Killarney – A Taste of Ireland
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Muckross House and Gardens ©Chris Hill Photographic 2009, Tourism Ireland
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Torc waterfall Killarney National Park
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Traditional Irish Jaunting Car
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Room 411 at The Europe Hotel, Killarney. Picture by Don MacMonagle
Ireland conjures up images of verdant green countryside, imposing hills and silver lakes.
Sitting in the south-western corner of the country, Killarney offers all of that and more, bringing together a mix of culture, food and some spectacular scenery to offer a memorable visit and unique experiences.
Dates
Dates available on request
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
Travel to Killarney and Take a Ride in a Jaunting Car
Morning: Morning flight to Cork where you’ll be met by one of our experienced tour directors and transferred to your hotel in the Killarney area.
Afternoon: After a light lunch we head into Killarney and slow the pace right down with a ride in a traditional Irish jaunting car. Your driver, or ‘jarvey’ to be absolutely correct, will take you at a very sedate speed through the back lanes to Muckross House, a splendid 19th century Victoria mansion. There’s time to visit the house and explore the extensive gardens before returning to Killarney. If time permits you may want to visit the picturesque Torc Waterfall.
Evening: Dinner in a traditional Irish pub.
Day 2
By Horse and Boat Through the Killarney Landscape
Full-day: Today we enjoy one of the area’s most popular days out, a mini adventure that takes you into Ireland’s spectacular Lake District. You’ll transfer to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150-year-old family-run establishment that combines a bar, restaurant and craft shop. Named after a local girl who lived in the cottage in the 19th century, the cottage sits at the entrance to the world-famous Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass. You’ll climb aboard a pony and trap for the memorable 10km journey through the pass. On the journey you’ll pass five lakes linked together by the river Loe, with spectacular mountains on either side. Once through the mountains the road twists steeply down to the remote Black Valley and Lord Brandon’s Cottage, an old 19th-century hunting lodge surrounded by lush, green water meadows. There’s a café where you’ll take lunch. You’ll then step aboard a 10-seat boat for a journey along the two rivers and three Lakes of Killarney’s National Park. You’ll arrive at journey’s end at Ross Castle. Throughout the tour you’ll learn more about the history of this part of south west Ireland.
Evening: This evening you’ll enjoy a traditional Irish evening, complete with dinner, music, and a display of the truly remarkable Irish dancing.
Day 3
Free time in Killarney before returning home
Morning: This morning there’s an opportunity to spend time on the beautiful lake. A boat will pick you up from the hotel’s private jetty. Alternatively there’s the opportunity for free time to explore the delightful town of Killarney. Depending on the specific requirements of the group, there are also opportunities to visit the Dingle peninsula, or take a tour of part of the famous Ring of Kerry.
Afternoon: You’ll transfer by executive coach to Cork Airport for your flight back to the UK.
Suggested Hotels
The Europe Hotel and Resort *****
The Europe is generally regarded as one of the best 5* hotels in the area. It sits among 30 acres on the shores of Killarney’s largest lake, Loch Léin. Guests can relax and rewind in an infinity pool and a sumptuous spa, spread over two levels.
The Dunloe *****
The Dunloe, due to reopen in spring 2018 after a major refurbishment, is another of the area’s best 5* hotels. Overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, the hotel is set on its own 64-acre estate leading to the ruins of a 12th century castle and the River Laune. The leisure facilities include a 10m pool.
The Brehon ****
The Brehon, located just south of Killarney, and overlooking the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park, is a luxurious hotel of unique grace and elegance. Bedrooms reflect a contemporary blend of style and space. Guests can relax in its luxurious Angsana Spa.
