Overview
Itinerary
Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a Local Expert that brings to life Dublin's architectural treasures and history, stretching back more than 1,000 years. Travel along the River Liffey, see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Visit the 9th century Book of Kells and enjoy a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College.
Back at your hotel, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner and the opportunity to mingle and get to know your fellow travelers over a pleasant evening. (D) Stay: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Depart Dublin, and pass the famous Curragh Racecourse and green meadows where many of the finest Irish racehorses are bred. Drive south and take a photo-stop to see the spectacular Rock of Cashel, crowned with medieval buildings that dominate the flat countryside for miles around.
Then on to explore Blarney with Brendan Choice. Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence. Alternatively, meet a senior gardener for a tour of Blarney Gardens. Head to Killarney, where you may fancy a ‘pint of porter'. This town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs so in the evening why not join in the ‘craic'? (B/D) Stay: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
In the morning, marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts. (B)
Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 214 m (702 ft) above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of Tribes, and visit the last cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way. (B/D) Stay: Connemara Coast, Galway
Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Visit the magnificent, turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey, nestled at the base of a Connemara mountainside. Commissioned by industrialist Mitchell Henry for his wife in the 19th century, the abbey was later transformed into a Benedictine monastery by nuns fleeing Ypres during World War I—linking this remote Irish valley to the upheaval of the Western Front. (B)
Set beside Lough Corrib and the border of County Mayo, Cong combines quiet charm with a storied past. On arrival at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, follow a traditional piper up the estate's drive - an age-old custom once used to honor visiting dignitaries. This stirring welcome connects you with Ireland's cultural heritage from the moment you arrive. Best known as the filming location for The Quiet Man, the village is also home to the 12th-century Cong Abbey, a former Augustinian monastery with intricate stone carvings and Ireland's only surviving monastic fishing house.
During your free time, walk woodland trails through the grounds of Ashford Estate, visit the Quiet Man Museum or browse local craft shops showcasing Irish woollens and pottery. Later, dine in a private room at The Lodge at Ashford Castle. Enjoy a seasonal Farm-to-Table menu curated by Executive Chef Jonathan Keane, reflecting Ireland's regional produce and culinary traditions. (B/D) Stay: The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Cong
After a Relaxed Start, travel east to Dublin, founded by the Vikings over 1,000 years ago at the mouth of the River Liffey. Your afternoon is free to explore the capital's rich cultural scene—perhaps visit the National Gallery, home to works by Jack B. Yeats and Caravaggio, or stroll through St Stephen's Green, laid out in 1880. Literary fans may opt for the James Joyce Center, while Grafton Street offers a final chance for local finds. (B) Stay: Hilton
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport. (B)
Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a Local Expert that brings to life Dublin's architectural treasures and history, stretching back more than 1,000 years. Travel along the River Liffey, see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Visit the 9th century Book of Kells and enjoy a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College.
Back at your hotel, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner and the opportunity to mingle and get to know your fellow travelers over a pleasant evening. (D) Stay: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Depart Dublin, and pass the famous Curragh Racecourse and green meadows where many of the finest Irish racehorses are bred. Drive south and take a photo-stop to see the spectacular Rock of Cashel, crowned with medieval buildings that dominate the flat countryside for miles around.
Then on to explore Blarney with Brendan Choice. Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence. Alternatively, meet a senior gardener for a tour of Blarney Gardens. Head to Killarney, where you may fancy a ‘pint of porter'. This town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs so in the evening why not join in the ‘craic'? (B/D) Stay: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
In the morning, marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts. (B)
Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 214 m (702 ft) above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of Tribes, and visit the last cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way. (B/D) Stay: Connemara Coast, Galway
Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Visit the magnificent, turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey, nestled at the base of a Connemara mountainside. Commissioned by industrialist Mitchell Henry for his wife in the 19th century, the abbey was later transformed into a Benedictine monastery by nuns fleeing Ypres during World War I—linking this remote Irish valley to the upheaval of the Western Front. (B)
Set beside Lough Corrib and the border of County Mayo, Cong combines quiet charm with a storied past. On arrival at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, follow a traditional piper up the estate's drive - an age-old custom once used to honor visiting dignitaries. This stirring welcome connects you with Ireland's cultural heritage from the moment you arrive. Best known as the filming location for The Quiet Man, the village is also home to the 12th-century Cong Abbey, a former Augustinian monastery with intricate stone carvings and Ireland's only surviving monastic fishing house.
During your free time, walk woodland trails through the grounds of Ashford Estate, visit the Quiet Man Museum or browse local craft shops showcasing Irish woollens and pottery. Later, dine in a private room at The Lodge at Ashford Castle. Enjoy a seasonal Farm-to-Table menu curated by Executive Chef Jonathan Keane, reflecting Ireland's regional produce and culinary traditions. (B/D) Stay: The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Cong
After a Relaxed Start, travel east to Dublin, founded by the Vikings over 1,000 years ago at the mouth of the River Liffey. Your afternoon is free to explore the capital's rich cultural scene—perhaps visit the National Gallery, home to works by Jack B. Yeats and Caravaggio, or stroll through St Stephen's Green, laid out in 1880. Literary fans may opt for the James Joyce Center, while Grafton Street offers a final chance for local finds. (B) Stay: Hilton
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe's elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. Tour the enchanting college campus with a Local Expert and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
- Ashford Castle: Be welcomed to your accommodation for the night by the stirring sound of a traditional piper. Historically used to mark ceremonies and arrivals of honor, the bagpipes connect you with centuries of Irish tradition as you follow the piper up the estate's drive.
- Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
- Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
- Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
- Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
- Shannon: Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry, passing sites linked to smuggling and 19th-century emigration.
- Galway: Visit the stunning cathedral of the City of Tribes. Admire its Renaissance style dome and unique rose-shaped window.
- Kylemore: With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey's history, discovering how it was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Cong: Enjoy time as you wish to explore this delightful, quintessential Irish village, used as the location for 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' See the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey.
Iconic Experience
- Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs' geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Make Travel Matter®
- Ring of Kerry: Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they work to protect the fragile ecosystem of the wild Atlantic Irish coasts through their educational courses and passion for the local environment. Irish Atlantic Seaweed's environmental policy is to respect, enjoy and protect the natural wonders that surround them, and promote the sustainable use of Ireland's fragile marine ecosystems. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
- Dublin: Enjoy a relaxing first night and dine together with your fellow guests.
- Cong: Savor seasonal Farm-to-Table fare in an exclusive private dining room at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, where Irish culinary traditions shine through dishes crafted by award-winning Executive Chef Jonathan Keane, using organic produce sourced from artisan suppliers and grown within the estate grounds.
- Dining Summary: 4 Dinners (D), 7 Breakfasts (B)
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with us, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert's insights, learn about the arboretum's rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts. Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Enjoy the comfort of the luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe's elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. Tour the enchanting college campus with a Local Expert and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
- Ashford Castle: Be welcomed to your accommodation for the night by the stirring sound of a traditional piper. Historically used to mark ceremonies and arrivals of honor, the bagpipes connect you with centuries of Irish tradition as you follow the piper up the estate's drive.
- Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
- Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
- Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
- Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
- Shannon: Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry, passing sites linked to smuggling and 19th-century emigration.
- Galway: Visit the stunning cathedral of the City of Tribes. Admire its Renaissance style dome and unique rose-shaped window.
- Kylemore: With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey's history, discovering how it was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Cong: Enjoy time as you wish to explore this delightful, quintessential Irish village, used as the location for 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' See the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey.
Iconic Experience
- Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs' geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Make Travel Matter®
- Ring of Kerry: Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they work to protect the fragile ecosystem of the wild Atlantic Irish coasts through their educational courses and passion for the local environment. Irish Atlantic Seaweed's environmental policy is to respect, enjoy and protect the natural wonders that surround them, and promote the sustainable use of Ireland's fragile marine ecosystems. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
- Dublin: Enjoy a relaxing first night and dine together with your fellow guests.
- Cong: Savor seasonal Farm-to-Table fare in an exclusive private dining room at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, where Irish culinary traditions shine through dishes crafted by award-winning Executive Chef Jonathan Keane, using organic produce sourced from artisan suppliers and grown within the estate grounds.
- Dining Summary: 4 Dinners (D), 7 Breakfasts (B)
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with us, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert's insights, learn about the arboretum's rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts. Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Enjoy the comfort of the luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Download Brochure
Brendan Vacations Ireland & Scotland (2025-27)
Download Brochure
Brendan Vacations Ireland & Scotland (2025-27)
Dates & Pricing
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Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Brendan Vacations. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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