Ireland's Ancient South (Hotel)

Dublin - Rock of Dunamase - Cashel - Blarney Castle - Kinsale. Departing Dublin, we head south to the Rock of Dunamase. This imposing Celtic fortification was once a thriving early Christian settlement before it was pillaged by Vikings in 842 AD. You'll have free time here to explore.

Continuing south, we arrive in Cashel, a charming town where you can enjoy lunch and discover the iconic Rock of Cashel. Perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop, this medieval cluster of buildings is globally renowned. If time allows, visit the nearby Hore Abbey, the haunting ruins of Ireland’s last medieval Cistercian monastery.

Our tour then takes us to Blarney Castle on the outskirts of Cork. Wander through the castle grounds, stroll through the woodland, and perhaps even kiss the famous Blarney Stone to acquire the legendary "gift of the gab."

We then skirt the picturesque coastline southwards to Kinsale. This charming fishing village is our overnight destination. Why not head out to one of the local pubs to sample a top notch lcoal Guinness?

Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.

Accommodation: Actons Hotel, Trident Hotel or similar

Kinsale - Drombeg Stone Circle - Mizen Head - Bantry - Kinsale. Our first stop this morning is the Old Head of Kinsale - a headland view that will surely jolt you awake.

Next, we take in the eerie Drombeg Stone Circle, locally known as the Druid’s Altar. Excavations at this site revealed a burial urn at the center of these 17 standing stones. We then move on to the Altar Wedge Tomb, a megalithic tomb that has stood since the end of the Stone Age.

Next, we venture to Ireland’s most southwestern point along the Wild Atlantic Way - Mizen Head. They say photos can never quite capture the majesty of Mizen Head, but you’re welcome to try. You'll want to snap a few to immortalize the untamed beauty of the Atlantic waves crashing against the rocks below. Even if you're afraid of heights, crossing the bridge is worthwhile for that iconic cliffside view and a visit to the Signal Station. You'll also have time to grab a bite at the visitor centre.

Our final stop of the day is the picturesque harbour of Bantry Town. There is free time to explore the charming shops, meet friendly locals, or perhaps visit Bantry House & Gardens, inspired by the grand palazzos encountered by the second Earl of Bantry during his European travels. We then return to Kinsale for the evening.

Accommodation: Actons Hotel, Trident Hotel or similar

Kinsale - Charles Fort - Midleton Distillery - Cobh - Waterford. Our first stop today is the spectacular Charles Fort - one of Ireland’s largest and most impressive military installations. This massive star-shaped fortress has played pivotal roles in Irish history.

We then enjoy a visit to the Midleton Distillery Cork (formerly Jameson) for a fascinating tour of their facility and a taste of their exceptional whiskey.

Our journey continues to the picturesque town of Cobh, where you’ll have free time for lunch and exploration. Will it be the Titanic Experience, the grand cathedral, or the historic centre that captures your interest?

Our overnight stop is in the seaside town of Waterford. Along the way, we’ll take a scenic coastal route, making spontaneous stops for photos. On arrival in Waterford, the evening is at leisure.

Waterford - Jerpoint Abbey - Kilkenny - Kells Priory - Wateford. This morning we explore Jerpoint Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, now in beautiful ruins. The abbey showcases captivating Romanesque and Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe.

Our next stop is the lively city of Kilkenny, nestled along the banks of the River Nore. Kilkenny boasts a vibrant personality, so we're granting you ample time here to acquaint yourself. Kick things off with an interactive tour at the Smithwick's Experience, an 18th-century brewery where you can savour some of their renowned ale. After that, the city is yours to explore at your leisure. With its abundance of shops, eateries, museums, and the impressive Kilkenny Castle, you'll find plenty to keep you enthralled.

Our final stop of the day is at Kells Priory, one of Ireland's largest medieval monuments. While the priory's infirmary, workshop, kitchen, and mill lie in ruins, the medieval defenses surrounding the site have earned it the local nickname, the 'Seven Castles of Kells'. Returning to Waterford, the evening is free.

Waterford - New Ross - Powerscourt House - Dublin. Our first stop is the town of New Ross, nestled on the River Barrow, where we'll visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship. This faithful replica of an 1840s emigrant vessel offers a poignant glimpse into the harrowing experiences of famine-era emigrants.

Next, we journey to the renowned Glendalough Monastic Site. Here, you'll have time to explore the picturesque lakes, delve into the site's history at the visitor centre, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the ruins.

The final stop of our tour is Powerscourt House and Gardens. Soak up the breathtaking views and meticulously landscaped gardens of this country estate, discovering hidden nooks, ornamental lakes, and elegant statues along the way. We then complete our return journey to Dublin.

Please note: This tour ends at 18:00 - Dublin Nassau Street Drop Off, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.