With its abundance of shops, eateries, museums, and the impressive Kilkenny Castle, you'll find plenty to keep you enthralled.

Our final stop of the day is at Kells Priory, one of Ireland's largest medieval monuments. While the priory's infirmary, workshop, kitchen, and mill lie in ruins, the medieval defenses surrounding the site have earned it the local nickname, the 'Seven Castles of Kells'. Returning to Waterford, the evening is free.
Overnight: Waterford  |  Breakfast

Day 5

Return to Dublin

Waterford - New Ross - Powerscourt House - Dublin. Our first stop is the town of New Ross, nestled on the River Barrow, where we'll visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship. This faithful replica of an 1840s emigrant vessel offers a poignant glimpse into the harrowing experiences of famine-era emigrants.

Next, we journey to the renowned Glendalough Monastic Site. Here, you'll have time to explore the picturesque lakes, delve into the site's history at the visitor centre, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the ruins.

The final stop of our tour is Powerscourt House and Gardens. Soak up the breathtaking views and meticulously landscaped gardens of this country estate, discovering hidden nooks, ornamental lakes, and elegant statues along the way. We then complete our return journey to Dublin.

Please note: This tour ends at 18:00 - Dublin Nassau Street Drop Off, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.

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Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Actons Hotel, Kinsale

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Overlooking the River Bandon and Kinsale Harbour, this sophisticated hotel, set in a townhouse, is a 7-minute walk from Desmond Castle and 5 km from Kinsale Golf Club. The elegant, contemporary rooms feature rainfall showers, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee-making facilities, with a full Irish breakfast included. Guests can enjoy a fine-dining restaurant, a casual brasserie, and bar, as well as a spa, an indoor pool, and a fitness centre.

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Dublin
Ends
Dublin
Departs
Saturdays
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 16
Hotel Rating
3-star hotels
Tour Guide
Yes - escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 4
Countries
Minimum Age
5 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Arr. Transfer
No
Dep. Transfer
No
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