Embrace the magic of Ireland on a 6-day adventure that blends charming castles with the freedom of an independent road trip.
This journey weaves together rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and an authentic taste of Irish hospitality, all from the comfort of a luxurious castle each night.
From $1179 per person - air and land
Courtesy Failte Ireland
Highlights
Dublin | Wicklow Mountains | Glendalough | Newgrange Malahide | EPIC |
Dublin: Your choice: soak in the old-world charm of your castle's surroundings or delve into Dublin's vibrant energy, with its contrasting architecture and iconic landmarks like Dublin Castle, the National Gallery, and more!
Wicklow Mountains: Journey into Ireland's past at Glendalough's ancient monastic city and then embrace its wild beauty through Wicklow Mountain National Park's lush valleys and serene lakes.
EPIC: Step into a captivating story at Dublin's Docklands and delve into the rich tapestry of Irish emigration, from humble beginnings to global impact, at the interactive EPIC Ireland museum.
Newgrange: Unearth the mysteries of Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb older than Stonehenge, nestled by the River Boyne and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.
Malahide: After exploring ancient mysteries, immerse yourself in the coastal charm of Malahide's restored castle, exotic gardens, and lively village, before savoring fresh seafood and pints in picturesque Howth.
This is just a taste of the adventure that awaits you! Each destination offers unique experiences and stunning scenery, promising an unforgettable exploration of Ireland's vibrant capital city and ancient east.
Included With This Fully Independent Package
- Round trip flights New York-Dublin, Dublin-New York
Other departure cities available. Prices may vary. - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 4 nights accommodations in your choice of First Class castle hotels
- 5 day car rental: Mini Manual. Upgrade to other categories available
- Car rental includes: Unlimited Mileage, Third Party Liability Insurance, Collision Damage Waiver (C.D.W.), local taxes (VAT)
- Breakfast daily
Malahide Castle
©Failte Ireland Courtesy Eileen Coffey
Suggested Itinerary:
DAY 1 - Depart for Ireland
DAY 2 - Arrive in Dublin
Welcome to Ireland! Arrive in Dublin; pick up your reserved vehicle at the airport's car rental facility and drive to your castle hotel. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel totally welcomed. Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore your new surroundings
Overnight: Dublin Area, County Meath or County Cavan
DAY 3 - Drive to Dublin
Spend the day at leisure in the castle area enjoying the old-world charm. Or, on to Dublin, Ireland's spirited capital city. Here, you'll see the city's contrasting architecture, from modern glass to grand neoclassical facades, along with lovely views of the River Liffey. Perhaps. visit famous sites throughout the city, including Dublin Castle and the National Gallery, where both Irish and European pieces of art are beautifully displayed
Overnight: Dublin Area, County Meath or County Cavan
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4 - Wicklow Mountains National Park
Today perhaps drive to Glendalough "The Valley of Two Lakes", home to an impressive 98-foot Round Tower, one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. This early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the "Monastic City". Next, drive through Wicklow Mountains National Park for a glimpse into Ireland's wild side. The lush scenery and placid lakes are delicately wound through hills and valleys offering gorgeous views.
Another option is to return back to Dublin to further explore the city. Visit Trinity College, where you can view the 8th century Book of Kells, a superb example of early Irish manuscript illumination that is on display in the Old Library. Wander leisurely along Temple Bar with its charming narrow cobbled streets and O'Connell Street, the city's main thoroughfare, home to the "Spire", the world's tallest piece of sculpture
Overnight: Dublin Area, County Meath or County Cavan
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5 - Newgrange, Drive to Malahide Castle
Today, don't miss the optional EPIC Ireland. The Irish Emigration Museum is an interactive experience located in Dublin's Docklands. It will guide you on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration, from early times to the modern day.
Spend leisure time, or, perhaps discover the mysterious burial mounds at Newgrange in County Meath, built along a bend of the River Boyne. This passage tomb, which some say was an ancient temple, was constructed over 5,000 years ago making it older than Stonehenge in England and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. The area has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Following this visit, perhaps head to the scenic coastal town of Malahide, with its newly restored historic castle and unique walled garden with exotic species of plants from all over the world. In the picturesque village and marina, you'll find a diverse selection of boutiques, bars and restaurants. You can end the day in nearby Howth. Try the fresh-caught fish or a pint of Guinness in one or the many restaurants
Optional: EPIC Ireland
Overnight: Dublin Area, County Meath or County Cavan
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6 - Depart Ireland
Farewell to Ireland. Drive to Dublin Airport and return your vehicle at the car rental facility before the departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
*This is a suggested itinerary. Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. GPS devices are recommended and can be rented locally.
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This tour is a self-drive and self-paced itinerary.
