The Grand Tour of Ireland. Jewel Tour

Transcription

1 The Grand Tour of Ireland Jewel Tour

2 Ireland has so many experiences to offer and at Overland Ireland we have tours to suit everyone. From the relaxed to the active, all you need to do is choose the style of holiday that will allow you to enjoy Ireland at your pace. Our Jewel tours are the perfect fit for those looking for a relaxed style tour where you will experience Ireland s most loved landmarks and many hidden gems. Our Zest tours are for those who want to see experience the Emerald Isle s stunning scenery with the added spice of adventure and activities. Join us as we visit many of Ireland s best loved landmarks and off the beaten track hidden gems. Overland Jewel is a relaxed style tour that focuses on authentic experiences that capture the real Ireland. Think castles, picture perfect villages, epic scenery and allow us to introduce you to our friends and partners throughout the country. Enjoy very light activity including walking tours and kayaking (which is optional). Jewel Tours are perfect for going at a smoother pace. This is Ireland unfiltered!

3 your irish experience begins here! Jewel Tours are perfect for going at a smoother pace whilst enjoying light activity. Travelling from Dublin, you will leave the busy streets and noise behind and begin your wonderful journey along the Wild Atlantic Way. You will cover over 1,100 km of rugged Irish coastline from Kinsale to Westport. You will have a memorable experience on your Overland Ireland small group tour, exploring everything from kayaking with dolphins in Dingle Bay (optional), embracing breathtaking sights on the Ring of Kerry and visit amazing gems such as Moll s Gap, Torc Waterfall and Killarney National Park. Visit Ireland s most famous landmark The Cliffs of Moher, fall in love with the bustling bohemian Galway City and the Aran Islands, home to the stunning stone fort of Dún Aenghus, which lies 100m over the ocean. We bring you on a memorable journey of 7 days encapsulating and exploring Ireland with a diverse range of scenery, castles, adventure, history, heritage, culture and wildlife. You can enjoy light activity along your tour of a lifetime and yet glide through the days at a smooth pace.

4 your irish experience begins here! Day 1: Sunday Cork, the Rebel County Our tour begins with our departure from Dublin, where we start travelling to the magical South West. Our first stop will bring us to the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary where you will get to visit the medieval round tower, chapel, cathedral and castle steeped in 1,000 years of history. We continue our route south to one of Europe s most vibrant cities, Cork. Cork is Ireland s second largest city but people from Cork refer to it as the nation s TRUE capital. Our visit to County Cork begins with the obligatory kiss of the Blarney Stone where you will be bestowed with the gift of the gab. You will also have time to explore the gardens, castle and rock close and enjoy lunch. Our first day ends in the with a night in West Cork s stunning harbour town of Kinsale. Kinsale is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery. Seafood lovers will be spoilt for choice. total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

5 Day 2: Monday The Ring of Kerry & The Dingle Penninsula Before we leave Kinsale, you will be brought on a guided walking tour through the streets of this historic port and fishing town. The town is known for its castles, forts, galleries, shops, arts & crafts, and the recently launched Kinsale Gourmet Academy you ll never be bored in Kinsale! Our route out of Kinsale will bring us towards the Ring of Kerry. Our first stop is the beautiful heritage town of Kenmare. The Ring of Kerry is simply stunning and you will journey through such gems as Moll s Gap, Torc Waterfall and Killarney National Park. Our visit to Killarney National Park includes a tour of Ross Castle where you will discover what life was really like behind the stone walls. The castle stories will surprise you! Our day ends in the celebrated, cozy coastal town of Dingle. The evening is yours to experience the atmosphere in Dingle s famous quirky pubs, fantastic restaurants and stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions. total driving time: 2 hours 40 minutes

6 Day 3: Tuesday Dingle A special start to the morning as we head out kayaking on Dingle Bay to meet the town s most famous local, Fungie the Dolphin. Alternatively, if kayaking is not your thing, we will take you on a hike up Mount Brandon where you will be rewarded with 360 degree panoramic views of Dingle Bay and Castlegregory. And if some retail therapy is what you are really after, you can also choose to take some time out and visit the local shops. Our expert guides will then take you on a breathtaking trip along the Slea Head Drive and finish off your perfect day at the Dingle Whiskey Distillery. The distillery has won many awards for their unique whiskey and gin collections and you will be invited to sample a great selection. The distillery tour guide will also give some fantastic insights on the history of whiskey production around the world. We then return to our accommodations in Dingle where we spend our second night in this buzzing town, so you don t need to repack your suitcases. Just relax and enjoy. total driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

7 Day 4: Wednesday Cliffs of Moher & Lahinch Our morning whistles into action with our famed sheepdog trials where we will get to see border collies working their flocks. Our departure from Dingle will bring us on yet another stunning coastal route as we travel via the Conor Pass with dramatic drops, encroaching cliffs at every turn towards Castlegregory. When we reach Tralee town, we will visit the Kerry County Museum where the main gallery is home to priceless archaeological objects that narrate the story of Kerry s people and landscape from the 20th Century. Our path then brings us across the mighty River Shannon. We will cross the Shannon by ferry and say farewell to the South West. Our ferry arrives in the Banner County, County Clare which is home to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park. Rising 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs are remarkable. We will explore the cliffs by foot and let the fresh air and dramatic coastline rejuvenate and invigorate us! Capture this experience with breathtaking, envy-inducing photos. We then spend the evening in the most welcoming and colorful village of Doolin, the home-town of traditional Irish music. total driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes

8 Day 5: Thursday Galway We will leave Doolin in county Clare and begin the journey to County Galway. As we travel through the Burren, we will visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery and Poulnabrone Dolmen, a portal tomb, one of approximately 172 in Ireland. Our route takes us through the quaint fishing village of Kinvara. We will stop here for some photo opportunities at the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle. You are now in County Galway. Galway is a favourite destination for both tourists and Irish people, where entertainment is always high on the agenda. Its quirky medieval streets are alive with street entertainers and musicians all day. It historic buildings are now home to many wonderful shops, bars and restaurants. Here you will be able to enjoy a pint of Guinness, some fantastic traditional music while sitting in a building that is over 400 years old. Brightly-painted pubs heave with live music, while cafés offer front-row seats for observing street performers, musicians and local characters. Galway has also enjoyed a culinary revolution over the past number of years and to enjoy the best he city has to offer, we will bring you on a gourmet food tour. On the tour you will visit different restaurants and get to taste wonderful produce from the county s artisan food producers. As the night falls, you are free to discover the city s craic where you will most likely find a session or two. total driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes

9 Day 6: Friday The Aran Islands & Westport We leave Galway and head west to Rossaveal pier. From Rossaveal, we will sail across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands. Our destination island is the rugged Inishmore which is the largest of the three Aran Islands. We will explore the island by jaunting on its meandering roads we will no doubt meet many locals and pick up a few words in Gaelic. Our tour of the island will bring us to the stone fort of Dún Aenghus, which lies 100m over the ocean, before making our way back to the mainland. We then leave Rosaveal and head north to the stunning town of Westport in County Mayo. Along our route to Westport, we will take in the breathtaking views of Connemara National Park and the Lost Valley which is part of the famous Famine Trail. The craic continues in Westport as we unwind with some local craft beers and excellent food in Westport Town. And no visit to Westport would be complete without calling in for a traditional Irish music session in Matt Molloy s bar. total driving time: 2 hours 20 minutes

10 Day 7: Saturday Westport Wake up fresh and enjoy a wonderful walking tour of Westport town and guided tour of Westport House. Westport House is surrounded by the majestic expanse of Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and Ireland s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. Westport house is home to over 300 years of Irish heritage and this beautiful manor and grounds offer a myriad of attractions to enjoy. As we journey towards Dublin, we will visit the historic monastery of Clonmacnoise which was founded in 544 AD. total driving time: 3 hours

11 sometimes this tour may run in reverse order Day 1: Sunday Westport As we depart Dublin, we begin our epic Grand Tour of Ireland as we journey towards the West Of Ireland. Our first stop brings us to the historic monastery of Clonmacnoise, on the banks of the River Shannon, which was founded in 544 AD. Clonmacnoise is home to high crosses, round towers and the remnants of the old monastery from the time of Ireland s Golden Age of Learning. Start your first day of your tour on the picturesque town of Westport in County Mayo. We begin with a wonderful walking tour of the town and a guided tour of Westport House. Westport House was designed in the 18th century by the famous architects Richard Cassels and James Wyatt and is one of Ireland s most beautiful historic homes. It is surrounded by the majestic expanse of Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and Ireland s holy pilgrimage mountain, Croagh Patrick. A truly spectacular to the start of your Overland Ireland tour. Later this evening you are invited to unwind with some local craft beers and excellent food in Westport Town. The night continues as we experience the craic with a traditional Irish music session in Matt Molloy s bar. total driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes

12 Day 2: Monday The Aran Islands & Galway We leave Westport and travel south to Rossaveal pier in County Galway. From here, we will sail across Galway Bay to the spectacular Aran Islands. We will then arrive on the rugged island of Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands. Our island adventure will let us explore Inishmore by jaunting and meet the locals to pick up a few words in Gaelic. We will make our way to the stunning stone fort Dún Aenghus, which lies 100m over the ocean before making our way back to the mainland. On arrival at Rosaveal Pier we will take the scenic route and head to the city of Galway. Our trip will take in the breathtaking views of Connemara National Park and the Lost Valley which is part of the famous Famine Trail as we journey to the City of the Tribes. Galway is known as a bohemian town, rich in arts, culture and a vibrant social scene. This medieval city is filled with a rich history which dates back hundreds of years and the historic building are now used as banks, pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants. The city centre is completely pedestrianized, where brightly-painted pubs heave with live music and cafés offer front-row seats for observing street performers, musicians and local characters. The vibe in Galway is completely unique and one that we are sure you will thoroughly enjoy. You are free to enjoy an evening of entertainment, great food and craic in this much celebrated city. total driving time: 2 hours 10 minutes

13 Day 3: Tuesday Galway & Doolin Enjoy a culinary delight and gourmet jewels on this Galway food tour. A taste from artisan producers with devotion and commitment to showcase the best of Irish produce. Our route takes us through the quaint fishing village of Kinvara. We will stop here for some photo opportunities at the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle. You are now in County Galway. The tour will then take you further south as we depart for County Clare, passing through the Burren National Park on the way. There are many fantastic photo opportunities on this route and one highlight is the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara. We will visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery and Poulnabrone Dolmen a portal tomb, one of approximately 172 in Ireland. Then our route takes us to one of the Ireland s most celebrated natural wonders, the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. We will explore the cliffs by foot and let the fresh air and dramatic coastline embrace us! This is truly a place that will leave you feeling recharged and no doubt, there will be countless selfies taken with many profile pic updates to follow! We will spend the evening in the most welcoming and colorful village of Doolin, the home-town of traditional Irish music. total driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes

14 Day 4: Wednesday Dingle We depart Doolin and travel to Dingle in County Kerry. Our route will involve crossing the River Shannon by ferry as we leave the West of Ireland and arrive in the South of Ireland. After arriving in Dingle we set out on kayaks to meet Dingle s most famous local, Fungie the Dolphin. Alternatively, if kayaking is not your thing, we will take you on a hike up Mount Brandon with 360 degree panoramic views of Dingle Bay and Castlegregory or take some time out and visit the local shops. Let our expert guides take you on a breathtaking trip along the Slea Head drive to finish an amazing day. total driving time: 3 hours 25 minutes

15 Day 5: Thursday Galway What a way to start the day as we begin with a sheepdog demonstration. We will meet with a local sheep farmer who will be working his sheepdogs in gathering and controlling sheep movement. This is a skill that has been handed down from generation to generation. Have your cameras ready to go and you will also get to hold a lamb while on the farm visit. And no better way to finish our day than a visit to the delightful Dingle Whiskey Distillery. Here you will be able to sample their award-winning whiskey and gin along with a history of whiskey production around the world. Tonight we will stay in the cozy coastal town of Dingle. This evening, you are free to absorb the atmosphere in Dingle s famous quirky pubs, fantastic restaurants and stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions. total driving time: 1 hour

16 Day 6: Friday Kinsale We depart Dingle and drive towards the beautiful Ring of Kerry. Our first stop is the picturesque heritage town of Kenmare. Here you will discover many hidden gems on the Ring of Kerry: Moll s Gap, Torc Waterfall and Ross Castle in Killarney National Park. Your Ross Castle tour will enlighten you as to how life really was within the stone walls, be prepared for a few interesting facts! Then we head to the rebel county, County Cork. Cork has its own unique identity which you will hear in accents across the county. It is often argued by the people of Cork that it is Ireland s TRUE capital and we will not disagree while we are visiting. Your Cork experience begins with a walking tour in the historic port and fishing town of Kinsale. This is one of the most picturesque towns on the South West coast of Ireland. The town is famous for its castles, forts, galleries, shops, arts & crafts, and the recently launched Kinsale Gourmet Academy. There is so much to do that you ll never be bored in Kinsale! Our accommodation tonight is in West Cork s stunning harbour town of Kinsale, which is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery. total driving time: 2 hours 40 minutes

17 Day 7: Saturday Westport Onwards to the capital! We leave Kinsale and start our journey to Dublin City. You cannot leave Ireland without being bestowed with the gift of the gab, as you are invited to kiss the Blarney Stone. Our route will bring us to the medieval round tower, chapel, cathedral and castle steeped in 1000 years of history at The Rock of Cashel. total driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes

18 what is included and excluded in your tour? We are one of the only tour companies to include as much as we can into your tour price. So there are no hidden surprises on your tour, and this takes away the hassle about thinking of unexpected charges. You will notice the list of what s included is very abundant and covers entrance fees, transport, accommodation, WiFi on board and kayaking to name a few! Our quest is to bring your price down and your tour experience up to the max! This is possible with the power of a smaller group tour the more people the merrier and certainly the more people the cheaper price! INCLUDED 6 nights local guest house accommodation, carefully selected by our team Professional qualified Irish tour guide Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay (optional) EXCLUDED Lunch and dinner Food and Drinks Gratuities (optional) Distillery tour Jaunting Cliffs of Moher Sheepdog Demonstration WiFi on board Food Tour Great breakfast Transport to all locations by air-conditioned mini coach Rock of Cashel Entrance Blarney Stone Entrance Entrance fees to National Parks Ferry Crossings All taxes Bottled water on board We know everyone s budget and taste for food are different, so lunch and dinners are not included in your tour price. You have the freedom to choose from fine-dining or simply having some fish and chips. There are so many places along the way to suit all taste buds and all budgets. So you will be spoiled for choice! Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy great menus too from cafés and restaurants that cater for any dietary requirements.