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Overview
'Discover the Hidden Heart of Ireland for an off the beaten track
experience on the Emerald Isle"
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival in Ireland, pick up your rental car and travel to your first stop of the trip, Lough Derg. Over 90 heritage sites are accessible around Lough Derg as the lake has a long history of habitation and its shores have been settled since prehistoric times. Overnight : Killaloe area.
Today you will travel along Lough Derg all the way up to its northern point. Before starting the day, why not take a cruise on the lake? You will take in all the scenery of this hidden gem and learn about Brian Boru, High King of Ireland. Afterwards, slowly make your way to Portumna following the pace of the lake and taking regular breaks to spot wildlife or enjoy a cuppa by the lakeside. Overnight: Portumna area.
Before leaving for Athlone, enjoy a morning in Portumna and visit its castle. Portumna Castle and Demesne occupy a magnificent location on the shores of Lough Derg on the River Shannon. After your tour travel to Athlone and before arriving, take a small detour to Clara Bog Nature Reserve, a 464 hectares raised bog and home to many protected wildlife species. You can walk its 1km boardwalk to try and spot some Birds of Prey. Overnight: Athlone area.
From Athlone, drive to Lough Ree and try your hand at kayaking or stand up paddling! For the less adventurous of us, you could also take a Viking Tour departing from Athlone down to the Monastic Site of Clonmacnoise. After a day filled with adventure do not forget to visit Ireland's oldest pub, Sean's Bar for an evening filled with fun and live music. Overnight: Athlone.
Today depart the lovely town of Athlone to travel towards County Leitrim. On the way, do not miss a stop in Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum. Another choice for the day is a tour at Lough Ree Distillery where Slingshot Gin is produced. You can try your hand at concocting your own gin recipe at their Sling Shot Gin School or just make a quick stop to pick up some local spirits to bring home. Overnight : Leitrim Region.
Your adventure in the wonderful Hidden Heartland is coming to an end today as you drive back to Dublin for your last night. Take a break on the way in Longford to visit its beautiful St Mel's Cathedral home to two magnificent 19th century Harry Clarke Studios stained glass windows with their vivid, jewel-like colours. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Dublin City Centre to soak in the atmosphere of the capital. Overnight : Dublin region.
Return your car at the airport as it is now time to take your flight home !
Gallery
Inclusions
All Packages can be customised and… Are on bed and Full Irish breakfast basis, unless advised otherwise.
o Exclude transport, at the exception of rail packages
Can be sold on free-sale basis, please contact us for block out dates and specific terms.
o Can be done by car rental or with a chauffeur guide.
o Rates include VAT at 20%
The accommodation services listed are examples, those can be replaced according to availability.
Exclusions
Services not listed above.
Rates quoted excluding transport.
Notes
Mixed Accommodation: 3 Nights in 3 or 4* Accommodation. 3 Nights in B&B
Example Accommodations (Or Similar): Clare - B&B / Galway-Sheannater Hotel / Westmeath-B&B / Leitrim-Lough Rynn Hotel / Dublin-Maldron Hotel Newlandscross.