Ireland Southern Route + 5-Star Resort
Explore the best of Southern Ireland
Discover Ireland’s charm with this unforgettable self-drive adventure in Kilkenny, West Cork, Limerick, and a 5-star stay in Wicklow. Plus, choose the 10-night option to add nights in Kerry or the 12-night option to include Galway.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel or similar
- 2 nights Cork at Celtic Ross Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel & Spa or similar
- 1 night in Wicklow at The Druids Glen or similar
Great Ways to Explore
Explore the Emerald Isle at leisure with a rental car.
Stroll along the River Shannon in Limerick.
Discover West Cork, filled with tiny towns and stunning scenery.
Marvel at the stunning Wicklow Mountains.
Indulge in authentic Irish cuisine.
Get ready for an epic Irish getaway as you self-drive through the Emerald Isle at your own leisure! You'll fly into Dublin and begin your adventure in Kilkenny, where you can discover iconic attractions like the historic Kilkenny Castle and gorgeous Woodstock House and Gardens.
Next up, West Cork! This gorgeous area is abundant with lush scenery, making it the perfect place for outdoor activities and exploration.
You'll then head to Limerick, where you can easily visit both the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. With your own rental car, you can also drive along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way!
Last but certainly not least, you'll end your trip in the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow. Here, you can soak up the breathtaking mountains and scenic landscapes while visiting exciting places like Sugarloaf Mountain and the Sally Gap Drive.
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.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Titanic Trail in Cobh, Co. Cork
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel or similar
- 2 nights Cork at Celtic Ross Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel & Spa or similar
- 1 night in Wicklow at The Druids Glen or similar
Explore the Emerald Isle at leisure with a rental car.
Stroll along the River Shannon in Limerick.
Discover West Cork, filled with tiny towns and stunning scenery.
Marvel at the stunning Wicklow Mountains.
Indulge in authentic Irish cuisine.
Get ready for an epic Irish getaway as you self-drive through the Emerald Isle at your own leisure! You'll fly into Dublin and begin your adventure in Kilkenny, where you can discover iconic attractions like the historic Kilkenny Castle and gorgeous Woodstock House and Gardens.
Next up, West Cork! This gorgeous area is abundant with lush scenery, making it the perfect place for outdoor activities and exploration.
You'll then head to Limerick, where you can easily visit both the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. With your own rental car, you can also drive along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way!
Last but certainly not least, you'll end your trip in the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow. Here, you can soak up the breathtaking mountains and scenic landscapes while visiting exciting places like Sugarloaf Mountain and the Sally Gap Drive.
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.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Titanic Trail in Cobh, Co. Cork
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Touch down in the Emerald Isle! Pick up your rental car and head to your first accommodation in Kilkenny. Once you're settled in, take the rest of the day to explore.
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
Situated on Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, the Pembroke Hotel is right in the center of action. Just a 4-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, you'll be able to walk to all of the city's top attractions with ease. The hotel offers luxury 4-star accommodation with 74 quiet, spacious guest rooms all featuring air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Statham’s Restaurant combines traditional hospitality with delicious local Kilkenny produce. Statham's Bar, with its easygoing and relaxed atmosphere, is a great place to meet, drink and dine in Kilkenny city center. From brunch to lunch, from afternoon tea, to all day dining specials, they offer something for everyone throughout the day and evening.
Built on over 40 acres of parkland, the Newpark Hotel provides family-friendly elegance for visitors to the area. The dedicated staff works tirelessly to make sure you and your family receive top-notch service. Many of the spacious, well-appointed rooms include serene views of the green gardens and parkland. Scott's Bar & Bistro has a sparkling reputation for delicious, locally sourced food and is a favorite among the locals.Â
 Strike out for day trips to discover the treasures of Kilkenny, or stay on-property to take advantage of the hotel's many exciting amenities. Newpark hotel offers family room accommodations and activities everyone can enjoy, such as the Newpark adventure trail, where you can catch glimpses of the alpacas and llamas that live there. The Krazy Kats Kids Club is bustling with activity and affords parents a few hours to slip off to unwind at the Escape Health Club and Spa.
Day 2. Kilkenny - West Cork
You'll head to Cork today, notoriously known as Ireland's "most rebellious city." Running from the western point of Cork City down to Mizen head, you'll be able to pass through exciting sites like Kinsale, Sheep's Head Peninsula, and the world-famous Wild Atlantic Way.
After settling in to your cozy accommodations, head out and explore the area! Perhaps you'd like to stop by a local pub to absorb Ireland's vibrant culture and traditional music. Famously known for its hospitality, West Cork is the perfect place to chat with locals and ask for suggestions about the best things to do and places to eat.
Explore the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way while you're staying at the picturesque Celtic Ross Hotel in Cork! Offering convenient access to the country's most stunning beaches, close proximity to Rosscarbery, and a range of local activities, the hotel is well-equipped to make your stay unforgettable. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, locally sourced food at the on-site restaurant, and more!
The Maritime Hotel offers a comfortable stay just minutes from the waterfront. Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, television, and more. Many rooms feature views of Bantry Bay or the woods of Bantry House. Afternoon Tea is served daily at the Maritime Hotel. The Maritime Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with great food, delicious drinks, and live music. Those looking for a more elevated dining experience will love the ambiance at The Ocean Restaurant. With a fitness center, spa, and additional amenities, the Maritime Hotel offers an exceptionally memorable stay.
The Luxury Four Star Hotel in Macroom, Co. Cork, nestled between Blarney & Killarney, is the ideal base to explore the glories of The South West of Ireland. Enjoy luxury hotel accommodation, friendly service, an award-winning bar & restaurant, & free car park. As a guest, you may indulge & relax in the Leisure Centre, with swimming pool, spa pool, kids pool, steam room & gym.
The elegant Address Cork presides with an air of grandness from the top of Military Hill in the historic area of St. Luke’s, providing the perfect location for leisure in the heart of Cork City.
The impressive facade of this wonderful red brick Victorian building gives any visitor a sense of the rich history of the area, and a clear example of 1870’s Irish architecture at its best. Cork’s newest eatery, McGettigan’s Cookhouse & Bar was launched at The Address Cork and is committed to using locally sourced ingredients. It provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment for its guests – including a new outdoor decking area.Â
The Address Cork is ideally located just minutes from some of Cork City's main shopping areas and tourist attractions including; Blarney Castle, The English Market, Opera Lane Shopping district, Cork City Opera House, and the Fota Wildlife Park, to name but a few. It’s a short distance from Cork City's Bus Station in Parnell Place, and Kent Railway Station, and just 5 minutes from Cork City Airport.
Located right in the heart of Cork city center and overlooking the River Lee, the Maldron Hotel South Mall makes sightseeing in Ireland's Rebel City easy. You'll be just steps from Cork's bustling center with easy access to the famous English Market, Crawford Art Gallery, Cork City Hall and Cork Opera House to name a few attractions. The main shopping streets including St. Patrick’s Street and Opera Lane are just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. Comfortable and spacious rooms are equipped with a large flat screen TV, laptop safe, tea/coffee making facilities, free WiFi and a dual rain shower. Choose from two restaurants and a coffee shop serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.Â
Day 3. West Cork
To experience the true beauty of West Cork, you'll definitely want to visit Lough Hyne. A saltwater lake that's also a marine reserve, this area is bustling with wildlife and is the perfect place to canoe, swim, and more!
You may also wish to opt instead for exploring the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way. This popular trail is ideal for leisurely driving, hiking, and snapping amazing pictures.
Day 4. West Cork - Limerick
It's time to say goodbye to Cork and head to Limerick! Located right on the River Shannon banks, this area is most known for its gorgeous Georgian architecture and cultural landmarks.
After getting settled into your hotel, make your way to the Milk Market on Cornmarket Row. This food market dates all the way back to 1852 and is filled with vibrant Irish life and delicious eats. Afterwards, maybe you'd like to visit one of Limerick's popular museums, like the Hunt Museum or the Limerick City Gallery of Art.
This stunning hotel features 99 contemporary guestrooms with space, style and sophistication. The Absolute Bar & Grill includes an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River and serves fresh and modern international cuisine in relaxed, informal surroundings. The luxurious spa offers a range of relaxing body and beauty treatments, including a salt grotto, tropical showers and a crystal steam room.
Limerick City Hotel is located in the heart of Limerick on Lower Mallow Street, just off Henry Street and on the Shannon Bridge Roundabout at the end of the Dock Road-easily accessible from Shannon, Cork & Kerry.
This hotel is within walking distance from Limerick Colbert Train & Bus Station and near a host of Irish heritage sites including picturesque towns of Adare, Grange and Louch Gur, You can also explore Clare's Burren district, Cliffs of Moher and Ailwee Caves, all just a short 40-minute drive from the Hotel.
Located in the beautiful County Clare countryside, The Inn at Dromoland commands panoramic views across the Clare Hills and Shannon Estuary - and is ideally situated just eight miles from Shannon Airport, a 15-minute drive from Ennis and a 20-minute drive from Limerick.
The Inn at Dromoland features 181 guestrooms, each individually designed and decorated with guests' comfort and relaxation in mind. Its health and leisure club boasts a large swimming pool and children's pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and plunge pool, plus fully equipped fitness center. The hotel is renowned for its seasonal and fully supervised Blue Dolphin Kids Club, as well as other family friendly activities.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property set in 44 wooded acres amidst the rich, quiet farmlands of the Golden Vale. The hotel is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon Airport. The charming Adare town is only 1.6 km with its streets lined with enchanting thatched cottages, selling crafts, clothes and antiques.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel offers 94 comfortable and stylish guest rooms, first-class service and excellent facilities including the award-winning Brennan Room Restaurant and a leisure club featuring a swimming pool. The state-of-the-art Health & Leisure Centre boasts a spacious cardiovascular gym and weight training area with variety of fitness classes, a 65-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, children's pool and play room, as well as the Failte Ireland Award-winning Revas Spa.
Day 5. Limerick
Are you ready to visit the Cliffs of Moher? Probably Ireland's most famous sight, these dramatically rugged sea cliffs are the perfect selfie backdrop, so don't forget to bring your camera! If you're able to go on a clear day, you'll be able to see the Aran Islands off in the distance. Later, perhaps you'd like to check out the close-by Bunratty Castle, iconic for being the most completed medieval castle in all of Ireland. Right by the castle is a quaint 19th century village, be sure to check it out and stroll around! Find the perfect pub for dinner tonight and perhaps treat yourself to a pint or two.
Day 6. Limerick - Wicklow
Today you'll depart Limerick and head to County Wicklow, famous for being the "Garden of Ireland." Covered in spectacular mountains and dramatic valleys, this is the perfect place for the outdoor-lover. For one of the area's most beautiful places, climb up the Sugarloaf Mountain (otherwise known as the "Great Sugarloaf") to be rewarded with the most incredible views of Dublin, the Irish Sea, and Wicklow Mountains.
The 5-star Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort combines the feel of a large resort in the midst of 400 acres of breathtaking scenery and rolling countryside. Located 30 minutes from Dublin, Druids Glen is the perfect place to experience the "Garden of Ireland."
Enjoy the modern comfort from each of the 160 guestrooms, complete with L'Occitane products, complimentary Wi-Fi and more.
The award-winning Bijou Spa at Druids Glen is a pampering haven of calm and tranquility, providing a comprehensive selection of treatments and a truly restorative experience.
Sip a delicious afternoon tea at the Sycamore Lounge and savor a meal at Hugo's Restaurant. Guests can also enjoy additional dining and drinks at the 17th-century Woodstock House, located a few minutes walk from the property.
For golfers, the resort features two championship courses that allow guests to enjoy playing over equally exhilarating landscapes. Once host to the Irish PGA Championship, Druids Heath is known as "nature's gift to golf" as it weaves its way around quarries, trees, lakes, and pot bunkers. Golfers can take advantage of breathtaking settings with views over the Irish Sea, on what was once the doorstep of the ancient Druids of Ireland.
Located on Ireland's beautiful east coast, Powerscourt Hotel is an elegant 5-star Palladian-style hotel tucked away in the woodlands of County Wicklow. Situated on 1,000 acres, it is surrounded by the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains, just 30 minutes outside of Dublin.
Guests will be impressed by the stunning spa and relaxation facilities, which include an award-winning ESPA Spa, indoor Swarovski Crystal-lit swimming pool, fully equipped fitness center and two 18-hole championship golf courses.
The opulently furnished guestrooms all boast marble baths, separate rainforest showers, featherbeds, a seating area and free Wi-Fi; many rooms also offer floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic views and terraces.Â
Powerscourt's signature restaurant, Silka, with an emphasis on local excellence and seasonality, presents the best of Irish contemporary cooking against a spectacular backdrop of Wicklow's hills and mountains. Casual dining is also on offer at the Sugar Loaf Lounge (serving traditional Afternoon Tea and more), and the popular Sally Gap Bar & Brasserie.
Day 7. Depart Ireland
It's time to say goodbye to Ireland as you leave Wicklow and head to the Dublin Airport. Return your rental car, hop on your flight home, and replay memories of this unforgettable Ireland vacation!