Irish Castles and Gardens Small Group Journey

Depart from Dublin around 9 am and travel west through the Midlands to Emo Court House, an 18th century neoclassical mansion surrounded by beautiful parkland and gardens. You will time for a short walk in the grounds, photos, and refreshments in the tea rooms before continuing west through the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the unique setting of Birr Castle and Gardens. You can learn about the bygone age of scientific discovery at the Great Telescope, the largest in the world for over 70 years. The castle is a private residence but the substantial and beautiful grounds are open to the public, as are the excellent exhibitions. Continue south to the twin towns of Killaloe, Co Clare and Ballina, Co Tipperary - situated on the banks of the River Shannon - where you will spend your first night.

Today, travel through the counties Tipperay, Offaly, and Roscommon. This is rural Ireland at its best and along the way you will see a huge variety of scenery and sights. In the morning, pass the shores of Lough Derg. A scenic drive from here brings you to Clonmacnoise - an early Christian site in a beautiful setting on the banks of the River Shannon. Continue through Athlone with its brooding dark fortress, then north passing Lough Ree to Strokestown Park. This great mansion sits on stunning grounds and hosts a fascinating museum about the great famine. From here, it is a short drive to the bustling town of Carrick-on-Shannon, your home for the next two nights. (B)

Today will be a very relaxed day exploring the Lakelands of County Leitrim and across the border into County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. The highlight of the day is a visit to the 18th century Florence Court, one of the grandest country houses in the whole of Ireland and former home to the Earls of Enniskillen. The lush parkland and majestic grounds are the perfect opportunity for photos. Stop at the nearby historic market town of Enniskillen, where you can view the impressive 600-year old castle atop the banks of the River Erne. Later, head back to Carrick-on-Shannon where the rest of the day is yours to explore this popular inland resort. (B)

In the morning, visit the heritage town of Kells, where the famous Book of Kells was discovered – created by the monks in the monastic site here. You will have time for lunch and visit some of the historic sites including St Columba’s Church and the ancient High Crosses. After lunch, travel through the lovely rural countryside to Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Construction of the massive 3-storied keep, the central stronghold of the castle, was begun in 1176 and took over 30 years to build. From here weather permitting, continue to the ancient site of the Hill of Tara - traditional seat of the High Kings of Ireland before returning to Dublin. Arrive in Dublin around 7 pm. (B)