Sunday 29th September - Day 1: Depart Wales
Take the 09.00 morning ferry crossing from Holyhead to Dublin, upon arrival we travel to Dublin city centre where you can enjoy some time at leisure. We continue to the Maldron Hotel, Portlaoise for an overnight stay.
Monday 30th September - Day 2: Shannon Cruise and Bunratty Castle
This morning, enjoy a one-hour cruise on the Shannon and Lough Derg with stunning views as you listen to the local folklore tales and legends. Afterwards we continue to the iconic Bunratty Castle & Folk Park - the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland (admission included).
Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Arrive at the Treacys Oakwood Hotel, Shannon for a 2-night stay.
Tuesday 1st October - Day 3: Little Trains and the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
Today, we head to Killimer and board the Shannon ferry to cross this lovely river to Tarbert. The many delights of the Shannon Region are available to you on this pleasant 20-minute journey across the Shannon Estuary.
Afterwards we head to Listowel, a market town described as the ‘Literary Capital of Ireland’, to experience the unusual recreation of the 1888 Lartigue Monorail train. The original steam-powered monorail (designed by Frenchman Charles Lartigue) ran for nine miles between Listowel and the seaside resort of Ballybunion. Nowadays, your visit includes a short demonstration journey on a full-scale diesel-powered replica of the original monorail. During the journey you will experience the unique features of the monorail and will observe its ingenious switching system. Before or after your journey, you can visit the Lartigue Museum to watch film of the original Lartigue and see models, displays and memorabilia of the Lartigue and main-line railways.
Next, it’s on to the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum where we see the world’s only full size B314 replica flying boat from the era 1937-1945. We return to the hotel later this afternoon in time for dinner.
Wednesday 2nd October - Day 4: Rock of Cashel and Waterford & Suir Valley Railway
Travelling via Tipperary and the Rock of Cashel, we enjoy a trip on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway. Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley as you take in the panoramic views of the river, rolling farmland and mountains. This family friendly railway runs mostly along the picturesque banks of the River Suir offering views of the world-famous Mount Congreve Gardens. This is an area rich in history and is only accessible by train. Arrive at Treacy’s Waterford for a 3-night stay.
Thursday 3rd October - Day 5: Free day in Waterford
Enjoy a 1-hour guided walking tour of Waterford, Ireland oldest city. The tour includes two cathedrals, four national monuments, and a gallery of rogues and rascals, delivered in a witty, entertaining style, by a master storyteller, Jack Burtchaell. The remainder of the day is free to do as you wish.
Friday 4th October - Day 6: New Ross, Dunbrody Famine Ship
Morning visit to the town of New Ross and the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic replica of a 19th century famine ship. Dunbrody Famine Ship is one of the premier tourist attractions in the South East of Ireland. Centred on an authentic reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel, it provides a world-class interpretation of the famine emigrant experience and a unique insight into the bravery and fortitude with which Irish people faced up to a desperate situation.
We continue to Wexford, the cornerstone of Ireland’s Ancient East. Steeped in heritage, dramatic landscapes and breath-taking views, with a diversity of walking trails from which to explore them. Alternatively, take the option of a visit to the Irish Agricultural & Famine Museum at Johnstown Castle (admission extra). The museum is dedicated to the history of Irish rural life, including transport, crafts, farming activities and dwelling and is highly recommended.
Saturday 5th October - Day 7: Dublin & Return Home
After breakfast we travel to the city of Dublin where there will be some time at leisure. See the Castle, Trinity College and the iconic H’apenny Bridge. Take a city tour on one of the open top buses a fun way to see all the major sites in a short time. We leave to take the 14.45 ferry to Holyhead and return home.