Ireland Unrushed: Castles to Coastlines

Arrive in Dublin, collect your car and ease into your journey with a scenic drive to the breathtaking landscapes of County Wicklow. If you’re feeling energetic, dip into Dublin’s cultural buzz or skip the city rush and head straight to Ireland’s ‘Garden County.’ Stop at Dalkey Village, a celebrity seaside gem with celebrity homes, coastal walks and quaint bistros. Other highlights include Avoca Village, Meeting of the Waters, Sally Gap and Guinness Lake, Powerscourt Estate & Gardens and Wicklow Wolf Brewery.

Overnight: County Wicklow area

Slow it down and discover hidden Wicklow. From ancient monastic sites to forest adventures and foodie experiences, this is a day to follow your curiosity. Suggested experiences include: Glendalough Monastic City, Beyond the Trees at Avondale, a cookery class at Ballyknocken Cookery School, Kilmacurragh National Botanic Gardens, Falconry Ireland or stop at Hollywood Village and snap a photo at the original Hollywood sign!

Overnight: County Wicklow area

Leave the mountains behind and travel south toward Ireland’s oldest city via stunning coastal and heritage routes. Stand on the golden sands of Curracloe Beach or step aboard a full-scale replica at Dunbrody Famine Ship. Other treats include Hook Lighthouse, House of Waterford Crystal and Waterford Treasures & Medieval Museum in a city more than a thousand years old.

Overnight: County Waterford area

Spend the day exploring Waterford’s rich blend of heritage, creativity and natural beauty. Cycle or stroll the Waterford Greenway, a 46km trail where you’ll pass by viaducts, cliffs and castles. Explore Mount Congreve Gardens, The Irish Wake Museum and catch live traditional music at The Reg or Tully’s Bar. Browse an eclectic mix of boutiques, craft stores and gift shops or take a fun Viking Cruise.

Overnight: County Waterford area

Wind along the scenic Copper Coast to the charming harbour town of Cobh. This town once served as the last port of call for the Titanic and holds powerful emigration stories. Enjoy the seaside town of Youghal, dive into whiskey heritage at Jameson Distillery Midleton before arriving at your next port of call. Explore Titanic Experience Cobh, Cobh Heritage Centre and St. Colman’s Cathedral.

Overnight: County Cork area

Spend your day continuing to see what Cobh has to offer including Fota Wildlife Park, Fota House & Gardens, a tranquil Harbour Boat Tour or a short ferry ride to notorious Spike Island, a former home to monks, military and miscreants. Finish your day with a traditional music session and a pint at The Roaring Donkey pub.

Overnight: County Cork area

Time to enjoy Ireland’s fabulous Hidden Heartlands. With castles, distilleries and ancient sites, this is a day full of stories and surprises. Cahir Castle is a towering, atmospheric fortress on the River Suir in County Tipperary. Alternatively, explore nearby Swiss Cottage, a romantic, thatched retreat with whimsical charm. Other suggestions include Mitchelstown Cave, Hushabye Farm Alpacas and Kilbeggan —the world’s oldest distillery. This evening, why not settle with a relaxing drink at the James Griffin Pub, noted for live acoustic and traditional music sessions. 

Overnight: County Meath area

Wrap up your journey exploring the sacred and political sites that shaped Ireland’s early history. Step back over five thousand years at Newgrange UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Trim Castle, or take in the spirituality and power of the Hills of Slane and Tara. Get back to nature with a greenway walk or forest cycle, or for the more adventurous, choose your favourite rollercoaster ride at Emerald Park!

Overnight: County Meath area

After breakfast, return your car at Dublin airport, before boarding your return flight home to Canada. As most flights depart early, please allow sufficient time to drop off your car rental.