Dublin, Waterford And The Wicklow Mountains

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Dublin, Waterford And The Wicklow Mountains

Journey through over 20,000 hectares of the magnificent Wicklow Mountains National Park, bursting with lush rolling hills, tree-blanketed valleys and cascading waterfalls and streams. Soak up the rich history of Glendalough, learn of the Dunbrody Famine Ship story, wander medieval streets of Wexford and explore Johnstown Castle. Discover the history and art of crystal blowing, cutting, sculpting, and engraving at the House of Waterford Crystal. Tour the town of Kilkenny aboard the road train and take in the views of Rothe House, St John’s Priory, the Courthouse and much more. Meander through the magnificent rooms of Kilkenny Castle and Parklands and discover the history of the Rothe House and Gardens. Finally, explore the Dublin’s fusion of Irish heritage and modern culture, before experiencing a traditional Irish show.

Holiday Highlights

Join us on this diverse, seven-day Irish tour which takes us on a journey through vast landscapes, magnificent scenery, fascinating history, and impressive sites.

Wander further through history at the Rothe House and Gardens
Take a scenic journey through the Wicklow Mountains National Park
Learn of the Dunbrody Famine Ship story, an 1840’s ship which transported emigrants across the Atlantic
Discover the history and art of crystal blowing, cutting, sculpting, and engraving at the House of Waterford Crystal

What's Included

Return airport transfers
Coach transfers for our excursions
Six night’s half board accommodation
Services of our experienced Tour Manager
Wicklow mountains Drive
Entry Glendalough visitor centre exhibition
Dunbrody famine ship with morning Tea/coffee & Scone
A short visit to Wexford
Johnstown Castle visit
Copper Coast Scenic Drive
Visit to Dungarvan
Waterford Crystal Tour
A Visit to Kilkenny
A trip on the Kilkenny Road train
Entry to Kilkenny Castle
Entry to Rothe House
Dublin Panoramic Tour
Traditional Irish show with dinner on the last evening

Itinerary

Day Day 1: Dublin

We fly to Dublin today where we are transferred by coach to our hotel in the centre of Bray. Dinner is included in the hotel this evening.

Day Day 2: Wicklow Mountains & Waterford

Today we take a scenic journey through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, which was established in 1991 to help conserve the scenery, fauna, and flora. It covers 20,483 hectares and is the largest of Irelands six National Parks. Passing beautiful scenery of mountains, fast-flowing streams, and the deep lakes of the wooded valleys. We make a visit to Glendalough, where in the late sixth century, St Kevin arrived here, and the area became one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. We take time to view the Round Tower and the remains of the Cathedral and enjoy entry to the Visitor Centre Exhibition.

Our journey continues south as we head to Avoca village, which was used extensively for the filming of the TV Drama ‘Ballykissangel’ after which our journey continues south to Waterford, our base for the next four nights. Dinner in the hotel this evening.

Day Day 3: Dunbrody Famine Ship, Wexford & Johnstown Castle

Today we head to the Dunbrody Famine Ship for our first stop of the day. A reproduction of an 1840’s sailing ship, and exhibition. History is brought to life as we see what it was like during the Irish famine for the emigrants who set sail in what was referred to as the ‘Coffin Ships’ for journeys that took weeks to cross the Atlantic to arrive in North America. Here, we enjoy a morning tea/coffee and Scone in the Café. Next, we make a brief stop in Wexford with time to take a stroll around its medieval streets before we head to Johnstown Castle, the home of two prominent Wexford families.

We enjoy a guided tour of the Castle before taking a self-guided tour around the Irish Agricultural Museum in the former castle farmyard. Enjoy a stroll around the walled gardens or follow one of the pretty lakeside walks.

Day Copper Coast & Waterford Crystal

Today’s journey takes us on a beautiful drive along the Copper Coast route, between Tramore and Dungarvan. The Waterford’s Copper Coast get its name from the Copper mines that once operated along this stretch of coast. With beautiful beaches and rocky headlands, this coastline is perfect for our scenic drive. On arrival into the Harbour town of Dungarvan, there is time to explore the quaint streets and town square with café's, bars and shops or enjoy a stroll along the Quay. This afternoon we head back to Waterford, for our included visit to Waterford Crystal.

Visitors to the globally renowned House of Waterford Crystal learn the history and stories behind one of Ireland’s most iconic brands. Marvel at the skill of master craftsmen on a factory tour that showcases all stages in the creation of this fine crystal including Crystal Blowing, Crystal Cutting, Sculpting and Engraving. Engage with the people behind the craft and discover what their daily work entails as they create crystal before your very eyes. Following the tour, experience 12,000 sq. feet of crystal heaven in the largest retail showcase of Waterford crystal in the world. Stroll back to the hotel at leisure after your visit. Dinner is at the hotel this evening.

Day Day 5: Kilkenny, & Rothe House

Today we head to the town of Kilkenny. On arrival, we board the road train for an included tour around the town. The tour takes in the key sights of Kilkenny as the train passes the Castle, Rothe House, St John’s priory, the courthouse and many more.

Later, visit Kilkenny Castle and Parklands. With plenty of time to pass through the beautiful rooms of the Castle at your own pace, such as The Petit Salon des Dames, The Dining room, the room of Tapestries, The library, and the Salon. Why not take a stroll around the grounds? This afternoon there is plenty of free time to explore Kilkenny further. This afternoon we include a visit to Rothe House and Gardens which you can enter at leisure during this afternoon. This 3-house complex was the home of John Rothe Fitzpiers, a wealthy merchant and politician, his wife and 11 children. There is plenty of time to explore the interior of this hidden gem and wander round the extensive gardens which are located in the heart of Kilkenny, before returning to our hotel for dinner.

Day Day 6: Dublin City & Traditional Irish show

Today we bid farewell to Waterford, and head north to the Irish capital of Dublin City. On arrival, we have a panoramic tour of the city by coach, after which there is free time to explore the city further, with an excellent selection of shops, bars, and eateries. Later this afternoon we board the coach and head to Bray and our overnight hotel. This evening we board the coach and head out for our final night, to watch a traditional Irish show with dinner, the perfect end to our Irish adventure.

Day Day 7: Return Flight Home

Breakfast at the hotel before we transfer back to the airport for our flight back home.

Royal Hotel Bray★★★

The three-star Royal Hotel in Bray is situated in the heart of Bray, County Wicklow. It is only a five-minute walk from Bray seafront and guests have free access to the hotel’s swimming pool, sauna, and spa bath. McGettigan’s Bray restaurant & bar offers a modern Irish dining experience and award-winning food. The bar offers a variety of beers, wines and spirits and bedrooms have coffee making facilities, TV, safe, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Room Facilities & Amenities
Direct Dial Telephone
Crisp White Cotton Duvets
Coffee making facilities
Iron & Ironing board
Bathroom amenities
Hairdryer
Satellite TV
Safety deposit boxes
Complimentary use of The Merrill Leisure Club
Complimentary Wifi in all guest bedrooms and hotel facilities

Dooley's Hotel★★★

The three-star Dooleys Hotel is situated in the centre of Waterford and is a family-run hotel with a restaurant, serving Irish cuisine and a great atmosphere in the Dry Dock bar. Bedrooms are brightly furnished, and all feature a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Each room provides a TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

Room Facilities & Amenities
En suite bathrooms
Tea and coffee making facilities
Direct dial telephone with voicemail service
Trouser press
Iron and ironing board (on request)
Hairdryer
Multi-channel television
Free WIFI

Holiday provided by

Leger Holidays Limited and Leger Air Holidays Limited trading as Arena Travel. Company Registration No. 01442476 & 02993529

Read further information about our partner and full Terms and Conditions by clicking here

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At a glance

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