Dublin City Stay
Western Ireland tour extension

This morning we check out from the East Clare Golf Resort head east through the country. Our first stop is to visit The Rock of Cashel. The fortress at The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of Irish kings and the oldest buildings here date from the 12th century. Here we will spend some time exploring the history of this monument and appreciate the view from the dramatic setting, looking over the Golden Vale from the outcrop of limestone upon which these ancient buildings stand.

Then we head for Ireland's west coast and 'Dublin's fair city'. Check in at the hotel before we enjoy dinner together at the hotel this evening. 

This morning will be your opportunity to properly experience a full Irish breakfast at the hotel before meeting our local guide in the lobby to commence our tour of Dublin City.

We will explore Dublin by coach and on foot, enjoying the unique atmosphore of a place where tradition and cultural heritage have emerged seamlessly over the centuries. First stop is St Patrick’s Cathedral, to wonder at the majestic presence of this Dublin landmark. We will also see The National Gallery, Four Courts and Leinster House (the seat of the Irish Parliament) before another stop at Trinity College. Here we proceed through the grounds of this hallowed education site and view the Book of Kells which has been described as “the most beautiful book in the world”.

There will be some free time in the afternoon for your own personal sightseeing. Your Big Journey Company Tour Director can make suggestions and help with arrangements - why not ask them to point you in the right direction for a trip to the Guinness Storehouse to sample a pint of the iconic black stuff?

After another full Irish breakfast at the hotel today we head southwards to Wicklow, the “Garden of Ireland”.

We journey down through the picturesque town of Enniskerry for our first stop at Powerscourt Gardens. Beautiful formal gardens, steep terraces, flamboyant fountains, statuary and the dramatic backdrop of the Sugar Loaf Mountain make Powerscourt Estate one of the loveliest gardens to visit in all of Ireland.

Then we travel further southwards to the valley of Glendalough, where stands a medieval monastery famed for its beautiful and historic scenery. There will be time to explore the interpretative centre and to take a short stroll by the lakeshore (there is not one but two lakes here!) and enjoy the views of the surrounding hills.

In the late afternoon, we return to Dublin to enjoy a final evening out together, attending the Irish Night at the infamous Taylors Three Rock pub. This will involve a rip roaring evening of traditional Irish song and dance and a great selection of quality Irish food. The resident band and Irish dancers always ensure the evening goes with a swing - come prepared!

After a final breakfast at the hotel this morning, we say "go dté tú slán" and bid a fond farewell to Dublin.  

If you'd like to continue exploring the British Isles, why not join us on our Essential Scotland tour, which starts today in Edinburgh