Exclusive Ireland

(8 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Dublin, Ashford Castle, Ballyfin

This private Ireland tour includes fascinating culture and history in Dublin, the beautiful landscapes of the west coast, and two of the most exclusive resorts in the country: Ashford Castle and Ballyfin.

During touring with your private guide, see the historic highlights of Dublin, the capital of Ireland and the perfect starting point for an overview of the country's long history. Marvel at the iconic Book of Kells (Artisans of Leisure will arrange fast-track access), and the Long Room in the Old Library at Trinity College, and tour St. Patrick's Cathedral, one of the most important churches in Ireland. Walk in the footsteps of Irish literary giants such as James Joyce and Oscar Wilde in Georgian Dublin, a neighborhood of well-preserved architecture set around leafy St. Stephen's Green. Also enjoy a privately guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse and free time to browse specialty shops, markets and the Creative District. Other options that can be incorporated into Dublin touring include specialty museums, contemporary art galleries, Kilmainham Gaol, distillery tours and the Chester Beatty Library. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange private pub crawls, afternoon tea and reservations at Dublin's best restaurants for contemporary Irish cuisine.

Next, transfer to renowned Ashford Castle, a grand lakefront castle hotel. One day, see the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, which rise hundreds of feet above the sea. Also explore the fascinating Burren, a rocky landscape covered in wildflowers and punctuated by ancient archaeological sites such as Poulnabrone Dolmen, a neolithic tomb. If desired, enjoy hiking or a visit to a local artisanal perfumery. Time permitting, also stop in Galway. Another day, enjoy a private excursion to Connemara National Park to see quintessential Irish landscapes, watch a sheepdog demonstration, and visit Kylemore Abbey to see its beautiful Victorian walled garden. There will also be time to enjoy the facilities and activities at the hotel and on its estate, including spa treatments, falconry, boat rides, fishing, horseback riding, tennis, archery, kayaking and fine dining.

Continue to Ballyfin, one of Europe's most spectacular country hotels. Enjoy a private excursion in the Slieve Bloom Mountains (with the option for hiking), or a private excursion to the charming town of Kilkenny. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional activities like a private visit to Birr Castle, renowned for its beautiful interiors and grounds. There will also be ample leisure time to enjoy Ballyfin and activities at the hotel.

This tour can be personalized to include additional experiences such as family activities, genealogical research, hiking, golf, visits to whiskey distilleries, garden tours, decorative arts tours, religious heritage tours, and culinary and crafts lessons, and more.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

• Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
• Preferred rooms in the very best luxury hotels
• Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our travel specialists
• Itineraries that are customized according to your interests and schedule
• Artisans of Leisure upgrades and amenities
• A seamless travel experience, including all logistics, skipping lines during touring whenever possible, restaurant and spa reservations, performance tickets, private airport transfers, internal transportation, VIP and fast-track airport assistance in many destinations
• Around-the-clock support in each destination during your trip
• Unique, insider travel experiences and access to the Artisans of Leisure network of experts around the world