Irish Elegance - Classic Group

Irish Elegance - Classic Group

73 Views
8 Days From

$3925

$3336

Irish Elegance - Classic Group

8 Days Starting and ending in Dublin

Visiting: Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Connemara National Park, Cong

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

B907ZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $3925 $3336 Barrhead discount: -$589 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Irish Elegance - Classic Group" tour and immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Northern Ireland. Begin your journey in Dublin, exploring its iconic landmarks and the historic Trinity College. Experience the magic of Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the legendary Blarney Stone or enjoy a guided tour of its lush gardens. Marvel at the breathtaking views along the Ring of Kerry and the towering Cliffs of Moher. Discover the stunning architecture of Galway's cathedral and the Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy a majestic stay at Ashford Castle, escorted by a lone piper, and indulge in world-class dining. Travel in comfort with seamless transportation, including a ferry crossing over the Shannon Estuary. With a blend of cultural, historical, and natural highlights, this tour offers an unforgettable Irish adventure.

Choice Highlights

  • 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, 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.

Top Rated Highlights

  • 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. This large estuary is where the River Shannon flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
  • 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.
  • Galway: Visit the stunning cathedral of the City of Tribes. Admire its Renaissance style dome and unique rose shaped window.
  • Connemara: 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.
  • Ashford Castle: On arrival, you are escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper for a majestic entrance fit for royalty.

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.

Authentic Dining

Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.

Ashford Castle: Dine on delicious Farm-to-Table fare in a stylish setting at the iconic George V Dining Room.

Insight Choice

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, 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.

Places You'll See

Ring Of Kerry

Trinity College, Dublin

Ring Of Kerry

Trinity College, Dublin

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: In Dublin’S Fair City

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.

Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin

Meals Included: Dinner

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. See 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 each other over a pleasant evening.

Day 2: Cashel And Blarney, Heading For Killarney

Location: Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Killarney

Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.

Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 Insight 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’?

Day 3: 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

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.

Day 4: The Cliffs Of Moher And On To Galway

Location: Cliffs of Moher

Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel, Galway.

Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast, Galway

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 700 feet 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.

Day 5: Captivating Connemara Relaxed Start

Location: Galway, Connemara National Park, Galway

Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel, Galway.

Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast, Galway

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 6: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Location: Galway, Cong

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Accommodation Name: Ashford Castle, Cong

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sitting on the edge of Lough Corrib and nestled on the border of County Galway and County Mayo, is the delightful Cong. You may recognise much of the town as it was used as the location in the 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' With free time to explore this quintessential Irish village, see the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey. Then a short drive down the road leads you to Ashford Castle, the highlight of your travels. As you arrive a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. Creative cooking, locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu awaits. Gentlemen, a jacket is required.

Day 7: Across The Emerald Isle To Dublin Relaxed Start

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.

Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the morning and perhaps a stroll on the estate? Then cross the midlands to Dublin where the rest of the day is free for independent activities and maybe some last minute shopping.

Day 8: Depart Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport.

What's Included

  • Guided Tour of Dublin

    Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a Local Expert that brings to life Dublin’s architectural treasures and history.

  • Visit to Blarney Castle

    Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence.

  • Ring of Kerry Experience

    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.

  • Cliffs of Moher Visit

    Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves.

  • Connemara National Park Exploration

    Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills.

  • Stay at Ashford Castle

    Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort.

  • Dining Experiences

    Enjoy 4 dinners and 7 breakfasts during your tour.

  • Transport

    Travel in comfort as you explore Ireland's scenic landscapes, with transportation including a ferry crossing over the Shannon Estuary and a journey along the iconic Ring of Kerry.

  • Accommodation

    Experience the charm of Ireland with stays at the Clayton Burlington Road in Dublin, Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, Connemara Coast in Galway, and the luxurious Ashford Castle in Cong.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Dublin are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)

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.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience is offered at Blarney Castle?

    At Blarney Castle, you have the option to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is believed to bestow the gift of eloquence. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of the lush gardens with a senior gardener.

  • What can I expect during the Ring of Kerry experience?

    During the Ring of Kerry experience, you will marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula. You will also visit a family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices.

  • What activities are available at Ashford Castle?

    At Ashford Castle, you can explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle is also a highlight, offering creative cooking with locally sourced ingredients.

  • What is included in the dining experiences during the tour?

    The tour includes 4 dinners and 7 breakfasts, providing a variety of dining experiences throughout your journey.

  • What is the significance of the Cliffs of Moher visit?

    The Cliffs of Moher are a highlight of the tour, where you can enjoy a walk along the cliffs that rise approximately 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. The visit includes a stop at the Exhibition Center to learn more about this natural wonder.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily

02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Save on this tour

Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!

Send me one now.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$4075 $3464

Barrhead discount: -$611

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$3925 $3336

Barrhead discount: -$589

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$4250

Sunday - Sunday

May 11, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$4225 $3718

Barrhead discount: -$507

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$4150 $3652

Barrhead discount: -$498

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
$4150 $3652

Barrhead discount: -$498

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025
$4150 $3652

Barrhead discount: -$498

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$4175 $3674

Barrhead discount: -$501

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 13, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025
$4175 $3674

Barrhead discount: -$501

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$4175 $3674

Barrhead discount: -$501

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
$4175 $3674

Barrhead discount: -$501

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$4375 $3850

Barrhead discount: -$525

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$4375

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$4350 $3828

Barrhead discount: -$522

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$4375

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$4375 $3850

Barrhead discount: -$525

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 05, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$4075

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$4075

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 19, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$4075

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 26, 2026 - May 03, 2026
$4325

Sunday - Sunday

May 10, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$4395

Sunday - Sunday

May 17, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$4395

Sunday - Sunday

May 24, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$4395

Sunday - Sunday

May 31, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$4425

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 07, 2026 - Jun 14, 2026
$4425

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 14, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026
$4425

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 21, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
$4425

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 12, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 19, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 02, 2026 - Aug 09, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 16, 2026 - Aug 23, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 23, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 30, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$4425

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$4450

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$4350

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

Range

Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.


We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.


Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

award icon

Expert Knowledge

We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

atal icon

Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


Similar Tours