Ultimate Ireland

Expedition

From the Titanic shipyards in Belfast to the dance halls in Killarney, this tour of the Emerald Isle is guaranteed to delight.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW

From the Titanic shipyards in Belfast to the dance halls in Killarney, this tour of the Emerald Isle is guaranteed to delight. In Dublin, step into the Little Museum for a private after-hours meeting with esteemed author and museum founder Trevor White. Arrive at Ashford Castle in regal style as you’re escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper. Then choose between a private tour of the 800-year-old castle, or a one-of-a-kind falconry experience at Ireland’s oldest falconry school.The Activity Level of this tour is Leisurely, meaning there is 1 to 2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces with some stairs.

highlights

Dining Summary

5 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
2 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavors during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Additional Included Highlights

Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
Included at all hotels.
Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
Enjoy complimentary hotel WiFi. And, on select coaches, onboard WiFi may also be available.
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.

Curated Experiences

Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life as a Dublin local and what it means to be a Dubliner.

Exceptional Dining

Belfast: Introduce yourself to Belfast the right way, with a hearty meal. Check in to the luxurious Grand Central Hotel and let your Travel Concierge take you for an à la carte Welcome Dinner in a specially selected local restaurant.
Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.
Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favorite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
Killarney: Join locals at their home this evening for dinner with entertainment and dancing.
Kenmare: Let your tastebuds be delighted with a delicious lunch at the historic Park Hotel, set among manicured gardens running to the lapping shores of Kenmare Bay.
Ashford Castle: Dine in the cozy surrounds of Cullen's at the Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage where you’ll be greeted with delicious aromas. Savor freshly-cooked local and international dishes in this former cinema, which premiered ‘The Quiet Man’ before Hollywood.
Ashford Castle: Celebrate in royal style amongst the chandeliers and panelled walls of the historic George V Dining Room, named for the monarch who dined here in 1906 when he was the Prince of Wales. Chef Philippe Farineau presents a delicious menu for your evening.

Founder's Collection

County Down: Enjoy the unique opportunity to meet Lord or Lady Dunleath in their grand home at Ballywalter Park. Greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, embark on an exclusive tour of the property followed by a three-course dinner with wines from the estate's wine cellar.

Magnificent Stays

Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.

Passport Moments

Belfast: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations.
Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
Dublin: Join a student for a guided exploration of historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Travel Concierge, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
Limerick: Delve into the history of Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, founded by the Vikings, during an orientation with your insightful Travel Concierge. You'll get to see St John’s Castle, St Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone, signed in 1691.
Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbor city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Personalise your day

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavors during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.
Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Highlights

Dining Summary

5 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
2 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavors during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Additional Included Highlights

Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
Included at all hotels.
Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
Enjoy complimentary hotel WiFi. And, on select coaches, onboard WiFi may also be available.
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.

Curated Experiences

Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life as a Dublin local and what it means to be a Dubliner.

Exceptional Dining

Belfast: Introduce yourself to Belfast the right way, with a hearty meal. Check in to the luxurious Grand Central Hotel and let your Travel Concierge take you for an à la carte Welcome Dinner in a specially selected local restaurant.
Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.
Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favorite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
Killarney: Join locals at their home this evening for dinner with entertainment and dancing.
Kenmare: Let your tastebuds be delighted with a delicious lunch at the historic Park Hotel, set among manicured gardens running to the lapping shores of Kenmare Bay.
Ashford Castle: Dine in the cozy surrounds of Cullen's at the Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage where you’ll be greeted with delicious aromas. Savor freshly-cooked local and international dishes in this former cinema, which premiered ‘The Quiet Man’ before Hollywood.
Ashford Castle: Celebrate in royal style amongst the chandeliers and panelled walls of the historic George V Dining Room, named for the monarch who dined here in 1906 when he was the Prince of Wales. Chef Philippe Farineau presents a delicious menu for your evening.

Founder's Collection

County Down: Enjoy the unique opportunity to meet Lord or Lady Dunleath in their grand home at Ballywalter Park. Greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, embark on an exclusive tour of the property followed by a three-course dinner with wines from the estate's wine cellar.

Magnificent Stays

Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.

Passport Moments

Belfast: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations.
Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
Dublin: Join a student for a guided exploration of historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Travel Concierge, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
Limerick: Delve into the history of Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, founded by the Vikings, during an orientation with your insightful Travel Concierge. You'll get to see St John’s Castle, St Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone, signed in 1691.
Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbor city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Personalise your day

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavors during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.
Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Trip details

Trip Type: Group Tour

Comfort: Deluxe

Travel Styles: Family, 55+, Luxury

Starts: Belfast, United Kingdom

Finishes: Shannon, Ireland

Duration: 12 days

ITINERARY

1Day 1: Welcome to Energetic Belfast

On arrival, your private chauffeur will be waiting to take you to your luxury hotel. Visit The Observatory Bar and take in glittering views of the city stretching into the distance, before savoring an a la carte dinner of Northern Irish favorites to celebrate your Ireland luxury tour.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Dinner

2Day 2: Highlights of Belfast

Visit the world-class Titanic Museum for a vivid picture of the past , before customising your time in Belfast. Step out with Local Expert and explore the City Hall, prestigious Queen's University and Parliament Building at Stormont or meet a local artist to discover Belfast’s progressive street art.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

3Day 3: Giant's Causeway and Londonderry

Experience Northern Ireland's most spectacular geological wonder, the UNESCO Listed Giant's Causeway on a private tour with a Local Ranger. On arrival in Londonderry, Local Guide Ronan, one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, will captivate you with his deep knowledge of history and politics.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

4Day 4: Strangford Lough and Vibrant Dublin

Sweet aromas and a slow food ethos await at Tracey's Farmhouse. Explore the organic farm and learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before enjoying a farm-to-table lunch. Continue to Dublin for a tour of the city’s key sights including a tasting experience at the Guinness Storehouse, or tour Pearse Lyons Distillery and enjoy a whiskey tasting.

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

5Day 5: A Truly Irish Experience

A visit to Trinity College unveils the 9th century Book of Kells. At a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, sip prosecco with the founder before dinner.

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

6Day 6: Glendalough to Kilkenny Relaxed Start

After a Relaxed Start of breakfast-in-bed if you choose, explore Glendalough, the "glen of two lakes" with a Local Expert. Stroll Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile linking Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. Your own historic residence, Lyrath Estate, is set within sprawling acres of lakes, gardens and woodlands.

Accommodation: Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.
Meals: Breakfast

7Day 7: Banter in Blarney

See classic Ireland in Cashel, famous for its medieval structures. Visit Blarney Castle to take part in the legend of kissing the Blarney Stone. This evening join the locals at a home hosted dinner with entertainment and dancing.

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

8Day 8: Scenic Ring of Kerry Relaxed Start

Journey into Killarney National Park, winding along the iconic Ring of Kerry. Explore the town of Kenmare before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the Park Hotel. Travel back in time with a traditional jaunting car ride, enjoying views of Ireland's highest Mountain Range, the MacGillycuddy Reeks.

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

9Day 9: Exploring Limerick

Admire dramatic mountains and windswept sands along Dingle Peninsula. In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, castles and abbeys before continuing to Limerick to see the best of the city including St. Mary's Cathedral and Limerick's Treaty Stone.

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
Meals: Breakfast

10Day 10: Regal County Mayo

Breathtaking views continue through County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Your stay at the 5-star Ashford Castle begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to this estate, once home to the Guinness family. Tonight, savor specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

11Day 11: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Indulge in another Relaxed Start with the option of breakfast in-bed room service. Get acquainted with elegant birds of prey at the oldest established falconry school in Ireland or delve into the Castle’s history on a guided historical tour. Then treat yourself to a spa or stroll the magnificent castle grounds. End the last full day of your Belfast to Shannon luxury tour dining in style at the esteemed George V Dining Room.

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

12Day 12: Depart Shannon

Conclude your travels in Ireland with a private transfer to Shannon Airport.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Partner Details

Luxury Gold (US)

In Business Since 1978

A world of immersive journeys awaits you, each with VIP experiences, exceptional dining, magnificent hotels and a Travelling Concierge who’s there to tailor everything to your desires.