13 Days | The Emerald Isle | 2025
Dublin - Belfast - Derry - Galway - Cliffs of Moher - Cork - Kilkenny - and more...
Discover Northern Ireland's history on a Black Cab Tour of Belfast’s street art and political murals
Set foot on the basalt columns of the legendary Giant’s Causeway
Be blessed with the ‘gift of the gab’ while visiting the iconic Blarney Castle
Uncover the magnificent Cliffs of Moher – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
From $6,569 Typically $7,279 pp twin share
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the verdant landscapes and storied past of Ireland with Back Roads Touring, where every twist and turn of the road reveals a new chapter in the Emerald Isle's captivating tale.
Book now for 2025 at locked in Prices until 1st July 2024!
Plenty more dates AVAILABLE!
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Over the course of 13 enriching days, our meticulously crafted itinerary takes you on a journey from the northern reaches to the southern shores, immersing you in the essence of Ireland's history, traditions, and cultural tapestry like never before.
Our expedition commences at the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway, a geological wonder steeped in myth and legend, where ancient volcanic activity has sculpted dramatic hexagonal columns that defy imagination. From this legendary starting point, we traverse Ireland's rugged peninsulas, each bend in the road unveiling breathtaking vistas of windswept cliffs, crashing waves, and secluded coves that echo with tales of old.
As we wind our way through quaint villages frozen in time, we'll encounter the warm embrace of Irish hospitality at every turn, with locals eager to share their stories, traditions, and perhaps a pint of the black stuff in the cozy confines of a traditional pub. Along the way, we'll pause to explore ancient landmarks shrouded in mystery and intrigue, from crumbling castles steeped in centuries of history to sacred sites where the veil between the earthly and the otherworldly grows thin.
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But what truly sets our journey apart is the wealth of local knowledge and expertise at our disposal, courtesy of our seasoned guides who are as passionate about Ireland as they are about ensuring your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Through their insightful commentary and insider tips, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Ireland's complex past, vibrant present, and promising future, as well as a genuine appreciation for the enduring spirit of its people.
From the untamed beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way to the serene tranquility of the Shannon River, each day presents new opportunities for discovery and delight, whether it's sampling artisanal delicacies at a bustling farmers' market, learning traditional Irish dance steps from a local expert, or simply soaking in the serenity of a secluded beach at sunset.
As our journey draws to a close in the southern reaches of the Emerald Isle, you'll find your heart forever intertwined with the soul of Ireland, forever changed by the memories made, friendships forged, and moments cherished along the way. So come, join us on this extraordinary odyssey through the heart and soul of Ireland, where every step is a testament to the enduring allure of the Emerald Isle.
Itinerary Downloadable Itinerary
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13
Dublin (Republic of Ireland)
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.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Ashling Hotel (or similar)
Dublin Belfast (Northern Ireland)
After breakfast, we’ll make tracks to the fascinating Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre. Then, a visit to the Titanic Museum to discover the personal stories surrounding the infamous ship’s fateful journey. After a history-filled day (a taste of what’s to come), the evening will be yours to explore Belfast at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Malone Lodge (or similar)
Belfast North Irish Coast (Republic of Ireland)
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 lunch, it’s time to explore Ireland’s natural geological wonder – the Giant’s Causeway. Next, you’ll settle into your hotel on the North Irish Coast and tuck into a delicious included dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Redcastle Hotel (or similar)
North Irish Coast Derry North Irish Coast
After a morning spent exploring Londonderry’s old city walls with a local guide, we’ll board the mini-coach and head to the North Irish Coast for the day. At the Isle of Doagh, we’ll pay a visit to the Famine Village and Visitor Centre to gain an insight into Irish life during the time of the Great Famine. We’ll round off the day with some free time to relax back at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Redcastle Hotel (or similar)
North Irish Coast County Roscommon
More fascinating history is on the cards today! Kick things off with a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park, where we’ll learn why two million Irish people sailed away to start a life in the New World. A visit to the Belleek Pottery Centre (the home of Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery) is on this afternoon’s agenda, before moving on to County Roscommon, where we’ll regroup for an included dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Kilronan Castle (or similar)
County Roscommon Galway
After breakfast, we’ll pay a visit to the homestead of Dan O’Hara (he of the famous ballad), where we’ll gain a unique insight into prefamine life and culture. Then, it’s time to turn our attention to the harbour city of Galway where we’ll enjoy an evening of leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Dean (or similar)
Galway
Today we’ll see the likes of the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square on an orientation tour of the city. Then: the afternoon will be yours to spend exploring brightly coloured pubs, tasting local seafood and listening to the ever-present assembly of tuneful street performers. Buzzing, bohemian and utterly charismatic, you’re sure to fall for Galway’s many charms!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Dean (or similar)
Galway Cliffs of Moher Dingle Peninsula
Out of Galway and onwards to the karst landscapes of the Burren. Before we reach our accommodation in the Dingle Peninsula, we’ll round off the day with a visit to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is bound to take your breath away. Tonight, share stories with your travel companions over an included dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Dingle Benners Hotel (or similar)
Dingle Peninsula
Today will begin at one of the Dingle Peninsula’s most famous landmarks: the Gallarus Oratory, a unique stone chapel that resembles an upturned boat. After that, there’s one more stop in store – the fascinating Blasket Centre, which celebrates the history of the beautiful Great Blasket Island. Upon our return to Dingle, we’ll have plenty of free time to explore the quaint fishing port and dine at one of the many local restaurants at our leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Dingle Benners Hotel (or similar)
Dingle Peninsula County Cork
Peaks and lakes are on the menu today! First, we’ll take in the views across the stunning Lakes of Killarney. Then, we have an appointment to keep with a true Irish icon: Blarney Castle. Legend has it that you’ll be blessed with the ‘gift of the gab’ if you kiss the famous Blarney Stone – a block of limestone built into the castle’s battlements. Tonight, we’ll make the most of our new-found eloquence over dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Vienna Woods (or similar)
County Cork Kinsale County Cork
After boarding the mini-coach in County Cork, the port town of Kinsale will be our first stop of the day where we’ll have some time to soak up fishing town’s laid-back atmosphere. Then, it’s time to turn our attention toward the world-renowned Jameson Distillery. After an afternoon tour and whiskey tasting, we’ll return to the hotel to enjoy the evening at our leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Vienna Woods (or similar)
County Cork Kilkenny
As we approach the final few chapters of the tour, we’ll stop in to admire the delicate detailing of a traditional cottage orné. After that, it’s time to spend the afternoon acquainting ourselves with Kilkenny – Ireland’s ‘most perfect’ medieval city. Our Tour Leader will take us for a leisurely walk around town before we come together for our last hurrah: a delicious farewell dinner. What an adventure it’s been!
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: The Hibernian (or similar)
Kilkenny Dublin
After breakfast, we’ll return to cosmopolitan Dublin – where our tour will come to a close.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- 12 nights in hand-picked accommodation
- Experienced Tour Leader and Driver
- Premium mini-coach transportation
- 12 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners
Guaranteed Departures: Not all tour dates listed have met minimum numbers to operate. Please contact Traveldream to check if your preferred departure is guaranteed.
Insurance: You will need to take out full travel insurance before travelling with Back-Roads Touring. Please ensure that you have adequate medical, personal effects and cancellation cover.
Group Size: Maximum of 18 passengers.
Exclusions
- Visas (where required)
- International flights
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Meals & drinks not mentioned
- Transfers where not mentioned
- Any additional requests
- Tipping
Single Supplement - Please enquire for pricing.
Travel Insurance: We recommend Covermore travel insurance. To quote and book, please click HERE.
Looking to arrive early or stay late post-tour? Call on 1300 350 263 or email us at [email protected] to enquire.
Travelling on your own? Why not join the Traveldream Solo Travellers Facebook group where you can interact with other travellers.
Departure Dates
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