Explore the Kingdom 2022

Relax, unwind and simply breath in the fresh air as you explore the Kingdom of Kerry, rich with heritage, history, culture and beautiful scenic views at every turn – it’s a place that makes vacations heavenly.

Create magical memories together amidst the scenic sights of County Kerry – Stay overnight in Killarney the glistening gem in the crown of County Kerry. Discover the Kingdom of Kerry and parts of the south west section of the Wild Atlantic Way.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

-Take in the views of the Scenic Wild Atlantic Way.

-Discover Killarney town & visit Muckross House & Gardens.

-Explore the Dingle Peninsula

-Have a jaunting car tour in Killarney National Park.

-Relax & enjoy 6 full days touring with a fully qualified driver guide.

Day 1: Travel to Killarney.
Begin your vacation when your private chauffeur driver will meet you at Dublin City Centre Hotel/Dublin Airport (at an agreed morning time) for your journey southwards to Killarney in County Kerry.

Discover parts of Killarney National Park while waiting to check into your hotel rooms (check in after 3pm).

Have a photo stop at Muckross Abbey, the burial place of local chieftains – The present well-preserved ruins include a church with a wide, square tower and fine windows, and a vaulted cloister with an arcade of arches around a square courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard grows an ancient yew tree, said traditionally to be as old as the Abbey.

Stretch your legs with a walk at Torc Waterfall on the outskirts of Killarney Town. A short walk of approx 200 metres brings you to the waterfall. From that point steps lead to another viewing point at a higher altitude that provides a view over the Middle Lake. The path is also a starting point for circular walking routes, which are indicated by a map down at the start of the trail. The waterfall which is approximately 20 metres high is at its best after heavy rainfall.

Check into your luxury hotel accommodation at the 4 star Great Southern Hotel Killarney to relax, unwind and before your dinner at the hotel this evening.

Day 2: Explore the Ring of Kerry.
After a leisurely morning and a delicious full Irish breakfast visit Muckross House & Gardens and explore the Ring of Kerry with your private chauffeur driver.

Muckross House, a magnificent Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes, is situated amidst the spectacular scenery of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. The elegantly furnished rooms portray the lifestyles of the landed gentry, while downstairs in the basement you can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the House back in the day. Many exotic trees and shrubs flourish in the mild climate and sheltered location of the Muckross gardens. Attractive features include a fine collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, an outstanding rock garden on a natural rock outcrop and beautiful tree-fringed lawns.

Often described as one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland, when you tour the Ring of Kerry you’ll understand why. Navigate the curving roads and jagged coastlines with amazing views around every turn. Begin your journey in jovial Killarney and travel on to quaint Killorglin. Possibly stop for a coffee in colourful Cahersiveen. There will be lots of photo stops to ensure you capture the stunning scenery along the route. The Ring of Kerry is a bucket list trip.

Return to the Great Southern Hotel for your evening at leisure (B&B Basis). No evening meal included – there are dining options in the hotel or you could make your way down to Killarney Town to check out one the dining options available there.

Day 3: Gap of Dunloe & Killarney Brewing.

Today you will explore the Gap of Dunloe. Your chauffeur driver will transfer you to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the start of the Gap of Dunloe (14 kilometres). At Kate Kearney’s Cottage, passengers may choose whether to walk through the Gap of Dunloe or to take the pony and carriage (jaunting car). The distance is 11 kilometres (7 miles), the road is sealed and hiking boots are not required but comfortable shoes are! The walk generally takes 2 – 2.5 hours. The pony and carriage/walk ends at Lord Brandon’s Cottage which is at the end of the Gap of Dunloe.

At 2pm the boats leave to bring all passengers through the 3 lakes and 2 rivers of the National Park. The boat section is often considered to be the highlight of the tour with folklore and legends delivered by the local boat drivers while passing through scenery which hasn’t changed since the last ice age; 10,000 years ago. The boat tour finishes at Ross Castle at roughly 3.30pm. Passengers disembark at the castle and meet up with your chauffeur driver for your transfer back to Killarney town.

After your day exploring quench your thirst with a visit to the Killarney Brewing Company in the heart of Kerry and see the repurposed Killarney Mineral Water drinks facility and how the freshest, local ingredients are used to create fantastic craft beers. Killarney Brewing Company revives the age-old art of craft beer production in the town for the first time since the 1800s. Using natural, local ingredients and brewing in small batches, the brewery has a core group of ales, lagers, IPAs and stouts. Keep an eye out for their seasonal range where they create unique beers that are a must for any beer lover. On the 50-minute-long tour discover the whole story of the brewery. Listen as the experienced guides explain the variety of malts and hops used, smell the freshly brewed beer and enjoy a guided tasting of the beers. Return to your hotel in Killarney for your evening at leisure (B&B Basis). No evening meal included.

Day 4: Dingle Peninsula.
Nestled in the West Kerry Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area) the Dingle Peninsula has wild, untamed landscape rich in history and natural wonder. Experience unforgettable sea views, the diverse mix of archaeological sites, and rich history, from Iron age settlers to early Christianity.

Explore the region top to toe, from vibrant Dingle Town to the wild spaces with their abundance of flora and fauna. Meet the locals and explore their way of life, even fitting in a little alien life as you hear about the Star Wars movie that was partially shot in the area. It’s easy to fall in love with Dingle, the main hub of the sensationally beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Soak in the jaw-dropping scenery, the rugged cliffs and seaside trails. The bustling marina is the focal point of the town, sit for a while and take in the local action. Bask in the buzz of this gorgeous seaside town and enjoy the local food before visiting the local independent shops.

Visit the Dingle Distillery for a tour that brings you into the heart of the distillery. See the entire production process of their products and sample their gin/vodka. The distillery tour will also give you an introduction into Irish whiskey. Dingle is famed for its hospitality and this is seen no better than in the Dingle Distillery. Return to your hotel in Killarney for your evening at leisure (B&B Basis). No evening meal included.

Day 5: Kenmare & Irish Night
After a relaxing full Irish breakfast at the hotel your driver guide will meet you at the hotel for a full day tour exploring more of the Kingdom. Visit the town of Kenmare on the Ring of Kerry between the Iveragh and Beara Peninsulas, at the head of beautiful Kenmare Bay, soak up the spectacular scenery, and marvel at the dramatic peaks of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

Spend some time exploring Molly Gallivan’s 200-year-old cottage and farm, situated between Kenmare and Glengarriff on the Beara peninsula, in the picturesque South West of Ireland. At Molly Gallivan’s you will experience the simple country lifestyle in rural Ireland before the days of electricity and modern conveniences.

Travel back to Killarney this evening for a genuine Irish pub experiene with gastro pub food and live Irish. There is live Irish music and dancing on offer creating a memorable Irish pub experience. Guests can enjoy an authentic four-course Irish meal followed by live Irish dancers and traditional Irish music. Return to your hotel accommodation for your last night in Killarney. (B&B Basis).

Day 6: Departure.
Check out of the hotel after your full Irish breakfast – At an agreed time your private chauffeur driver will transfer you to Dublin City Centre Hotel/Dublin Airport from your breakaway in the Kingdom of Kerry. *Optional extra for a pre-tour or post tour stay in Dublin City – Additional supplement will apply.