Focus on Ireland - Small Group
Focus on Ireland - Small Group
$3250
Focus on Ireland - Small Group
7 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Adare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cobh, Blarney Castle, Cork, Kilkenny
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland with the "Focus on Ireland - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the vibrant streets of Dublin to the historic heart of Galway, the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and the charming village of Adare. Explore the scenic beauty of Killarney National Park, either on a horse-drawn jaunting car or a gentle hike, and traverse the stunning Ring of Kerry. Discover the rich history of Cobh and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a farm-to-table dinner in Killarney, and stay in comfortable accommodations throughout your journey. Travel in style aboard a luxurious coach, with personal radio headsets and complimentary Wi-Fi ensuring a seamless experience. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and local charm, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an intimate and enriching Irish adventure.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
- Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Top Rated Highlights
- Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
- Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
- Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre 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.
- Adare: Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
- 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.
- Cobh: The Queenstown Story at Cobh retraces the steps of Irish emigration from the famine of 1845 to the great ocean liner era of the 1950s. This is a must for those with Irish ancestors who crossed the Atlantic during this time.
- Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You’ll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.
- Kilkenny: Take in the sights of the medieval city of Kilkenny with its majestic castle and river walk.
Make Travel Matter
Killarney: Meet passionate restaurant owners John and Freda at their beautiful guesthouse in Killarney, where you'll hear more about their Farm-to-Table concept, while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients sourced within a five mile radius. John and Freda have a policy that all food is sourced locally from farms and the coach of the Emerald Isle. On the farm they also grow and harvest all their own fruit and veg. They educate their visitors about sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
Authentic Dining
Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.
Cork: Join in the 'craic' over dinner with fabulous local flavours in a city famed for its food.
Insight Choice
Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Itinerary
Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Meals Included: Dinner
Meet your Travel Director at 14:00 for an orientation of Dublin. Pass the St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christchurch Cathedral. See the 9th century Book of Kells. Walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College. Enjoy a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over the course of the evening.
Day 2: To Galway, City Of The Tribes Relaxed Start
Location: Dublin, Galway
Accommodation: Harbour Hotel Galway.
Accommodation Name: Harbor, Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Dublin and set off through the delightful landscapes of the Emerald Isle. Cross Ireland's longest river, the river Shannon, to reach historic Galway, the City of the Tribes, at the mouth of the Corrib River. Easily one of Ireland’s most fun and lively cities, the streets are lined with buskers, the region is known for its famous oysters and the pubs are full of Irish charm. Join your Travel Director to see the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before setting off for his discovery of America. Also see the pre-medieval Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy.
Day 3: The Cliffs Of Moher, Adare And Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Adare, Killarney
Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take the scenic route through the mysterious rocky limestone landscape of the Burren, with its underground caverns, streams and rare flora. Stop at the Exhibition Centre, situated next to the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher with breathtaking views of the Clare Coast. Continue past the city of Limerick, stop in quaint Adare and take a relaxed village walk to see its thatched-roof cottages. In the evening, stay in the center of the action in lively Killarney. Gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry, Killarney has been welcoming travellers, who appreciate the spectacular scenery of woodlands and lakes, for over 250 years.
Day 4: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Killarney
Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning enjoy an Insight Choice. Choose to join a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, admire incredible scenery on a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. After, take a leisurely excursion around the magnificent Ring of Kerry with stunning views of mountains and sea. Pass through the small towns of Killorglin, where the famous Puck Fair takes place, and Cahersiveen, birthplace of the great patriot, Daniel O'Connell. Follow the narrow road as it winds along the cliffs to the fishing town of Waterville. Continue through delightful villages like Sneem and cross the peat bogs of the Black Mountains to Moll’s Gap to admire Queen Victoria’s Ladies View. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a Farm-to-Table dinner. Enjoy some Irish home cooking at the family-run kitchen of chef John Sheehan. Join John and his wife, Freda, for drinks and a personal insight into classic Irish recipes that are loved throughout the world and help preserve this intangible cultural heritage. Then, settle down for a night of great food and drink in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Day 5: Cobh And Blarney Castle On The Way To Cork Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney, Cobh, Blarney Castle, Cork
Accommodation: Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City.
Accommodation Name: Maldron South Mall, Cork
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive to the historic port town of Cobh, which was the last port of call for the Titanic. Walk through the Queenstown Story exhibition at the Heritage Centre, which recounts the era of Irish emigration and the life of this once great passenger port. Continue to visit the 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence - once kissed, never forgotten! Then Continue on to Cork along the spacious Grand Parade and South Mall and see the City Hall and fine Georgian houses en route to your hotel. In the evening, raise your glass and revel in rich flavours at a lively dinner.
Day 6: Kilkenny And Dublin
Location: Cork, Kilkenny, Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive through prime farmland to the medieval city of Kilkenny, with its majestic castle and river walk. Browse the medieval mile showcasing the hub of Ireland’s arts and crafts scene along its narrow lanes. Then, return to Dublin and your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure to further explore if you wish.
Day 7: Depart Dublin
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your memorable trip comes to an end.
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 4 dinners and 6 breakfasts.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Killarney: a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a gentle hike with a nature guide.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Baggage Handling
Your bags are carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
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Optional Transfers
If your flights are outside the scheduled times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 6 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- 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.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- 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 Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- 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. See the enchanting college campus 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.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's 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.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are offered in Killarney during the tour?
In Killarney, you have the option to explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with local jarveys or join a gentle hike with a nature guide to admire the stunning mountains, lakes, woods, and waterfalls. You can also stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate.
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What is the significance of the Cliffs of Moher visit?
The Cliffs of Moher are a highlight of the tour, offering breathtaking views of the Clare Coast. The cliffs rise over 700 feet high and provide insights into their geology, history, and the species that find sanctuary there. The visit includes access to the Exhibition Center, enhancing the experience with educational insights.
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How does the tour incorporate sustainable practices?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Killarney, where you meet John and Freda, passionate restaurant owners who practice a Farm-to-Table concept. They source all food locally within a five-mile radius and educate visitors about sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
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What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several authentic dining experiences, such as a warm and friendly dinner in Dublin with your Travel Director, and a lively dinner in Cork featuring local flavors. Additionally, there is a Farm-to-Table dinner in Killarney, where you can enjoy Irish home cooking and learn about classic Irish recipes.
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What are some of the historical sites visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites, including the 9th century Book of Kells at Trinity College in Dublin, the medieval Church of St. Nicholas in Galway, the 15th century Blarney Castle, and the medieval city of Kilkenny with its majestic castle and river walk.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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