The Far West of Ireland

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Holyhead to Dublin

We meet at Holyhead for the afternoon ferry to Dublin where we have a 2-night stay. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel which is next to Heuston Station, overlooking the River Liffey.

Day 2 – Discover Dublin

A whole day to explore this lively, cultural city and the many attractions it has to offer. Why not visit St Patrick's Cathedral, view the Book of Kells at Trinity College or tour the Guinness Storehouse?

Day 3 – Head West to Galway

Depart on a morning train across the centre of Ireland to Galway for a 1-night stay. After passing Oranmore, the coastal stretch along Galway Bay affords views as far as the hills of the Burren on a clear day. Arriving at lunchtime gives us the opportunity to visit Galway's famous bustling street market.

Day 4 – West Clare Railway

We travel down the Western Corridor to Ennis before a road transfer takes us to Moyasta Junction, headquarters of the West Clare Railway. Here we immerse ourselves in steam, nostalgia and times past. Later, we continue on to Limerick for a 2-night stay, stopping off en route at the enchanting Vandeleur Walled Garden in Kilrush.

Day 5 – Limerick at Leisure

Limerick is a vibrant riverside city with a rich medieval past. Discover the city's most iconic landmark, King John's Castle, view an internationally important collection of art and artefacts at the Hunt Museum or have a leisurely stroll through the award winning People's Park.

Day 6 – Foynes Flying Boat Museum

Our private coach takes us to Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum this morning, where there is something for everyone. They are dedicated to preserving and telling the story of the pioneering days of aviation and passenger travel across the North Atlantic; the story of the creation of Irish Coffee, and the rich maritime history of the River Shannon and the Port of Foynes. This afternoon, we call at Lartigue Monorail in Listowel on our way to Tralee for a 1-night stay.

Day 7 – Dingle Peninsula

We take a tour of the scenic Dingle Peninsula by road this morning. Following in the tracks of the old Tralee & Dingle Railway, we stop off at the quaint town of Dingle and call at Blennerville Windmill en route. We return to Tralee for the train journey to Cork via Mallow and have a 2-night stay in Cork.

Day 8 – Cork City

At leisure in Cork, there is plenty to see and do. The compact city centre is set on an island in the River Lee, surrounded by interesting waterways and packed with grand Georgian avenues, cramped 17th-Century alleys and modern masterpieces such as the opera house. Alternatively you may wish to take a trip by rail to Cobh Harbour and the excellent Heritage Centre located in the station buildings (admission extra). From here the Titanic departed on its fateful journey.

Day 9 – Via Waterford to Dublin

By rail to Limerick Junction, traditionally the most eccentric of Irish stations, where we change for the cross country route to Waterford. There is time for lunch before we board the afternoon train back to Dublin.

Day 10 – Ferry to Holyhead

A private transfer this morning to Dublin Ferry Port for a morning sailing to Holyhead.