7-Night Grand Irish Whiskey Experience

Day 2

Accommodation

Elegant Stylish Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Hotel parking is available on Fenian Street within a 3-minute walk of the hotel. The overnight rate for guests is €15 (in line with our check in time of 4pm and our check out time of 11am). The hourly fee before and after those times is €3 per hour. Guests need a code to access this car park, which can be obtained by our reservations or reception teams by telephone or upon checking in.

Included Unique Activities

Jameson Whiskey Black Barrel Blending Class

Blend your own whiskey at the Jameson Distillery Bow St, Black Barrel Blending Class!
It takes years of study, knowledge and experience to become a Jameson Black Barrel Distiller. But all you need to know is…you can now blend your own in 90 minutes, in the Jameson Black Barrel Blending Class. Just don’t tell our Master Blender. Pick up the tricks of the trade in our Blending Room and Dublin’s only live Maturation House, and find out what makes Jameson Black Barrel another level of smoothness. This Jameson Black Barrel Blending Class does not also include our guided tour. Why? Good question. Due to consumption levels it means you’ll not be allowed to book a Bow St. Experience Tour (which also serves drinks) along with this one. Future you will thank us.

Must-See Sites

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, County Dublin

EPIC tells the dramatic story of the people who have left the island of Ireland, how these people spread around the globe, and how they influenced and shaped the world. It is a story of rich and poor, destinations near and far. It is a story of 10 million epic journeys.

EPIC connects the 70 million people around the world today who claim Irish heritage and ancestry. Using state-of-the-art technology these stories are vividly brought to life through video, images and sound to create a powerful and emotional experience.

The Irish influence in the arts, from literature, dance, music and design is world renowned. See how Irish culture has travelled and adapted on its journey across the globe, and how its traditions have been adopted and celebrated in many countries around the world.

Retrace the journeys of over 300 people, past and present, and relive some of the greatest achievements and accomplishments in the world of art, design, science, politics, sport & music.

O'Connell Street, County Dublin

On The Map: Located in the heart of Dublin city, the street's layout is simple but elegant. Within O'Connell Street and it's side streets you'll find endless historical monuments, dining choices and shopping districts, both traditional and high street. O'Connell Street has often been centre-stage in Irish history, attracting the city's most prominent monuments and public art through the centuries, and formed the backdrop to one of the 1913 Dublin Lockout gatherings, the 1916 Easter Rising, the Irish Civil War of 1922, the destruction of the Nelson Pillar in 1966, and many public celebrations, protests and demonstrations through the years – a role it continues to play to this day. State funeral corteges have often passed the GPO on their way to Glasnevin Cemetery, while today the street is used as the main route of the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, and as the setting for the 1916 Commemoration every Easter Sunday. It also serves as a major bus route artery through the city centre.

Attractions:

General Post Office (GPO), Statue of Daniel O'Connell, The Spire, Staute of James Stewart Parnell, Clery's Department Store, Major Shopping Districts.

GPO (General Post Office), County Dublin

On The Map: The GPO is located in the very heart of Dublin on O'Connell Street, just north of the River Liffey.

The GPO, headquarters of the Irish postal service, moved several times before finding its current place at the centre of Dublin’s O’Connell Street. Construction of the present building began in August 1814, and was completed in January 1818, at a cost of £50,000. The building was designed by Francis Johnston, an architect with the Board of Works, in Greek revival style. The main section was made with Wicklow granite and the portico, the roof structure over the entrance, of Portland stone. The statues on the roof, by sculptor John Smyth, are of Hibernia, a classical representation in female form of the island of Ireland, with Fidelity to one side and Mercury (the messenger of the gods) on the other. The GPO holds a place of particular symbolic importance for the Irish people. It was the headquarters of the men and women who took part in the famous Easter Rising against British rule in April 1916. While that rebellion ultimately ended in failure, it was the catalyst that led to Irish independence and the creation of a new State in 1922. During the 1916 Rising, the GPO was one of three Dublin landmarks used by the rebels — the Four Courts and Custom House being the others. The GPO was destroyed in the fighting, but was rebuilt and reopened in 1929.

Day 3

Accommodation

Elegant Stylish Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Hotel parking is available on Fenian Street within a 3-minute walk of the hotel. The overnight rate for guests is €15 (in line with our check in time of 4pm and our check out time of 11am). The hourly fee before and after those times is €3 per hour. Guests need a code to access this car park, which can be obtained by our reservations or reception teams by telephone or upon checking in.

Included Unique Activities

Guinness Storehouse Tour

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.

Must-See Sites

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.

Saint Patrick's Cathedral, County Dublin

On The Map: Saint Patrick's Cathedral is located in the heart of Dublin City, just south of the River Liffey, and west of such landmarks as Trinity College and Grafton Street. The Cathedral is located at the junction of Patrick Street and Upper Kevin Street.

Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral has contributed much to Irish life since its founding in 1191. The Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well, at which St Patrick himself reportedly baptized converts on his visit to Dublin. The writer and satirist Jonathan Swift was Dean of Saint Patrick's from 1713 to 1747, and is buried within the church. In a romantic twist, Esther Johnson (Stella) is buried next to Swift. Although never married, Swift had a life-long, intense and mysterious relationship with Stella, and she was an inspiration for much of his work. Handel's Messiah received its first performance there in 1742, sung by the combined choir of Saint Patrick's and Christ Church. Music has played an integral part in the life of Saint Patrick's since its foundation and it is the only cathedral in these islands to sing two services every day. Living Stones, the cathedral's permanent exhibition, celebrates Saint Patrick's place in the life of the city, its history and its role at the dawn of the third millennium. It emphasises that the cathedral is not a museum, but a building embracing the past to herald the future.

Dublin Castle, County Dublin

Since its foundation in 1204, Dublin Castle has been at the heart of the history and evolution of Dublin.  Today, spanning an area of over 44,000 square meters (11 acres), the site contains 2 museums, 2 cafés, an international conference centre, 2 gardens, Government Buildings and the State Apartments (the most important state rooms in the country). The grounds of the Castle are free to explore, as is the Chapel Royal, the Chester Beatty Library, the Garda Museum and the Revenue Museum.  Access to the State Apartments is by guided tour only and tickets may be purchased from the Apartments in the Upper Castle Yard.

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 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 12.00 noon

GPS Coordinates: 51.873555, -9.564157

Enroute Sightseeing

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 Sept. – Mid Oct.  Daily  9am – 5:30pm  Last admission at 4:45pm Mid Oct. – Mid March  Daily  9am – 4:30pm  Last admission at 3:45pm Mid March – Early June  Daily  9am – 5:30pm  Last admission at 4:45pm Early June – Mid Sept.  Daily  9am – 7:00pm  Last admission at 6:15pm

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.

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 12.00 noon

GPS Coordinates: 51.873555, -9.564157

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.

Must-See Sites

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.

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.

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).

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.

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 12.00 noon

GPS Coordinates: 51.873555, -9.564157

Must-See Sites

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.

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.

Ring of Beara, County Cork

On the Map: The Beara Peninsula, Ring of Beara 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. The R574 regional road crosses the Caha Mountains via the (Tim) Healy Pass. It runs from the R572 at Adrigole in County Cork to the R571 near Lauragh in County Kerry. The Peninsula is 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 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.

Day 7

Accommodation

Legendary Seaside Retreat - Malahide, County Dublin

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 on site.

Latitude: 53.450800; Longitude: -6.154400

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. 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.

Overnight Location

Malahide, County Dublin

On The Map: Malahide is a coastal suburb of Dublin, located just north of the city and east of the M1 motorway linking Dublin and Belfast

Malahide can trace its origins to the coming of the Vikings, who landed in 795 A.D., and used the Malahide Estuary as a convenient base. The village is an affluent spot, and boasts many retail boutiques, nice pubs and restaurants. Traditional shopfronts and several cobble-lock side streets give the village an intimate and welcoming feel. As well as being quite picturesque, the village also boasts the 800 year old Malahide Castle (pictured). Set on a 250 acre estate, Malahide Castle has a rich and varied history, not to mention being reputedly haunted by no less than 5 ghosts! There is an ancient covered well - St. Sylvester's - on the old main street. Malahide also has a substantial marina.

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!