The Gaelic Opulence is the perfect introductory tour of the Southern Emerald Isle. Drive to all the highlights on this classic tour– and luxuriate in a stay at the elegant Dromoland Castle.
Above all, consult with your Destination Specialist. We will ensure that the highlights of your trip are booked in advance so you won’t miss out on the fun! Lots of time at leisure will be built in so you can explore on your own, and at your own pace. Let the journey guide you.
Read more about why we love the Gaelic Opulence.
Arrive at Shannon Airport and pick up your rental car. Head into Limerick city, where your hotel is on the banks of the River Shannon. Visit King John’s Castle and immerse in 800 years of dramatic local history. This evening visit another authentic castle for a medieval style banquet. (D)
Overnight in Limerick
Drive through the austere beauty of the Burren, with its unique limestone landscape formed over 300 million years ago, when the entire area was underwater. Look closely at this sensitive landscape- it’s home to 1100 species of plants. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, soaring 700 feet above the Atlantic surf. Walk along the cliffs for thrilling views. Travel on to the friendly town of Killarney, where there are plenty of shops and pubs to explore. Dine in your hotel this evening. (B, D)
Overnight in Killarney
Travel via jaunting car to Ross Castle & Killarney Estate. You might choose to visit Moriarty’s in the beautiful Gap of Dunloe. Embark on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive the Ring of Kerry. You will have plenty of photo stops along the route, which features some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery and some of the locations from the Star Wars films. Passing through Waterville and Sneem, stop at Molls Gap for views of the mountainous Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. Return to Killarney for dinner at the award winning Rozzers Restaurant at Killeen House. (B, D)
Overnight in Killarney
Visit the famous Blarney Castle and climb the winding steps to kiss the “Stone of Eloquence” or walk through the lovely parklands and gardens. Head to the Cobh Heritage Centre where you can trace your ancestors, learn more about the ill-fated Titanic and Lusitania, or immerse yourself in the history of Irish emigrants. Relax as you follow the coastal route to Waterford, where you will dine in your hotel this evening. Explore the rich Viking and medieval heritage of this port city, the oldest in Ireland. (B, D)
Overnight in Waterford
Watch skilled artisans create sparkling masterpieces at the House of Waterford Crystal. Travel through the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains on the way to Glendalough, one of Ireland’s most beautiful destinations. There you’ll explore the remains of one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Continue on to your hotel in Dublin. This evening dine on Irish specialties at the Merry Ploughboy Pub while enjoying a lively show of traditional Irish songs and step-dancing. (B, D)
Overnight in Dublin
Take a Hop On Hop Off bus tour, and see all the city’s highlights with the freedom to stop off to explore further as you please. Your Hop On Hop Off bus ticket also gives you admission to the Little Museum of Dublin, an old Georgian townhouse with a fantastic collection of 5,000 objects telling the story of the city. Plus you will have a voucher to admit you to one of Dublin’s top attractions. Choose from the Guinness Storehouse, a seven storey attraction telling the story of Dublin’s iconic brew, complete with a pint at the Gravity Bar on the top floor, Teeling Distillery, the first new whiskey distillery to open in Dublin in 125 years, EPIC The Irish Emmigration Museum, telling the story of the people who left Ireland and how they shaped the world (winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2019), or the GPO Museum, innovatively detailing the fascinating story of the 1916 Rising, the pivotal event that led to Ireland’s independence. (B)
Overnight in Dublin
Visit the home of equine royalty, The Irish National Stud, where you’ll see impeccably-bred stallions alongside protective mares, frolicking foals, and athletic yearlings. Stroll around the delightful grounds to explore St. Fiachra’s Garden, including its miniature Japanese Gardens. Travel to the majestic and deluxe Dromoland Castle Hotel. Relax in the elegant surroundings of this wonderful fairy-tale castle. Savor a delicious dinner in the oak-panelled dining room. (B, D)
Say farewell to your amazing time in Ireland! A private driver will pick you up and take you to the airport departure hall for your return flight home. Hopefully, you picked some souvenirs up relive your time in Ireland at home!
Your Self Drive Tour of Ireland is the perfect introductory tour of the Emerald Isle. It offers the freedom and flexibility of a chauffeured experience with a price point closer to a group guided tour. You and your loved ones can have the best of Ireland!
We love this itinerary because it allows you to see the highlights of Ireland as a first-time visitor. Or you can relive the best of Ireland if you’ve been before. By staying in Dublin, swinging down to Kilkenny, then continuing to the beloved County Kerry you’ll have many sightseeing and touring opportunities.
Ireland’s capital city of Dublin blends modern amenities with charming historic neighborhoods. A flourishing food scene for everyone to enjoy. Explore the iconic sites such as the Guinness Storehouse, the Glasnevin Cemetery, and the Kilmainham Gaol. Enjoy a pint and live music in a pub in the famous Temple Bar neighborhood. Join a walking tour about the Easter Rising or Ireland’s rich literature, or take a day trip up to Belfast for a bit of Northern Ireland.
Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, dating as far back as the 6th century. On the way there take some time to hike the stunning Wicklow Mountains. Then visit Powerscourt Estate to see the impressive house and manicured gardens.
County Kerry is ideal for those partaking in a self-drive tour of Ireland. The rambling roadways of County Kerry cut through patchwork fields. Drive alongside the dramatic and rocky coastline. It’s home to some of the most striking castle ruins and charming villages Ireland has to offer.
Make this independent adventure yours!
Nights can be added or reduced, your route can be changed. Tours and activity options can be selected based on your interests and purpose of travel. Having a rental car allows you to visit the pockets of Ireland that the train doesn’t reach. All of this without the expense of constraints of a private chauffeur. Come and go as you please. You never know what you’ll discover when you’re exploring this special country at your own pace!
Your Destination Specialist knows Ireland and will take the time to learn what’s important to you. Your itinerary will be designed just for you, to make the most of your time and experience in the Emerald Isle!
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