PRIVATE DRIVER - IRISH EXPLORER 9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS
Day 1 DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING
Your driver will meet you at Dublin Airport. Start with an introductory tour around Dublin to see the main thoroughfares of O’Connell and Nassau Streets, and some lovely public parks. Check into your Dublin-area hotel.Day 2 DUBLIN TO DONEGAL
Depart Dublin and head north toward the Brú Na Bóinne valley and visit the ancient wonders of Newgrange and Knowth. Continue your travels north to Donegal. With its windswept hills where only sheep can thrive, Donegal is renowned for woolen production and tweeds. (B)Day 3 SLIEVE LEAGUE CLIFFS & GLENGESH
After breakfast, head to Teelin to reach the best viewing point of the Slieve League sea cliffs, the highest in Europe. Afterwards, travel along the coast then head inland through the majestic Glengesh Pass for views of mountains and valleys to Donegal town, a busy shopping town which was once a Viking port, Watch demonstrations of spinning and weaving at a local woolen shop. (B)Day 4 DONEGAL TO GALWAY
Travel south to Galway and embark on a cruise of Lough Corrib for unsurpassed views of castles and various sites of both historical and cultural interest (not included and available only between April 1 – October 21 departures). (B)Day 5 SCENIC CONNEMARA
Explore scenic Connemara to admire how constantly changing cloud formations give granite hills, sparkling lakes and peat bogs an added dimension. Stop at the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory where craftsmen demonstrate fine glass cutting. Travel through the picturesque scenery of hills and lakes to visit Dan O’Hara’s Homestead. Experience traditional methods of farming, see Connemara ponies, and have a light lunch. Return to Galway for the night. (B)Day 6 CLIFFS OF MOHER & KILLARNEY
Drive through county Clare to view the Cliffs of Moher, which soar 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Walk to O’Brien’s Tower for views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. Drive through the pleasant countryside of County Clare, which is dotted with ruined castles. Discover St. Brigid’s Well, a mystical site whose waters are said to have healing powers. Enjoy lunch on your own in a coastal village. Embark on a short ferry ride across the River Shannon Estuary. Arrive in Killarney for your overnight stay. (B)Day 7 RING OF KERRY TOUR
Head out to the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s most famous and popular scenic drive. View Skellig Michael, a rocky offshore island that was featured in the film “Star Wars VII”. Pause for panoramic mountain views at Moll’s Gap. In Killarney, make sure to discover some of the excellent restaurants and lively pubs. (B)Day 8 KILLARNEY TO DUBLIN
Visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous stone or take a gentle walk through the lovely parklands and colorful gardens. Treat yourself to Irish-made goods at the Blarney Woollen Mills before traveling north. Check into your Dublin-area hotel for your last evening before departing home. (B)Day 9 DEPART FOR HOME FROM DUBLIN
Your program ends after breakfast. (B)B: Breakfast
Suggested Authentic Local Experiences:
- Gain unique insight into the history and heritage of the stunningly beautiful west of Ireland at Dan O’Hara’s Homestead where you can enjoy a farmhouse lunch.
- Enjoy a pint and see the handcrafted Game of Thrones door carved from trees seen in the series at Blakes of the Hollow Pub.
- Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin (1 night)
- Mill Park Hotel, Donegal (2 nights)
- Hotel Meyrick, Galway (2 nights)
- KillarneyTowers Hotel, Killarney (2 nights)
- Herbert Park Hotel, Dublin (1 night)
Private Driver Tour Includes:
- Services of a professional driver and vehicle
- Pick up and drop off at any location in Ireland
- Pre-booked stays for 8 nights in hotels listed above
- Full breakfast daily except on day of arrival
- A visit to one Dublin’s prime attractions, Guinness Storehouse, General Post Office Museum, Epic Ireland or Teeling Whiskey Distillery
- Ireland Insight Guide – guide with maps and suggested itineraries (one per room)
- Go-To Guide – information book with basic travel facts
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.