Cashel

Rainy-day activities

Take an air-conditioned bus ride and observe the transformation of Dublin's metropolitan environment into the verdant hills of the Irish countryside. Travel through a number of interesting locations, such as the Irish National Stud's home, the Curragh in County Kildare, and the Galtee Mountains. Discover the fabled Rock of Cashel, a recognisable representation of Ireland's historical significance, as you delve into its past. A remarkable collection of mediaeval structures can be seen at this location, such as a high cross, round tower, abbey, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, and 15th-century tower house. Reach Blarney Castle, which is well-known around the world for the Blarney Stone. Put your lips on the stone to obtain the "gift of gab." Discover enchanted gardens with mystical waterfalls and ancient ferns. This location, rich in mystery and history, promises an amazing experience. Climb the Wishing Steps to see the charming Rock Close. In Blarney Castle, there is a range of restaurants to pick from. Discover the magnificent Cahir Castle, one of Ireland's largest and best-preserved, as your day's last destination. It is perched atop a rocky island in the River Suir. Constructed by the Butler family in the thirteenth century, this storied castle has seen many fabled sieges and conflicts. Its impressively maintained defensive architecture provides an intriguing look at the inventiveness of the Middle Ages. Experience its fascinating past with a guided tour and audiovisual presentations. After that, go back to Dublin's city centre to round out your tour. *Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time*

Visit Ireland’s most famous castle on a full-day tour from Dublin. Enjoy free time to explore the city of Cork and visit Blarney Castle. Stroll in the footsteps of St Patrick at the Celtic Crosses and Round Tower. Meet your guide at Paddy's Palace in Dublin and hop aboard a comfortable and climate-controlled van for a scenic drive through green fields and dairy farms of the Golden Vale of County Cork. Enjoy panoramic views of the Galtee Mountains and County Tipperary. Stop in Cork on banks of the River Lee and spend an hour of free time exploring the city at your own pace. Have the option to visit the historic English Market, or marvel at the architecture of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral. Drive on to Blarney Castle, home of the legendary Blarney Stone. It’s said that if you kiss the stone you will receive the “gift of the gab” for 7 years. Pucker up and kiss the stone or snap a picture.  Explore the castle grounds and gardens to discover the Witch's Cave. Take advantage of the tax free shopping at the Blarney Woollen Mills and craft shop. Step back in time at the evocative Celtic Crosses and Round Tower. Depart for Dublin on a path through the Golden Vale of County Tipperary and arrive back in the city at night. 

Experience the dramatic landscapes of the southwest of Ireland on a 2-day budget tour to the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and more. Kiss the famous Blarney Stone, enjoy panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean, and stay in the historic city of Cork to enjoy the local life up-close. Day 1: Dublin - Rock of Cashel - Blarney - Cork Depart Dublin at 08:00 for a relaxing drive through scenic County Cork. The first stop will be the world famous Rock of Cashel. One of Ireland's most evocative sites, you can stroll in the footsteps of St. Patrick flanked by ruins, Celtic crosses and round towers and feel the soul of Ireland. The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster until they donated the complex to the Catholic Church almost 1,000 years ago for use as a cathedral. The site is one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Europe. The next stop is Ireland's second city, Cork. Here there is time to visit the English Markets recently visited by Queen Elizabeth II, that offer a wide range of local produce from artisan meats and cheeses and all that is good about Irish fine fare. This is an ideal place to enjoy lunch. In the afternoon you will go to the quaint town of Blarney to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone (optional) at the medieval stronghold of Blarney Castle. Learn the story behind the tradition as you explore the castle’s dungeons, caves and hidden bedrooms. Return to Cork, where you will spend the night. Day 2: Cork - Burren - Cliffs of Moher - Dublin Start the day with a drive through the beautiful Golden Vale, home to some of the best farm land in Ireland. Stop in Limerick to see the River Shannon and get some fine photos of King John's Castle. Continue west to County Clare, enjoying views of the wild Atlantic Ocean as you drive along the West Coast. Marvel at beautiful beaches of golden sand, looking out for dolphins and whales. Admire the lunar landscape of The Burren, where Alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean flowers grow side-by-side. Hear inspiring tales of how the Irish overcame the horrors of the Great Potato Famine of 1845-49, when over 1 million Irish fled to all 4 corners of the earth to escape. Upon arrival at the Cliffs of Moher, gaze in awe at the sheer majesty of the cliffs and crashing waves. See why world surf champ, Kelly Slater, came here for the award-winning surf movie “Wave Riders.” En route back to Dublin, enjoy a short photo stop at the 15th-century tower house of Bunratty Castle.

Day 1 Departing Dublin, the journey begins westward through the farmlands and peat bogs of Kildare and Offaly. The first stop is the historic Kilbeggan Distillery, where you can enjoy a sample of Ireland’s renowned whiskey. From there, the tour visits Clonmacnoise, a significant monastic site on the River Shannon, home to ancient churches, high crosses, and round towers. After lunch in a traditional village pub, the day ends in Galway City a vibrant hub known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food, and music scene. Day 2 The day begins with a coastal drive to the Burren, a unique limestone landscape rich in rare flora and early Christian heritage. After time to explore the area, you travel to Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”. You can visit the town’s fabulous ancient cathedral before we stop for lunch in one of the area’s charming villages. You then head to the incredible Cliffs of Moher, offering dramatic views and a fascinating environmental exhibition. Traveling south through County Clare, there's a brief stop at Lahinch beach before a ferry ride across the Shannon Estuary. The night is spent in Killarney, known for its warm hospitality, pubs, and traditional music. Day 3 Day three explores the scenic Dingle Peninsula. Starting at Inch Beach, the tour winds through countryside roads to the lively town of Dingle. The route continues to Slea Head, where you’ll find ancient forts, early dwellings, and breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands. Depending on weather, there's time for walking along beaches and cliffs. Arriving back amidst the brightly coloured houses and jolly harbour of Dingle, you can spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying delicious seafood in this idyllic setting. In the evening, you head back to Killarney, with time for an evening stroll in the National Park that envelops the town. Day 4 Explore the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, winding through valleys, villages, and the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, with views of Carrauntoohil. Visit Cahersiveen, Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace, and a ring fort near Portmagee, where you stop for lunch or visit the Skellig Experience on Valentia Island. Afternoon stops include Waterville, Coonmakista Pass, and Derrynane House, followed by scenic views at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View. A final walk to Torc Waterfall wraps up the day before returning to Killarney. Day 5 Heading east through West Cork, the group stops at Blarney Castle, with time to explore the grounds and, if you wish, kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. After lunch in the coastal town of Kinsale, known for its colorful streets and Charles Fort. The final stop of this tour is the incredible Rock of Cashel. Imposing, enormous, iconic. Perched dramatically on an outcrop of limestone, this remarkable cluster of medieval buildings is famous around the world. You have free time to explore here before we hop back on the bus and head for Dublin, where we arrive in the early evening.

First, visit Cahir Castle. Located on a rocky island in the Suir River, Cahir is one of the best preserved castles in all of Ireland. It kept its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. From here, travel to the picturesque city of Cork which is located between two channels of the River Lee. The compact nature of the city provides a cozy atmosphere and everywhere is easily accessible on foot. You will have 2 hours time to explore the city, the narrow streets and bridges, the bustling English market and St Finbarr’s Cathedral with its magnificent bell towers. There is also the opportunity to ring bells yourself in the 300 year old St Anne’s church! Heading back towards Dublin, make a final stop at one of the most iconic locations in Ireland – The Rock of Cashel. A spectacular set of medieval buildings set in a huge rock. It includes a Circular Tower, the traditional Irish Celtic Cross and a Gothic Cathedral. You will arrive back in Dublin around 7:30 - 8:00 PM.

Explore the legendary Rock of Cashel, a stunning medieval fortress perched high above the Tipperary countryside, and stroll through the charming town of Cashel, steeped in centuries of history. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone eager to experience the magic of Ireland’s past. Led by an expert, first-class guide, this immersive walking tour invites you to explore Cashel’s historic streets, brimming with traditional shops, cozy cafés, and captivating landmarks that tell tales of Ireland’s rich heritage. Your adventure begins with a visit to the stunning Cashel Palace Hotel, a magnificent structure dating back to 1732, originally built for the Archbishop of the Church of Ireland. From there, step back in time as you discover Kearney’s Castle, an iconic 15th-century gem and the oldest surviving domestic building in Cashel. Next, dive deep into Cashel’s history at the Cashel Folk Village Museum. This beautifully curated collection of artifacts offers a unique window into the town’s past, from medieval days to the era of the Irish War of Independence. With engaging exhibits that reveal the broader narrative of Ireland’s history, this museum promises a truly enriching experience. Learn about Penal Times and the War of Independence, in this old-world attraction. The thatched roof of the museum echoes times gone by, admire the incredible collection of memorabilia relating to members of the Third Tipperary Brigade, and hear stark but important stories from the Great Famine through lifelike exhibits. See the Penal Chapel on the museum grounds which was built using 12th-century stones from the Franciscan Abbey. The highlight of your journey awaits as you arrive at the magnificent Rock of Cashel. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster and a powerful ecclesiastical centre, the Rock is a breathtaking testament to Ireland’s medieval past. Marvel at the awe-inspiring round tower, the architectural splendour of Cormac’s Chapel, and the majestic cathedral ruins. Your guide will bring the captivating history and legends of this legendary site to life, illuminating the significance of its stone carvings and ancient relics. Guests will enjoy reserved timed entry admission to Rock of Cashel set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale. This cluster of medieval buildings iconic in their historical significance, possesses the most impressive location overlooking the county of Tipperary. Among the monuments to be found there is a dramatic round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House. Conclude your tour with panoramic views of the lush countryside surrounding Cashel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this iconic Irish landmark. With each step, you’ll uncover a new chapter of Ireland’s fascinating history, making this tour an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Come and explore the wonderful Blarney castle and its gardens, a castle steeped in history where you kiss the world famous Blarney Stone granting you 7 years gift of eloquence according to legend. Our first stop is the wonderful Rock of Cashel in the County of Tipperary. Perched high over the surrounding landscapes, this truly is a sight to behold. Its early buildings date back to the 5th century and they say St. Patrick visited here too, as he brought christianity to to the Island of Ireland! Arriving at Blarney Castle in Cork we visit the castle and its beautiful gardens where you will have time to explore the home of the Blarney Stone. After this we stop at Blarney Woollen Mills, Ireland’s oldest and most authentic Woollen mills for some shopping and lunch. We return to Dublin early in the evening with memories to last a lifetime. If you wish to personalize this tour, please do not hesitate to ask!

Day 1 Head south of Dublin and travel through the Wicklow Mountains to your first stop at the famous Glendalough. Here, enjoy some free time to admire the lovely lakes, learn more about their history at the visitor center, and bask in the serenity of the monastic city ruins. Afterward, continue your quest to the West and visit the traditional market town of Kilcullen for a lunch break. After lunch, travel to the Rock of Dunamase and the ruins of Dunamase Castle in the ancient plains of County Laois. Later on, visit "Ireland's Prettiest Village", Adare; where you can admire a superb collection of thatched cottages and old structures, including the ruins of a 15th-century Franciscan Monastery. Finally, head for County Kerry and the windswept Dingle Peninsula, a stronghold of Irish culture and language, where you will be staying in the town of Dingle for the next two nights. Day 2 Today, find out why the Wild Atlantic Way is known as one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world in the Dingle Peninsula. Enter the heartland of the Gaeltacht (the areas within Ireland where the Irish language is the principal tongue of the local people). Discover the best of the peninsula including highlights such as Conor Pass, Tóchar Maothaithe, the Beehive Huts, Slea Head, and Gallarus Oratory. After a day full of natural splendor, spend the night in Dingle. Day 3 Before leaving the Dingle Peninsula, stop at Inch Beach, where you can get a glimpse of your next destination, the Kerry Mountains and Killarney National Park. Pass by a few lakes and take a short walk to the Torc Waterfall, a 20-meter high cascade of water that originates high in the mountains. Break for lunch in the lively town of Killarney before making your way across country to the Rock of Cashel, a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone. Take some time to explore its Round Tower, High Cross, and Gothic Cathedral. From here, enjoy a relaxing drive with time to reflect on the past three days as you make your way back to Dublin for the early evening.

Do you know why millions of visitors flock to Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone? You can discover the legend behind this old tradition on a guided tour of the castle! Visit one of the most famous Irish castles and gardens with a History Expert and experience a real Irish adventure! Book a 9,5-hour tour to visit the Blarney Castle and Gardens. For your convenience, skip-the-line tickets and private car transfers from Dublin, with pickup direct from your accommodation, are included in this full-day tour. You will enjoy a wonderful journey through the poetically beautiful Irish landscapes to Blarney Castle, one of the country’s greatest treasures. It was built nearly 600 years ago by a great chieftain, Cormac MacCarthy and gained popularity as the home of the Blarney Stone. On your private tour you will explore the castle's rich history and heritage and enjoy its attractions. You will have a chance to lean backward through the hole in the castle's battlements and kiss the legendary Stone of Eloquence. The guide will tell you the old legend of the stone's origin and about the famous people who have kissed it. You will also hear other interesting stories about the Blarney Castle, such as the reason why Queen Elizabeth I refused to take possession of this stronghold. The Blarney Stone is not the only attraction of the castle. You will admire the ornate banqueting hall and family room, and look for the Witches' Cave in the wonderful gardens. There will be free time for lunch and souvenir shop before the driver takes you back to your accommodation in Dublin. Choose the 11-hour option to enhance your Irish adventure with 2 more attractions. On this extended tour you will stop outside the Cahir Castle to admire one the largest and best-preserved castles in Ireland (outside only) and learn about the filming of the “Excalibur” and “The Tudors”. Another highlight will be a visit inside the Rock of Cashel. It is known as the soul of Ireland and the site of the conversion of the King of Munster by St. Patrick in the 5th century. The Rock comprises several old structures, some dating from c. 1100, with highlights such as the Cormac’s Chapel, the Cathedral and the walled graveyard. Explore the picturesque medieval complex and discover its best-kept secrets with your Expert Guide!

Day One Your first stop is the Rock of Dunamase, a Celtic fort with tales of early Christian settlements and Viking invasions in 842. Enjoy free time to explore this historical marvel. Head south to Cashel, where the iconic Rock of Cashel perches dramatically on limestone, showcasing medieval grandeur. Explore colossal structures and the hauntingly beautiful Hore Abbey, remnants of Ireland's last medieval Cistercian monastery. Continue to Blarney Castle for woodland walks and a chance to kiss the iconic Blarney Stone. As the afternoon sun bathes the southern Cork coastline, Kinsale, a charming fishing village, welcomes you. Immerse yourself in its narrow lanes, colorful houses, and lively pubs during a leisurely evening. Day Two Start the day with a photo stop at the invigorating Old Head of Kinsale. Explore Ireland's ancient mysteries at the Drombeg Stone Circle, the Druid's Altar, and a Stone Age megalithic tomb. Each site bears witness to Ireland's ancient mysteries and sacred history. Head to Mizen Head, the Wild Atlantic Way's south-westerly point, capturing the raw beauty of the wild Atlantic Ocean and crossing the iconic bridge to explore the Signal Station. You conclude the day in Bantry Town's beautiful harbour setting. Wander quirky shops, meet locals, and visit Bantry House & Gardens, reminiscent of continental 'palazzos.' Return to picturesque Kinsale for another night. Day Three Discover the grandeur of Charles Fort, a star-shaped military installation steeped in Irish history. Next, immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Irish whiskey with a tour of Midleton Distillery Cork (formerly Jameson). And embark on a culinary journey in the beautiful town of Cobh, offering free time for exploration. The night unfolds in Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, with a scenic coastal route featuring flexible photo stops. Enjoy the mystery of unexpected sights, perhaps at Bunmahon Beach or Tankardstown Copper Mine. Day Four Marvel at Jerpoint Abbey's Cistercian wonders, its Romanesque and Gothic remnants echoing through time. Dive into Kilkenny, a city blending modernity with medieval charm. An interactive tour at Smithwick’s Experience offers insights into the 18th-century brewery. With ample free time, explore shops, restaurants, museums, and the grandeur of Kells Priory, revealing medieval military prowess. Return to Waterford for a night of exploration, dining, and merriment. Day Five Venture to New Ross, home to the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic 1840s emigrant vessel offering insights into the famine experience. Continue to the renowned Glendalough Monastic Site, where serene lakes and ancient ruins provide a historical pilgrimage. Conclude your journey with a visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens. Marvel at stunning views, landscaped gardens, and ornamental lakes, wrapping up your tour as you head back to Dublin.