Ireland's Ancient East - 7 day Private Driver tour

Day 1: Dublin to Enniscorthy

Begin your tour of Ancient Ireland in Wicklow known as "The Garden of Ireland". Here at the large country estate of Powerscourt House & Gardens, you will have ample time to explore the 47 acres of gardens and meander through the charismatic stores in Powerscourt House or indulge yourself at the delicious Avoca Terrace Cafe.

Next, we will journey through the serene Wicklow countryside on our way to the 6th century monastic settlement of Glendalough which is famous for its spectacular scenery, rich history and amazing archaeology.

Overnight Enniscorthy

Day 2: Enniscorthy to Waterford

Take a stroll around the ancient town of Wexford, here you can chat with locals over a coffee or visit Selskar Abbey where the first Anglo-Irish treaty was signed in 1172.

After lunch, we will step back in time to the 1840s on The Dunbrody Famine Ship where you will learn of the hardship, bravery and fortitude of the Irish people during the Great Irish Famine.

You will enjoy the guided tour by costumed performers and high-quality exhibits which give you an insight into what our ancestors experienced in these very difficult times.

Overnight Waterford

Day 3: Waterford

Start the day by exploring the awesome ruins of the 12th century Cistercian Jerpoint Abbey. A guided tour through these extensive ruins will give you insights into the religious and political history of the time. Marvel at the sculptured cloister arcade with its unique carvings, the Romanesque church and tomb sculpture.

Next, we will visit Waterford, Ireland oldest city and also the home of the world-famous Waterford crystal whose origins date back to 1783. Feel the heat of the blowing room, experience how moulds are made and learn how the famous Crystal is engraved.

Overnight Waterford

Day 4: Waterford to Cork

Fancy a tipple? Our first stop today is the market town of Midleton to partake in a guided tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery to hear the engaging story of this world-renowned liquor and also see the microdistillery. Best of all you get a chance to sample this fine Irish whiskey.

The island town of Cobh (pronounced Cove) is our next port of call where you will tread the same path as 2.5 million people who emigrated from here from the Famine times right up to 1950.

Visit the Old Chuch Graveyard where 193 victims of the torpedoed Lusitania were buried in 3 mass graves.

Explore the impressive neo-gothic St. Colemans Cathedral overlooking the splendid harbour and learn about the extraordinary maritime history of this port town.

Your tour of the Titanic Experience in the original White Star Line Office documents the Titanic's ill-fated maiden voyage and its last port of call to this historic town.

Overnight Cork

Day 5: Cork

Pucker up! Today is the day you get to Kiss the legendary Blarney Stone.

Don't forget to take time to enjoy the amazing gardens before strolling over to the famous Blarney Woolen Mills, the world's largest Irish gift shop.

Enjoy the sights with a driving tour through Cork City taking, The Shandon Bells, English Market, University College Cork and much more.

For your next stop, we will visit the 16th century Charles Fort for a 15-minute photo-op to capture the stunning views and learn of its fascinating history.

Shortly afterwards we will reach the charming village of Kinsale, dubbed "Ireland's Gourmet Capital". There are lots of pubs, restaurants and craft/gift shops dotted around the winding streets of Kinsale.

Overnight Cork

Day 6: Cork to Kilkenny

The Rock of Cashel or also known as Cashel of the Kings is a unique site which is home to a 12th century Round Tower and Chapel plus a 13th-century Cathedral.

Then we journey on to the medieval city of Kilkenny, known as the Marble City. It is steeped in history which is instantly visible in its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Take a stroll down the medieval mile and marvel at St. Canices Cathedral & Round Tower, Rothe House & Garden, The Black Abbey and much more.

Overnight Kilkenny

Day 7: Kilkenny to Dublin

Leave Kilkenny behind while we travel through the scenic route to Newgrange.

Spend the morning visiting the 5000-year-old Newgrange, this ancient temple from the Stone Age is 500 years older than the Pyramids of Egypt.

Take a guided tour of the temple from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre and step back in time see this awesome structure built by a neolithic farming community.

Next stop, the Boyne Valley home to the Stone Age Mound on the Hill of Tara and the ancient seat of the high kings of Ireland.

After this, sit back, relax and we will transport you back to your hotel or airport with a lifetime of memories.

Finish Dublin