Ultimate Ireland

Ultimate Ireland

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12 Days From

$8995

Ultimate Ireland

12 Days Starting in Belfast, United Kingdom and ending in Shannon, Ireland

Visiting: Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Dublin, Kilkenny, Blarney, Killarney, Cliffs of Moher, County Mayo, Cong, Shannon

Tour operator:

Luxury Gold

Tour code:

G209MZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

20 - 40

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $8995

NB: Prices correct on 21-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Ultimate Ireland" tour, a luxurious journey through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cities of Northern Ireland and Ireland. Begin in Belfast, where you'll explore the city's rich history and dynamic street art scene, and visit the iconic Titanic Museum. Experience the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway and the historic charm of Londonderry. In Dublin, savor the flavors of Ireland with visits to the Guinness Storehouse and Pearse Lyons Distillery. Discover the medieval allure of Kilkenny and the legendary Blarney Castle. Traverse the scenic Ring of Kerry and marvel at the Cliffs of Moher. Conclude your adventure at the majestic Ashford Castle, indulging in falconry or a historical tour. With exceptional dining, curated experiences, and magnificent stays, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Ireland's cultural and natural treasures.

Highlights

  • Belfast: Explore the city's turbulent history and street art with a local expert.

  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway with a private wildlife ranger.

  • Dublin: Experience the Guinness Storehouse and Pearse Lyons Distillery.

  • Ashford Castle: Participate in a unique falconry experience and historical tour.

  • Discover the scenic beauty of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula.

  • Explore the medieval town of Cashel and the Rock of Cashel.

  • Visit the Cliffs of Moher for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Places You'll See

Blarney Castle

Ring Of Kerry

Giant's Causeway

Trinity College, Dublin

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Energetic Belfast

Location: Belfast

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Meals Included: Dinner

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

Day 2: Highlights Of Belfast Relaxed Start

Location: Belfast

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 3: Giant's Causeway And Londonderry

Location: Giant's Causeway

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 4: Strangford Lough And Vibrant Dublin Relaxed Start

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Continue to Dublin and explore the Guinness Storehouse learning how to pull the perfect pint or visit Pearse Lyons Distillery for a private tour and a cocktail.

Day 5: A Truly Irish Experience

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A visit to Trinity College unveils the 9th century Book of Kells. Tour the capital city with a Local Expert to see O'Connell Street, the Custom House and St. Patrick's Cathedral. At a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, sip Prosecco with the museum founder Trevor White as he shares his local stories. Discover local dishes at our hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin.

Day 6: Glendalough To Kilkenny Relaxed Start

Location: Kilkenny

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 7: Banter In Blarney

Location: Blarney

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms), Killarney.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

See monastic Ireland in Cashel, famous for the spectacular Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick's Rock. Visit Blarney Castle to take part in the legend of kissing the Blarney Stone. This evening experience the hospitality and warmth that Ireland is renowned for meeting locals at a home hosted dinner with entertainment and dancing.

Day 8: Scenic Ring Of Kerry Relaxed Start

Location: Killarney

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms), Killarney.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey into Killarney National Park where sweeping mountains, epic cliffs, lush lake lands and valleysenvelope you in emerald green and blue as you wind along the iconic Ring of Kerry. Travel back in time with a traditional jaunting car ride, enjoying views of Ireland's highest Mountain Range, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks.

Day 9: Cliffs Of Moher Relaxed Start

Location: Cliffs of Moher

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Glenlo Abbey, Galway.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, abbeys and park. Stunning views beckon in County Clare as you visit the Cliffs of Moher, where rugged beauty meets the wild Atlantic. Continue to Galway's Glenlo Abbey, an 18th-century estate overlooking Lough Corrib.

Day 10: Regal County Mayo Relaxed Start

Location: County Mayo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A visit to Galway is both charming and vibrant and finds you in the heart of Ireland's culture, history and scenic beauty. Continue to the 5-star Ashford Castle where your stay begins with a lone piper escorting you over the drawbridge to this estate, once home to the Guinness family. Tonight, savor specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.

Day 11: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Location: Cong

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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

Day 12: Depart Shannon

Location: Shannon

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

What's Included

  • Choice Highlights

    Choose between two carefully selected activities in Belfast and Dublin.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Visit Giant's Causeway on a private tour with a wildlife ranger and enjoy a home-hosted culinary experience at Tracey's Farmhouse.

  • Exceptional Dining

    Enjoy a variety of dining experiences including an à la carte dinner in Belfast and a gastropub meal in Dublin.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Enjoy seamless personal assistance, exclusive reservations, and transportation tailored to your preferences.

  • Curated Experiences

    Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin.

  • Magnificent Stays

    Stay at the remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle, Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel.

  • Passport Moments

    Visit the Titanic Belfast museum and explore historic Trinity College in Dublin.

  • Personalise your day

    Join a Local Expert for a panoramic tour in Belfast or explore the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

What's Not Included

International TravelInternational travel to and from the destination is not included.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

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

Curated Experiences

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

Magnificent Stays

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

Passport Moments

  • Belfast: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
  • Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
  • Dublin: Explore historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
  • Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Local Expert, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
  • Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
  • Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
  • Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
  • Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
  • Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
  • Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
  • Galway: Visit Galway and take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbor city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
  • Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Personalise your day

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

Mode of Transport

Enjoy seamless travel with private chauffeur services, ensuring a comfortable and personalized journey from your arrival in Belfast to your departure from Shannon, with all transfers included.

Accommodation

Experience luxury at the Grand Central Hotel in Belfast, the Dylan Hotel in Dublin, Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny, The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens in Killarney, and the prestigious Ashford Castle in Cong, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour of Giant's Causeway?

    The tour of Giant's Causeway includes a private tour with a wildlife ranger who will explain the formation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and share the folklore surrounding it. The experience also focuses on conservation efforts supporting the natural habitat and animal populations.

  • What dining experiences can I expect in Dublin?

    In Dublin, you can expect to dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of the city, where you will discover favorite local dishes and enjoy a hearty meal in a unique ambiance.

  • What activities are available at Ashford Castle?

    At Ashford Castle, you can participate in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland or join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old castle, which was once the home of the Guinness family.

  • What is the significance of the visit to Trinity College in Dublin?

    The visit to Trinity College in Dublin is significant because it includes a tour of the college, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, and a viewing of the iconic Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript dating back to around 800 AD.

  • What can I expect from the culinary experience at Tracey's Farmhouse in Belfast?

    At Tracey's Farmhouse in Belfast, you will enjoy a home-hosted culinary experience where you can learn to make traditional Irish soda bread and indulge in a seasonal, farm-to-table lunch. The experience focuses on using seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients, and sourcing from the local community.

  • What is included in the tour of the Little Museum of Dublin?

    The tour of the Little Museum of Dublin includes a VIP, after-hours visit where you can sip Prosecco with the museum founder, Trevor White, as he shares local stories and insights about Dublin.

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

    Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.

  • Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?

    We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.

  • What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?

    A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.

  • Who travels with Luxury Gold?

    We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.

  • What is the role of the Well-Being Director?

    Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Majesty of the Rockies

21-Jun-2023

The itinerary was fantastic, starting in Banff at the beautiful Fairmont hotel, it set the scene for the next week. As we travelled in the coach surrounded by magnificent snow topped mountains, everyone getting excited when a black bear or elk was spotted! Standing on the glacier with the Columbian Ice Fields above , was magical. Then, on board the Rocky Mountaineer from Kamloops back to Vancouver, was very relaxing. Finishing our trip at the beautiful Douglas hotel was a lovely way to end what was a most memorable trip. Thank you *Personal Information removed by Feefo* and Luxury Gold. Will go home with fantastic memories of a very special part of the world

Trusted Customer  

Ultimate Italy

26-Jun-2023

Trip itinerary was all that we expected. We were treated like royalty at every turn. Our consierge *Personal Information removed by Feefo* was the most loving, caring person that I’ve ever seen, she accomodated our many needs flawlessly and conscientiosly, including special care for those amongst us who had trouble managing the difficult walking conditions which we encountered.She was a true professional and made us feel loke family. Her humor and social skills got everyone together as one .I don’t know how much you pay her, but it isn’t enough.

Trusted Customer  

Spain and Portugal In Style

15-Jun-2023

The guides were amazing, the hotels very nice, the bus was extremely comfortable. Some of the bus days were rather long. Our concierge guide, *personal info removed by Feefo* was beyond terrific. He anticipated needs, was so kind and very organized. Never a misstep

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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.

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