Exclusive Kinsale, Cork City and Blarney

This tour provides a comprehensive view of the southern region of Ireland, encompassing the main attractions of Cork City, the charming fishing and sailing village of Kinsale, and a visit to the legendary village of Blarney, renowned for its iconic castle.

Your knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to Cobh before continuing the journey to Kinsale, about an hour away. Along the way, you'll pass through the Lee Tunnel and pause for a photo opportunity at Charles Fort. Enjoy some leisure time to explore the picturesque town of Kinsale, where you can take a stroll around its charming harbor and vibrant yachting center.

Proceed from Kinsale through the scenic rolling pasture lands to reach Cork City, where you'll have the opportunity to take in some of the city's key highlights. Journey to the village of Blarney, renowned for its iconic Blarney Castle, one of Ireland's most famous attractions, where the legendary stone is said to bestow the "gift of eloquence" upon those who kiss it. Atop the castle's summit lies the Blarney Stone, reached by ascending 100 steep steps within the ruins. At the summit, you'll be treated to splendid views of the castle gardens, the expansive parkland, and a distant view of Blarney House.

You'll have around an hour and a half to tour Blarney Castle, wander through the village, or browse the diverse offerings at the well-stocked Blarney Woolen Mills shop. Within the shop, you'll find an extensive range of high-quality Irish goods, encompassing crystal, cashmere, crafts, candles, pottery, ceramics, and, naturally, traditional woolen knits. You will then return to Cobh via the most direct route.

Please Note: This tour might operate in reverse to accommodate the visit to Blarney Castle.

Exclusive Powerscourt and Dublin City

The tour begins with a drive through South County Dublin as you travel towards County Wicklow. Powerscourt Estate is situated just an hour's drive outside Dublin with the scenic backdrop of the Sugarloaf Mountain. Powerscourt Estate has been welcoming visitors for more than 50 years and offers a magnificent example of an aristocratic garden. The gardens were laid out by Daniel Robertson, who was inspired by the Villa Butera in Sicily. The most striking features are the circular pond and the fountain flanked by winged Pegasi, elaborate ironwork, Italian statuary and the double staircase with the Aeolus Fountain and Italianate patterned ramps.

From the gardens, you'll be able to see the lovely Richard Castle's Palladian Mansion, which was destroyed by fire in 1974. In recent years Powerscourt has re-roofed the house, and you will have the opportunity to visit the exhibition tracing the origin of the house through the tragic fire to its ongoing re-construction. You will also have time to visit a craft and gift shop in the grounds. You will spend about 2 hours enjoying the pleasant atmosphere at Powerscourt.

Next you'll travel to the city of Dublin for a one hour city orientation drive, where you'll get to see Dublin's highlights. Originally founded as a Viking settlement during the 9th century, Dublin has grown over time to become the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Dublin offers a fascinating blend of old and new, with a significant amount of modern development over the past decade blended with landmarks that are hundreds of years old. After your driving tour of Dublin you will have approximately 2 hours free time for lunch on your own, personal exploration, and shopping.