Kilkenny is a medieval town known locally as ‘the marble city’. Home to Kilkenny Castle, this 12th century castle is steeped in history, walk in the footsteps of Earls, Strongbow and the ‘bogey-man’ of Irish history, Oliver Cromwell and let your imagination bring to life a Norman invasion, you will be fascinated by this remarkable site. Take time to explore this town, a crafts hub with many shops along its winding lanes selling pottery, paintings and jewellery. Enjoy the Smithwick’s Experience, immersing yourself in the history of Ireland’s oldest ale! Discover the craft and see how for generations this has been a favourite tipple of many, after a guided tour sample a cool pint of Smithwicks and let your taste buds decide if it will become your drink of choice… Are you brave enough to climb the tower at St Canice Cathedral? If so you will need to be camera ready for the spectacular panoramic views on offer here, you can see for miles across this stunning medieval city. Kilkenny has a lively night life also with many pubs offering traditional music sessions each evening. The ‘Kilkenny Cat Laughs Comedy Festival’ is an annual event hosted locally, it is spread across many venues in the town which sees visitors return regularly to enjoy the world famous comedians who descend on the town each June bank holiday weekend, definitely a date for your diary if you can tour Ireland at that time of year!
Powerscourt
World by National Geographic, stretching out over 47 acres with its sweeping terraces, ornamental lakes, rambling walks, walled gardens and over twenty variations of trees and shrubs. You should be camera ready throughout your Irish vacation to capture the spectacular scenery of The Emerald Isle but during this day tour it is a must! The house was gutted by fire in 1974 but recently it has been reborn as an exceptional tourist destination. Enjoy a snack in the Terrace Café with the most amazing foods to tantalize your taste buds and in such extraordinary surroundings you will feel as if you are experiencing a little bit of heaven that day! This is a garden enthusiasts ultimate dream, but you will find there is something for everyone to enjoy at this amazing location.
Included in our 7 day sample multiday private tours of Ireland.
Glendalough
Immerse yourself in Ireland’s ancient east as you explore Glendalough, within the luscious greenery of The Wicklow Mountains National Park is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. Despite attacks by Vikings over the years most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th through 12th centuries. Glendalough is one of the top attractions on Ireland’s Ancient East, ‘the valley of two lakes’ as it translates is an area of peace and tranquillity, immersing you in the epitome of Ireland’s lush and romantic landscape. Visit Lough Tay too, known as ‘The Guinness Lake’, this is one of the most scenic and photographed locations in Wicklow. The shape of the lake with the white sand @ the top makes it look like a pint of Guinness hence the name. This is an Irish day tour to savour, it will no doubt leave you feeling very spiritual and relaxed, nature at its absolute best!
Included in our 7 day sample multiday private tours of Ireland.
Dublin
Ireland’s capital city, Dublin has everything you could wish for on a family vacation. Museums, theatres, art, craft & design, shops, restaurants, parks and or maybe even a visit to Dublin Zoo, you could spend many days exploring this vibrant city when touring Irealnd. It is always a hub of activity with numerous visitor attractions to explore too, ‘The Hop On-Hop Off’ bus is an excellent way to see the sites including Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and The Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, The Wax Museum, St Patrick’s Cathedral and many more too. The city is surrounded by coastal towns and villages including Killiney, Dalkey and the idyllic fishing and yatching resort of Howth, each location is easily accessible from the city and are excellent days out for all the family.