Day 1
Accommodation
Central 5-Star Boutique Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is from 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00 noon.
Full valet parking services are available at a rate of €25 per night per vehicle.
Included Unique Activities
Guinness Storehouse Tour
Dublin, County Dublin
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable Irish welcome, delving deep into the wonder of world-famous Guinness! The brewery is located in the heart of Dublin at historic St. James Gate. Originally a small brewery, it is now a 7-story visitor experience that brings the history, story, and taste of the Emerald Isle’s iconic brew to life.
Imagine the world’s largest pint glass (Guinness did start the Guinness Book of World Records, after all) rising to the top of the building. Amazing. The dramatic story begins 250-years-ago and incorporates a family legacy handed down through generations. You’ll end your time here at the Gravity Bar, enjoying a complimentary pint of Guinness. Relax and enjoy spectacular views of Dublin. Plan to spend 1 ½ to 2 hours here.
Meet & Greet Private Airport Transfer - Dublin
Dublin, County Dublin
Your tour includes a luxurious private transfer from Dublin Airport to your Downtown Hotel. Once you have your luggage, proceed through to the Arrivals Hall, and look for your driver. He or she will be holding an iPad with your name clearly on it. They will quickly escort you to your ride, taking you to your Dublin City Center Hotel. There is no searching for shuttles, cabs, or trying to decide which route to take. This is the perfect start to a well-deserved, relaxing vacation. Your Irish adventure begins with Authentic Vacations’ 5-star customer service!
Must-See Sites
Grafton Street, County Dublin
Location: Grafton Street runs from Saint Stephen's Green in the south to College Green in the north
Grafton Street is without doubt Ireland's premier shopping street - in terms of retail rent, it's the fifth most expensive in the world! With beautiful historic buildings housing iconic Irish businesses such as Brown Thomas, Weir & Sons and Bewley’s Grafton Street Café, Grafton Street offers an experience that cannot be found elsewhere in the country. Since the 1980s, the street has been mostly pedestrianized, with the exception of a short stretch that runs between Nassau Street and College Green and contains the 18th century Trinity College Provost's House, home to the head of the college. If shopping's not your thing, Grafton Street is still worth checking out. It's a bustling, atmospheric spot, and high quality street performers including musicians, poets and mime-artists commonly perform to the shopping crowds.
Trinity College, County Dublin
On The Map: Trinity College is located in the heart of Dublin City. Just south of the River Liffey, the campus grounds are bordered by Grafton, College, Pearse, Nassau & Leinster Streets.
Time spent in Dublin would not be complete without a visit to Trinity College. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st, it is one of the oldest universities in the British Isles, and the very oldest in Ireland. Standing on a self contained site in the very heart of Dublin, the College itself covers some 35 acres of cobbled squares and green spaces surrounded by buildings which represent the accumulated architectural riches of nearly three centuries. Although Trinity offers much of interest to the visitor, the crown jewel is without doubt the Book of Kells. The Book is an 'illuminated manuscript', globally celebrated for its lavish decoration. The manuscript contains the four Gospels in Latin based on a Vulgate text, written on vellum (prepared calfskin), in a bold and expert version of the script known as 'insular majuscule'. Written in the 9th century, it has been on display in the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin from the mid-19th century, and attracts over 500,000 visitors a year.
St Stephen's Green, County Dublin
On The Map: St Stephen's Green is located in the heart of Dublin City, at the southern end of bustling Grafton Street - the city's premier shopping street. The famous Stephen's Green Shopping Centre is adjacent to the northwestern corner of the Green itself.
Stephen's Green is Ireland's best known Victorian public park. Originally enclosed by a wall in 1664, access to the 22 acre Green was restricted to local residents until 1880. The Green has been maintained in the original Victorian layout with extensive perimeter tree and shrub planting, as well as spectacular spring and summer Victorian bedding. The herbaceous border also provides colour from early spring to late autumn. Sanctuary from inclement weather can be obtained in the Victorian lakeside shelter or in the Victorian Swiss shelters in the center of the park. Over 3.5 km of pathways are accessible for all users. The waterfall and Pulham rock work on the western side of the green are worth of a visit, likewise the ornamental lake which provides a home for waterfowl and a garden for the visually impaired. A number of sculptures are located throughout the green. A children's playground is a popular attraction of the park. Lunchtime concerts are performed during the summer months.
Dublin, County Dublin
On the Map: Dublin, Ireland's Capital City is located on the east coast of the country, and is well served by infrastructure linking it to all parts of the Emerald Isle.
Dublin is a lively cosmopolitan city, filled with personality, pizzazz, and culture. You might spend time strolling the streets, soaking up the atmosphere, relaxing in cafes and pubs, or you could check out a world of historical, literary, and musical delights. A return visit to the Book of Kells, Phoenix Park (twice the size of Central Park), Georgian Dublin, Stephen’s Green, Dublin Castle, the National Museum, Kilmainham Gaol, and the Hugh Lane Municipal Art gallery are all possibilities. Ramble through Grafton Street, a shopper’s paradise, or simply relax and remember this most wonderful tour of the Emerald Isle.
Arrive at
Arrive at Dublin Airport, County Dublin
Arrive at Dublin Airport after your overnight flight if you are coming from the U.S. or Canada.
Dublin is Ireland's main airport - located just north of Dublin City.
If you are heading downtown, it takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic.
There are 2 terminals at Dublin Airport, the second of which opened to air traffic in November 2010.
Most flights from the U.S. (on Aer Lingus, Delta, United, US Airways & American Airlines) arrive into Terminal 2.
Overnight Location
Dublin, County Dublin
On the Map: Dublin, Ireland's Capital City is located on the east coast of the country, and is well served by infrastructure linking it to all parts of the Emerald Isle.
Dublin is a lively cosmopolitan city, filled with personality, pizzazz, and culture. You might spend time strolling the streets, soaking up the atmosphere, relaxing in cafes and pubs, or you could check out a world of historical, literary, and musical delights. A return visit to the Book of Kells, Phoenix Park (twice the size of Central Park), Georgian Dublin, Stephen’s Green, Dublin Castle, the National Museum, Kilmainham Gaol, and the Hugh Lane Municipal Art gallery are all possibilities. Ramble through Grafton Street, a shopper’s paradise, or simply relax and remember this most wonderful tour of the Emerald Isle.
Day 2
Accommodation
Central 5-Star Boutique Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is from 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00 noon.
Full valet parking services are available at a rate of €25 per night per vehicle.
Included Unique Activities
Food, Folklore & Fairies
Dublin, County Dublin
Discover how Irish people lived in times past while enjoying a traditional candlelit dinner in O’Sheas Pub. The evening unfolds in an intimate setting above the pub. As you relax between courses, be taken back in time by renowned storytellers, to the fascinating world of Ireland long ago, when the culture was one of the mind, spirit and imagination. Discover how Irish people lived off the land and why the humble potato so influenced our history. Explore their beliefs and superstitions surrounding the otherworld of the fairies. Listen to the magical tales they told as they gathered around the fire at night, and enjoy live traditional Irish music and ballads while having dinner.
Must-See Sites
Old Jameson Distillery, County Dublin
On The Map: The Old Jameson Distillery is located in the Smithfield area of Dublin City. Walking from Trinity College (approx 20 minutes), head west on Dame Street to Lord Edward Street to Christchurch Place. Carry on past Christchurch Cathedral and take the next right onto Bridge Street. Head straight over Merchants Quay and Fr. Mathew bridge across Arran Quay. Walk up Church Street past St. Michans Cathedral and then take the next left onto May Lane /Bow Street. Alternately, the Distillery is Stop 20 on the 'hop-on, hop-off' Dublin Bus tour.
Set in the heart of Ireland’s thriving capital city, Dublin, The Old Jameson Distillery captures the imagination and the spirit of Ireland. Originally built in 1780, this Distillery was once considered one of the largest and finest Distilleries in the world. Tours operate 7 days a week all year, except selected dates at Christmas. The journey begins with an audio visual presentation. Expert guides then lead you through the fascinating story of Jameson, one of the world’s most famous whiskies. Follow the path through malting, milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling and maturing. The journey is completed with a visit to the Jameson Discovery Bar where you can enjoy the ultimate whiskey tasting experience - a complimentary glass of Jameson and mixer plus a chance for selected volunteers to become a "Qualified Irish Whiskey Taster". After your tour, browse in the gift shop or lunch in the restaurant or bar and soak up the unique atmosphere.
Dublin Museums, County Dublin
Dublin has long been recognized as a center of art & culture. The city is literally awash with interesting museums and galleries of all types and sizes.
It's impossible to make note of them all, but three of the best are:
The Chester Beatty Library: Alfred Chester Beatty, a New Yorker donated a fantastic collection of books to the city of Dublin. Highlights include papyrus scripts, valuable copies of the Koran, Buddhist & Far Eastern literature, as well as early mediaeval manuscripts.
National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology: Enter this museum and be transported back in time to almost 7000BC! Gold and other treasures recount a varied Irish history through Christian and pre-Christian times. A range of exhibitions also present artifacts from many other cultures and regions.
National Gallery: Here you can admire European works of art from the late Middle Ages to the end of the 19th century. As well as Irish artists, the Gallery also boasts works by Angelico, Goya, Gainsborough & Reynolds, to name but a few.
Dublin, County Dublin
On the Map: Dublin, Ireland's Capital City is located on the east coast of the country, and is well served by infrastructure linking it to all parts of the Emerald Isle.
Dublin is a lively cosmopolitan city, filled with personality, pizzazz, and culture. You might spend time strolling the streets, soaking up the atmosphere, relaxing in cafes and pubs, or you could check out a world of historical, literary, and musical delights. A return visit to the Book of Kells, Phoenix Park (twice the size of Central Park), Georgian Dublin, Stephen’s Green, Dublin Castle, the National Museum, Kilmainham Gaol, and the Hugh Lane Municipal Art gallery are all possibilities. Ramble through Grafton Street, a shopper’s paradise, or simply relax and remember this most wonderful tour of the Emerald Isle.
Temple Bar, County Dublin
Location: Temple Bar lies in the heart of Dublin City. Located on the south bank of the River Liffey, and just west of Trinity College and Grafton Street.
The lively and vibrant Temple Bar District - Dublin's Cultural Quarter, is well worth a visit. Best known for being Dublin’s major nightlife center, Temple Bar comes alive after dark, with many pubs, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from. For those visiting during the day, the area boasts a timeless charm, with narrow cobbled streets and a plethora of cultural organizations, such as the Irish Film Centre & Project Arts Centre. There are also a variety of small galleries and stores - perfect for a day of shopping. While Temple Bar after dark might not be for everyone, the area is the perfect spot to spend a sunny afternoon.
Day 3
Accommodation
Opulent Castle Lodging - Cong, County Mayo
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
Free parking is available onsite.
Included Unique Activities
Afternoon Tea at Ashford Castle
Cong, County Mayo
Today you'll have an opportunity to savor the long established tradition of Afternoon Tea at Ashford Castle. This delectable passtime has been wonderfully preserved at Ashford Castle since 1868. Indeed, you’ll notice the original silver tea set displayed in the Connaught Room, which was presented to Lord and Lady Ardilaun to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in 1896. With spectacular views from the comfort of the Castle’s elegant interior, take your time to relish and appreciate every delicious moment. The Afternoon Tea menu offers guests a wide selection of speciality teas, delicate finger sandwiches, warm freshly baked scones with lashings of cream and home-made jam, not to mention tasty pastries and cupcakes. It’s the perfect way to spend a refined, leisurely afternoon with friends! The dress code for afternoon tea is not strict, but smart-casual attire is recommended.
Afternoon Tea:
Served 1:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm and 4:00pm daily
Must-See Sites
Cong, County Mayo
On the Map: Cong is located in County Mayo in the midwest of Ireland. The village is 45 minutes/ 43km north of Galway City, and is most easily accessed via the R334/R346 road that intersects with the main N84 road connecting Galway & Castlebar cities.
Cong is without doubt most famous for being the location of John Ford's 1951 classic, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The Quiet Man Cottage Museum allows visitors to relive the movie as if actually on-set. Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artifacts, costumes - etc. are authentic reproductions. The majestic remains of Cong Abbey are the relics of an Augustinian abbey founded in the 12th century by Turlough O'Connor, King of Connaught and High King of Ireland. The Cross of Cong, an ornate processional cross intended for the abbey, is now in Dublin's National Museum. Ashford Castle, perhaps Ireland's most exquisite castle hotel is located just outside the village.
Quiet Man Bridge, County Galway
On The Map: The Quiet Man Bridge is located five miles from the village of Oughterard, in County Galway in the west of Ireland.
The Quiet Man Bridge is internationally famous as a location for the 1951 movie, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The film is regarded as one of the top 100 ever made, and tourists by the busload stop to photograph it. Leam Bridge, as it is known locally, is in a condition almost identical to 1951. This is the bridge where Wayne's character, Sean Thornton dreams of his youth in the opening scenes of the movie and hears his dead mother's voice describing White O'Morn cottage. More than 50 years have passed since Irish-American director John Ford shot his classic movie, but interest in the film has never been stronger. Shot on location in the west of Ireland John Ford’s beloved romantic comedy The Quiet Man has been celebrated for its larger-than-life portrayal of the Emerald Isle. Most of the Quiet Man outdoor scenes were shot in various locations in counties Galway and Mayo - mainly around the scenic Maam Valley on the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle and the nearby village of Cong.
Enroute Sightseeing
Clonmacnoise, County Offaly
On the Map: Clonmacnoise is located on the banks of the River Shannon in the very middle of Ireland. The major town of Athlone is only a few miles to the north, through which the main M6 road passes. The M6 connects Dublin City (to the east) and Galway City (to the west)
The ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise is situated at the crossroads of Ireland in County Offaly and dates back almost 1,500 years. St. Ciaran, the son of an Ulsterman who had settled in Connaught, chose the site in 545 AD because of its ideal location at the junction of river and road travel in Celtic Ireland. The location borders the three provinces of Connaught, Munster and Leinster. The monastery is on the east side of the River Shannon, in what was then the Kingdom of Meath, but occupying a position so central it was the burial-place of many of the kings of Connaught as well as those of Tara. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches (10th -13th century), two round towers, three high crosses and the largest collection of Early Christian grave-slabs in Western Europe. The original high crosses and a selection of grave-slabs are on display in the visitor centre. The long and varied history of Clonmacnoise is recounted in an audiovisual presentation shown in the visitor centre. There are also exhibitions that are dedicated to the flora, fauna and landscape of the region.
Galway, County Galway
On the Map: Galway is a coastal city, located in County Galway in the west of Ireland. Galway is well-served by a good network of roads - the M6/N6 from Dublin (to the east) and M18/N18 from Limerick & Cork (to the south).
In a recent nationwide survey the people of Galway were found to be Ireland's happiest! And visiting Galway City, the capital of their county it is not hard to see why. It is a lively university city of narrow streets, quaint shopfronts, bustling pubs and stunning surrounding scenery. It has always attracted a bohemian mix of musicians, artists and intellectuals and that attitude is palpable as you walk the streets. Galway has been commercially important since the 11th century when it was a centre for trade with Spain and Portugal. In 1477 Christopher Columbus paid a visit. Galway earned the title “City of the Tribes” around that time, when it was ruled by 14 wealthy merchant families. Today it is lively, with loads of things to do, and is so popular that it can get very crowded in summer, especially during the annual Galway Races. The annual Arts Festival also attracts thousands, especially for its street parade, organized by the multi-award winning production company, Macnas. Its famous Druid Theatre produces and stages plays and has toured internationally, winning awards, including Tonys on Broadway.
Overnight Location
Cong, County Mayo
On the Map: Cong is located in County Mayo in the midwest of Ireland. The village is 45 minutes/ 43km north of Galway City, and is most easily accessed via the R334/R346 road that intersects with the main N84 road connecting Galway & Castlebar cities.
Cong is without doubt most famous for being the location of John Ford's 1951 classic, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The Quiet Man Cottage Museum allows visitors to relive the movie as if actually on-set. Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artifacts, costumes - etc. are authentic reproductions. The majestic remains of Cong Abbey are the relics of an Augustinian abbey founded in the 12th century by Turlough O'Connor, King of Connaught and High King of Ireland. The Cross of Cong, an ornate processional cross intended for the abbey, is now in Dublin's National Museum. Ashford Castle, perhaps Ireland's most exquisite castle hotel is located just outside the village.
Day 4
Accommodation
Opulent Castle Lodging - Cong, County Mayo
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
Free parking is available onsite.
Included Unique Activities
Falconry at Ashford Castle - Hawk Walk
Cong, County Mayo
Ireland’s School of Falconry is the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland and offers you the chance to fly hawks around the beautiful castle grounds and woodlands during a private Hawk Walk. On arrival, you are greeted by your Falconry Instructor and introduced to your hawks but, within minutes, you will be setting off to fly your hawks free. As you fly the hawks, your falconer will explain all about the hawks’ eyesight, their speed and agility and how the hawks are trained. As you walk through the woodlands, your hawks will closely follow you, flying from tree to tree, before swooping down to land back on your gloved fists whenever you ask them to do so. You will never forget the moment when your hawks’ first swoop down from a tree and land back on your gloved fists!
Must-See Sites
Cong, County Mayo
On the Map: Cong is located in County Mayo in the midwest of Ireland. The village is 45 minutes/ 43km north of Galway City, and is most easily accessed via the R334/R346 road that intersects with the main N84 road connecting Galway & Castlebar cities.
Cong is without doubt most famous for being the location of John Ford's 1951 classic, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The Quiet Man Cottage Museum allows visitors to relive the movie as if actually on-set. Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artifacts, costumes - etc. are authentic reproductions. The majestic remains of Cong Abbey are the relics of an Augustinian abbey founded in the 12th century by Turlough O'Connor, King of Connaught and High King of Ireland. The Cross of Cong, an ornate processional cross intended for the abbey, is now in Dublin's National Museum. Ashford Castle, perhaps Ireland's most exquisite castle hotel is located just outside the village.
Westport, County Mayo
On the Map: Westport enjoys a coastal location in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland. The town is accessed via the N59 road from Clifden (to the south), or N5 road from Castlebar (to the east).
Westport is a postcard-pretty town with as lovely a main street as you'll be likely to find anywhere in Ireland. The town lies in the shadow of Croagh Patrick with Clew Bay and its 365 islands just to the west. While in Westport be sure to visit Westport House and climb at least a little of Croagh Patrick. Westport House dates from 1730 and offers everything from a dungeon to a zoo! Croagh Patrick is a 765-meter hill where St. Patrick is said to have banished the snakes from Ireland. This hill is climbed (often barefoot) by thousands of Catholic pilgrims each July. South of Westport are some stunning scenic drives leading into the Connemara region. A trip northwards will bring you to remote Achill island which is accessible by a small bridge. Even further off the beaten path is Belmullet in the northwest corner of County Mayo. Westport also boasts a great selection of traditional pubs, among them Matt Molloy's of the Chieftains.
Sky Road, Clifden, County Galway
On The Map: The Sky Road drive begins in Clifden Town. Clifden is located on Ireland's west coast in the Connemara Region of County Galway. Clifden is reached via the N59 road from Galway to the southeast, and Westport to the northeast.
The Sky Road is an exhilarating 11km/7ml circular drive west of Clifden Town. The Sky Road is well signposted from Clifden. You will first pass Abbeyglen Castle Hotel (on your left), and after approx 400 metres beyond the hotel, take a look back towards Clifden. The 12 Bens mountains provide a wonderful backdrop to the town, and its two church spires, complete Clifden's distinctive skyline. The scenery along the Sky Road is quite simply, stunning. As you travel, the Sky Road separates into the lower and upper roads. The lower road takes you along the shoreline, and although pleasant, the upper road is more popular, owing to the commanding views it offers over the entire area. As the upper road rises, you are treated to breathtaking island & coastline views. There is a good-sized car park at the highest point of the upper road for wonderful photo opportunities. If you continue along the Sky Road thereafter, you will eventually join the main N59 Road, a few kilometres north of Clifden.
Connemara, County Galway
On the Map: Connemara encompasses a large area northwest of Galway City in the west of Ireland. It is most easily accessed via the N59 road that loops around the region and connects the cities of Galway (to the southeast) & Westport (to the northeast).
This striking region is one of the few places left in the country where the native language, Gaeilge, is still spoken as a first language. Stopping in the fishing village of Roundstone, you’ll spot currachs, old-style featherweight row boats, still being used daily. The village has an impressive crafts complex, selling everything from teapots and hand-knit sweaters to traditional Irish musical instruments.
In Connemara you will be constantly enchanted by the ever-changing scenery of mountains and valleys, lakes, bays, and beaches. This is Ireland's big sky country.
Day 5
Accommodation
5-Star Iconic Hotel - Adare Heritage Village, County Limerick
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.
Enroute Sightseeing
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
On the Map: The Cliffs of Moher are located on the western coast of County Clare. The Cliffs are accessed via the R478 road that connects Doolin (to the north) and the seaside town of Lahinch (to the southeast).
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's top Visitor attractions. The Cliffs stand 214 metres (700 feet) tall at their highest point and range for 8 kilometres over the Atlantic Ocean on the western seaboard of County Clare. O'Brien's Tower, constructed by Sir Cornellius O'Brien in 1835, stands proudly on a headland of the majestic Cliffs. From the Cliffs one can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, as well as The Twelve Pins, the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara and Loop Head to the South. There are two paths to take north and south along the cliff edge, providing spectacular views all the way. Construction of an award winning eco-friendly Visitor Centre was completed in 2007. The interpretive centre named 'Atlantic Edge' contains state of the art displays and visitor facilities. The grass-roofed building is cleverly set into the hillside - a unique cave-like structure which minimises the visual impact on this fabulously scenic location.
The Burren, County Clare
On the Map: The Burren is located in the north of County Clare in Ireland's west. The closest town is Ballyvaughan to the north, but the Burren is also easily accessible from Doolin, Lisdoonvarna (to the west) and Ennis (to the south).
The Burren, or Boireann, meaning Great Rock, is in County Clare. It is, without dispute, one of the most unique - and strangest - landscapes in Europe. The Burren occupies approximately 250 square kilometers. Bounded by the Atlantic on the west and rocked by Galway Bay to the north, it is a multi-layered landscape where rare and delicate plants have adapted in order to thrive and flourish between harsh crevices. Stroll the meadows, be astonished by the boulders, and read the trail marks and footprints that the ice age and volcanoes left behind. The Burren is littered with ancient and megalithic sites. The most dramatic of these is the Poulnabrone Dolmen, an impressive 5,000 year old portal tomb. Poulnabrone is one of the most famous megalithic monuments in Ireland. Just how the people of the time managed to get the truly massive capstone in place, is a mystery which continues to baffle archaeologists.
Poulnabrone Dolmen and Stone Fort, County Clare
On The Map: Poulnabrone Dolmen & Caherconnell Stone Fort are less than 1 kilometre apart, in the dramatic limestone Burren Region of County Clare, in the west of Ireland. Both sites are located just off the R480 road, which connects the towns of Corofin (to the south) and Ballyvaughan (to the north).
Poulnabrone Dolmen (pictured) is a Portal Tomb, and one of the most famous megalithic monuments in Ireland, mainly due to its memorable shape and easy access from the road. The thin capstone sits on two 1.8m (6ft) high portal stones to create a chamber in a 9m (30ft) low cairn. The site was excavated in 1986 and the human remains of more than 20 adults and children, plus other artefacts were discovered. Examination of these items allowed archaelogists to date the tomb to approx 3000 B.C. Just how the people of the time managed to get the truly massive capstone in place is unknown. Just 1 kilometre south of the dolmen, lies the impressive Caherconnell Stone Fort. Caherconnell is almost a perfect circle, and 140-145 feet in external diameter. It's walls are 12 feet thick and from 6-14 feet high, and it is an exceptionally well preserved example of stone ring-fort. The fort is in its original state, and its location, overlooking virtually all-surrounding areas, suggests a defensive settlement. This may not have been defensive in a modern military sense, but more for personal security from wild animals and raiders. Ringforts such as Caherconnell are thought to have been inhabited from 400-1200A.D.
Overnight Location
Adare Heritage Village, County Limerick
On the Map: Adare is located just 20km southwest of Limerick City / 43km south of Shannon Airport. The main N21 road (connecting the cities of Limerick & Tralee/Killarney) passes right through the centre of the village.
Adare is a quaint picturesque place, lined with traditional thatched-roof cottages. Snuggled in a wooded and lush countryside setting, Adare is widely regarded as being Ireland's prettiest and most unique village. Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary of the Shannon river, Adare (Gaelic name: "Ath Dara" - the "ford of the oak" - from the combination of water and woodland) dates back, at least, to the early 13th century. Adare village has a rich wealth of heritage, as well as architectural and scenic beauty. Two groups of world famous, ornate, thatched cottages line part of the village's broad main street, punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monasteries and ruins. Situated in the centre of County Limerick, with just 15 minutes from Limerick City and 45 minutes from Shannon Airport, Adare Village is an ideal base from which to explore County Limerick's many visitor attractions such as Lough Gur and King John's Castle.
Day 6
Accommodation
5-Star Iconic Hotel - Adare Heritage Village, County Limerick
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.
Must-See Sites
Lough Gur, County Limerick
On the Map: Lough Gur is located in the southwestern midlands of Ireland in County Limerick - 21km southeast of Limerick City. To reach Lough Gur from Adare, head north on the N21 until it intersects with the N20. Follow the N20 south (signposted Cork) before exiting at the R516 road (signposted Croom). Follow the R516 east, until turning north onto the R512 in Bruff Village. Lough Gur is signposted thereafter.
Lough Gur is one of Ireland’s archaeological and historical hidden gems. From the level surrounding countryside, the beautiful and enchanted lake unfolds the beauty of its placid waters and rugged hills – a fairyland of stone circles, ancient habitation sites, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles. Lough Gur tells the story of the pre-Celtic settlers who first came to the area over 5,500 years and continues to the present day in the people who still dwell and farm in the locality. It is an archaeological site of outstanding significance. A visitor centre was built in 1980 and uses the design of two of the excavated stone age houses as its plan. The Centre houses a number of displays covering stone age and bronze age implements, pottery and weaving. A slide show offers a very good overview of the area's history.
Adare Heritage Village, County Limerick
On the Map: Adare is located just 20km southwest of Limerick City / 43km south of Shannon Airport. The main N21 road (connecting the cities of Limerick & Tralee/Killarney) passes right through the centre of the village.
Adare is a quaint picturesque place, lined with traditional thatched-roof cottages. Snuggled in a wooded and lush countryside setting, Adare is widely regarded as being Ireland's prettiest and most unique village. Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary of the Shannon river, Adare (Gaelic name: "Ath Dara" - the "ford of the oak" - from the combination of water and woodland) dates back, at least, to the early 13th century. Adare village has a rich wealth of heritage, as well as architectural and scenic beauty. Two groups of world famous, ornate, thatched cottages line part of the village's broad main street, punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monasteries and ruins. Situated in the centre of County Limerick, with just 15 minutes from Limerick City and 45 minutes from Shannon Airport, Adare Village is an ideal base from which to explore County Limerick's many visitor attractions such as Lough Gur and King John's Castle.
Foynes Flying Boat Museum, County Limerick
On The Map: The Flying Boat Museum is located in the village of Foynes, in the northern coast of County Limerick.
The Foynes Flying Boat Museum is the only aviation museum in Ireland, and the only dedicated flying boat museum in the world. It is a very unique visitor attraction as it preserves for all time the aviation history of the Shannon region and the part played by Ireland in the development of passenger travel. The Museum recalls that nostalgic era when Foynes became the centre of the Aviation world between 1937 &1945. This amazing story is told through a comprehensive range of exhibits and graphic illustrations featured throughout the original Terminal Building. Highlights include the authentic 1940's cinema; the Radio and Weather Rooms—complete with transmitters, receivers and Morse code equipment; the Brendan O'Regan restaurant and of course, the only full sized replica B314 flying boat.
Day 7
Depart From
Depart from Shannon Airport, County Clare
Return to Shannon Airport three hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. Shannon is a small, convenient airport, so this will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.
After check-in and passenger security, browse the array of shops on offer at 'The Loop' in Shannon Airport.
Shannon is proud of its 'Duty Free' shops, and it should be: The concept of Duty-Free shopping was invented at Shannon in 1947!
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