7-Night Five Star Ireland Retreat

Day 2

Accommodation

5-Star Luxury Estate Manor - Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon. The hotel will try and accommodate early check in where possible - please contact the hotel directly on 056 776 0088.
Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

Kilkenny Castle Admission

Kilkenny Castle is dramatically perched on high ground, commanding a view, and a crossing, of the River Nore. (The River Nore winds through Kilkenny—explore her shoreline.) The medieval castle dominates the “High Town” of Kilkenny City. Over a period of eight centuries, many additions and alterations have been made. The Castle is now a complex structure of various architectural styles.

The original Anglo-Norman Castle was built for the 4th Earl of Pembroke, Willliam Marshall, at the beginning of the 13th century. James Butler, 3rd Earl of Ormond, purchased the Castle in 1391. It stayed in the powerful Butler family for 600 years until Arthur, 6th Marquess of Ormonde, quite generously presented it to the people of Kilkenny in 1967 for £50. Various programs of archaeological excavation, conservation, and restoration are carried out here.

Suggested Sightseeing

Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

On the Map: Kilkenny City is located in County Kilkenny, in the southeast midlands of Ireland. Kilkenny is well-served by a good network of roads - the M9/N10 from Dublin (to the northeast) and N9/N10 from Waterford City (to the south). Kilkenny, or the Marble City as it is known, is one of Ireland's oldest towns, and proud of it. Its array of ancient buildings is unrivalled. It is renowned for being a vibrant cultural center, devoted to the musical and visual arts. Its two most impressive landmarks are Kilkenny Castle, founded in 1172 and privately owned until 1967, and St. Canice's Cathedral. The current structure of the cathedral dates from the 13th century, though this is nowhere near the beginning of its story, which is rich in folklore and legend. There is no shortage of pubs to explore and enjoy in Kilkenny and during the summer the city is always full of life. The summer also sees the city host an Arts Festival and a very highly regarded Comedy Festival called the Cat Laughs.

Saint Canices Cathedral, County Kilkenny

On The Map: St Canice’s Cathedral is located in the oldest part of Kilkenny City – an area known as Irishtown, located just north of downtown.

St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower are an essential part of the structural heritage in the vibrant medieval city of Kilkenny. This ecclesiastical site was founded in the 6th century and named after St Canice. Worship has taken place at this site for over 800 years. The Cathedral has wonderful stained glass that includes two windows from the Harry Clarke Studio, Dublin. Local stone masters The O’Tooneys carved some of the tombstones many of which are unique to the Cathedral and Kilkenny. The See Chair of the Bishop of Ossory dating back to 1120 can be seen inside the Cathedral. The Round Tower is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny City. Tourists can enjoy climbing the Round Tower capturing great views of the city (weather permitting). St Canice’s Round Tower is one of only two Round Towers that visitors can climb in Ireland.

Day 3

Accommodation

5-Star Luxury Estate Manor - Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon. The hotel will try and accommodate early check in where possible - please contact the hotel directly on 056 776 0088.
Free parking is available on site.

Suggested Sightseeing

Dunbrody Famine Ship, County Wexford

On The Map: The Dunbrody is situated on the waterfront in New Ross, Co Wexford in the Southeast of Ireland. From Waterford, take the N25 heading northeast, from Kilkenny, the R700 heading southeast (via Thomastown)

The Dunbrody Famine Ship is an exact replica of the original vessel, which carried many thousands of immigrants from Ireland to North America between 1845 & 1851 (during and after the Great Famine). Many of the passengers were the evicted tenants of Lord Fitzwilliam's Wicklow estates and Viscount de Vesci's Portlaoise estates. The Visitor Experience at Dunbrody provides a unique insight into a period of history which shaped modern day Ireland and America. You will explore the ship, fitted out exactly as it would be for a voyage. You will encounter actors, playing the role of emigrants, in their cramped quarters with their meagre possessions. They will tell you their harrowing stories of being forced to emigrate. A member of the crew will tell you the story of other voyages and all about life on board a sailing ship. This authentic recreation… complete with actors, sound effects and smells, will truly transport you back in time.

Waterford Crystal Factory, County Waterford

On The Map: The Waterford Crystal Factory has recently relocated and is now situated in The Mall, in the very heart of Waterford City.

Waterford Crystal has moved to a magnificent new home in the heart of Waterford City. The highlight of any visit, the factory tour, gives you an up close and personal insight into the centuries old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. You will feel the heat of the furnace and marvel at the skills of the craftsmen. The factory tour includes the following traditional production areas: Wooden mould making, crystal blowing and furnace, quality inspection, finishing & crystal cutting. Also crystal sculpting, engraving and design inspiration. After the tour indulge your passion for the world’s most famous crystal in the lavish retail store, housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world. The in-house exhibition of sporting trophies and statement pieces is an absolute must see attraction.

The Viking Triangle, Waterford, County Waterford

The Viking Triangle is Waterford City’s Cultural and Heritage quarter of Ireland's oldest city where the Vikings first settled in 914 A.D. The cultural and heritage attractions embrace nine national monuments including a 13th century underground wine vault and three world-class museums; The Viking, Medieval and Georgian; The Viking Museum is housed in Reginald's Tower, the oldest civic urban structure in Ireland . Tranquil & charming, the quarter is characterized by narrow streets, historic architecture and atmospheric public spaces. Home to the global brand Waterford Crystal since 1783, the retail store showcases the world's largest collection of Waterford Crystal. Over 1,100 years of history unfold in just 1,000 paces in this authentically charming location.

Day 4

Accommodation

5-Star Scenic Estate - Kenmare, County Kerry

Check in policies:

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

Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

Rock of Cashel Admission

One of the most visited sites in Ireland, The Rock of Cashel is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of limestone, looming above the town of Cashel, County Tipperary. There is a 12th Century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century castle and the Hall of the Vicars. Long before the Norman invasion, The Rock of Cashel was the seat of the High Kings of Munster, although there is little structural evidence of their time here. Most of the buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries when the Rock was gifted to the Church. The complex has a character of its own, unique and native, and is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe. 

Afternoon Tea at Sheen Falls Lodge

Elegant sandwiches, luxurious cakes, warm homemade scones. Our renowned three-tier afternoon teas are something worth savouring.

Join us in the Sheen Lounge for an afternoon of indulgence in a beautiful setting. Enjoy a fresh pot of Warbler & Wren coffee or Ronnefeldt loose-leaf tea with elegant finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, or fresh pastries made daily by our very own pastry chef. 

Our afternoon tea is an irresistible option: three tiers of homemade treats for two. Including both savoury and sweet, this decadent feast is available with tea or coffee you can enjoy on the terrace overlooking the waterfalls during summer, or warm yourselves by the open fire in the cold winter months.

Suggested 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.

Cashel, County Tipperary

On the Map: Cashel is located in County Tipperary in the southern midlands of Ireland. The main M8 motorway connecting the major cities of Dublin (to the northeast) and Cork (to the southwest) passes right by the town.

If one approaches Cashel from the north on the main Dublin to Cork road, you will round a 21st century bend and suddenly be transported back 1,500 years. There, standing proud on the plains, is the great 4th century fortification of Cashel - the stone fort. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Indeed there was a settlement here from pre-Christian times, traces of which have long since vanished. Brú Ború - the palace of Ború - is a national heritage centre at the foot of the Rock of Cashel. This cultural and interpretative village is designed around a village green and is home to the study and celebration of native Irish music, song, dance, story telling, theatre and Celtic studies. Cashel itself is a busy little market town and is a handy place to break the journey between Dublin to Cork.

Enroute Sightseeing

Cahir, County Tipperary

On The Map: Cahir is located in the southern midlands of Ireland in County Tipperary. The town is in very close proximity to both the M8 motorway (connecting Dublin & Cork) and the N24 road (connecting Limerick & Waterford)

Cahir is a small heritage town, with a nice shopping area centred around the town square. Up to very recently, Cahir stood at the intersection of two of Ireland's busiest national routes: from Dublin to Cork, and Limerick to Waterford. As a result, the town was perennially plagued by heavy traffic, until it was eventually by-passed by newly constructed roads and motorways in the last few years. Cahir is now a far more pleasant location to visit and spend time in. Cahir is best known for the impressive Cahir Castle, located in town on an island of the River Suir. The castle is one of the largest & best-preserved in Ireland, and was originally founded in the 12th century. Much of the current structure dates from the 13th century. An audio-visual presentation of the castle's long and varied history is available on-site. The other location of note in Cahir is the Swiss Cottage. The 'Ornamental Cottage' was constructed around 1810, and primarily used for guest entertainment on the Cahir Estate.

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary

On the Map: Cashel is located in County Tipperary in the southern midlands of Ireland. The main M8 motorway connecting the major cities of Dublin (to the northeast) and Cork (to the southwest) passes right by the town.

The Rock of Cashel (Carraig Phádraig), more formally St. Patrick's Rock, is also known as Cashel of the Kings. One of the most visited sites in Ireland, The Rock is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of limestone, looming above the town of Cashel, County Tipperary. There is a 12th Century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century castle and the Hall of the Vicars. Long before the Norman invasion The Rock of Cashel was the seat of the High Kings of Munster, although there is little structural evidence of their time here. Most of the buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries when the rock was gifted to the Church. The buildings represent both Hiberno-Romanesque and Germanic influences in their architecture. The complex has a character of its own, unique and native, and is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe.

Open Hours:

Mid March. – Mid Oct.  Daily  9am – 5:30pm  Last admission at 4:45pm Mid Oct. – Mid March  Daily  9am – 4:30pm  Last admission at 3:45pm

Overnight Location

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.

Day 5

Accommodation

5-Star Scenic Estate - Kenmare, County Kerry

Check in policies:

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

Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

Falconry at Sheen Falls Estate

Marvel and interact with one of nature’s most majestic predators. Under instruction from an experienced falconer, our guided Hawk Walks will take you on a stroll through the estate where you can watch, handle and fly these awesome birds for yourself.

Suggested Sightseeing

Killarney National Park, 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).

On the southwestern edge of Killarney Town lies an untamed, rugged & mountainous country. The area includes the McGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range. At the foot of these mountains nestle the world famous lakes of Killarney. Here, where the mountains sweep down to the lake shores, their lower slopes covered in woodlands, you'll discover the 26,000 acre Killarney National Park . The distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls under ever changing skies, lends the area a special scenic beauty. The Park contains many features of national and international importance such as the native oakwoods and yew woods, together with an abundance of evergreen trees and shrubs. A profusion of bryophytes and lichens thrive in the mild Killarney climate. The native red deer are unique in Ireland, with a presence in the country since the last Ice Age. At the heart of the National Park is Muckross House and Gardens. The house, a late 19th century mansion features period furnishings and artefacts and is a major visitor attraction in itself. Killarney National Park was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 1981 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Moll's Gap, County Kerry

 Moll's Gap is named for Moll Kissane who ran a shebeen, a small pub, on a rocky breach during the construction of the original Kenmare Killarney road in the 1820s. She became popular for selling home brewed poitin, whiskey, to the hardy men who worked on the road. For cyclists this 6.3 mile climb reaches a summit of 860 feet where you can see the Black Valley and further down on the descent you will find Ladies View and the Killarney lakes.

Ring of Kerry, County Kerry

On the Map: The Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula) is in County Kerry in the southwest of Ireland. Killarney is the usual starting point for people completing the Ring, although Kenmare is another good option for this purpose. The N70 road encircles the entire peninsula.

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most scenic touring routes. At 110 miles long, it circles the awe-inspiring Iveragh Peninsula. You’ll feel as if you have moved into nature’s mystic arena, and truly you have, as you pass between soft mountains, through forest glades, around bogs, rivers, lakes and pristine beaches. The road between the magnificent MacGillycuddy Reeks Mountains presents secret passes and valleys dotted along the fabled shores of Dingle and Kenmare Bays. Ireland’s natural beauty sings throughout the Ring of Kerry. You may wish to explore several charming villages along the route, including Glenbeigh, Waterville, and Sneem. Stroll and talk to people—this is what makes your travel experience unique. The Ring attracted Ireland’s first settlers, and has a wealth of ancient sites. A 6th century monastery, clinging to the windswept cliffs of the Skellig Islands, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Staigue Stone Fort is an Iron Age stronghold dating from 300BC. This is also an area of Ogham Stones, the first mysterious forms of writing and art, nestled along the Ring. Follow the drive to Killarney by way of the Ladies View and the legendary Lakes of Killarney and the National Park. The Ring of Kerry is the stuff of dreams and lifelong memories.

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.

Day 6

Accommodation

5-Star Scenic Estate - Kenmare, County Kerry

Check in policies:

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

Free parking is available on site.

Included Unique Activities

3-Course Dinner At The Falls at Sheen Falls

Tonight you will enjoy Irish fare with contemporary flair and European influence. Enjoy culinary delights and a laid-back atmosphere in one of Kenmare’s best restaurants. The Falls Restaurant is on creating exquisite menus using seasonal, local ingredients. Seafood plucked fresh from the North Atlantic Ocean, artisan cheeses from across Ireland and organic vegetables grown on the nearby fields and farmland: The Falls Restaurant is the place to sample the finest produce from Kenmare and the wider country.

Suggested 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.

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.

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.

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.

Day 7

Accommodation

Scenic Luxury Hotel - Maynooth, County Kildare

Check in policies:

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

Complimentary car parking on resort for all guests and visitors. Valet parking available upon request, subject to additional charge.

Enroute Sightseeing

Irish National Stud & Gardens, County Kildare

On the Map: The Irish National Stud is located in County Kildare in the eastern midlands of Ireland. The Stud is accessed at Kildare town, just off the M7 motorway, which connects Dublin to the east and Limerick to the west.

Established in 1946, the Irish National Stud combines an active role in the development and promotion of Irish bloodstock. One of the country's major tourist attractions, it is the only Stud farm in Ireland open to the public. The farm encompasses The Irish National Stud - home to some of Ireland's finest thoroughbreds, Japanese Gardens - the finest Japanese Gardens in Europe, Saint Fiachra's Garden featuring woodland and lakeside walks, and the Horse Museum - a state of the art modern exhibition where the Sport of Kings comes to life.   

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. 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.

Overnight Location

Maynooth, County Kildare

On the Map: Maynooth is located in County Kildare, inland from the eastern coast and approx. 30 minutes west of Dublin City. The town is just off the M4 motorway that connects the Dublin to Galway and Sligo.

County Kildare is home to the National Stud and three racecourses, at The Curragh, Naas & Punchestown.  This inland county has areas of low-lying bogs on its western bountary.  To the east, the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains meet its unique fertile plain, the Currage, which has 6,000 acres of grassland and; if up in the early morning, you can see beautiful throoughbred racehorses excerising. Visitors to Kildare can walk the countryside, play golf, fish, ride or cruise its waterways.  One of the best ways of exploring this county is by following the canals, either walking their towpaths or cruising their waters.  Away from the main roads, its a peaceful county with plenty of wild fowl, birds and animals in its river valleys, bogs, woodlands & canals.

Day 8

Depart From

Depart from Dublin Airport, County Dublin

Return to Dublin Airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. 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 Dublin Airport. With an extensive range of stores, bars and cafes, any spare time you have will fly!