Day 1
Accommodation
Beech Hill Country House Hotel - Derry, County Derry
Room Type: Double/Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.
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.
Enroute Sightseeing
Boyne Valley, County Meath
On the Map: The Boyne Valley is a fairly large region located in the east of Ireland in County Meath. Only 30 minutes/ 20km north of Dublin City, the Boyne Valley is accessed via the N2 or N3 roads heading northwest from the city.
The Boyne Valley contains the largest and most decorated megalithic sites in all of Ireland and has been described as "the largest and most important expression of prehistoric megalithic art in Europe". The large Megalithic sites were built over 5000 years ago between 3800 and 3200 BC, built before both Stonehenge in England and the great pyramids in Egypt. Within a three square mile radius in the Boyne Valley are grouped more than 30 prehistoric monuments including the great passage tombs and their satellite structures, standing stones, barrows and other enclosures. The great sites of the Boyne Valley include Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, Loughcrew, Fourknocks and the Hill of Tara. Neolithic communities built these sites over earlier sacred spots and it is suspected that they were used for a combination of different purposes, including use as burial tombs, sacred temples and astronomical observatories. The nearby towns of Trim, Slane and Navan make ideal bases from which to explore the area.
Ulster American Folk Park, County Tyrone
On The Map: The Ulster American Folk Park is located 5 miles north of Omagh town in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, on the main A5 road between Omagh and Strabane.
The Ulster American Folk Park is an open-air museum in Castletown, just outside Omagh, in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The Park explores the historical link between Ulster and America, focusing particularly on the lifestyle and experiences of those immigrants who sailed from Ulster to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish immigration at the museum that brings it to life. Follow the immigrant trail as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale immigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier. Meet an array of costumed characters on your way with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share.
Overnight Location
Derry, County Derry
On the Map: Derry City is located close to the northern coast in Northern Ireland. Derry is accessed via the N15/N13 from Donegal (to the southwest) and the A6 from Belfast (to the southeast).
The story of Derry is a long and tumultuous one. Set on a hill on the banks of the Foyle estuary, strategically close to the open sea, it came under siege and attack for over a thousand years. You can walk along the great 17th-century walls, about a mile round and 18 feet thick, which withstood several sieges and even today are unbroken and complete, with old cannon still pointing their black noses over the ramparts. The great siege lasted for 105 days. Today, there’s an atmosphere of optimism in Derry and the city buzzes with life. It’s an artistic city, with theatres, galleries and other cultural centres and a number of annual festivals. Its people, with their gentle accent, are very welcoming.
Day 2
Accommodation
Beech Hill Country House Hotel - Derry, County Derry
Room Type: Double/Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.
Included Unique Activities
Ballyliffin Golf (Glashedy Links)
Ballyliffin, County Donegal
The new Glashedy Links at Ballyliffin GC is fashioned around the incredible dunes, and is already notorious for its peat riveted bunkers and its opening three challenging par fours. The expansive panoramic views of countryside, coastline and ocean savoured by these magnificent links course will not easily be forgotten. The Glashedy Links has hosted the Irish Inter-provincial Championships in 2006, the European Tour, North West of Ireland Open in 2002 and the Ladies European Tour, Ladies Irish Open in 1998.
Must-See Sites
The Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal
On The Map: The Inishowen Peninsula is located in County Donegal, in the northwest of Ireland. The tip of the Inishowen Peninsula - Malin Head - is Ireland's most northerly point.
Inishowen (Irish: Inis Eoghain, meaning "Island of Eoghan") is the largest peninsula in Ireland. It offers many historical monuments, dating back to early settlements, and including the ruins of several castles, and the fort at Grianán Aileach. The ancient Grianán Ailigh fort at Burt was the one time seat of the High Kings of Ireland, including both High Kings of the Mac Lochlainn Clan, who held power in Inis Eoghain for many centuries. It was restored in the nineteenth century, although some damage in recent years has resulted in the partial collapse of the south side wall. Among the main castle ruins of Inishowen are Carrickabraghey on the Isle of Doagh, the Norman Castle at Greencastle, Inch Castle, Buncrana Castle and Elagh Castle.
Overnight Location
Ballyliffin, County Donegal
Day 3
Accommodation
Bushmills Inn - Bushmills, County Antrim
Room Type: Classic Double/Twin
Check in policies:
Check in time is after 3.00pm on your arrival day. Check out time is before 12.00 noon on your departure. If you require an arrival time before 2pm or after 6pm, please contact your property above on 0044 28 2073 3000 (if outside of Northern Ireland). If calling within Northern Ireland please dial 028 2073 3000.
The hotel has a beautiful restaurant which books up quickly. If you think you might like to dine at Bushmills while staying there, please call ahead to make advance reservations on same numbers as above.
Included Unique Activities
Portstewart Golf Club (Strand Course)
Portstewart, County Derry
Founded in 1894 and redesigned by Willie Park jnr in the 1920’s this championship links course received its greatest makeover with the purchase of land known as “Thistly Hollow” in 1981. This enabled the club to build a stunning new seven holes through towering dunes and fabulous and natural links land. Designed by local school teacher Des Giffin the Strand Course is the jewel in the Portstewart portfolio.
Dunluce Castle
Bushmills, County Antrim
Dunluce Castle is sited dramatically close to the edge of a headland, along the North Antrim coast. One could spend hours marvelling at such a wondrous feat of construction 500 years ago! Surrounded by jaw dropping coastal scenery, this medieval castle stands where an early Irish fort was once built, and its history can be traced back to early Christians and Vikings. The Castle has a rich and varied history, connected with such famous names as Richard de Burgh, Sorley Boy MacDonnell, and Sir John Perrott. Dunluce Village which once surrounded the castle was destroyed by fire during the siege of 1641, but some archaelogical remnants of walls remain. Also nearby are the ancient church ruins of St. Cuthbert's, and the site was witness to the sinking of the colony ship the Exmouth, bound for Quebec, which broke up on rocks off Islay with 240 deaths in 1847. The site features a visitor centre, shop and guided tours of the ruins, gardens and remnants of the town.
Must-See Sites
Bushmills, County Antrim
On the Map: Bushmills Village located just off the spectacular coast of Northern Ireland in County Antrim. The town is accessed via the A2 road, that connects the cities of Portrush (to the west) and Ballycastle (to the east).
Bushmills is the gateway to the Giant's Causeway, a unique rock formation formed 55 million years ago by cooling lava flows, although according to local legend the symmetrical columns were part of a bridge to Scotland built and then destroyed by the famous Irish giant, Finn McCool. Similar rock formations can be found on the Scottish coast. The Causeway visible today is all that remains of the bridge. If visiting the Causeway be sure to take the cliff walk route so that you descend to the water's edge and approach the Causeway itself from the east. The views across to Scotland and west along the coast to the mountains of Donegal are magnificient. Bushmills is also famous as the home of the world's oldest whiskey distillery. The license to produce the famous malt whiskey was granted by King James I in 1608. Visitors can take a one hour guided tour which includes a tasting. Just west of Bushmills, the ruins of Dunluce Castle dramatically straddle sheer cliffs that plunge hundreds of feet into the sea. And of course you cannot leave County Antrim without testing your nerves on the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which can be found just 6 miles east of Bushmills near the village of Ballintoy.
Enroute Sightseeing
Mussenden Temple, County Derry
On The Map: Mussenden Temple is located in County Derry, on the northern coast of Northern Ireland. The Temple is accessed via the A2 road that connects the towns of Limaviddy (to the southwest) & Coleraine (to the southeast)
Mussenden Temple perches dramatically on a 120 ft cliff top above the Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular views westwards over Downhill Strand towards Magilligan Point and County Donegal, and to the east Castlerock beach towards Portstewart, Portrush and Fair Head. The temple was built in as a summer library in1785 by Frederick Augustus Hervey, Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol (or the 'Earl Bishop'), and its architecture was inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, near Rome. Both the Temple and the surrounding views are among the most photographed scenes in Ireland. Over the years the Temple was in danger of being lost to the sea due as the cliff-edge drew ever closer. Thankfully, in 1997 the National Trust carried out cliff stabilisation work to prevent the loss of this lovely building.
Overnight Location
Portstewart, County Derry
On The Map: Portstewart is located in County Derry on the northern coast of Northern Ireland. The town is accessed via the A2 road that connects the towns of Portrush to the east and Coleraine to the south.
A year round mecca for holiday makers, Portstewart Strand holds a prestigious Blue Flag award for the cleanliness and quality of its water. It is also one of the few remaining beaches in Ireland where cars still have access and permission to drive onto the beach - perfect for families who wish to picnic on the golden shores. The Strand also added the Seaside Award to its list of accololades in 2011. The beach attracts a range of visitors wishing to partake in activities such as, surfing, swimming, horse riding and scenic walks on the way marked nature trails with excellent views of the North Coast. The town is also home to the fantastic Portstewart Golf Club Championship Links course. Barmouth is a nearby nature and wildlife reserve offering an attractive habitat to migrant waterfowl, waders and nesting birds throughout the year. Bird hides offer excellent opportunities to spectate the views and local wildlife and have facilities for disabled visitors. Keys to bird hides are available from The National Trust North Coast Office at Giants Causeway: (028) 2073 1582.
Bushmills, County Antrim
On the Map: Bushmills Village located just off the spectacular coast of Northern Ireland in County Antrim. The town is accessed via the A2 road, that connects the cities of Portrush (to the west) and Ballycastle (to the east).
Bushmills is the gateway to the Giant's Causeway, a unique rock formation formed 55 million years ago by cooling lava flows, although according to local legend the symmetrical columns were part of a bridge to Scotland built and then destroyed by the famous Irish giant, Finn McCool. Similar rock formations can be found on the Scottish coast. The Causeway visible today is all that remains of the bridge. If visiting the Causeway be sure to take the cliff walk route so that you descend to the water's edge and approach the Causeway itself from the east. The views across to Scotland and west along the coast to the mountains of Donegal are magnificient. Bushmills is also famous as the home of the world's oldest whiskey distillery. The license to produce the famous malt whiskey was granted by King James I in 1608. Visitors can take a one hour guided tour which includes a tasting. Just west of Bushmills, the ruins of Dunluce Castle dramatically straddle sheer cliffs that plunge hundreds of feet into the sea. And of course you cannot leave County Antrim without testing your nerves on the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which can be found just 6 miles east of Bushmills near the village of Ballintoy.
Day 4
Accommodation
Bushmills Inn - Bushmills, County Antrim
Room Type: Classic Double/Twin
Check in policies:
Check in time is after 3.00pm on your arrival day. Check out time is before 12.00 noon on your departure. If you require an arrival time before 2pm or after 6pm, please contact your property above on 0044 28 2073 3000 (if outside of Northern Ireland). If calling within Northern Ireland please dial 028 2073 3000.
The hotel has a beautiful restaurant which books up quickly. If you think you might like to dine at Bushmills while staying there, please call ahead to make advance reservations on same numbers as above.
Included Unique Activities
Royal Portrush Golf Club (Dunluce Course)
Portrush, County Antrim
Simply put, the Dunluce course at Royal Portrush is one of the world's finest links courses, and the only course in Ireland to have hosted the British Open (in 1951) Fred Daly, the only Irishman ever to win "The Open" was a Royal Portrush member. Overlooked by the ruins of the 13th Century Dunluce Castle it is a masterpiece of golf architecture. Famous for its magnificent turf and excellent holes, many of which require long and accurate drives made all the more difficult by the high winds. Unimaginable rough and tricky greens, thrown with windy conditions make this course an admirable test for a seasoned golfer.
Giant's Causeway Admission
Bushmills, County Antrim
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, for centuries the Giant’s Causeway has inspired artists, stirred scientific debate and captured the imagination of all who see it. Why not experience the Giant's Causeway for yourself? Visit the world-famous basalt columns with one of our knowledgeable tour guides (for a small additional fee paid on-site), or pick up an audio guide and go at your own pace. Climb the Shepherd's Steps and hike along the cliff-top trail to get a bird's eye view of the beautiful causeway coast. Unlock the mystery and stories of the landscape in the exhibition area of our award-winning visitor centre, which also boasts a café serving a seasonal menu, and retail zone where you can pick up locally sourced souvenirs and handicrafts.
Must-See Sites
Bushmills, County Antrim
On the Map: Bushmills Village located just off the spectacular coast of Northern Ireland in County Antrim. The town is accessed via the A2 road, that connects the cities of Portrush (to the west) and Ballycastle (to the east).
Bushmills is the gateway to the Giant's Causeway, a unique rock formation formed 55 million years ago by cooling lava flows, although according to local legend the symmetrical columns were part of a bridge to Scotland built and then destroyed by the famous Irish giant, Finn McCool. Similar rock formations can be found on the Scottish coast. The Causeway visible today is all that remains of the bridge. If visiting the Causeway be sure to take the cliff walk route so that you descend to the water's edge and approach the Causeway itself from the east. The views across to Scotland and west along the coast to the mountains of Donegal are magnificient. Bushmills is also famous as the home of the world's oldest whiskey distillery. The license to produce the famous malt whiskey was granted by King James I in 1608. Visitors can take a one hour guided tour which includes a tasting. Just west of Bushmills, the ruins of Dunluce Castle dramatically straddle sheer cliffs that plunge hundreds of feet into the sea. And of course you cannot leave County Antrim without testing your nerves on the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which can be found just 6 miles east of Bushmills near the village of Ballintoy.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim
On The Map: Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is located near the small town of Ballintoy, in County Antrim Northern Ireland. The rope bridge connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick in the northeast corner of Northern Ireland.
Spanning a chasm some eighty feet deep is the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, it's construction once consisted of a single rope hand rail and widely spaced slats which the fishermen would traverse across with salmon caught off the island to which it leads. The single handrail was subsequently replaced by a two hand railed bridge, and the current, caged bridge was installed by the National Trust during Easter of 2000 as a further safety measure. Although no-one has ever been injured falling off the old or new bridge, there have been many instances of visitors being unable to face the return walk back across the bridge, resulting in them being taken off the island by boat, so not an activity for the faint-hearted!
Overnight Location
Portrush, County Antrim
On the Map: Portrush is located in County Antrim, on the north coast of Northern Ireland. The town is accessed via the A29 road from Coleraine - 8km to the south.
Portrush has a spectacular location, being situated on a mile long peninsula extending into the Atlantic Ocean on the North coast of Ireland. This affords panoramic views over the ocean of the Causeway Coast towards Scotland and the Donegal hills. Portrush offers exceptional beaches, superb restaurants, night clubs, quality hotels & family entertainment venues providing the perfect base for your vacation or to explore the surrounding region. World renown attractions such as the Giants Causeway, Royal Portrush and Portstewart Golf Clubs, Old Bushmills Distillery & Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge are located nearby.
Day 5
Accommodation
Slieve Donard Hotel - Newcastle, County Down
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.
Included Unique Activities
Titanic Experience Belfast
Belfast, County Antrim
Visit the birthplace of the Titanic and experience the story. Titanic Belfast extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features to explore the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way; from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. The journey goes beyond the aftermath of the sinking, to the discovery of the wreck and continues into the present day with a live undersea exploration centre.
Must-See Sites
Belfast, County Antrim
On The Map: Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is located in the northeastern corner of the country in County Antrim. Belfast is well served by a network of good roads, including the M1 motorway from Dublin City.
Approximately one third of the population of Northern Ireland - about half a million people - live in Belfast. It's setting is very attractive, nestling in a semicircle of hills, where the River Langan enters Belfast Lough. The city got it's name from Beile Feirst "the mouth of the sandy ford" - and was founded in 1177 when the Anglo-Normans built a castle here. It began to really expand in the 17th century with the development of the local linen and shipbuilding industries (the Titanic was built here). Sights to see in Belfast City, the Belfast City Hall, built of Portland stone in Classical Renaissance style, dominates the city center. The Linen Hall Library, founded in 1788 is an absolute delight, a cultural centre with exhibitions, a Theater & Performing Arts Archive and a Genealogy and Heraldry collection. Away from the city center you have the Ulster Museum in the Botanic Gardens, near Queens University which has miles of galleries and exhibitions. This lively and friendly city, with historic buildings standing side-by-side with modern creations is a delight not to be missed.
Enroute Sightseeing
Glens of Antrim, County Antrim
On The Map: County Antrim is located in the northeast corner of Northern Ireland.
The Glens of Antrim (there are 9) are beautifully unique and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Within twenty square miles you can enjoy natural landscape that covers glacial valleys, sandy beaches, vertical cliffs, tundra plateau, boglands, wooded decidious glens, coniferous forests, waterfalls and picturesque villages! Antrim's coast, from the busy port of Larne to the resorts of Portrush and Portstewart, is dotted with beaches and rocky inlets. Ancient sites and places of intrigue abound too. In addition to wonderful scenery, the landscape is dominated by spectacular ruins of fortresses built by Gaelic chieftains and Norman invaders. Ireland's first inhabitants, nomadic boatmen from Scotland, are believed to have landed in this area around 7000 BC.
Belfast, County Antrim
On The Map: Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is located in the northeastern corner of the country in County Antrim. Belfast is well served by a network of good roads, including the M1 motorway from Dublin City.
Approximately one third of the population of Northern Ireland - about half a million people - live in Belfast. It's setting is very attractive, nestling in a semicircle of hills, where the River Langan enters Belfast Lough. The city got it's name from Beile Feirst "the mouth of the sandy ford" - and was founded in 1177 when the Anglo-Normans built a castle here. It began to really expand in the 17th century with the development of the local linen and shipbuilding industries (the Titanic was built here). Sights to see in Belfast City, the Belfast City Hall, built of Portland stone in Classical Renaissance style, dominates the city center. The Linen Hall Library, founded in 1788 is an absolute delight, a cultural centre with exhibitions, a Theater & Performing Arts Archive and a Genealogy and Heraldry collection. Away from the city center you have the Ulster Museum in the Botanic Gardens, near Queens University which has miles of galleries and exhibitions. This lively and friendly city, with historic buildings standing side-by-side with modern creations is a delight not to be missed.
Overnight Location
Newcastle, County Down
On the Map: Newcastle is located in County Down on the east coast of Northern Ireland. The A2 road, connecting the cities of Newry (to the west), and Belfast (to the north), passes right through town.
Voted Northern Ireland’s best kept town a few years ago, Newcastle offers activities to interest all ages. Steeped in history, Newcastle has for many years been one of the most popular resorts in the country. The combination of a long, clean, tidy beach to one side and the overbearing sulking mountains of Mourne to the other gives the place a special feeling which many poets and artists have tried to convey over the years. However one can only truly appreciate the unparalleled beauty of the town by experiencing it first hand. The nearby Royal County Down Golf Club is believed by many to be among the most beautiful and competitive courses anywhere, indeed many professional players have included it among their top ten courses in the world.
Day 6
Accommodation
Slieve Donard Hotel - Newcastle, County Down
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.
Included Unique Activities
Royal County Down Golf Club
Newcastle, County Down
Royal County Down is located in one of the world’s most naturally beautiful links settings in the Murlough Nature Reserve. Against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne, the links stretches along the shores of Dundrum Bay, zigzagging back and forth to provide a different vista from virtually every hole. The narrowest ribbons of fairways thread their way through as impressive a set of sand dunes as could be imagined.
The ‘bearded’ bunkers are world famous and feature overhanging lips of marram, red fescue and heather. The greens are fast and many are domed, rejecting any shot lacking conviction. This is a true test of any player’s command of the traditional bump and run - the preferred way to play any links.
Must-See Sites
Downpatrick, County Down
On The Map: Downpatrick is located in the southeast corner of Northern Ireland. It is located just 20 miles south of Belfast along the A24 & A7 Roads.
Downpatrick is one of Ireland's most ancient and historic towns. It takes its name from a dún (fort), which once stood on the hill that dominates the town and on which Down Cathedral stands.Saint Patrick was reputedly buried here in 461 on Cathedral Hill, within the grounds of Down Cathedral. His grave is still a place of pilgrimage on St Patricks Day (17 March each year). The Saint Patrick Visitor Centre in Downpatrick is purpose-built to tell the story of St Patrick. It is the only permanent exhibition in the world dedicated to the Patron Saint of Ireland, and one of the best tourist destinations in Ireland.
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
Covering an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains this forest park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle.
Overnight Location
Newcastle, County Down
On the Map: Newcastle is located in County Down on the east coast of Northern Ireland. The A2 road, connecting the cities of Newry (to the west), and Belfast (to the north), passes right through town.
Voted Northern Ireland’s best kept town a few years ago, Newcastle offers activities to interest all ages. Steeped in history, Newcastle has for many years been one of the most popular resorts in the country. The combination of a long, clean, tidy beach to one side and the overbearing sulking mountains of Mourne to the other gives the place a special feeling which many poets and artists have tried to convey over the years. However one can only truly appreciate the unparalleled beauty of the town by experiencing it first hand. The nearby Royal County Down Golf Club is believed by many to be among the most beautiful and competitive courses anywhere, indeed many professional players have included it among their top ten courses in the world.
Day 7
Accommodation
Davenport Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin
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.
Included Unique Activities
Portmarnock Golf Club
Portmarnock, County Dublin
Founded in 1894, Portmarnock is consistently ranked amongst the top golf courses in the world. With a rich history closely aligned to the progression of golf in Ireland, Portmarnock has hosted many major professional and amateur events including multiple Irish Open Championships, the Walker Cup and the Irish Amateur Close Championship. From Sam Snead to Seve Ballesteros, some of golf's best known names have tested their skills on this north county Dublin sand spit. Considered by many as a fair but challenging test of golf, Portmarnock invites you to experience one of the purest links courses in the world.
Must-See Sites
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.
Enroute Sightseeing
Portmarnock, County Dublin
On The Map: Portmarnock is a suburb of Dublin City, and lies on the east coast of Ireland between Malahide and Baldoyle.
Portmarnock has been settled in Neolithic times, with a number of remains of activity in the area still evident today, such as flints and other tools having been excavated at the northern fringe of Portmarnock. The remains of a ring fort are visible from the air at the south of the town. The son of famous Irish Queen Maedhbh of Connaught – Maine – is also said to have been buried locally. Adjacent to Portmarnock is a narrow beach which extends onto a sandy peninsula with beaches on all sides. The beach is nicknamed The Velvet Strand due to the beautiful smooth sand along the beach. Portmarnock's beach was the starting point for an important pioneering flights. On 23 June 1930 Australian aviator Charles Kingsford Smith and his crew took off in the Southern Cross aircraft on the second, westbound transatlantic flight. Portmarnock is also world-famous for its golf course which formally opened on 26 December 1894.
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 brimming with culture. You could spend your time strolling the streets soaking up the atmosphere, relaxing in its cafes and bars or you could check out its myriad historical, literary and cultural delights. The 8th century illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, must be viewed. It is on display at the impressive Trinity College, Ireland's first university (founded 1592) in the heart of Dublin. For the rest of your time, it is up to you how much you want to pack in. Phoenix Park (twice the size of New York City's Central Park), Georgian Dublin around Stephen's Green, Dublin Castle, the National Botanical Gardens, National Museum, Kilmainham Gaol and the Hugh Lane Municipal Art Gallery are all highly recommended stops on your tour. Then there's the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery. A visit to Dublin's Temple Bar to experience the lively Dublin pub culture is a must, though many of Dublin's best bars can be found outside this area in the streets and laneways around Grafton Street, the shopper's street of choice. Purchasing a 'hop-on, hop-off' Dublin Bus Tour ticket is a great way to get around and see all the major sites at a very reasonable cost.
Day 8
Accommodation
Davenport Hotel - Dublin, County Dublin
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.
Included Unique Activities
Guinness Connoisseur Experience
Dublin, County Dublin
The Connoisseur Experience is the ultimate tasting experience for the ultimate Guinness fan. Gather in the luxurious private bar, discreetly tucked away in a secluded area of the Guinness Storehouse where you will embark on a journey through tastes, traditions, and stories of the most popular variants of Guinness beer - Guinness Draught, Guinness Original, Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, and one of the beers from The Brewers Project range. You will also have the opportunity to learn the craft of how to pour the perfect pint of your very own Guinness. This experience is an exclusive added feature to the general admission tickets which include a self-guided tour of the visitor experience and a complimentary pint of Guinness or soft drink.
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.
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.
Temple Bar, County Dublin
On The Map: 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 9
Depart From
Depart from Dublin Airport, County Dublin
Return to Dublin Airport at least two 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!
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