7-Night Cork Adventure

Day 2

Accommodation

City Center Luxury Hotel - Cork, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.
Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

Blarney Castle and Park Admission

Historic Blarney Castle is famous for the Blarney Stone which, it is said, can confer the gift of eloquence to anyone who kisses it. The word 'Blarney' was introduced into the English language by Queen Elizabeth I, as she was talking about the Lord of the Castle who kept putting her off, saying, “He is just full of Blarney.” The stone itself is set in a wall. To kiss it, a person has to lean back from the parapet and place a smooch. There are treasures to be found on the grounds of Blarney Castle! The Rock Close, and its surroundings, is a curious place of ancient trees and stones. According to legend, it was a Druid place of worship. Be still and feel the aura of magic with the Wishing Steps, Witch’s Kitchen, and Druid’s Cave, all from the mists of time.

Titanic Experience Cobh

Situated in the original offices of The White Star Line, this location marks the departure point for the last 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic on its doomed maiden voyage to America. The Titanic’s story is told using innovative audio-visual technology, bringing characters to life through cinematic shows, scene sets, holographic imagery, and touchscreen technology. Experience the anticipation of the long journey ahead and a new adventure in America. Share the excitement of boarding the most luxurious liner of her time and feel the tragedy of this infamous liner. Investigate how it all went wrong, and the unbelievable sequence of events which caused the Titanic’s demise.

Overnight Location

Cork, County Cork

On the Map: Cork City is located off the southern coast of Ireland. As Ireland's second city, it is well served by good roads - The M8 northeast to Dublin, the N20 north to Limerick & the N25 east to Waterford.

In the bustling city of Cork (often referred to as 'Ireland's Second Capital'), stroll the river walk at the University and pop into the Glucksman Gallery.  Relax in a café, and hit Shandon Street, just a short walk from the main shopping district.  Climb the 120 foot steeple, and ring the bells of Shandon.  Soak up the city views as they fade into the countryside. Award-winning restaurants line the streets, and nightlife choices include Irish Traditional, classy nightclubs, theater, opera, plays, and dance.  (Take the haunted night tour of the city jail—it’s a great way to start your evening with a bang.) Of course, there’s the Jameson Old Middleton Distillery in east Cork.  Learn how Irish whiskey is made, and finish with a tasting. 

Blarney, County Cork

On the Map: Blarney is located in County Cork in the south of Ireland. The village is a mere 20 minutes/ 11km northwest of Cork City. It is accessed via the R617, which intersects with the main N20 (Limerick City to Cork City) road just north of Cork City.

Blarney is a charming village, most renowned for its famous castle and stone. The impressive Blarney Castle, perched on solid limestone, dates from 1446 and is situated on magnificent grounds. The castle was constructed by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention beyond Munster ever since.To acquire 'The Gift of Gab' one must kiss the Blarney Stone - located just beneath the battlements at the very top of Blarney Castle. This involves bending over backwards at quite a height - perhaps not to be attempted by the faint-hearted! Rumor has it that if you kiss the legendary 'Stone of Eloquence', you'll never again be lost for words!

Day 3

Accommodation

City Center Luxury Hotel - Cork, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.
Free parking is available on site.

Suggested Sightseeing

Crawford Art Gallery, Cork, County Cork

The Crawford Art Gallery is a National Cultural Institution and regional art museum for Munster, dedicated to the visual arts, both historic and contemporary. The permanent collection comprises over 2500 works, ranging from 18th century Irish and European painting and sculpture to contemporary video installations. At the heart of the collection is an array of Greek and Roman sculpture casts, brought to Cork in 1818 from the Vatican Museum in Rome. Located in the heart of Cork City, the gallery is a critical part of Ireland's cultural and tourism infrastructure, welcoming over 200,000 visitors a year. Admission to the Gallery and to exhibitions is free.

Day 4

Accommodation

Tranquil Central Hotel - Skibbereen, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.

Included Unique Activities

Charles Fort

As one of the country’s largest military installations, Charles Fort has been part of some of the most momentous events of Irish history. During the Williamite Wars, for example, it withstood a 13-day siege before it fell. Later, in the Civil War of the early 1920s, anti-Treaty forces on the retreat burned it out.

Charles Fort is a massive star-shaped structure of the late seventeenth century, well preserved despite its history. William Robinson, architect of the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin, is credited with designing it. Its dimensions are awe-inspiring – some of the outer defences are 16 metres high.

The view from the ramparts looking out over Kinsale Harbour is spectacular.

Kinsale Town Private Food Tour

Our food tours are like a walking food trail that takes you to a selection of different eateries. As we walk through this beautiful medieval coastal town, you will experience a range of different local foods. During the tour, you will hear stories about the food and the town. Who knows what interesting character will pop up along the way!
Tour duration: Approx 2.5 hours.

Note: Kinsale Food Tours run rain or shine. We advise you to dress appropriately for weather conditions. Rain jackets/ponchos are advised rather than the use of umbrellas, for people's comfort.

Suggested Sightseeing

Kinsale, County Cork

On the Map: Kinsale is located in County Cork on Ireland's southern coast. From the main N71 road connecting Cork City (to the north) & Skibbereen/ Bantry (to the west), Kinsale is accessible via a variety of country roads.

Located just 16 miles from Cork City in a naturally protected harbour, Kinsale is one of the most picturesque, popular and fashionable towns on the southwest coast. Kinsale is a centre for yachting, sea angling, gourmet eating and golf. Restaurants in Kinsale pride themselves on their high reputation for culinary expertise, and the Good Food Circle has been organizing a Gourmet Festival here every autumn for over 25 years.  A charming town, its narrow streets are steeped in history and its harbour is always full of boats. Visit the museum housed in the French Prison or, just outside the town, the star-shaped Charles Fort with its spectacular views, before retiring to one of the town's many cozy atmospheric pubs.

Enroute Sightseeing

Drombeg Stone Circle, County Cork

On The Map: Drombeg Stone Circle is located in County Cork on the south coast of Ireland. Drombeg is accessed via the R597 road, which intersects with the larger N71 road (connecting Clonakilty to the east, and Skibbereen to the west).

This lovely recumbent stone circle is locally known as The Druid's Altar, and is located on the edge of a rocky terrace with fine views to the sea about a mile away. The word Drombeg means 'the small ridge'. The circle consists of seventeen pillar stones that are graded from the two large portal stones, each 2 metres high, at the north-east towards the recumbent stone. The pillar stones are local sandstone and the recumbent has two cup marks and what looks like an axe -carving on it's upper surface. The midpoint of the recumbent stone was set in line with the winter soltice sunset viewed in a conspicuous notch in the distant hills. The best time time visit Drombeg is probably early morning, as there is an almost continuous flow of visitors to the site.

Kinsale, County Cork

On the Map: Kinsale is located in County Cork on Ireland's southern coast. From the main N71 road connecting Cork City (to the north) & Skibbereen/ Bantry (to the west), Kinsale is accessible via a variety of country roads.

Located just 16 miles from Cork City in a naturally protected harbour, Kinsale is one of the most picturesque, popular and fashionable towns on the southwest coast. Kinsale is a centre for yachting, sea angling, gourmet eating and golf. Restaurants in Kinsale pride themselves on their high reputation for culinary expertise, and the Good Food Circle has been organizing a Gourmet Festival here every autumn for over 25 years.  A charming town, its narrow streets are steeped in history and its harbour is always full of boats. Visit the museum housed in the French Prison or, just outside the town, the star-shaped Charles Fort with its spectacular views, before retiring to one of the town's many cozy atmospheric pubs.

Overnight Location

Skibbereen, County Cork

On the Map: Skibbereen is located in County Cork, in the southwest of Ireland. The town is accessed via the scenic N71 road that connects the cities of Cork (to the northeast) & Kenmare, County Kerry (to the northwest).

This thriving town is the 'capital' of West Cork, and centre for all the agricultural, industrial and tourist activities of the region. Its streets are full of life and character and it is an ideal base from which to discover the delights of West Cork. You could easily spend days or weeks exploring West Cork, wandering up and down its lovely quiet roads. Although popular, it is never crowded like Kerry, and there are always delightful places to discover. Around each western headland, the unsuspecting visitor will discover coastlines dominated by scenic harbors and colorful fishing villages such as Glandore, Baltimore and Schull, secluded beaches and dozens of sparsely populated islands such as Sherkin and Cape Clear. These islands, which were once populated with Gaelic speaking colonies, now offer the visitor endless hours of exploring an old-world traditional Ireland.

Day 5

Accommodation

Superior Comfort Hotel - Glengarriff, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.

Enroute Sightseeing

Bantry, County Cork

On the Map: Bantry is located in the southwest of Ireland in west County Cork. The town is accessed via the scenic N71 road that connects Cork City (to the east) & Kenmare, County Kerry (to the north).

Bantry is surrounded by a region of lush vegetation, palm trees and semi-tropical flowers. Hemmed in by high mountain ridges, an azure blue sea and cascading mountain streams, it is a place of unparalled beauty where the landscape changes with every mood of wind and sky.  Also resident in this pretty coastal town is Bantry House, the ancestral house to the Earls of Bantry.  A proud resident here since the 17th Century,  this wonderful house contains an important collection of furniture, tapestries and objets d'art which is open to the public to view.  It was the first Earl of Bantrys son, Viscount Berehaven who traveled extensively and amassed an eclectic collection of tapestries, paintings, furniture and artifacts.  The gardens of this house are also a spectacular sight, resembling the“palazzo” style most seen on the continent.  All in all, well worth a visit.

Baltimore Beacon, County Cork

The navigational Beacon at the entrance to Baltimore Harbour, the sight of which has warmed the heart of many a returning fisherman or sailor, is the image most often associated with the village of Baltimore. Positioned high above the channel between the mainland and Sherkin Island, it is visible from near and far and visitors to the Beacon are rewarded with spectacular views towards Sherkin, Cape Clear, the harbour and the mouth of the Ilen River.

Baltimore, County Cork

On The Map: Baltimore is close to Ireland's southernmost tip, in southwest County Cork. The village is accessed via the R595, a country road that is 15 minutes / 12km from the Cork town of Skibbereen. Skibbereen itself is located on the scenic N71 road that connects Cork City (to the northeast) & Bantry/Kenmare (to the north).

Baltimore is a small but lively port and popular sailing centre, facing onto Roaringwater Bay and Carbery's Hundred Isles. Regular ferries operate from here to Cape Clear and Sherkin Island. It is a most relaxing place. In the evening everyone in town converges on the harbour pubs to watch the sun go down and sample the excellent seafood, music and Guinness. The ruined castle which overlooks the harbour was a holding of the O'Driscolls, who were one of the most important clans in West Cork.

Overnight Location

Glengarriff, County Cork

On the Map: Glengariff is located on the Beara Peninsula in the west of County Cork, in the southwest of Ireland.

The name comes from "An Gleann Garbh" - the rugged glen - which is derived from the rugged beauty of the mountains and wooded valleys surrounding the village. Magnificent views of the Caha Mountains and the bulk of Sugarloaf can be seen from the numerous viewpoints along the roads which hug the coastline or wind along the steep sided valleys. No introduction to Glengarriff would be complete without mention of Garnish Island -   Ireland's most outstanding garden island with its internationally famous collection of plants and world-renowned for its Italian Gardens. Whilst making the short crossing of the placid waters of the inner bay, the visitor is rewarded by further views of the mainland, and a host of walks, from strolls in the forest with its rivers and glades of oak, to more ambitious treks up the peaks. As well as abundant natural beauty and an inherent "old world charm, Glengarriff makes an ideal centre for exploring further afield. The wild scenery of the Beara Peninsula starts here, whilst the peace and beauty of the Lakes of Inchigeela, Gougane Barra and the Borlin Valley are only a short drive away.

Day 6

Accommodation

Superior Comfort Hotel - Glengarriff, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.

Suggested Sightseeing

Dursey Island, County Cork

Dursey Island is positioned at the tip of the Beara Peninsula in Co. Cork. Access to the island is by the only cablecar in Ireland, which takes six people per trip. The island has very few inhabitants and no shops, pubs or restaurants – thus offering a unique experience of undisturbed tranquility. The island has a stark beauty, with rugged coastlines, lofty cliffs, open bog and a patchwork of fields divided by dry stone walls and ditches. The landscape is almost treeless since few parts of the island are not exposed to strong winds and salt spray, however there is a magnificent selection of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's haven.

Beara Peninsula, County Cork

On the Map: The Beara Peninsula is in the west of County Cork on Ireland's Atlantic coast. It is located just south of the more famous 'Ring of Kerry' Iveragh Peninsula.

Home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland, the appeal of the Beara Peninsula lies in its startling beauty, perhaps best experienced by climbing the hills & cycling the roads.  It’s a lot bigger and much wider than Sheeps Head Peninsula to the south and occupies part of both Counties Cork & Kerry.  While there is lush greenery (reminiscent of the Ireland imagined by long departed emigrants) amid rocky scenery on the Mizen Head and Sheeps Head Peninsulas, the Beara is a desolate, harsh, rocky landscape.  It makes wonderful walking country and is littered with pre-historic rocks, stone circles including Uragh Stone Circle and old tombs. Those lucky enough to visit this hidden gem will encounter lush natural beauty, wild landscapes, unspoilt seascapes and the warm welcome of the Irish people.

Garnish Island, County Cork

On The Map: Garnish Island is located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, in Southwest Ireland.

Garnish is world renowned for its gardens which are laid out in beautiful walks and it boasts some stunning specimen plants which are rare in this climate. Acccessed by a short ferry trip, Garnish Island is a place that truly has to be seen to be believed. The island is plays host to a multitude of plant variations, and the blanket of Summer colouring which covers the Island creates a rainbow of colour. The Island has a wonderful history and its unusual micro-climate allows a range of exotic subtropical plant species to flourish. There are a number of walks and interesting buildings on the Island.  The gardens of Ilnacullin owe their existence to the creative partnership, some seventy years ago, of Annan Bryce, then owner of the island and Harold Peto, architect and garden designer. The island was bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953, and was subsequently entrusted to the care of the Commissioners of Public Works.

Day 7

Accommodation

Sumptuous Country Inn - Bunratty, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am. 
Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

Afternoon Tea at Dromoland

Suggested Sightseeing

Dromoland, County Clare

On the Map: Dromoland Castle is located in County Clare in the west of Ireland. The castle is reached via the R458, a country road that intersects the M18 motorway between the city of Ennis (to the north) and Shannon Airport/ Limerick City (to the south).

Dromoland Castle is one of Ireland's grandest hotels and also one of its best-loved. The ancestral home of the O'Briens, barons of Inchiquin and direct descendants of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, it is one of the few Irish estates tracing its history back to Gaelic royal families. Today, Dromoland is an oasis of tranquility. The grandeur of the castle itself, its magnificent furnishings and the surrounding lakes and parkland offer guests an experience almost impossible to find at other luxury hotels. It is a truly enchanting place.

Enroute Sightseeing

Kenmare, County Kerry

On the Map: Kenmare is located in scenic County Kerry in the southwest of Ireland. The town is accessed via the scenic N71 road that connects the cities of Killarney (to the north) & Glengarriff (to the south).

Kenmare, with its pastel coloured houses, is along with Killarney, a usual starting point for the Ring of Kerry round trip. The small charming town, founded by a handful of Englishmen in 1670, has every tourist convenience imaginable, including 2 of the most luxurious hotels in Ireland, both of which have been awarded much coveted Michelin stars: The Park Hotel and Sheen Falls Lodge. Kenmare boasts a remarkable number of excellent restaurants and quality pubs for a town of its size, and has garnered a fantastic reputation as a gourmet destination in recent years. Owing to its enviable location adjacent to Kenmare Bay and the River Finnehy, all set against the backdrop of the Kerry Mountains, Kenmare's picturesque aspect is hard to match.

Kenmare to Killarney, County Kerry

We appreciate that your time in Ireland is precious, and you simply won't be able to do absolutely everything. Completing the 110 mile Ring of Kerry, for example, might be a stretch on this tour. We do however highly recommend that you at least drive the section from Kenmare to Killarney, which forms a portion of the Ring. It's only 30 kilometres/ 30 minutes each way on a narrow, winding road, but you are scenically rewarded at almost every turn. Highlights include Moll's Gap, whioch is set high on a rocky ridge. The Gap overlooks mountains, rivers, lush countryside and the famous Lakes of Killarney, with truly breathtaking views - Carrauntoohill, Ireland's highest mountain to one side, the Gap of Dunloe to the other. There's also an Avoca Store & Cafe at The Gap, selling the finest of Irish goods and souvenirs. A little further along the road, you'll arrive at 'Ladies View', so named for the excitement the vista illicited from Queen Victoria's Ladies-in-Waiting, during her famous 1861 visit. There's a little cafe and plenty of spots to pull in and admire the view that so stimulated the Royal Entourage 150 years ago!

Killarney, County Kerry

On the Map: Killarney is located in County Kerry in the southwest of Ireland. The town is reached via the N22 from Tralee/ Limerick (to the north) and the N22 from Cork City (to the southeast).

Killarney lies on the edge of the astoundingly beautiful Killarney National Park, with its three magnificent lakes and the spectacular MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range. The park is also home to Muckross House and Gardens. Killarney is a wonderful base for all manner of activities including angling and water sports, golf, riding, orienteering, hiking, cycling, and canoeing. The town itself is quite small but full of charm - this you will soon see as you walk down the brick footpaths and pass curious old-style shop fronts. Killarney is well known for its excellent shops, restaurants and cosmopolitan appeal. It is also renowned for its evening entertainment including many singing pubs, cabarets, dancing venues, and banquets. Traditional Irish music can also be heard in many of the local pubs on a nightly basis.

Overnight Location

Bunratty, County Clare

On the Map: Bunratty is located in the west of Ireland in County Clare. The main N18/M18 road connecting the cities of Limerick (to the south) & Ennis (to the north) passes right by the village. Shannon Airport is only 15 minutes to the west, also accessed via the N18/M18.

In Bunratty Village, one can enjoy the medieval grandeur that awaits in Bunratty Castle and its lively Folk Park. The castle, overlooking the River Shannon, is in excellent condition and well worth a visit. It is one of the finest surviving examples of an Irish tower house, and it's current peaceful and picturesque state belies its bloody and violent history. The strategic location of the castle on the river Shannon ensured it was the focal point of many battles, and it has it has been destroyed and re-built on at least eight occasions. The Folk Park adjoins the castle and vividly portrays what everyday life was like in rural Ireland about 100 years ago. It contains reconstructed farmhouses, cottages and shops, replete with authentic furnishings. The Park is a living museum: animals are tended, bread is baked, milk is churned, walls are whitewashed and roofs are thatched. You may visit an Irish farmhouse, watch the blacksmith fit a horseshoe, or attend a weaving demonstration. The village also reflects the fundamental changes that led to increased mobility in Irish society. Once you've explored the Castle & Folk Park, be sure to sample a relaxing cup of tea and freshly baked scones in one of the quaint thatched cottage cafes. The famous Durty Nelly's pub is in the heart of town, adjacent to the castle.

Day 8

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!