Name: Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland
Location: Galway, Killarney, Dingle

Essential Ireland Tours & Travel Ltd.

12 reviews

Duration: 7 days

Group size: 1 - 16

Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland

Galway, Killarney, Dingle

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Essential Ireland Tours & Travel Ltd.

12 reviews

Duration: 7 days

Group size: 1 - 16

THE 5 STAR LUXURY TOUR OF IRELAND

You’ll never forget checking into a world famous Irish Castle hotel, a 12th century fortress, and enjoy sleeping in its luxurious bedrooms.

This tour features all the fantastic activities and experiences Essential Ireland Tours are famous for, but the extra magic is the luxury accommodation and the small group size (8 - 16 tour guests only).

You’ll have the travel experience of a lifetime in some of the world’s best hotels and stately homes. We leave nothing out and the attention to detail on this tour is exceptional.Great memories, fun experiences, gourmet food and wine, luxury Castles, an epic VIP tour of Ireland.

note: This tour itinerary may occasionally need to operate in reverse direction or certain days may be swopped if logistically required. In this eventuality, the activities, sights or locations visited on the tour will not be affected.

Day 1
Day 1
Dublin to Ashford Castle
[9am] Depart central Dublin. Pick up in one central location City’s south-side (The Harding Hotel, just in front of Christchurch Cathedral). We’ll enjoy some fun and informative commentary on Dublin’s attractions to the beautiful Irish countryside.
[10.30] Stop outside Dublin for a welcome-coffee! You’ll have an itinerary Q&A session with Stephen McPhilemy, our Co-Founder and Chief Tour-Guide.
Then onward to the idyllic village of Cong, one of Ireland's most beautiful spots and scene of the Hollywood classic 'The Quiet Man'
[12.30] Enjoy free time for lunch in charming Cong..
[1.30pm] Checkin to Ashford Castle, the worlds most beautiful and luxurious Castle Hotel. The warm welcome from the staff is an experience in itself.
[3pm] explore the exquisite gardens, perhaps ride some of the Castle's horses through the woods, fish on Lough Corrib for salmon or pike or relax in the award-winning spa.
[5pm] Gather in the Prince of Wales Bar where everyone can enjoy each others company and have a good chat with other tour-guests
Optional dinner in the George V dinging room (dinner jackets compulsory for Gentlemen), the Castle Dungeon ( no dress code) or the charming cottage restaurant...
Browse the dining options at this link, Stephen's tip: be sure to pre-book directly with the Castle
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Day 2
Day 2
Ashford Castle to Killarney (via the Cliffs of Moher)
The world-famous Cliffs of Moher - Adare heritage town - Visit 'the Normans' exhibition - Photograph the Burren - Fun Irish music evening in lively Killarney

[9am] After a delicious breakfast fit for royalty, you'll have all morning free to enjoy the facilities of Ashford Castle.
[12.30pm] Onwards through Connemara to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery. We go to a unique secret spot to enjoy the Cliffs and are able to avoid all the tourist hordes.
Photostop at the unique geological formation of the Burren.
Comfort stop and relaxing stroll in the heritage village of Adare in County Limerick, enjoy the little but fascinating Norman exhibition.
[5.30 pm] Arrive in lively and charming Killarney, our home for the next two nights. A fun-filled evening of Irish music lies ahead. Free for dinner
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Day 3
Day 3
Killarney and 'mini Ring of Kerry Tour'
Jaunting Car ride by the Lakes of Killarney - Killarney National Park - Muckross House & Gardens - Kenmare , the stone circle & Kissane Sheep farm - Group dinner in Killarney

A leisurely morning in Killarney, one of Ireland's most welcoming towns.

[10 am ] Begin the day with one of our favourite activities, enjoy a jaunting-car ride through the native woodland of Killarney National Park and trot by the lakes of Killarney. Always a highlight for our Tour-Guests

11.30 ] Tour Muckross House and Gardens.

[2.30 pm] Visit the idyllic old market village of Kenmare and the Kissane family sheep farm, enjoy a herding demonstration by their super-smart Border Collies, amidst the stunning scenery of the 'Black Valley' and the backdrop of Molls Gap.

[5pm] Back at our central hotel with some time to relax and/or enjoy the colourful and bustling shops before we meet for a delicious group meal.
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Day 4
Day 4
Killarney to Dingle
'Welcome to Dingle' Walking Tour - 'Dingle Crystal' Workshop visit - Private Falconry experience - Gourmet buffet dinner by private Chef at Milltown House

[9.30am] After breakfast we will take the 1 hour scenic drive to magical Dingle, one of Ireland's best loved fishing-villages.
[11am] Enjoy a 'Welcome to Dingle' walking tour, exploring all areas of cultural and historical significance and also meeting the local characters.
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Visit the Dingle Crystal workshop and observe Sean Daly at work (the former Master-cutter at Waterford Crystal).
[1- 2.30 pm] Free time in Dingle to find a nice lunch-spot and to enjoy the bustling streets and colourful shops.
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Then we'll checkin to our beloved Milltown House, right on Dingle Harbour, our historic landmark property is the former home of Hollywood star, Robert Mitchum and your home-from-home for the next 3 nights, offering some incredible Irish experiences. Beginning with a private falconry experience in our own School of Falconry, and a fine dinner cooked by our private Chef (all ingredients sourced within 10 miles of Dingle). Always a fun night (ps drinks included!)
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Day 5
Day 5
The Dingle Peninsula & the epic 'Slea Head scenic drive'
Slea Head & the glorious beaches - Gallarus Oratory & the ancient ruins of Kilmalkedar- 'Hold a baby lamb' - Dingle Musical pub crawl - Harry Clarke's masterpiece stained-glass windows - Irish Whiskey tasting

[9am] Depart on our scenic scenic drive around the Dingle peninsula.
[9.30am] Hold some baby lambs at Aodhan's family farm, maybe even bottle-feed the wee rascals!
[11am] Visit the Blasket Islands interpretive centre to learn of the Gaelic heritage of the local people
[1pm] Visit Gallarus Oratory
[2pm] Explore the 12th century ruins of Kilmalkeadar Church. View the ancient form of Celtic writing called 'Ogham' on the historic standing stones.
[5.30pm] Irish whiskey tasting with our resident expert.
Free for dinner and/or the pub-music, many fine choices on offer in Dingle
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Day 6
Day 6
Free-time to relax in charming Dingle
Today is your 'holiday from your holiday.' A chance to sleep-in or relax, or go for a stroll around the many little craft and gift shops in Dingle village.
We offer the option to all meet up in the evening.

Free-time to shop, relax and wander the lively streets of Dingle - meet David Geaney, Irish dancer (subject to availablity) - Meet the locals at famous Dick Macks pub, perhaps have a belt made by the resident artisan craftsman.
note: Many tour-guests opt for a harbour cruise, short hike or a Dingle sea-safari.

An enjoyable and refreshing free-day to shop, relax and wander the lively streets of Dingle
Meet the locals at famous Dick Macks pub, perhaps have a belt made by the resident artisan craftsman.
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Day 7
Day 7
Dingle to Dublin (via Rock of Cashel & Guinness Storehouse!)
The Rock of Cashel - The golden Vale of Tipperary - The full Guinness experience at Guinness Storehouse

[9am] Depart after a fine breakfast on Dingle Bay
[11am]: Rest stop in Newcastle West, home of the legendary Halla Mor (the great Norman banqueting Hall)
[12noon] Guided tour of the Rock of Cashel, following in the footsteps of St. Patrick himself. The Rock is where St. Patrick himself once preached and is one of Ireland's most glorious archeological sites.
Stunning vistas, rich history and deeply inspiring.
[1pm] We’ll be providing some picnic snacks here with our compliments on the hallowed Rock of Cashel
[2pm] Depart for the Capital City.
[3.30pm] Arrive in Dublin
[4pm] We’ll say our farewells in the iconic environs of The Guinness Storehouse and then drop you off at your desired location in Dublin city-centre, (we can also help you arrange a drop-off at Dublin Airport or to an airport hotel, after 6 pm approximately).
Go n-éirí an bóthar leat, may the road rise to meet you.

Do let us know if you have any questions. On behalf at all the team at 'Essential Ireland Tours' (both human & canine!) many thanks for choosing to enjoy our beloved Ireland with us.
Is mise le meas (‘from me to you with respect’ in Gaelic)
Stephen McPhilemy
Chief Guide and Founder
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Day 1

Dublin to Ashford Castle

[9am] Depart central Dublin. Pick up in one central location City’s south-side (The Harding Hotel, just in front of Christchurch Cathedral). We’ll enjoy some fun and informative commentary on Dublin’s attractions to the beautiful Irish countryside.

[10.30] Stop outside Dublin for a welcome-coffee! You’ll have an itinerary Q&A session with Stephen McPhilemy, our Co-Founder and Chief Tour-Guide.
Then onward to the idyllic village of Cong, one of Ireland's most beautiful spots and scene of the Hollywood classic 'The Quiet Man'

[12.30] Enjoy free time for lunch in charming Cong..

[1.30pm] Checkin to Ashford Castle, the worlds most beautiful and luxurious Castle Hotel. The warm welcome from the staff is an experience in itself.

[3pm] explore the exquisite gardens, perhaps ride some of the Castle's horses through the woods, fish on Lough Corrib for salmon or pike or relax in the award-winning spa.

[5pm] Gather in the Prince of Wales Bar where everyone can enjoy each others company and have a good chat with other tour-guests

Optional dinner in the George V dinging room (dinner jackets compulsory for Gentlemen), the Castle Dungeon ( no dress code) or the charming cottage restaurant...
Browse the dining options at this link, Stephen's tip: be sure to pre-book directly with the Castle

This was truly a luxury tour and well worth the cost.. Two top notch hotels, a cozy inn and more castles and culture than you can imagine. Stephen McPhilemy has to be among the top tour guides in existence today. He was a fount of knowledge in the history and culture of Ireland, entertaining us with interesting (sometimes hilarious) stories and traditional Irish sing-alongs as we watched the lush Irish countryside go by. He was very attentive to our needs. A memorable stop was along Slea Head Drive to a spot overlooking a perfect little beach, enjoyed with a picnic basket of Prosecco and cheese. We initially thought 3 days in Dingle was going to be too much, but in retrospect, it gave us an opportunity to explore on our own and partake in activities we might not have had time for.

By Stanley T for Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland on May 14, 2024

If I could give this trip a million stars I would! Everything from our first adventure to Ashford Castle to the Dingle Peninsula and to Dublin was AMAZING!!! We made countless stops along our journey, learning about Ireland’s culture, history, traditions, and language. If I were to mention every spectacular place, my review would never end. Ireland is a beautiful country, filled with life, hospitality, and mouth watering food and drink. The landmarks and historic sights are far better in person, better than any movie or picture could ever exemplify. The food and drinks were absolutely splendid as well. I loved every meal and wished for more!! Stephen and Chris were wonderful guides. Their knowledge of Ireland is remarkable. They were able to answer all of our questions and share all their stories. Stephen filled our time with laughs, great stories, and music. He certainly knew how to entertain us and keep our tour lively. The great thing about this tour is that we are in a small group. We grew close to other tour members, eager to spend the day with them. With that said, there was free time to adventure off! Although we had a packed itinerary (which is detailed before booking), Stephen took the time to remind us of start times and our daily “to-dos”. He gave us plenty of time at all of our destinations. With a small group we were able to be adaptable, extending or shortening stays, based on the groups needs. Stephen made sure we were all happy and satisfied before moving off. Furthermore, if an event needed to be adjusted or moved, Stephen was very vocal about it, letting us know in advance. He helped us with personal reservations and suggested places to eat along the way. I am beyond grateful for this trip. I loved every second of it and will be booking my Northern Ireland tour in no time. I couldn’t ask for a better guide, tour group, and places to see. I recommend this trip to ANYONE!!! If you love to travel, to laugh, and of course drink Guinness this trip is for you!!! Ps. If you love dogs, you’d love this trip too!!!

By Aleksandra E for Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland on May 13, 2024

Our Ireland experience on was magical! Stephen McPhilemy the owner of Essential Ireland Tours is a wicked historian, amazing singer, funny, thoughtful of our “wee wee” needs, and all needs, flexible and just plain wonderful! The tour was perfect and most importantly less than 12 guest!!! Ireland and its people are beautiful, filled with passion, & joy for life and so much history. We are so glad we chose your company to introduce us to this beautiful country and making our adventure outstanding. Thank you, Stephen

By Kerry G for Wild Atlantic Way 7 days (Killarney, Dingle & Galway) on May 04, 2024

We had a great tour. It was our first tour and it couldn’t have been any better. All the places we stayed were very nice and the towns we stopped at were very fun. Our tour guide Stephen was the best. He was very knowledgeable and made the tour incredible. Not only did we see and do a lot as a group we also had free time to explore on our own. We would definitely recommend a tour with this company.

By Dale B for Wild Atlantic Way 7 days (Killarney, Dingle & Galway) on Apr 30, 2024

Thanks a million for your kind words Dale, it was such a pleasure to travel with you and welcome you on our Essential Ireland tours, and I'm proud you were referred to us by former tour-guests, thats always special. Looking forward to crossing paths with you both in Ireland, or in sunny Florida, in the near future. We had some very fun Irish experiences over the past week,. Slainte! Good health Stephen

By Essential Ireland Tours & Travel Ltd. on Apr 30, 2024

This was a wonderful adventure into Irish history and culture. We have toured with Stephen before and knew his skill at organizing and presenting. This time we went north, to stay in Belfast and Derry, and to see parts of Ulster and Ireland that were new to us. The group was small and great. The itinerary was almost always surprising and fun, from meanders around Queens University to Derry's walls to early monastic ruins to Belfast's neighborhoods. The weather was not always cooperative, but Stephen and the group found ways to find fun and fascinating places. For us, one of the treats was Glenveagh National Park and the stunning beauty around it. We would certainly recommend Stephen's True North to others who want to enjoy the culture and history.

By Eric M for 'True North' - Northern Ireland & Donegal, 5 days/4 nights on Oct 11, 2023

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Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland

Castles & Classics - The luxury tour of Ireland

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