Cork, Kilkenny & the Ring of Kerry

Itinerary

Day One –  Arrival in Cork 

You make your way to the four-star Imperial Hotel, which is ideally located in the centre of Cork, where we stay for two nights.

Day Two - Kilkenny & Jameson Distillery

After breakfast we drive north to Kilkenny, an Irish city that feels more like a town in both size and atmosphere. Our tour includes entrance to the castle, giving you access to rooms such as the elegant Withdrawing Room, the mahogany bookcase-lined Library, and the large Tapestry Room in the North Tower. There’s also free time to explore Kilkenny at leisure, and a wander of the ‘Medieval Mile’ which runs from the castle to St Canice’s Cathedral is a must.

Our next stop also presents an ideal opportunity to treat yourself to something locally made, as we head to the Jameson whiskey distillery in Old Midleton. As part of our guided tour, which takes in the interior and exterior of the distillery grounds, you’ll explore warehouses, see the 1000s of casks housing the aging liquor, and, of course, sample a Jameson’s drink for yourself.

Day Three - Blarney Castle & Killarney

This morning we travel the short distance to Blarney Castle, just outside Cork, which is best known for being the home of the famous Blarney Stone, but has plenty more to discover besides. If you’re feeling especially energetic you can climb the 127 twisting steps to see the stone, as well as incredible views over the castle grounds – and the most flexible of the group might even want to brave the backwards bend to test the myth for themselves!

After lunch we travel an hour north west into County Kerry where the cheerful town of Killarney awaits. Following an afternoon of exploring you’ll be transferred to the Lake Hotel, which occupies an incredibly serene spot on the shore of Loch Lein.

Day Four - Ring Of Kerry

Today we drive the world famous Ring of Kerry, a circular route which begins on our hotel doorstep at Killarney and loops its way along the coast of the Kerry Peninsular. This famous scenic trail is a real treat for the eyes, from white sand beaches flanked by craggy cliffs, to glassy mountain-backed lakes and dense, dark forests. Rest assured that several stops will be made to give you the opportunity to capture the beauty of this wonderfully unspoilt part of Ireland. We enjoy another delicious dinner in the gourmet restaurant of the Lake Hotel.

Day Five - Return Home

After breakfast you are free to make your own way home from Killarney.  Alternatively, you may choose to take an included transfer back to Cork or its airport.

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