Elegant Ireland Road Trip with 5-star Resort Upgrade
Self-drive through the best of Ireland
You will experience the very best of the Emerald Isle on this self-drive vacation! You'll stay in Kerry, Limerick, Wicklow, and more as you discover some of Ireland's most beloved sites and attractions. Marvel at historic castles, explore mystical woods, and delight in Irish delicacies on this multi-city Ireland vacation! This upgraded packages includes tours of Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher, and more!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Laois at the Heritage Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Kerry at the Rose Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at the Fitzgerald Woodlands House Hotel or similar
- 1 night in Wicklow at the 5-star The Druids Glen or similar
PLUS!
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Admission to Glendalough
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
Great Ways to Explore
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Discover the infamous "Queen's County" in Laois.
Explore the 15th century Ross Castle in Killarney National Park.
-
Take in the iconic Ring of Kerry to enjoy incredible views.
-
Experience the magic of Lough Gur, a glorious horseshoe lake that humans have inhabited for over 5,000 years!
-
Enjoy Irish pints and wonderful cuisine.
Get ready for an unforgettable in Ireland! Stay in some of Ireland's top cities as you drive around in your own rental car, experiencing the leisure of being able to see and do whatever you want. After arriving at Dublin airport, you'll pick up your rental car and stay one night in Laois – famously known for being the "Queen's County ".
Next up: Kerry! You can choose to hike around Killarney National Park, see the luxurious Muckross House estate, or of course – drive around the Ring of Kerry. Afterwards you'll head to Limerick, one of Ireland's largest and oldest cities, where you can witness an astounding 11th century castle and much more. Finally, you'll stay in Wicklow, known for its serene nature and Wicklow Mountains. You'll enjoy two nights here before dropping off your rental car and departing from Dublin Airport!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Laois at the Heritage Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Kerry at the Rose Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at the Fitzgerald Woodlands House Hotel or similar
- 1 night in Wicklow at the 5-star The Druids Glen or similar
PLUS!
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Admission to Glendalough
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
-
Discover the infamous "Queen's County" in Laois.
Explore the 15th century Ross Castle in Killarney National Park.
-
Take in the iconic Ring of Kerry to enjoy incredible views.
-
Experience the magic of Lough Gur, a glorious horseshoe lake that humans have inhabited for over 5,000 years!
-
Enjoy Irish pints and wonderful cuisine.
Get ready for an unforgettable in Ireland! Stay in some of Ireland's top cities as you drive around in your own rental car, experiencing the leisure of being able to see and do whatever you want. After arriving at Dublin airport, you'll pick up your rental car and stay one night in Laois – famously known for being the "Queen's County ".
Next up: Kerry! You can choose to hike around Killarney National Park, see the luxurious Muckross House estate, or of course – drive around the Ring of Kerry. Afterwards you'll head to Limerick, one of Ireland's largest and oldest cities, where you can witness an astounding 11th century castle and much more. Finally, you'll stay in Wicklow, known for its serene nature and Wicklow Mountains. You'll enjoy two nights here before dropping off your rental car and departing from Dublin Airport!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and begin the drive to your accommodations in Laois. Once settled in, utilize your included admission to Kilkenny Castle!
Immerse yourself in elegant charm at the 5-star Heritage Killenard in County Laois. As soon as you walk through the hotel's doors, you'll step into a state of pure peace and tranquility. Check-in with the friendly reception team and admire the hotel's rich, traditional decor as you make your way up to your room. Open your door and find air conditioning, internet access, large comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and more.
After a quick nap, unpack your swimsuit and take a dip in the Jacuzzi or indoor pool. Take a whack at a match of tennis, bring out your inner-child in the game room, go fishing, or unwind in the sauna or steam rooms. Enjoy a pre-dinner glass of whiskey at the Slieve Bloom Bar, then indulge in a delicious dinner at any of the resort's three restaurants.
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
Situated on Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, the Pembroke Hotel is right in the center of action. Just a 4-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, you'll be able to walk to all of the city's top attractions with ease. The hotel offers luxury 4-star accommodation with 74 quiet, spacious guest rooms all featuring air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Statham’s Restaurant combines traditional hospitality with delicious local Kilkenny produce. Statham's Bar, with its easygoing and relaxed atmosphere, is a great place to meet, drink and dine in Kilkenny city center. From brunch to lunch, from afternoon tea, to all day dining specials, they offer something for everyone throughout the day and evening.
Kilkenny Castle Admission & Self-Guided Tour
Few buildings in Ireland can boast a longer history of continuous occupation than Kilkenny Castle. Founded soon after the Norman conquest of Ireland, it has been rebuilt, extended and adapted to suit changing circumstances and uses over a period of 800 years. Remodeled in Victorian times, this former principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde is a grand country house set on 50 acres of rolling parkland, with mature trees and an abundance of wildlife. It also features a formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and a man-made lake, as well as a tearoom and the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art.
Day 2. Laois - Kerry
Rise and shine, it's your first full day on vacation! Get to know more of Laois today, before heading off to Kerry! County Kerry is particularly renowned for its beautiful terrain filled with rugged cliffs and ragged coastlines, along with the famous Ring of Kerry driving route. Today, you should experience the historic side of Kerry by visiting the 15th century Ross Castle in Killarney National Park. You may also wish to see the rural Muckross House estate with its stunning lake views and gardens, or dine at a local restaurant in Dingle.
The Rose Hotel in Tralee is a modern hotel with a 4-star rating and a warming atmosphere. The hotel is located just under a mile from the popular Tralee town center as well as a handful of other exciting adventures-- including but not limited to cycling, horse riding, amusement parks, and more. You'll also be happy to know that this hotel is just about 15 minutes driving distance away from Kerry Airport.
Included in every room is a private bath, a large window with a gorgeous view, flat screen TV, Wi-Fi access, and a handful of other amenities. As a guest at the Rose Hotel, you'll also be able to use the on-site laundry facility and enjoy easily-accessible room service.
Wake up to breakfast in bed (or at the café) from the hotel's very own kitchen serving traditional Irish cuisine. There's also a bar and lounge, as well as a luxurious spa on-site. The Rose Hotel also features an on-site gym and several lounging areas to help you feel all the more welcome. Nearby attractions include the Kerry County Museum, Tralee Bay Wetlands Center & Nature Reserve, the Aquadome, Kerry’s Wild Atlantic Way, and so much more.
Centrally located in the center of Killarney Town, Scotts Hotel Killarney is a stylish, upscale escape perfect for exploring County Kerry and the Ring of Kerry. Over the years, this family run hotel in Killarney has established a reputation for its excellent location, friendly customer service and very welcoming atmosphere. The hotel offers 105 guest rooms and 10 deluxe suites. These spacious rooms feature free Wi-Fi, en suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and flat-screen TVs. Guests are sure to indulge in the cozy comforts during their stay with an on-site restaurant and three bars. The hotel is opposite Killarney train and bus stations and just a 2-minute walk from the shopping district.
Day 3. Kerry
Today, experience County Kerry's pride and joy by driving the world-renowned Ring of Kerry! This circular route is 179km-long and winds itself along Kerry's magnificent coastlines. Some of the highlights of this drive include seeing Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall, and the Gap of Dunloe, along with elegant estates and glorious castles.
Ring of Kerry Guided Bus Tour
The Iveragh Peninsula - which contains Ireland’s most spectacular mountain road - the Ring of Kerry - is situated in the southwest corner of Ireland. Over the centuries it has been the inspiration of poets and writers because of its magnificent coastal scenery and rugged countryside.
This motorcoach tour allows travelers to share in the history, geography, culture, stories and folklore of the enchanting Ring of Kerry. This is an ideal opportunity for you to forget about the left-hand side of the road for a day and relax in worry-free comfort.
The Ring of Kerry is usually done in a counter-clockwise direction along the banks of the River Laune to Killorglin, via Glenbeigh, Kells, Caherciveen and the southern shores of Dingle Bay. The tour continues to Waterville and along the coast via Coomakista Pass and Derrynane and on to Sneem. From Sneem you travel up the mountain road to Molls Gap, then via Ladies’ View and back to Killarney. In addition to stopping at all points of interest en route you also stop for an hour at lunchtime. In the afternoon a stop will be made for tea/coffee/Guinness/refreshments.
Day 4. Kerry - Limerick
Limerick is the third largest city in Ireland and one of the oldest, and luckily, you're off to visit today! One of the main sites to see here is King John’s Castle, which is found along River Shannon and was impressively built all the way back in 1210. If you want to take in more of Limerick's dazzling architecture, be sure to check out St John’s Cathedral and St Mary’s Cathedral.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property set in 44 wooded acres amidst the rich, quiet farmlands of the Golden Vale. The hotel is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon Airport. The charming Adare town is only 1.6 km with its streets lined with enchanting thatched cottages, selling crafts, clothes and antiques.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel offers 94 comfortable and stylish guest rooms, first-class service and excellent facilities including the award-winning Brennan Room Restaurant and a leisure club featuring a swimming pool. The state-of-the-art Health & Leisure Centre boasts a spacious cardiovascular gym and weight training area with variety of fitness classes, a 65-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, children's pool and play room, as well as the Failte Ireland Award-winning Revas Spa.
This stunning hotel features 99 contemporary guestrooms with space, style and sophistication. The Absolute Bar & Grill includes an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River and serves fresh and modern international cuisine in relaxed, informal surroundings. The luxurious spa offers a range of relaxing body and beauty treatments, including a salt grotto, tropical showers and a crystal steam room.
Limerick City Hotel is located in the heart of Limerick on Lower Mallow Street, just off Henry Street and on the Shannon Bridge Roundabout at the end of the Dock Road-easily accessible from Shannon, Cork & Kerry.
This hotel is within walking distance from Limerick Colbert Train & Bus Station and near a host of Irish heritage sites including picturesque towns of Adare, Grange and Louch Gur, You can also explore Clare's Burren district, Cliffs of Moher and Ailwee Caves, all just a short 40-minute drive from the Hotel.
Day 5. Limerick
Make today an extra exciting day by using your Bunratty Castle & Folk Park admission and Cliffs of Moher admission!
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
Be transported to farm life in 19th century Ireland during your visit to Bunratty Folk Park! You will be charmed as you visit the farm houses and cottages and watch the tasks of rural Irish families. Set on 26 acres, this folk park is an uncanny recreation of an old Irish village, down to the furnishing in the shops and homes.
Costumed characters bring the village to life as you watch bakers, policemen, and schoolteachers go about their days. Explore a school, a pub, a grocery story, a hardware store, a post office, and more! For a fun treat, see the baking of the griddle bread next to the fire and be sure to taste it hot with fresh creamery butter.
Also on site is Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. See the best examples of medieval furniture, stroll through walled gardens, and pay close attention to the historical detail that fills the castle.
Cliffs Of Moher Admission
See Ireland's most visited sea cliffs; these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 ft above sea level and offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
On a clear day, see as far as the Aran Islands! Take a leisurely stroll along the guided path, climb the castle at the top of the hill, or see how many different species of birds you can spot - you may even see a puffin or two!
Day 6. Limerick - Wicklow
Today, you're off to Wicklow! Once settled in, explore the area by wandering around Ballinastoe Woods walk or even driving the Sally Gap Drive. You can also try some delicious drinks at the Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery, get lost exploring the Russborough House maze, or visit the little town Hollywood found at the end of Wicklow Gap. Don't forget to take advantage of your admission to Glendalough and use your Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher!
Have one last delicious Irish dinner tonight, maybe your favorite pint, and get a good night's rest for your travel home tomorrow.
The Powerscourt Hotel is located on the doorstep of Dublin City on the grounds of the 1,000 acre Powerscourt House and Gardens. County Wicklow, affectionately known as ‘The Garden of Ireland,’ is a favored spot for cyclists and hikers, offering many beautiful trails through the mountains.
This elegant hotel brings together natural beauty and dignified accommodations offering guests an unforgettable experience. This Palladian estate is tucked back in the woodlands of County Wicklow and allows guests to take an enchanting stroll amidst the gentle green hills and sparkling lakes of Powerscourt Gardens, then head into Dublin for some cosmopolitan flair.
Its luxurious 5-star amenities and services include 200 spacious guest rooms, a world-class spa, a 20-meter Swarovski crystal-lit pool and fitness center, 36-holes of championship golf, and three exceptional dining facilities, including Gordon Ramsay at Powerscourt, a signature restaurant from the world-renowned chef.
Kildare Village Discount Voucher
Nestled within landscaped grounds and presented in an authentic village environment, Kildare Village is the perfect luxury shopping destination! You will find it difficult to resist temptation with over 90 brands such as Louise Kennedy, Gucci, Armani, Brooks Brothers, Anya Hindmarch and Hugo Boss offering up to 60% off all year around.
After a long day of shopping, unwind at one of the upscale eateries, such as L'Officina, Dunne & Crescenzi’s, an ultra-modern Italian restaurant offering breakfast, mid-morning snacks, lunch, and wonderful wines.
The Village is located at exit 13 off the M7 less than an hour's drive from Dublin Airport and Dublin city center.
Glendalough Visitor Center
Glendalough is an early Christian ecclesiastical settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone churches and decorated crosses. The Visitor Centre has an interesting exhibition and an audio-visual show and is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Day 7. Depart Dublin
It's time to say goodbye to Ireland! Drop off your rental car, board your flight home, and start thinking about your next trip.
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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