The Emerald Isle

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Dublin


Dublin

Tour summary

13 days

Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland

18 meals

18 guests (max)

Driver

Trip leader

Luxury minicoach

Twin-share / double / double for single occupancy

12 nights in thoughtfully selected accommodation

12 nights

Have you ever kissed a stone upside down for good luck? Or slumbered in the storied halls of an 18th-century castle? These are just some of the unique and unexpected experiences you’ll relish on this Irish journey, with each encounter revealing more of the country’s captivating heritage and culture. Inhale the salty sea air of the North Irish Coast, tap your toes to the ballad of Dan O’Hara and admire the intricate interiors of a traditional cottage orné. With us, you won’t just discover a local way of life in the Emerald Isle – you'll become a part of it.  

Tour highlights

  • Soak up stories of Northern Ireland's history on a tour of Belfast’s street art
  • Feel the solid basalt columns of the legendary Giant’s Causeway beneath your feet
  • Be blessed with the ‘gift of the gab’ while visiting the iconic Blarney Castle
  • Uncover the magnificent Cliffs of Moher – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Tour itinerary

Day 1 - Dublin (Republic of Ireland)

Where better to begin our 12-day adventure through legendary battle sites, candy-coloured fishing villages and windswept coastlines than Dublin? Say dia duit to your Tour Leader before settling down for a welcome meal where you'll have the chance to connect with your small group. Why not savour your first sip of velvety Guinness and say sláinte to the journey ahead?

Where better to begin our 12-day adventure through legendary battle sites, candy-coloured fishing villages and windswept coastlines than Dublin? Say dia duit to your Tour Leader before settling down for a welcome meal where you'll have the chance to connect with your small group. Why not savour your first sip of velvety Guinness and say sláinte to the journey ahead?

Included today

Accommodation

Ashling Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Dinner

Day 2 - Dublin – Belfast (Northern Ireland)

Today, we’ll wave goodbye to Dublin and venture north for a day full of historical intrigue. Our first stop? The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre where we’ll uncover the fascinating facts and iconic figures behind one of Ireland’s most famous – and largest – military events.  

After strolling in the footsteps of Jacobite and Williamite troops on the battlefield, we’ll hop back in our comfy minicoach and continue our journey – crossing over the border into Northern Ireland. Belfast is our final stop of the day. A city shaped by years of political unrest; it’s now emerging from the ashes as a bustling cosmopolitan gem.  

Before you enjoy some free time to soak up Belfast’s modern allures, we’ll delve into the soul-stirring personal stories of survival and sorrow at the Titanic Museum. This evening, you’ll find plenty of options for dinner near the hotel – including cosy city pubs serving wholesome stews which you can mop up with thick slices of homemade soda bread. Yum!

Today, we’ll wave goodbye to Dublin and venture north for a day full of historical intrigue. Our first stop? The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre where we’ll uncover the fascinating facts and iconic figures behind one of Ireland’s most famous – and largest – military events.  

After strolling in the footsteps of Jacobite and Williamite troops on the battlefield, we’ll hop back in our comfy minicoach and continue our journey – crossing over the border into Northern Ireland. Belfast is our final stop of the day. A city shaped by years of political unrest; it’s now emerging from the ashes as a bustling cosmopolitan gem.  

Before you enjoy some free time to soak up Belfast’s modern allures, we’ll delve into the soul-stirring personal stories of survival and sorrow at the Titanic Museum. This evening, you’ll find plenty of options for dinner near the hotel – including cosy city pubs serving wholesome stews which you can mop up with thick slices of homemade soda bread. Yum!

Included today

Accommodation

Malone Lodge (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 3 - Belfast – North Irish Coast (Republic of Ireland)

After a hearty Irish breakfast at your hotel, it’ll be time to immerse ourselves in Belfast's more recent history on a guided driving tour. Hop in a local cab with a few of your fellow travellers and keep your eyes peeled for vibrant street art and political murals daubed along the city’s most iconic streets. 

Your Tour Leader’s sure to have some recommendations for where to grab a bite for lunch (and find the best Irish whiskey!). Then, we’ll hop in for our minicoach and continue our journey north – stopping off at various viewpoints along the way. Feast your eyes on the dramatic basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway. Legend has it, these 60-million-year-old stones were created by a furious giant named Finn MacCool as a path to reach his nemesis in nearby Scotland. 

Camera rolls full of inspiring images and minds full of thrilling tales, we’ll continue winding our way along the coast and cross back into Ireland. After settling into our next hotel and admiring even more sweeping vistas across the Lough Foyle, we’ll dig into some scrumptious seasonal dishes during our group dinner.

After a hearty Irish breakfast at your hotel, it’ll be time to immerse ourselves in Belfast's more recent history on a guided driving tour. Hop in a local cab with a few of your fellow travellers and keep your eyes peeled for vibrant street art and political murals daubed along the city’s most iconic streets. 

Your Tour Leader’s sure to have some recommendations for where to grab a bite for lunch (and find the best Irish whiskey!). Then, we’ll hop in for our minicoach and continue our journey north – stopping off at various viewpoints along the way. Feast your eyes on the dramatic basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway. Legend has it, these 60-million-year-old stones were created by a furious giant named Finn MacCool as a path to reach his nemesis in nearby Scotland. 

Camera rolls full of inspiring images and minds full of thrilling tales, we’ll continue winding our way along the coast and cross back into Ireland. After settling into our next hotel and admiring even more sweeping vistas across the Lough Foyle, we’ll dig into some scrumptious seasonal dishes during our group dinner.

Included today

Accommodation

Redcastle Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 4 - North Irish Coast – Derry – North Irish Coast

Did you know that Derry is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Ireland? This morning, we’ll be exploring its old city walls – which are remarkably still intact – with a friendly local guide. History seeps from every stone and we’ll encounter plenty of fascinating narratives as we stroll. 

The rest of the day will be spent discovering even more of the spectacular North Irish Coast. We'll meander our way along the Wild Atlantic Way towards the Isle of Doagh, passing through Mamore Gap – a narrow yet picturesque road that cuts through miles of awe-inspiring alpine scenery. When we reach Doagh, prepare to uncover tales of hardship and strife at the fascinating Famine Village and Visitor Centre. Inhale salty sea air during a fishing demonstration, step foot inside a preserved 19th-century thatched cottage and learn how to make your very own batch of heady poitín (Irish moonshine).  

Ready for a free evening to relax and reflect on the day's stories? Our route back to the hotel will take us past Malin Head – the most northerly point of mainland Ireland. Step out of the minicoach and stand tall against the bracing wind to gaze out across the cragged cliffs and undulating white-capped waves of the Atlantic.

Did you know that Derry is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Ireland? This morning, we’ll be exploring its old city walls – which are remarkably still intact – with a friendly local guide. History seeps from every stone and we’ll encounter plenty of fascinating narratives as we stroll. 

The rest of the day will be spent discovering even more of the spectacular North Irish Coast. We'll meander our way along the Wild Atlantic Way towards the Isle of Doagh, passing through Mamore Gap – a narrow yet picturesque road that cuts through miles of awe-inspiring alpine scenery. When we reach Doagh, prepare to uncover tales of hardship and strife at the fascinating Famine Village and Visitor Centre. Inhale salty sea air during a fishing demonstration, step foot inside a preserved 19th-century thatched cottage and learn how to make your very own batch of heady poitín (Irish moonshine).  

Ready for a free evening to relax and reflect on the day's stories? Our route back to the hotel will take us past Malin Head – the most northerly point of mainland Ireland. Step out of the minicoach and stand tall against the bracing wind to gaze out across the cragged cliffs and undulating white-capped waves of the Atlantic.

Included today

Accommodation

Redcastle Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 5 - North Irish Coast – County Roscommon

Our historical pilgrimage across the North Coast continues, beginning with a stop at the Ulster American Folk Park. Nestled within the rolling hills of County Tyrone, this open-air museum features over 30 charming heritage buildings – from rustic farmhouses and pioneers’ cabins to a replica of the Brig Union passenger ship – all of which paint a vivid story of the brave people who emigrated to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries.  

Feeling crafty? We’ll be moving on to the Belleek Pottery Centre for a lesson in traditional Irish pottery techniques. Watch expert local craftspeople at work before tracing your fingers over exquisite Belleek China in the showroom. There will be time to grab a bite in the tearoom before we venture onwards to County Roscommon and our next enchanting hotel: Kilronan Castle! 

This majestic castle sits within the emerald countryside of County Roscommon, with the shores of the shimmering Lough Meelagh just a stone's throw away. The rest of today is yours to indulge. Follow hidden trails through sun-dappled glades in the castle’s ancient woodland or glide through the deliciously warm waters of the spa’s heated 15-metre pool. Tonight, we’ll dine like royalty together in the castle’s exquisite award-winning restaurant. An chuid is fearr de as the locals say!

Our historical pilgrimage across the North Coast continues, beginning with a stop at the Ulster American Folk Park. Nestled within the rolling hills of County Tyrone, this open-air museum features over 30 charming heritage buildings – from rustic farmhouses and pioneers’ cabins to a replica of the Brig Union passenger ship – all of which paint a vivid story of the brave people who emigrated to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries.  

Feeling crafty? We’ll be moving on to the Belleek Pottery Centre for a lesson in traditional Irish pottery techniques. Watch expert local craftspeople at work before tracing your fingers over exquisite Belleek China in the showroom. There will be time to grab a bite in the tearoom before we venture onwards to County Roscommon and our next enchanting hotel: Kilronan Castle! 

This majestic castle sits within the emerald countryside of County Roscommon, with the shores of the shimmering Lough Meelagh just a stone's throw away. The rest of today is yours to indulge. Follow hidden trails through sun-dappled glades in the castle’s ancient woodland or glide through the deliciously warm waters of the spa’s heated 15-metre pool. Tonight, we’ll dine like royalty together in the castle’s exquisite award-winning restaurant. An chuid is fearr de as the locals say!

Included today

Accommodation

Kilronan Castle (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 6 - County Roscommon – Galway

What could be better than waking up in a castle? Tucking into a hearty full Irish breakfast in its wood-panelled dining room, of course! Once our bellies are full of crispy rashers, rich black pudding and eggs, we’ll take one last lingering look at Kilronan as we glide slowly back up the driveway in our minicoach. 

Not to fear, though – our next overnight destination is equally as captivating. But first: a brief stop at the idyllic seaside town of Westport. Hear the Carrowbeg River babble as you wander across the cobblestone Doris Brothers’ Bridge and discover why the town’s Art Deco clock is nicknamed ‘The Four Faced Liar’... 

Next, we’ll uncover the joys of Connemara at the homestead of Dan O’Hara: a 19th-century tenant farmer. Step back in time to prefamine life in the Irish countryside as told through the eyes of a man who forms the subject of one of the country’s most iconic traditional ballads.  

And our final stop of the day? The gorgeous harbour city of Galway – where brightly coloured pubs lie on every corner, and the streets flow freely with the echoes of flutes and fiddles. Our modern hotel is right in the heart of it all – plus your Tour Leader is sure to have a few dinner recommendations up their sleeve!

What could be better than waking up in a castle? Tucking into a hearty full Irish breakfast in its wood-panelled dining room, of course! Once our bellies are full of crispy rashers, rich black pudding and eggs, we’ll take one last lingering look at Kilronan as we glide slowly back up the driveway in our minicoach. 

Not to fear, though – our next overnight destination is equally as captivating. But first: a brief stop at the idyllic seaside town of Westport. Hear the Carrowbeg River babble as you wander across the cobblestone Doris Brothers’ Bridge and discover why the town’s Art Deco clock is nicknamed ‘The Four Faced Liar’... 

Next, we’ll uncover the joys of Connemara at the homestead of Dan O’Hara: a 19th-century tenant farmer. Step back in time to prefamine life in the Irish countryside as told through the eyes of a man who forms the subject of one of the country’s most iconic traditional ballads.  

And our final stop of the day? The gorgeous harbour city of Galway – where brightly coloured pubs lie on every corner, and the streets flow freely with the echoes of flutes and fiddles. Our modern hotel is right in the heart of it all – plus your Tour Leader is sure to have a few dinner recommendations up their sleeve!

Included today

Accommodation

The Dean (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 7 - Galway

Succulent seafood, streetside singalongs, shops selling shiny Claddagh rings – Galway’s allures are as eclectic as they come! This morning, you'll get a little taste of this bohemian city on an orientation walk. Stroll beneath the Spanish Arch – one of the last remaining sections of the medieval stone walls – and marvel the many architectural influences of Galway Cathedral. 

Then, it’s up to you where your journey takes you. Saunter down Salthill Promenade in search of a plate of Galway’s famous Atlantic oysters. Snag a table outside a colourful pub on Quay Street and treat your ears to some of Ireland’s finest street tunes. Your path may even lead you to the plunging cliffs, windswept pastures and ancient stone settlements of the Aran Islands. All three are accessible via a guided tour from Doolin Harbour – just ask your Tour Leader to help you arrange it in advance.

Succulent seafood, streetside singalongs, shops selling shiny Claddagh rings – Galway’s allures are as eclectic as they come! This morning, you'll get a little taste of this bohemian city on an orientation walk. Stroll beneath the Spanish Arch – one of the last remaining sections of the medieval stone walls – and marvel the many architectural influences of Galway Cathedral. 

Then, it’s up to you where your journey takes you. Saunter down Salthill Promenade in search of a plate of Galway’s famous Atlantic oysters. Snag a table outside a colourful pub on Quay Street and treat your ears to some of Ireland’s finest street tunes. Your path may even lead you to the plunging cliffs, windswept pastures and ancient stone settlements of the Aran Islands. All three are accessible via a guided tour from Doolin Harbour – just ask your Tour Leader to help you arrange it in advance.

Included today

Accommodation

The Dean (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 8 - Galway – Cliffs of Moher – Dingle Peninsula

Toes still tapping to yesterday’s Galway melodies, we’ll hop back in our luxury minicoach this morning and set our sights on the Burren National Park. You’d be forgiven for thinking we’d landed on the moon in this rocky karst landscape that’s been shaped by thousands of years of coastal and glacial erosion.  

We’ve got a second natural wonder in our sights this afternoon: the iconic Cliffs of Moher. These jagged – and entirely vertical – series of coastal cliffs will take your breath away. Stand near the edge (but not too close!) and feel the boom of the waves crashing against the rocks below. There’ll be more chances to admire this region’s captivating scenery as we trace our way down the coast, hopping across the Shannon Estuary on the local ferry.  

Soaking up all that natural beauty is hungry work, so we’ll no doubt be ravenous for our group dinner at our hotel in Dingle. Afterwards, the town’s welcoming local pubs beckon if you fancy rounding off the day with a whiskey nightcap.

Toes still tapping to yesterday’s Galway melodies, we’ll hop back in our luxury minicoach this morning and set our sights on the Burren National Park. You’d be forgiven for thinking we’d landed on the moon in this rocky karst landscape that’s been shaped by thousands of years of coastal and glacial erosion.  

We’ve got a second natural wonder in our sights this afternoon: the iconic Cliffs of Moher. These jagged – and entirely vertical – series of coastal cliffs will take your breath away. Stand near the edge (but not too close!) and feel the boom of the waves crashing against the rocks below. There’ll be more chances to admire this region’s captivating scenery as we trace our way down the coast, hopping across the Shannon Estuary on the local ferry.  

Soaking up all that natural beauty is hungry work, so we’ll no doubt be ravenous for our group dinner at our hotel in Dingle. Afterwards, the town’s welcoming local pubs beckon if you fancy rounding off the day with a whiskey nightcap.

Included today

Accommodation

Dingle Benners Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 9 - Dingle Peninsula

Is it an upturned boat or is it a chapel? We’ll play a game of guess-who this morning at the Gallarus Oratory – which is, in fact, a centuries-old stone place of worship with mysterious origins. Feel the temperature dip as you step inside its tiny chamber and take a moment to soak up the oratory’s enchanting rural backdrop which is crisscrossed with ancient dry-stone walls. 

Humbled by Ireland’s beauty and mystery, we’ll continue to revel in our surroundings as we meander along the Dingle Peninsula – pausing at the Blasket Centre to uncover the secrets of the most westerly isles in Europe. Get lost in unbelievable tales of the Blasket Islands’ fishing heritage and traditions, all of which inspired a whole generation of writers and poets in the early 20th century. 

Our path back to Dingle will take us along the Slea Head Drive – perhaps Ireland’s most photogenic coastal route where the road clings to plummeting cliffs, and there’s views of cragged rock formations and hidden coves at every turn. If all that sea air has you working up an appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice by local eateries along Dingle’s quaint harbourside.

Is it an upturned boat or is it a chapel? We’ll play a game of guess-who this morning at the Gallarus Oratory – which is, in fact, a centuries-old stone place of worship with mysterious origins. Feel the temperature dip as you step inside its tiny chamber and take a moment to soak up the oratory’s enchanting rural backdrop which is crisscrossed with ancient dry-stone walls. 

Humbled by Ireland’s beauty and mystery, we’ll continue to revel in our surroundings as we meander along the Dingle Peninsula – pausing at the Blasket Centre to uncover the secrets of the most westerly isles in Europe. Get lost in unbelievable tales of the Blasket Islands’ fishing heritage and traditions, all of which inspired a whole generation of writers and poets in the early 20th century. 

Our path back to Dingle will take us along the Slea Head Drive – perhaps Ireland’s most photogenic coastal route where the road clings to plummeting cliffs, and there’s views of cragged rock formations and hidden coves at every turn. If all that sea air has you working up an appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice by local eateries along Dingle’s quaint harbourside.

Included today

Accommodation

Dingle Benners Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 10 - Dingle Peninsula – County Cork

We might be bidding a fond farewell to the Dingle Peninsula this morning – but the equally as breathtaking County Cork awaits. En route, we’ll stop off in Killarney and fill our lungs with the sweet perfume of spring azaleas and summer lilies while we stretch our legs in Muckross Gardens.   

Then, it’s time to meet a true Irish icon – the legendary Blarney Stone. This unassuming block of limestone lodged inside the battlements of Blarney Castle supposedly gives those who kiss it the ‘gift of the gab’. So, if spinning wonderful words of wit and wisdom like James Joyce or Samuel Beckett has always been a dream of yours, it’s time to pucker up! Why not test out your newfound eloquence over tonight’s group dinner? We’ll be tucking into some seasonal delights at our next hotel – a family-run country house enveloped by County Cork’s dramatic Glanmire Peaks.

We might be bidding a fond farewell to the Dingle Peninsula this morning – but the equally as breathtaking County Cork awaits. En route, we’ll stop off in Killarney and fill our lungs with the sweet perfume of spring azaleas and summer lilies while we stretch our legs in Muckross Gardens.   

Then, it’s time to meet a true Irish icon – the legendary Blarney Stone. This unassuming block of limestone lodged inside the battlements of Blarney Castle supposedly gives those who kiss it the ‘gift of the gab’. So, if spinning wonderful words of wit and wisdom like James Joyce or Samuel Beckett has always been a dream of yours, it’s time to pucker up! Why not test out your newfound eloquence over tonight’s group dinner? We’ll be tucking into some seasonal delights at our next hotel – a family-run country house enveloped by County Cork’s dramatic Glanmire Peaks.

Included today

Accommodation

Accommodation: Vienna Woods (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 11 - County Cork – Kinsale – County Cork

You’ll think you're seeing in technicolour at our next stop! Kinsale is famed for its rainbow-hued buildings – many of them hosting some of the best culinary treats in the region. We'll catch our first glimpse of this picture-perfect port after our minicoach tackles the lofty roads of the Old Head of Kinsale. The coastal outcrop is the closest point to the wreck of the Lusitania passenger liner that was tragically torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1915.  

Ready to get a closer look at Kinsale itself? Delve deeper into the town during a one-hour walking tour through its storybook streets, stopping off at the Tourist Office to pick up a map of the region which you can personalise with all the stops along our tour. It’s the perfect souvenir! Afterwards, you'll have some free time to wander – including seeking out a melt-in-your-mouth lobster roll or a silky seafood bisque for lunch. You are in the ‘seafood capital of Ireland’, after all. 

This afternoon, we’ll try another Irish delicacy – a glass or two of whiskey at the Jameson Distillery. Close your eyes and savour its sweet yet smoky notes as its slips easily down your throat. Feeling a little merry, we’ll make our way back to our hotel for a little downtime. Why not head out onto the terrace and swap stories of the day with your group while the sky turns pink and purple above the tumbling Glashaboy River?

You’ll think you're seeing in technicolour at our next stop! Kinsale is famed for its rainbow-hued buildings – many of them hosting some of the best culinary treats in the region. We'll catch our first glimpse of this picture-perfect port after our minicoach tackles the lofty roads of the Old Head of Kinsale. The coastal outcrop is the closest point to the wreck of the Lusitania passenger liner that was tragically torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1915.  

Ready to get a closer look at Kinsale itself? Delve deeper into the town during a one-hour walking tour through its storybook streets, stopping off at the Tourist Office to pick up a map of the region which you can personalise with all the stops along our tour. It’s the perfect souvenir! Afterwards, you'll have some free time to wander – including seeking out a melt-in-your-mouth lobster roll or a silky seafood bisque for lunch. You are in the ‘seafood capital of Ireland’, after all. 

This afternoon, we’ll try another Irish delicacy – a glass or two of whiskey at the Jameson Distillery. Close your eyes and savour its sweet yet smoky notes as its slips easily down your throat. Feeling a little merry, we’ll make our way back to our hotel for a little downtime. Why not head out onto the terrace and swap stories of the day with your group while the sky turns pink and purple above the tumbling Glashaboy River?

Included today

Accommodation

Vienna Woods (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 12 - County Cork – Kilkenny

Today marks the penultimate chapter of our tour – and it’s destined to be full of thrilling plotlines and unique characters. First up: we’ll hop back in time to the early 1800s at Swiss Cottage and learn about its eclectic array of visitors. The traditional cottage orné – which looks just like an alpine lodge – was once a famous retreat and it’s easy to picture guests lounging around on picnic blankets on its lush lawns or attending soirees in its stylishly decorated music room. 

Then, we’ll swap Regency fancies for medieval masterpieces in the nearby town of Cahir. It’s home to an immense 12th-century castle – which you could choose to explore during our lunch break. Or why not grab a picnic lunch from one of the town’s many bakeries and wander alongside the serene waters of the River Suir?  

Finally, we come to our third – and last – stop of the day. Kilkenny has gained a reputation for being Ireland's ‘most perfect’ medieval city and your Tour Leader will show you exactly why during a leisurely walk around its narrow twisting lanes lined with dramatic grey buildings made from a mix of local limestone and crushed seashells. Afterwards, our final group feast will undoubtedly be bittersweet – and bursting with tales of everything from lucky stones to late-running clocks.

Today marks the penultimate chapter of our tour – and it’s destined to be full of thrilling plotlines and unique characters. First up: we’ll hop back in time to the early 1800s at Swiss Cottage and learn about its eclectic array of visitors. The traditional cottage orné – which looks just like an alpine lodge – was once a famous retreat and it’s easy to picture guests lounging around on picnic blankets on its lush lawns or attending soirees in its stylishly decorated music room. 

Then, we’ll swap Regency fancies for medieval masterpieces in the nearby town of Cahir. It’s home to an immense 12th-century castle – which you could choose to explore during our lunch break. Or why not grab a picnic lunch from one of the town’s many bakeries and wander alongside the serene waters of the River Suir?  

Finally, we come to our third – and last – stop of the day. Kilkenny has gained a reputation for being Ireland's ‘most perfect’ medieval city and your Tour Leader will show you exactly why during a leisurely walk around its narrow twisting lanes lined with dramatic grey buildings made from a mix of local limestone and crushed seashells. Afterwards, our final group feast will undoubtedly be bittersweet – and bursting with tales of everything from lucky stones to late-running clocks.

Included today

Accommodation

The Hibernian (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 13 - Kilkenny – Dublin

Our Irish story may be drawing to a close – but you’ll leave with plenty of mesmerising memories to take home in your suitcase. To quote Oscar Wilde: It’s beauty that captures your attention and personality which captures your heart. Ireland is a place that has plenty of both in droves.  

Soak up every last drop of Kilkenny’s charm – from its fairytale castle to its treasure-packed Medieval Mile – this morning before we board the minicoach for our return to Dublin. Your Tour Leader will miss you just as much as you’ll miss them, so they’ll treat you to a pitstop at their favourite local town en route – a final personal touch to an already perfect journey.  

We’ll arrive back in Dublin in the late afternoon, but we recommend you book a few extra nights to experience the Irish capital’s infectious energy and rich history before heading home. Before you go, bid your new friends a fond goodbye and don’t forget to whisper slán go fóill to the Emerald Isle. Its meaning? Goodbye – for now.

Our Irish story may be drawing to a close – but you’ll leave with plenty of mesmerising memories to take home in your suitcase. To quote Oscar Wilde: It’s beauty that captures your attention and personality which captures your heart. Ireland is a place that has plenty of both in droves.  

Soak up every last drop of Kilkenny’s charm – from its fairytale castle to its treasure-packed Medieval Mile – this morning before we board the minicoach for our return to Dublin. Your Tour Leader will miss you just as much as you’ll miss them, so they’ll treat you to a pitstop at their favourite local town en route – a final personal touch to an already perfect journey.  

We’ll arrive back in Dublin in the late afternoon, but we recommend you book a few extra nights to experience the Irish capital’s infectious energy and rich history before heading home. Before you go, bid your new friends a fond goodbye and don’t forget to whisper slán go fóill to the Emerald Isle. Its meaning? Goodbye – for now.

Included today

Meals
  • Breakfast

Worth noting:

For all 2025 departures, you will receive an included dinner instead of lunch on Day 3 of this tour.

Things we think you'll love

An overhead view of Kilronan Castle, a large 19th century country house that was converted into a spa hotel.
Signature moment

A night of regal rest

Step into a period drama (minus the corsets, thankfully) at Kilronan Castle, a spectacular 18th-century fortress set within 50 acres of landscaped grounds. You'll be sure to snooze like royalty after plenty of relaxation.

A view of the storied Giant's Causeway, its impossible basalt structures standing prominently amidst the waves.

Giant footstep echoes

Follow the footsteps of giants at the edge of the world as you step onto the basalt columns of Giant's Causeway that span 60 million years in the making.

A black taxi cab driving past a mural in Belfast.

Stories through art

Spot incredible art murals along the streets of Belfast during a guided tour with a local, who shares tales that span Northern Ireland.

Read the reviews

Verified customer feedback powered byFeefo

5

Bradley Al May 2025

Wonderful experience. Our tour guide & driver were excellent and very informative, friendly & courteous.

4

Anonymous November 2024

Enjoyed the tour and hotels were all very good. Tour leader was wonderful.
My main complaint was the time it took for bus company to get a functional microphone for leader to give the group...

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5

Paul Br October 2024

A very enjoyable tour. Tour guide & driver excellent, very knowledgeable & helpful.

5

Anonymous October 2024

the tour was excellent. It was very well organized, and everything went according to plan. The tour guide was first class as was the coach driver.
Not only did it cover most of Ireland but the local...

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5

Jim Sm October 2024

An excellent tour of Ireland covering an overview of its complex history and, of course, its glorious scenery. Importantly, it was done at a good pace enabling you to take your time seeing the detail...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

A wonderful opportunity to learn about both ancient and modern history of Ireland, this tour provided enthusiasm, knowledge, experience and passion for the Emerald Isle.

5

Michael Po October 2024

everyday was filled with great stops and beautiful views. our guide, Peter, and driver, Dylan, were wonderful. best tour ever!

4

Roslyn Br October 2024

Most enjoyable. Guide & driver very informative. Nice to be around Always helpful. Will recommend tour to friends. We had 13 in our group which was a good size. All 13 fitted together well. The...

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4

Paul Br October 2024

Our tour guide, Coralie & driver, John made our journey through Ireland informative, memorable, very pleasurable & stress free.

5

Anonymous October 2024

We had the best time! The driver was very safe and funny and our tour guide was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable about every aspect of our journey. The group we traveled with were a perfect...

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2

Anonymous October 2024

This was not the small, intimate experience promised in the brochure. It was another tick the box, visited the main sights, follow the flag tour with less people.

5

Anonymous October 2024

What a great tour. Guide Peter,and driver Emily were the best. Lots of fun and very helpful and personable. Peter really knew his stuff and then some.
The tour was educational, informative,and the...

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5

Ann Du October 2024

Just loved it. Ireland amazing tour leader Peter best one could get I reckon as was Emily the bus driver. Learn more in 2 wks than I ever did at school or in my life. Has had lots of sad times. Hope...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

We enjoyed an excellent tour leader, Maura Cahill, a superior driver, John, and a great group of travelers. In addition, our agenda was well balanced and informative. Accommodations were well chosen...

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4

Anonymous October 2024

Very well planned and executed itinerary, accommodation and included meals were mostly first rate . Guide and driver were excellent.

5

Alexander Sh September 2024

We had a wonderful trip with Caroline as our guide and Dylan our driver. Both did an excellent job. Our accommodation was very good, especially liked Kilronan Castle. Our group were friendly, mainly...

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5

Elizabeth Sh September 2024

We enjoyed the tour greatly, capably led by Caroline and our driver Dylan.
The tour was well organised, great itinerary and very nice hotels. My favourite was Kilronan Castle. The dinners at the...

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5

Joanne Sk September 2024

Excellent tour around Ireland.
Staff as in tour director & driver where also excellent. Nothing was too much trouble and they made it such fun.
Would recommend to family & friends.

5

Samantha Mc September 2024

We really enjoyed our adventure in The Emerald Isle. The trip was executed at a good pace with enough time allocated to all adventures and activities. Peter, our guide was very professional and...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

Well presented..very informative… knowledge of the tour guide was excellent… no extra cost or any surprises on “optional extras” value for money…the driver was very experienced…we saw a lot of very...

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4

Paul an September 2024

If you like bus trips, this one is probably a corker. The guide and driver were terrific, and most locations and accommodation very well-researched. However, although centrally located, the Dean Hotel...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

Great tour. Well organised, very good guide who was so helpful and very good driver. Thoroughly recommend this tour.

5

Anonymous September 2024

Our entire experience for Ireland has been wonderful. Accommodation, bus, driver (Dylan) and especially our guide, Caroline, have all been outstanding. These things have enabled us to experience the...

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5

Connie Ka September 2024

Fantastic guide and drivers in Ireland. The tour was top notch and covered a lot of the entire island. Would highly recommend!

5

Robert Du September 2024

We were exposed to marvellous sites and a detailed explanation about the sites we visited.
The tour provided a better understanding of Ireland’s history which I found valuable.
I would recommend the...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

The itinerary was great. Number of passengers ideal. Tour leader Liam was very knowledgeable. Accommodation first rate.

5

Carol Th September 2024

Fabulous tour, tour guide and driver were fabulous. Everything was wonderful, scenery, history and historical sights. There were places we could have spent less time at and the dinners could be cut...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

Just what I was wanting - a touring holiday, not a fast paced sightseeing tour. Finished tour without a complaint.
Only recommendation is to shortened Jameson distillery guided tour. For those not...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed our Emerald Isle tour. Our driver and tour guides were exceptional. Some feedback, I felt we could have had more time at Titanic. It is one of the major attractions of Ireland...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

A great way to see a lot of Ireland in a limited time without feeling too rushed. Accommodation and included meals were all very good. Also appreciated some free time to wander around on your own.

5

Richard St September 2024

Got more than anticipated! Guide and driver were both excellent - informative and helpful. Hotels were, overall, more than expected. Visited places not on the itinerary.

5

Anonymous September 2024

Everything about the trip met my expectations. I would have liked more time to explore the smaller villages at the expense of some of the larger towns even if it added a day or two to the trip. That...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

This was a lovely tour, both our tour guide Peter and driver John were fantastic. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw magnificent wild scenery and stayed in very comfortable hotels.
The...

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4

Peter Vo September 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed the entire trip. Your history is fascinating and your sense of humour and hospitality where great.

5

Ian Co September 2024

A terrific tour at the right pace, the tour guide Peter was exceptional .
His knowledge of the island and the history, recent and old was amazing. He was very approachable and couldn't do enough for...

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5

Mandy Co September 2024

Everything about the tour was terrific. What we saw. Where we visited. Our accommodation and meals provided.
Peter our tour guide was so knowledgeable about Ireland and was happy to share it with us...

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5

Anonymous September 2024

A great trip over 12 days covering many areas of Ireland, filled with history and information. Great range of accommodation, great small group tour, fantastic guide and driver.

5

Anonymous August 2024

Great itinerary and excellent guide & driver

5

Brian Mc August 2024

Our guide Shabby and driver Paul were extremely helpful and friendly impressed with the use of whatsapp for communication and posting photos and links to points of interest.
Accommodation and included...

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5

Anonymous August 2024

The Tour Guide and Driver were excellent as was the accommodation and the choice of places of interest.

5

Felix Bl August 2024

The route selection and tour guide commentary was ecellent. The driving was also first class.

5

Christopher Ch August 2024

Fabulous tour . Good cities and places visited.good mix of people on the coach.
John the driver was sensational
Good guy lots of fun.
Your tour guide is the best.
Deirdre is the best we have ever...

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5

Anonymous August 2024

"We had an amazing holiday with Back Roads Touring. Our tour director and bus driver were perfect hosts, and the tour director shared a lot of interesting history with us. Our bus driver was wonderful...

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4

Anonymous August 2024

We enjoyed a great time with back roads and saw lots of interesting places . We had good fun with fellow travellers .

5

Anonymous August 2024

Very enjoyable tour, saw and learned lots, very nice hotels. Guide and driver were excellent

5

Anonymous August 2024

A great experience, so much to see and do. Well cared for by tour guide and driver. Hotels bar one were excellent. Food extremely good. Good mix of scenery, history and culture

5

Christina Sk August 2024

The trip was organised exceptionally well. Good balance between site seeing with group and free time. Our tour guide Sarah Downey and driver Dylan, made the trip. They were fun, knowledgeable, helpful...

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5

Mark Vi July 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Back-Roads around Ireland. We felt we got to see so much more than we would have on our own, and did not have to worry about driving in Ireland which at times...

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5

Harold De July 2024

Exploring Ireland with Back-Roads tours is a fantastic way to see the country and learn some more of its history

5

Penelope Ha July 2024

Everything was thought out carefully. The best routes to see the most. Outstanding tour guide and driver. Interesting excursions full of history and beautiful scenery. Excellent hotels and meals. What...

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Full tour details covering accommodation, transport and included experiences are available in our tour notes.

FAQs

This tour explores many of Ireland’s captivating coastlines but not the Ring of Kerry. You can, however, experience sections of that breathtakingly beautiful route on our Corners of Southern Ireland tour – which can handily be combined with The Emerald Isle for an even longer Irish adventure.  

 

Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable (even in summer!), so we suggest packing plenty of layers and bringing a trusty raincoat. You might also want a pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen for those days when the sun does decide to shine.

All the tour details in one handy document available to read at your leisure!

Download tour notes

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