Ireland Castles & Resorts Upgrade
Bask in the elegance of Ireland's castles & resorts
Experience the luxuries of beautiful castles throughout Ireland! Travel to Roscommon, Cavan and picturesque County Meath.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car rental for the duration - automatic available for upgrade
- 2 nights in Meath at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Roscommon at the Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Cavan at the Cabra Castle, or similar, without breakfast
PLUS!
- Breakfast daily
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Admission to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Admission to St. Patrick's Cathedral
- Guinness Storehouse
- Admission to King John's Castle
Great Ways to Explore
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Tour the best of Ireland with castle and resort stays throughout your journey.
- Take the perfect Ireland selfie at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most visited "end-of-the-world" sea cliffs.Â
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Explore historic castles one day, then ancient ruins the next!
-
In Dublin, treat yourself to a pint at Ireland's oldest pub, The Brazen Head!
Once you land in Dublin you will pick up your rental car for the week and make the drive to County Meath. Explore ancient burial mounds and take day trips back to Dublin during your stay. Use your included admission to the Guinness storehouse and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Next you'll head to Roscommon, which is renowned for its picturesque lakes, rich heritage and charming villages. Visit the 12th century Boyle Abbey, the Famine Museum, and the Roscommon Castle. Take some time to head to the east coast and use your included admission to the Cliffs of Moher in Clare and Bunratty Folk Park!
Bask in the magical scenery surrounding you while at the Cabra Castle. From the lovely accommodations and wonderful service, you will be in a scenic wonderland known as Cavan. While here you will want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth before returning home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car rental for the duration - automatic available for upgrade
- 2 nights in Meath at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Roscommon at the Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Cavan at the Cabra Castle, or similar, without breakfast
PLUS!
- Breakfast daily
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Admission to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Admission to St. Patrick's Cathedral
- Guinness Storehouse
- Admission to King John's Castle
-
Tour the best of Ireland with castle and resort stays throughout your journey.
- Take the perfect Ireland selfie at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most visited "end-of-the-world" sea cliffs.Â
-
Explore historic castles one day, then ancient ruins the next!
-
In Dublin, treat yourself to a pint at Ireland's oldest pub, The Brazen Head!
Once you land in Dublin you will pick up your rental car for the week and make the drive to County Meath. Explore ancient burial mounds and take day trips back to Dublin during your stay. Use your included admission to the Guinness storehouse and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Next you'll head to Roscommon, which is renowned for its picturesque lakes, rich heritage and charming villages. Visit the 12th century Boyle Abbey, the Famine Museum, and the Roscommon Castle. Take some time to head to the east coast and use your included admission to the Cliffs of Moher in Clare and Bunratty Folk Park!
Bask in the magical scenery surrounding you while at the Cabra Castle. From the lovely accommodations and wonderful service, you will be in a scenic wonderland known as Cavan. While here you will want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth before returning home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive in the vibrant capital city of Dublin! You will pick up your rental car at the airport and take off to your first destination.
After driving the leafy roads of Ireland through lush rolling valleys and past the Stone Age art, the monasteries, the castles and fortresses, you will arrive at County Meath.
A Tip For Your Trip: Keep in mind that you will be driving on the opposite side of the road so proceed with caution!
Check-in - Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa
With a sophisticated combination of traditional old-world opulence and contemporary design, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa sets a new precedent and fresh interpretation for hotels around Ireland. As one of the leading 4-star hotels in Ireland, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features unique attributes that emphasize the beauty of its estate. Standing on 21 acres of mature manicured lawns and gardens, the hotel's most unique attribute is the peaceful oasis it offers guests, while also being located in such close proximity to Dublin's city center and surrounding golf courses.
The hotel is situated on the grounds of a former castle; the original castle was destroyed during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. The 18th-century Georgian house that we see today is at the heart of the hotel, blending seamlessly with the stylish, modern bedrooms and restaurant in the contemporary wing. The historic mansion, once home to the Lord of Dunboyne, today serves as one of Ireland's foremost exclusive hotels on Dublin's doorstep.
Its 145 large, comfortable rooms boast free WiFi, air-conditioning, HD TV, and much more. Relax at Seoid, meaning jewel in Irish, the decadent on-site spa. Unwind in the crystal steam room, enjoy an herbal sauna, pamper yourself with a mud treatment, and more. Take a stroll through the lavish garden, then indulge in a delicious meal at the Ivy Restaurant. Feast your eyes on its carefully prepared seasonal menu, then taste the award-winning flavors of the in-house chefs, who've earned 2 AA Rosettes from 2013 to date.
Day 2. Meath
Wicklow is a short drive from Dublin. Dublin is a terrific city for tourists and locals. Visit Dublin Castle or explore the historical and spiritual highlights of the city, from the Christ Church Cathedral (also Dublin's oldest building) to the imposing St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Don't forget to use your included admission to the Guinness Storehouse - Dublin's top attraction! Discover the magic behind brewing your favorite Irish beer and learn how to pour the perfect pint.
St Patricks Cathedral Admission
Built in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick's Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well, where tradition has it Saint Patrick baptized converts on his visit to Dublin. With its over 140-foot spire, this imposing religious highlight is Ireland's tallest and largest church, and also serves well as Ireland's national Cathedral!
Enjoy included admission, where you can take in the stunning stained glass windows, explore the vast collection of paintings and masterpieces, and get lost in the dizzying architecture of this breathtaking building.
Guinness Storehouse
A visit to the magical home of Guinness is a must for anyone visiting Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse® is Ireland’s number one visitor attraction, located in the heart of the Guinness Brewery at St James’s Gate.
Housed in a former fermentation plant, this seven-story historical building is central to Dublin's and Ireland's heritage, and has been continually updated to create a blend of fascinating industrial tradition, with a contemporary edge.
The adventure begins the moment you walk through the door and into the building’s giant, pint-shaped heart of glass – and tells a dramatic story that begins over 250 years ago and ends in Gravity Bar, where visitors will receive a complimentary pint of Guinness while relaxing and enjoying spectacular views over Dublin.
Includes:
- Self-guided tour of Guinness Storehouse (tour visit is approximately 2 hours)
- Pint of Guinness or soft drink in Gravity Bar (under 18 receive soft drink)
Day 3. Meath - Roscommon
Drive to Roscommon, on the way, be sure to stop at Kilkenny Castle and explore its secrets! Once in Roscommon, spend a few hours at the Boyle Abbey where you will learn even more about the Irish heritage that exists here.
In the second part of the day, consider making your way to Galway, known as Ireland's "most Irish city." Dance your way down High Street, grab a pint in the Latin Quarter, and check out the architectural masterpiece that is the Galway Cathedral.
Rich in ancient character and original charm, Lough Rynn Castle still retains all of its historic splendor, with antique furnishings, open fires, wood paneling and decorative stone and glasswork. Today, the hotel combines its traditional elegance with modern comforts and facilities.
The castle bedrooms feature air conditioning and broadband internet access, while the estate's former stables and pheasantry have also been converted into luxurious accommodations. All rooms are tastefully decorated with rich, luxurious fabrics and beautifully preserved original features.
The Sandstone Restaurant offers an elegant fine-dining experience and has received an AA Rosette award. The restaurant offers a series of table d’hôte and à la carte menus, created using the finest, freshest seasonal produce from Leitrim and the surrounding counties.
Kilkenny Castle Admission & Self-Guided Tour
Few buildings in Ireland can boast a longer history of continuous occupation than Kilkenny Castle. Founded soon after the Norman conquest of Ireland, it has been rebuilt, extended and adapted to suit changing circumstances and uses over a period of 800 years. Remodeled in Victorian times, this former principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde is a grand country house set on 50 acres of rolling parkland, with mature trees and an abundance of wildlife. It also features a formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and a man-made lake, as well as a tearoom and the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art.
Day 4. Roscommon
Take a drive to Ireland's beautiful west coast and take advantage of your included admission to the Bunratty Castle as well as the magnificent Cliffs of Moher! Enjoy breathtaking cliff views and the salty sea air. Don't forget your camera!
Cliffs Of Moher Admission
See Ireland's most visited sea cliffs; these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 ft above sea level and offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
On a clear day, see as far as the Aran Islands! Take a leisurely stroll along the guided path, climb the castle at the top of the hill, or see how many different species of birds you can spot - you may even see a puffin or two!
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
Be transported to farm life in 19th century Ireland during your visit to Bunratty Folk Park! You will be charmed as you visit the farm houses and cottages and watch the tasks of rural Irish families. Set on 26 acres, this folk park is an uncanny recreation of an old Irish village, down to the furnishing in the shops and homes.
Costumed characters bring the village to life as you watch bakers, policemen, and schoolteachers go about their days. Explore a school, a pub, a grocery story, a hardware store, a post office, and more! For a fun treat, see the baking of the griddle bread next to the fire and be sure to taste it hot with fresh creamery butter.Â
Also on site is Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. See the best examples of medieval furniture, stroll through walled gardens, and pay close attention to the historical detail that fills the castle.
Day 5. Roscommon - Cavan
Your next destination will be Cavan. Perhaps you'd like to explore Drumlane Monastery, home of the last remaining round tower in the Dicoese of Kilmore.
You could also pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Knowth and Dowth, then head to Newgrange, an ancient burial tomb older than Stonehenge!
From the moment you arrive through the acres of beautifully manicured gardens to this magnificent 19th century 4-star castle hotel in the Cavan countryside, you will feel welcomed and thoroughly spoiled. Set on 100 acres of parklands and gardens, with the magnificent backdrop of Dún a' Rà Forest Park, there is much to explore both indoors and out. Cabra Castle is one of the most unique luxury hotels in Ireland and is also one of the best-known castle wedding venues in Ireland. (Please note: Cabra Castle accommodations are not located within the main castle building).
Built in 1760, this upscale hotel is lavishly decorated with tall ceilings and grand staircases. Guest rooms are designed in a historic fashion with all the modern amenities a traveler needs to stay comfortable including a satellite TV, tea/coffee maker, and more. The Cabra Castle Hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, as well as a bar perfect for relaxing with a drink.
Renowned for having one of the best championship length golf courses in Ireland, the Nuremore Hotel and Country Club offers golfers and non-golfers alike the chance to relax, unwind and enjoy a little luxury. Located in beautiful rolling Monaghan countryside, discover an area 'less traveled' - but all the more beautiful and authentic for it.
Day 6. Cavan
Drive south to the city of Limerick today to use your included admission to King John's Castle! Explore this medieval castle, then stroll through the city as you admire its Georgian architecture. Pop into Milk Market for a taste of the city's best food offerings.
King John's Castle
Enjoy sweeping views and get a glimpse at a Norman soldier’s life while exploring this medieval fortress! Reach out and touch the past through the interactive exhibit, then join in the living interpretation and re-enactment with costumed guides who reveal the secrets and scandal of castle life. The stunning new exhibition at King John’s Castle brings to life over 800 years of dramatic local history!
Day 7. Depart Ireland
Depart Ireland today from Dublin Airport.
Fly home!
Where available, the Flexible Change Plan allows you to change your travel date for ANY reason (between 30 days and 14 days before planned departure). You will receive a Future Travel Credit for the entire amount you paid. Please note that prepaid instant purchase airfares and group airfare are not eligible for the Flexible Change Plan and are subject to airline-imposed change or cancellation fees based on airline rules at the time that the change is requested. You must rebook using the original air carrier at least 14 days prior to your originally scheduled departure and complete travel at least 1 year from original booking date. Additional fees may apply. Future travel credit is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be redeemed for cash.