Castle & Manors of Ireland

Day 1 - Welcome to Ireland

On arrival in Dublin, meet your private guide and begin your journey south to the mountainous region of Kerry. On a route that weaves through the emerald hills, choose to enjoy some exclusive experiences along the way. Perhaps visit the Irish National Stud & Gardens to take a private tour, learning about how horse-racing is intricately linked to Ireland’s culture and society, meeting some of the fastest thoroughbreds in the world. Stop at the Rock of Cashel, where a local archaeologist will reveal the stories surrounding one of the country’s most iconic collections of medieval buildings. This afternoon, arrive in your luxury hotel and take your time to settle in, perhaps indulging in a spa treatment or taking a stroll around the peaceful grounds. If you don’t fancy the drive, choose to hop on a helicopter and transfer directly to your first accommodation instead.

Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

Day 2 - The Wilds of Kerry

With peninsulas that stretch out into the Atlantic Ocean, old-growth forests and towering mountains, Kerry is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. With your guide, spend the day exploring the wilds of Kerry. Visit the lesser-known Beara Peninsula, discovering a peaceful landscape that is defined by its history. Spend time with a charismatic local expert, visiting Neolithic sites, taking a short hike among Beara’s copper mines, and visiting little-accessed archaeological digs. There is also the option to visit the Skellig Islands today – the most westerly sacred site in Europe. Bursting from the swirling Atlantic waves, these rocky pinnacles were once home to the monks of St. Fionan, whose settlement remains one of Ireland’s most impressive feats. As the golden light of evening begins to glimmer on the waves, return to your hotel to enjoy a delicious and traditional dinner.

Overnight: 5 star | Park Hotel | Kerry

Day 3 - Killarney National Park

After a leisurely breakfast, leave the quaint town of Kenmare this morning and head north into Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown. The oldest national park in Ireland, woodland tracks wind up the sides of mountains and waterfalls pulse over lime-green moss. With your guide, hike the heather-lined trails of the Kerry Way or enjoy a mellow kayak tour of Killarney’s shimmering lakes. At lunch, enjoy a wonderful picnic by the banks of the river or on the shores of a quiet island. This afternoon, take a private tour of Ross Castle and hear about the legend of O’Donoghue and his beautiful white horse. After a Michelin-starred dinner in the gothic splendour of your manor hotel, take a stroll into the picturesque village of Adare to enjoy some live music and a pint in a traditional thatched pub.

Overnight: 5 star | Adare Manor | Limerick

Day 4 - Cliffs of Moher & The Aran Islands

This morning, depart Adare by helicopter and fly towards the striking Cliffs of Moher. From the sky, take the time to absorb their majesty above the white-capped waves of the ocean. As seabirds swirl like confetti, land on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands. A stronghold of Irish language and culture, explore the island the old-fashioned way by taking a horse and carriage tour, stopping to discover hidden gems along the way. This afternoon, meet a charismatic fisherman-turned-goat farmer and his inquisitive herd of Saanen and Nubian goats. Sample his award-winning goat’s cheese and hear his riveting stories of island life, perhaps even learning a ‘cupla focal’ (a few words) in the ancient Irish language. Later, return to the mainland and transfer to your 800-year-old castle accommodation in the beautiful County Mayo.

Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

Day 5 - The Coast of Connemara

Windswept and austere, the exceptional barren beauty of Connemara has captured the imagination of writers and artists for centuries. With two mountain ranges and far-reaching blanket bogs, to the southwest, the land is broken up into a myriad of tiny islands and crescents of sparkling sand. With many miles of coastline, the ocean has always played an integral part in the lives of the locals. From the secluded village of Roundstone, join a lobster fisherman and sail to one of the many wonderful beaches in the bay. Enjoy a delicious alfresco lunch and if you’re feeling brave, perhaps an invigorating swim in the turquoise water. On your return to shore, take the opportunity to meet a local potter and try your hand at the art of pottery making. Chat about the local folklore and regional history, learning about the native Connemara ponies – a hardy and companionable breed unique to Ireland. Back at your castle hotel, enjoy a decadent afternoon tea, overlooking the stunning castle grounds. This evening, the chef will cook up your morning catch, so you can enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Overnight: 5 star | Ashford Castle | Mayo

Day 6 - Galway & Hidden Heartlands

After tea and coffee and perhaps a stroll around the grounds, join your guide and head east into the Hidden Heartlands of Ireland. Meander your way through the rolling green hills, passing leafy pastures dotted with sheep, wildflower meadows and hedges that twitter with birdsong. First stop in the colourful and lively city of Galway, enjoying an insider’s tour with a local musician. After, continue on, perhaps pausing for a short walk to a viewpoint that looks out over the sweeping fields and sleepy villages below. You can also make this journey by helicopter, watching the pastoral heart of Ireland roll out far below and arriving in style at your final destination, an impeccably-restored Georgian manor house. Enjoy a royal welcome and a glass of champagne before a decadent picnic lunch, an experience redolent of a Jane Austen novel. This afternoon, take some time to relax, perhaps enjoying some clay pigeon shooting, a private falconry display or a horse and carriage tour of the estate.

Overnight: 5 star | Ballyfin Demesne | Laois

Day 7 - Homeward Bound

After a relaxed breakfast in the opulent rooms at Ballyfin, be transferred to your next destination, whether Dublin or Shannon airport, to begin your journey home. Alternatively, extend your stay with some time in Dublin City.