Country Roads of Ireland - End Belfast, Classic Group, Summer
Country Roads of Ireland - End Belfast, Classic Group, Summer
$4695
Country Roads of Ireland - End Belfast, Classic Group, Summer
12 Days Starting in Dublin, Ireland and ending in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Cork, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Ennistymon, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Tour operator:
Tour code:
B909ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland with the "Country Roads of Ireland - End Belfast, Classic Group, Summer" tour. This immersive experience begins in Dublin, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Custom House and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Traverse the lush countryside to Cork, Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, where you can choose between a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a scenic hike. Discover the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, the historic city of Galway, and the mystical Giant's Causeway. Along the way, enjoy authentic Irish dining experiences, including a farm-to-table meal in Killarney. Conclude your adventure in Belfast, where you'll delve into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the heart and soul of Ireland.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, with the opportunity to mingle and get to know your fellow travelers.
Day 2: In Dublin’S Fair City Relaxed Start
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Accommodation Name: Clayton Burlington Road, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accompanied by a Local Expert, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during an orientation of the city. Discover Custom House, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy entrance to the 9th century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College.
Day 3: A Journey From Dublin To Cork
Location: Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Cork
Accommodation: The Kingsley Hotel, Cork.
Accommodation Name: The Kingsley, Cork
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, visit one of the country’s main racehorse breeding centers. Continue to the acclaimed 100 year old Japanese Gardens where you can ‘journey through life’ during a walk through the beautiful surrounds. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny to visit the majestic Kilkenny Castle. With a Local Expert, learn how the castle was built in 1195 after the Norman Conquest of Ireland and admire its beautifully restored Victorian era rooms. Continue through Cahir and see its imposing 13th-century castle, featured in the film 'Excalibur', on the way to Cork. On arrival, your Travel Director will show you around the compact university city, with its vibrant waterfront and grand Georgian parades.
Day 4: Across The Mountains To Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Cork, Blarney Castle, Killarney
Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to the ruined Blarney Castle. Will you hang upside down from the ramparts to kiss the stone and ensure a lifetime of eloquence? Travel across the majestic Derrynasaggart Mountains to the lively town of Killarney. For your Farm-to-Table dining experience, enjoy some Irish home cooking in the kitchens of chef John Sheehan. Join John and Freda, your hosts at the 19th Green Guesthouse, and savor the delicious flavors of fresh local cuisine on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Gather together at a Farm-to-Table dinner, using responsibly sourced ingredients from the local community, and gain personal insight into classic Irish recipes that are loved throughout the world.
Day 5: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Killarney
Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear. Then explore around the magnificent Ring of Kerry. Here, mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is breathtaking beyond words. Journey past lush lakelands and around towering cliffs as you appreciate sweeping sea views. Continue through delightful villages like Sneem and cross the peat bogs of the Black Mountains to Moll’s Gap to admire Queen Victoria’s Ladies View. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Maybe take the opportunity to hire a bicycle and enjoy one of the many scenic trails around the lake or through the National Park.
Day 6: Around The Dingle Peninsula Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney, Dingle Peninsula, Ennistymon
Accommodation: Skellig Hotel, Dingle.
Accommodation Name: Falls & Spa, Ennistymon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue driving with views of wide skies, peaceful towns and coastal scenery of the Dingle Peninsula �� the setting for the film Ryan’s Daughter. Drive to dramatic Slea Head at the peninsula’s far end, before journeying back to reach your hotel.
Day 7: The Cliffs Of Moher And Galway Relaxed Start
Location: Ennistymon, Cliffs of Moher, Galway
Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel (Sea View Rooms), Galway.
Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast (Sea View Rooms), Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to the Visitor Center at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Clare Coast before a delightful drive through the strange, rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay. On arrival, see the Lynch Memorial and Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his voyages to America. See the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy.
Day 8: Free Day Galway Or Aran Islands Relaxed Start
Location: Galway
Accommodation: Connemara Coast Hotel (Sea View Rooms), Galway.
Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast (Sea View Rooms), Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend a day at leisure to relax and enjoy Galway. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the Aran Islands? A genuine highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way. With their cliffs and spectacular coastal views, the islands are a true Irish experience.
Day 9: Derry Londonderry
Location: Londonderry
Accommodation: Maldron Hotel Derry, Londonderry.
Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel Derry, Londonderry
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Admire the Blue Stack Mountains of Donegal as you cross into Northern Ireland, bound for the ancient walled city of 'Derry.' What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall.
Day 10: Walk In The Giant’S Steps Relaxed Start
Location: Giant's Causeway
Accommodation: Ballygally Castle Hotel, Co. Antrim.
Accommodation Name: Ballygally Castle, Co. Antrim
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to the iconic Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn how the National Trust is enabling farming and biodiversity to work together, supporting both wildlife and quality food production. Next, prepare yourself for miles of breathtaking beauty as you travel along the road clinging to the Antrim Coast. Continue onto your hotel, overlooking Ballygally Bay. For those who are brave enough, perhaps check out The Ghost Room, in one of the castle’s turrets? In the evening, please join us for a finale Celebration Dinner, where old-fashioned hospitality is blended with good food and wine for an experience that delights the senses.
Day 11: The Antrim Coast To Belfast Relaxed Start
Location: Belfast
Accommodation: Titanic Hotel
Accommodation Name: Titanic, Belfast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue around the Antrim Coast, past the huge Norman castle at Carrickfergus, to arrive in the Northern Ireland capital of Belfast. Meet your Local Expert for a passionate city tour including views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents.
Day 12: Depart Belfast
Location: Belfast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure transfers arrive at Belfast George Best City Airport and Belfast International Airport.
What's Included
-
Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Killarney National Park: a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a gentle hike with a nature guide.
-
Top Rated Highlights
Experience top-rated highlights including Dublin's Custom House, Cahir Castle, Cork's Grand Parade, the Ring of Kerry, and more.
-
Make Travel Matter
Participate in experiences that support sustainable practices, such as dining at a farm-to-table restaurant in Killarney and visiting the Giant's Causeway.
-
Authentic Dining
Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a warm and friendly dinner in Dublin and a celebration dinner in Ballygally.
-
Insight Choice
Explore Killarney National Park with options for a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a guided hike.
-
Dining Summary
The tour includes 5 dinners and 11 breakfasts.
-
Insight Experiences
Gain insights into Irish culture and history with visits to Trinity College, the Irish National Stud, Kilkenny Castle, and more.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a visit to the Aran Islands are not included in the tour package.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
Airfare
International and domestic airfare to and from the tour start and end locations is not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
Insight Experiences
- Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe’s elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
- Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
- Kilkenny: Visit Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. On a guided tour, learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came to call it home for so many centuries. Amble through the Picture Gallery, library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendor as well as the rolling parkland formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and man-made lake.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
- Londonderry: There's no better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Ireland in comfort with a coach tour, exploring scenic routes and iconic landmarks. Enjoy guided city tours and scenic drives, including the Ring of Kerry and the Antrim Coast, with convenient transfers to and from airports.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations including the Clayton Burlington Road in Dublin, The Kingsley in Cork, Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, Falls & Spa in Ennistymon, Connemara Coast in Galway, Maldron Hotel Derry, Ballygally Castle in Co. Antrim, and Titanic Hotel in Belfast, offering comfort and local charm.
Check out our Q&As
-
What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Irish National Stud in Kildare, where you can explore the foaling unit, museum, and stallions. You will also have access to view the famous Book of Kells at Trinity College in Dublin. Additionally, there is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Giant's Causeway, where you learn about biodiversity efforts.
-
What are the dining experiences like on this tour?
The tour offers a variety of dining experiences, including a warm and friendly dinner in Dublin to get to know fellow travelers, a Farm-to-Table dining experience in Killarney with fresh local cuisine, and a grand finale Celebration Dinner in Ballygally with traditional Irish 'craic'.
-
What options are available for exploring Killarney National Park?
In Killarney National Park, you can choose between a horse-drawn jaunting car ride with local jarveys or a gentle hike with a nature guide, where you can admire the stunning scenery including mountains, lakes, and the historic Ross Castle.
-
How does the tour support sustainable tourism?
The tour supports sustainable tourism through experiences like the Farm-to-Table dining in Killarney, which uses locally sourced ingredients, and the visit to the Giant's Causeway, where you learn about habitat restoration and biodiversity efforts.
-
What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as Kilkenny Castle, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and the ancient walled city of Derry. You will also see the immense Carrickfergus Castle and explore the city of Belfast with its rich history.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Friday
May 12, 2025 - May 23, 2025Monday - Friday
May 19, 2025 - May 30, 2025Monday - Friday
May 26, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 21, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025Monday - Friday
May 04, 2026 - May 15, 2026Monday - Friday
May 11, 2026 - May 22, 2026Monday - Friday
May 18, 2026 - May 29, 2026Monday - Friday
May 25, 2026 - Jun 05, 2026Monday - Friday
Jun 01, 2026 - Jun 12, 2026Monday - Friday
Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 19, 2026Monday - Friday
Jun 22, 2026 - Jul 03, 2026Monday - Friday
Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 10, 2026Monday - Friday
Jul 06, 2026 - Jul 17, 2026Monday - Friday
Jul 13, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026Monday - Friday
Jul 20, 2026 - Jul 31, 2026Monday - Friday
Aug 03, 2026 - Aug 14, 2026Monday - Friday
Aug 10, 2026 - Aug 21, 2026Monday - Friday
Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 04, 2026Monday - Friday
Sep 07, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026Monday - Friday
Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026Monday - Friday
Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions