Castles, Causeways & Corners of Ireland

Captivating nature, centuries of enthralling history and an abundance of rural charm – the island of Ireland has so much to offer those lucky enough to visit. Join us on this immersive tour and experience local hospitality, intriguing legends, grand castles and long-standing traditions – from County Dublin to the coast and back again.

Views of spellbinding scenery. Stories of maritime towns and picture-book villages. Ancient castles steeped in history, and country inns full of character. The further we go into Southern Ireland’s enchanting landscapes, the deeper you’ll fall under its spell!

Your Fly & Tour Package Includes:

• Return economy class flight from Sydney to Dublin
• 1 night 4-star accommodation in Dublin including breakfast
• 7 day Castles & Causeways: Journey to Northern Ireland guided tour with Back-Roads Touring, County Dublin return
• Includes hand-picked accommodation, 9 meals, premium mini-coach transportation plus more
• 8 day Corners of Southern Ireland guided tour with Back-Roads Touring, Dublin return
• Includes hand-picked accommodation, 10 meals, experienced Tour Leader and Driver plus more 

Pricing is per person twin share and based on travel 03-17 September 2022

Single traveller pricing available, speak with your travel consultant

Castles & Causeways: Journey to Northern Ireland

Tour Highlights:

• Set foot on the basalt columns of the legendary Giant’s Causeway
• Uncover the stories behind the infamous journey of the Titanic in Belfast
• Receive a fascinating insight into the Irish Emigration to the New World at Ulster American Folk Park

Itinerary:

Day 1 - County Dublin

The County of Dublin is where we’ll begin our journey around the captivating Emerald Isle. Meet us at the hotel and get to know your like-minded travel companions over a delicious welcome meal. Here’s to the grand adventure ahead! 

Day 2 - County Dublin – Belfast

After breakfast, we’ll board the mini-coach and set a course for Belfast – stopping along the way to admire one of Ireland’s grand castles. Upon arrival in Northern Ireland’s capital, we’ll pay a visit to the Titanic Museum and discover the personal stories surrounding the infamous ship’s fateful journey. After a history-filled day, just a taste of what’s to come, the evening will be yours to explore Belfast at your leisure. 

Day 3 - Belfast

You don’t have to delve deep into Northern Ireland’s past to see its influences on contemporary culture – and this morning’s Black Cab tour of Belfast’s street art and political murals will serve as proof. After enjoying some free time for lunch, it’s time to explore 150 years of history held within the walls of Crumlin Road Gaol. We’ll finish our day back at the hotel in Belfast, where we’ll have some free time to spend at our leisure. 

Day 4 - Belfast – Giant’s Causeway – Derry/Londonderry

Today it’s out of the city and onwards to the spectacular North Irish Coast. Our first captivating stop will be the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway, with its intriguing interlocking basalt columns. We’ll enjoy some free time to marvel at the impressive structures – before continuing on to Derry/Londonderry. Tonight, we’ll reconvene for a hearty included dinner.

Day 5 - Derry/Londonderry

Today we’ve a whole day to spend getting to know Derry/Londonderry a little bit better – starting with a morning walking tour of the 17th-century Derry Walls and their murals. Did you know that Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland? After visiting the Museum of Free Derry, the city will be yours to explore as you please. From a variety of fascinating museums to the Dickensian-style Craft Village, you won’t be short of things to do!

Day 6 - Derry/Londonderry – County Cavan

First stop today: Ulster American Folk Park. Here, we’ll follow the lives of those who bravely left the thatched cottages of Ulster behind to journey across the Atlantic and start a life in the New World. This afternoon it’s back on the road, as we set our sights on charming County Cavan – where a delicious farewell meal with the group awaits. 

Day 7 - County Cavan – County Dublin

Today, we’ll enjoy the journey back to Dublin – taking in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside along the way. There’s a visit to a local whiskey distillery on the cards, before we say our goodbyes upon arriving back in County Dublin.

Corners of Southern Ireland

Tour Highlights:

• Visit Molly Gallivan's Cottage and learn the story of a widow who supported her children by brewing illicit whiskey
• Discover a traditional Irish craft as you tour the famous House of Waterford Crystal
• Uncover the magnificent Cliffs of Moher – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Itinerary:

Day 1 - Dublin

Historic and full of character, Dublin is where we’ll meet the group and begin our adventure. This evening is an opportunity to get to know one another over a delicious welcome dinner.

Day 2 - Dublin – Kildare – Ennis

After breakfast, we’ll hit the road to our first stop: County Kildare, where we’ve an appointment with the Irish National Stud. After being treated to a private tour and the chance to explore the fascinating museum, we’ll move on to the award-winning gardens of Birr Castle Demesne. Take some time to wander around the grounds and admire the awe-inspiring science and engineering that has been invested in creating such a unique residence. This evening will see us checking into our hotel in Ennis, where we’ll enjoy some free time to spend at our leisure. 

Day 3 - Ennis – Cliffs of Moher – Killarney

First today: an orientation tour through Ennis’ character-filled avenues, where we’ll hear enthralling myths, mysteries and tales of rebellions and riots. Then: prepare to be amazed by the rugged natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher. The keen-eyed among us – or perhaps just those who packed binoculars – may even spot a resident puffin or two. After an invigorating afternoon, we’ll travel across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney: the gateway to the panoramic Ring of Kerry. 

Day 4 - Killarney – Ring of Kerry – Killarney

This morning will see us begin our journey around the awe-inspiring Ring of Kerry. Our first stop of the day: the Skellig Experience, where we’ll gain a fascinating insight into the lives of the early Christian monks that once broke bread at the Skellig Michael monastery. A real treat is in store upon our return to Killarney – where we’ll enjoy a performance of traditional Irish music and dance at a Celtic Steps concert. 

Day 5 - Killarney – Kenmare – Kinsale

This morning we’ll make our way to Molly Gallivan’s Cottage – which, at first glance, appears to be an unassuming rustic farmhouse. But there’s more to it than first meets the eye! More than 200 years ago, Mrs Gallivan supported her seven children by brewing illicit whiskey – and her home was, in fact, a clandestine pub. We’ll learn stories of the enterprising Mrs Gallivan’s antics before travelling onwards to the medieval town of Kinsale, where coastal views, cosy pubs and brightly coloured houses await us.

Day 6 - Kinsale

The cobbled streets that curve around Kinsale’s pretty bay are just begging to be explored, so we’ll spend this morning on a walking tour with a local guide. Bearings established, you’ll be free to seek out the town’s hidden treasures at your own pace. Hailed as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland – we recommend selecting a local restaurant for dinner to savour some delicious cuisine from the surrounding region.  

Day 7 - Kinsale – Waterford – Wexford

This morning we’ll move on to the charming waterfront town of Cobh. Interestingly, Cobh was the departure point for the last 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic – and you’ll notice poignant markers of this as you make your way around. Later, we’ll continue to Waterford. Dating back to Viking times, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city – with over 1,000 years’ worth of history to explore. Gain a fascinating insight into how the city’s famed crystal is made before we make our way to the medieval county town of Wexford for tonight’s final meal with the group. 

Day 8 - Wexford – Dublin

After breakfast, we’ll return to cosmopolitan Dublin – where we’ll say our goodbyes.

Prices listed are per person in Australian/New Zealand Dollars, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking.  Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 18 May 2022 and can be withdrawn without notice.   Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Air credit is applicable on airline of choice, subject to availability and subject to the carriers’ flight schedules and conditions.  Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.