Tour Ref: SS7/1
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Our scenic tour of the far side of Ireland is full of vibrant colour and wonderful hospitality. It’s the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle and it’s many charms.
We meet at Holyhead Port and board our coach to be luggage free. We then drive onto the ferry for the enjoyable afternoon sailing to Dublin Port. Once in Eire we head to Carrick on Shannon, breaking the journey for an evening meal somewhere, and arriving by about 21.00.
Today we stay local and firstly head to Strokestown for a visit to the estate that houses the National Famine Museum. Sounds grim? Well, it does explain why the Irish are now found all over the world and is truly fascinating. Later, we are off to visit our friend Michael at the Cavan and Leitrim Railway for steam, eccentricity, and a collection of transport memorabilia to amaze you.
Time to travel on some Irish trains. We drive to Roscommon and catch a morning train to the end of the line at Westport. Time for a spot of lunch perhaps before a train back as far as Manulla Junction – truly remote! We connect into a train to the terminus at Ballina and jump on the coach for a scenic sprint across to Sligo. Our final train journey of the day takes us back to Carrick on Shannon. But, we-re not finished yet as we join Moon River for a superb boat trip on the Shannon accompanied by live traditional music – what an end to the day.
Transfer day today. We load up, check-out, and drive across to Galway. This place is vibrant and full of history. We’ll take an open top, for it will be sunny, bus tour of the city with commentary and then you are free to explore for a while. Back at the station we board the train to Limerick and complete the journey by road to Tralee and the lovely Grand Hotel. After an evening meal (included) you might to sample the atmosphere of the town. Live music will be on in many hostelries - enjoy a true taste of Ireland.
A morning train takes us to Killarney where we join our coach and drive via Poulgorm Bridge to Kenmare. Time to forage for refreshments in this lovely little town before we attack the best part of the Ring of Kerry. This is undoubtedly the scenic highlight of the holiday and finishes at Ross Castle where take to the water for a serene afternoon cruise on Lough Leane. We drive back up to Tralee late afternoon and tonight, though you can dine in, you are free to dine out and once again enjoy the convivial atmosphere.
A relaxed day with time for “local” stuff in the morning before heading to nearby Blennerville Windmill. Not just a fascinating mill visit but railway connections as well including a model layout. In the afternoon we head north to Listowel for the unique Lartigue Railway. This is a superb re-creation of the famous Ballybunion Monorail and provides a fantastic insight into how this unusual railway operated.
Time to head for home and we must get going with an early morning train across to Dublin. Here our coach meets us and transfers to the afternoon sailing back to Holyhead. Back at Holyhead Station it’s time for fond farewells and Gaelic memories.
One of our favourite Hotels to be sure, a warm welcome, traditional breakfast, and sited in the heart of Tralee’s historic town. Described as a boutique hotel this place is the hub of the community. We include dinner on the first night.On the other two you can eat in, of course, but there are so many nearby alternatives that a stroll out might be more to your taste. There is no lift incidentally, but porterage is available.
A truly up-market hotel located on the banks of the Shannon in a small provincial town. It’s a lovely setting from which to explore the “Midlands” and the north-west branch-lines. Spacious accommodation, good food, and friendly staff – couldn’t be better. Dinner is included throughout out stay in Carrick.
