Cork, Blarney Castle & the Queenstown Story

This highly enjoyable trip, takes visitors to Ireland's Southern Capital, Cork, where they will get the opportunity to see such attractions as the Blarney Stone and visit Cobh on Cork Harbor, the famous last port of call of the Titanic.

Itinerary:

• Meeting point at Dublin Heuston Station, St Johns Road Dublin 8 - check in at the Customer Service Desk.
• Departure at 7.00am InterCity train to Cork (check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure time).
• On arrival in Cork a bus will bring you to your first stop Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous stone and the gift of eternal eloquence. Time for shopping and lunch at Blarney Village before returning to Cork.
• A short city tour in Cork city.
• Scenic journey alongside Cork Harbour to Cobh, where the "Queenstown Story" Heritage Centre is located. This is where generations of Irish emigrants embarked upon their new life to different worlds during the famine.
• Return to Cork for departure on InterCity train back to Dublin.
• Arrive at Dublin Heuston Station at 8.20pm

Operates: Mon-Sat; 7:00 a.m.; 13½ hours
Prices per Person from: $158

Ring of Kerry

Experience the Ring of Kerry on this full day tour and view the most beautiful scenes of mountains and sea. Not only will travellers get to see Dingle Bay, Macgillicuddy Reeks and Ireland's highest Mountain Carrantuohill, they will also view the world famous Lakes of Killarney.

Itinerary:

• Meeting point at Dublin Heuston Station, St Johns Road Dublin 8 - check in at the Customer Service Desk.
• Departure at 7.00am InterCity train to Mallow, County Cork (check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure time).
• Here you will be transferred to Killarney, where the Ring of Kerry Tour will begin.
• On this tour you will witness some of Ireland's most spectacular scenery, including Dingle Bay, Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland's highest Mountain Carrantuohill and the world famous Lakes of Killarney.
• Return to Killarney for train transfer back to Mallow.
• Departure Mallow on InterCity train back to Dublin.
• Arrive at Dublin Heuston at 9.15pm.
  

Operates: Mon-Sat; 7:00 a.m.; 14¼ hours
Prices per Person from: $158

Giant's Causeway & The Glen of Antrim

A breathtaking day trip to the beautiful Antrim Coast that includes a crossing through the Glens of Antrim while on the way to Ballycastle and the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge. Continue on to the world famous Giant’s Causeway and marvel at this natural wonder before stopping at Dunluce Castle for a photo opportunity.

Itinerary:

• Meeting point at Dublin Connolly Station, Amiens Street, Dublin 1. Departure at Platform 4 at 7.35am Enterprise service to Belfast (check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure time).
• On arrival in Belfast a bus will pick you up and head to the famous Antrim Coast Road. You will witness the beautiful scenery of the Glens of Antrim, enroute to Ballycastle and the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.
• Continue to the stunning Giant’s Causeway and Dunlunce Castle (photo stop only).
• Return to Belfast for departure on Enterprise service to Dublin.
• Arrive at Dublin Connolly Stations at 8.20pm.

Operates: Mon-Sat; 7:30 a.m.; 14¾ hours
Prices per Person from: $158

The Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway Bay Tour

A day trip to Ireland's rugged and unique next see mid-western coast, through Limerick on the mighty River Shannon and on then to imposing Bunratty Castle with its lovely folk park. The stunning Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Galway Bay. A glimpse of Galway City concludes the tour before returning to Dublin.

Itinerary:

• Meeting point at Dublin Heuston Station, St Johns Road Dublin 8 - check in at the Customer Service Desk at 6.40am (check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure time) for departure of InterCity train to Limerick (Breakfast available).
• Board a coach in Limerick, have a short tour of the treaty city and setting for "Angela's Ashes."
• Head north to Bunratty Castle and Folk Village (admission included), then to a Doolin Pub for a lunch stop. On to the majestic Cliffs of Moher on the wild Atlantic coast. Enter the unique lunar landscape of the Burren, rounding Black Head before heading along the shores of Galway Bay to Galway, the City of Tribes to board the Dublin bound train (light meals available).
• Arrive at Dublin Heuston Station at 8.55pm.
• The drive from the Cliffs of Moher to Galway city is regarded as one of the top 10 coastal drives in Europe.
  

Operates: Mon-Sat; 6:40 a.m.; 14¼ hours
Prices per Person from: $158

For a full listing of Rail Day Tours from Dublin refer to our “Ireland & Scotland” Guided and Customized Vacations 2012 brochure or call us at (800)421-8446 for reservations.

Ireland’s rich culture, lore and lush outdoor spaces provide the ideal playground for cherishing specialty experiences throughout the island. From outdoor adventures in scenic lochs, lakes and ponds, to the diversions of modern Dublin, including musical and artistic performances, Brendan Vacations’ Dublin-based team of professionals can arrange any specialty experience during your stay. Partake in centuries old activities such as falconry at a distinguished castle, or attend a rowdy soccer match at your leisure, the choice is yours!

• Falconry
• Sailing
• Golf
• Fishing
• Private Behind the Scene tours
• Shore Excursions (for Cruise travelers)
• Sporting Events
• Concerts
  

For a sample of sightseeing experiences refer to our "Ireland & Scotland" Guided and Customized Vacations 2012 brochure. For reservations, call us at (800) 421-8446. For specialty experiences, please contact our Irish specialists in Dublin at info@brendanvacations.com.ie.

Nowhere does the Irish experience come more alive than in an iconic brewery or pub. Here locals and visitors alike gather and mingle, savoring in a much-cherished pint and enjoy local fare. In every corner of Ireland you will find charming pubs, and in Dublin, discover how the masters have brewed the country’s national brew, Guinness, by visiting Ireland’s top attraction, the Guinness Storehouse.

Guinness Storehouse

A fermentation plant at St. James's Gate Brewery has been transformed into a place where you can experience one of the world's best-known brands in a totally unexpected way. It's the Home, Heart and Soul of Guinness. Experience the famous brew yourself in the Tasting Laboratory. Take in spectacular views of Dublin city from the Gravity Bar which boasts 360 degree views of Ireland's Fair City. The Guiness Storehouse is located in the heart of the busy, bustling cultural city of Dublin. It's only a short walk or bus ride from the city center. Getting there is easy. Leaving will be harder......

Operates: Daily; 1 hour, self guided tour, plus your time in the Gravity Bar
Price per Person from: $17

Old Jameson Distillery Tour

A tour guaranteed not only to entertain, but also engage and enlighten visitors through a look at the history of this Irish Whiskey Distillery. Reliving the history of John Jameson & Son, visitors will discover how just three ingredients - water, barley and yeast, are combined with tradition to form the golden spirit that is loved so much. All visitors will be treated to a Jameson Signature drink, and some lucky volunteers, will also get the opportunity to participate in a tutored whiskey comparison and get a personalized Whiskey Taster Certificate as a reward.

Operates: Daily; open 9:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; 1 hour
Price per Person from: $17

Literary Pub Crawl

No city is as rich in pubs and poetry as Dublin and the Literary Pub Crawl is an amalgam of both - a 2-hour stagger with Wilde, Joyce, Behan and Beckett. Their search for an audience took them from the drawing room to the public saloon. The tour visits four favorite 'Publin' watering holes, allowing time for internal lubrication between comic cuts of the writer's work. The guides, all pro actors, begin with a shot of the black stuff - an excerpt from "Waiting for Godot."

Operates: Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun; 7:30 p.m.; 2 hours
Price per Person from: $21

Musical Pub Crawl

The Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl is one of Ireland’s most famous tours. Experience Dublin's pubs while discovering Ireland’s musical traditions. The tour is led by two of the best musicians in the country, who will let you in on the real story of Ireland’s musical heritage. Your hosts will play the tunes and songs that shape Traditional Irish music while also telling stories, teaching the group songs and demonstrating Ireland's indigenous instruments. Above all, everything is entertainingly conveyed with Ireland’s famous wit. The genuine article, this is a fantastic night of song, laughter and "craic."

Musician profile: The Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl has a pool of 20 musicians who perform on the tour and are some of the best in the land. They comprise both national and world champions, including many "Riverdance" and "Lord of the Dance" members, even one who was a lead musician on the Hollywood film "Lord of the Rings" soundtrack.

Operates: Thu, Fri, Sat; 7:15 p.m.; 2½ hours
Price per Person from: $19

Old Midleton Distillery

Reliving the history of John Jameson & Son, visitors will discover how just three ingredients - water, barley and yeast, are combined with tradition to form the golden spirit that is loved so much. All guests (over 18 years old) will be able to taste a Jameson Signature drink, and some lucky volunteers will also get the opportunity to participate in a tutored whiskey comparion and get a personalised Whiskey Taster Certificate as a reward.

Operates: Daily, except holidays; open 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; 1 hour
Price per Person from: $15

For more information on our Irish Brewery and Pub tours or private whiskey tasting, call us at (800)421-8446.

Your travel experience on Brendan’s Guided Vacations will include First Class to Deluxe accommodations, sightseeing, delicious regional cuisine, transfers and entertainment, all with the services of a professional, knowledgeable and friendly Travel Director. Our commitment is to provide high quality, innovative Guided Vacations, with something for everyone. There’s no better way to see the remarkable countries of Europe!

Choose a Discovery Vacation, which encompasses multiple countries in a panoramic overview. Perhaps a Regional Vacation, which focuses on just one country or area, suits your interests and time. Whichever is right for you, Brendan Vacations has a complete selection, featuring a variety of lengths and inclusions.

All Guided Vacations Include:

• Airport transfers in Dublin
• Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling
• Most meals
• Services of a professional Irish Guide/Chauffeur
• Private luxury motorcoach with air conditioning, reclining seats and an emergency restroom
• Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges Headsets for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide's commentary
• Portfolio of travel documents
• Souvenir group photo

Irish Jaunt - 6 Days from $780 per person

Immerse yourself in Ireland - from the ancient architecture and a literary pub crawl in Dublin to the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle. Wind around to The Ring of Kerry and Torc Waterfall, cross the Shannon Estuary to the Cliffs of Moher and even visit a working farm!

Glimpse of Ireland - 9 Days from $1,299 per person

Take a glimpse of Ireland’s best as you travel from Dublin towards Castlebar and Connemara visiting the visually stunning Kylemore Abbey and Strokestown Park House. Then head south toward Limerick and Killarney experiencing Ireland’s finest scenic landscape and natural beauty found throughout the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry.

Sights & Sound of Ireland - 11 Days from $2,050 per person

Experience the Emerald Isle with a fantastic Guided Vacation visiting many of Ireland’s famous destinations! Begin in Dublin with a welcome dinner and sightseeing tour before venturing off into Ireland’s scenic landscapes visiting Glenveagh National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry and much more! Highlights also include overnight stays in Connemara, Killarney, and Cork!

Or pick from our Boutique Guided Vacations...

On Brendan's Boutique Guided Vacations, you will have a more intimate vacation experience, traveling with just 24 guests. You will enjoy sights and activities that are often not available to larger groups, and stay in unique accommodations, from boutique properties to city center hotels to historic castles and manors. Travel on a smaller motorcoach (with the same amenities as on our large coaches), making little secluded sites accessible. Plus, a Guide/Chauffeur will accompany you every step of the way. Boutique Guided Vacations offer an authentic view of an Ireland you might not otherwise see.

Tastes & Tales of Ireland (Boutique Guided Vacations)

This 9-day Boutique Guided Vacation takes you across Ireland’s scenic countryside, bringing you up close and personal with the cuisine, culture, and locals. Your overnight stays feature the cities of Dublin, Cork, Killarney and magnificent Dromoland Castle, one of Ireland’s most prestigious national treasures. Take it all in with the services of a professional Irish Guide.

Castles & Manors (Boutique Guided Vacations)

Look no further, the ultimate Ireland experience is here. Spend 11 days taking in the absolute best of Ireland on a Boutique Guided Vacation featuring overnight stays in Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney, Ballynahinch Castle and Donegal, professional Guide highlights the ins and outs of every charming Irish destination.

For a full itinerary, click on the titles or refer to our "Ireland and Scotland" Guided & Customized Vacations 2012 Brochure. For reservations, please call us at (800) 421-8446.

Customize your vacation by selecting from a wide variety of enticing options, including rental cars, sightseeing, and hotel, B&B, townhouse, cottage, castle and manor accommodations or rental homes. We will help you design your own unique itinerary while giving you all the inside information and recommendations. You can mix and match your accommodations, staying in a B&B one night and a castle the next. Then choose the type of vehicle (from economy to luxury), sightseeing and transfers that best suit your interest and budget. Plus you decide the days you wish to travel and for how long, and a pace that suits you. And, because we buy in such large volume, we can assure you of the best value. Be sure to ask your Brendan Specialist for any sales or promotions available when booking.

Click here for Sample Itinerary (pdf)

Brendan Gold

Refer to our "Ireland & Scotland" Guided and Customized Vacations 2012 brochure for more information. For reservations, contact our Irish specialist at (800) 421-8446.