Celtic Secrets & Landscapes

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.

Dublin

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.

Departing from the pier and enjoy a panoramic city tour.

Then visit Dublin Castle. The castle played an important role from the Middle Ages up until 1922 as it was the residence of representatives of the British monarchy. It has survived numerous rebellions during its history, such as the 1916 uprising, and is today the theatre of official ceremonies such as the investiture of the President of the Republic. It was here that the 1998 peace agreements with Northern Ireland were signed.

You will have lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch, reach the fascinating EPIC Museum, where Irish heritage is celebrated. Located within the vaults of the elegantly restored CHQ building in the Dublin Docklands, EPIC is a thought-provoking experiential museum devoted to Irish history. The displays explore Ireland's influence on the arts, education, science, politics, and sports, and feature some of the country's most popular exports, such as Riverdance, Guinness, and the tradition of the Irish pub. This immersive experience tells some of the most remarkable tales of sacrifice, endurance and discovery the world has ever known, and brings to life the amazing stories of Irish emigration through the centuries.

You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.

Your programme includes:

·        Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.

·        Lunch with beverage package (beer or wine or soft drink + mineral water + coffee or tea).

·        Services of an English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        The castle may close with little to no notice due to State functions.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

From Dublin, discover the treasures of Western Ireland. Between landscapes of postcards mixing vertiginous cliffs, wild moors, magnificent beaches, fall under the charm of a spectacular nature and a land of stories.

Day 1  - Dublin / County Limerick

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.

You leave the port with your guide for a panoramic tour of Dublin and its main sights.

Then drive to Limerick. Lunch on the way to a local restaurant.

As soon as you arrive in Limerick in the early afternoon, you enjoy a guided tour of King John’s Castle (King John’s Castle), an imposing medieval building built on a small island in downtown Limerick.

You then leave the city to head to Adare for your first stop at the Dunraven Arms Hotel.

Free time.

Dinner included.

Day 2 - County Limerick / County Galway (Connemara)

Today, after breakfast, you reach County Galway further in the northwest

On the way, stop and visit the beautiful Cliffs of Moher, Unesco Global Geopark.

Lunch served in a local restaurant.

Drive to Clifden. Arrival at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel the afternoon.

End of the day at leisure or optional activity with extra fees (Whiskey tasting).

Dinner included.

Optional activity (with extra fees): Tutored whiskey tasting

Enjoy an exclusive private whiskey tasting in the Oak Cellar Bar. Learn about the history of whiskey in Ireland and about the various types from around this world on this tutored tasting. Guests will compare Black Bush with two of Bushmills newly launched whiskeys from the causeway collection, Bushmills Vermouth and Bushmills Pomerol (or similar).

Day 3 - County Galway (Connemara)

Following breakfast in your hotel, enjoy a morning at leisure or experience the secrets of falconry at Glenlo Abbey.

In the late morning, depart your hotel for Clifden, a coastal town located on the Owenglin River.

Enjoy a brief orientation tour of the town. Known as ‘the Capital of Connemara', Clifden has become one of Ireland's most sought-after holiday destinations. Visitors and local people mingle, giving the town a unique and enjoyable cosmopolitan flavour. Lunch will be served in a local establishment before you enjoy some free time to explore this beautiful town.

Then, depart for a scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. The rugged landscape of Connemara offers beautiful and contrasting scenery. Majestic mountains rise steeply from an earth of contrasting rock and boglands with many lakes and rivers. Artists from all around the world come to paint this landscape with its ever-changing light.

Discover with wonder the Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden.

Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800’s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman and politician.

Henry created an estate boasting “all the innovations the modern age”. Located on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, Kylemore Abbey has long been regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

Today, Kylemore Abbey is owned and run by the Benedictine Nuns who have been in residence here since 1920. Over the years the Benedictine nuns at Kylemore have worked hard to restore the gardens at the Abbey. Today, the formal flower garden is beautifully restored; two glasshouses have been reinstated and the kitchen garden is once again productive. With its woodland and lakeshore walks, magnificent buildings and Ireland’s largest walled garden, there’s much to discover here. You will enjoy a guided tour of this stunning abbey followed by some free time to explore independently.

Then you will re-board your motor coach. Sit back and relax as you watch the ever changing landscape of this truly wondrous place on your return journey to your hotel

Dinner included. 

Overnight at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel.

Optional activity (with extra fees) - Falconry Experience (Glenlo Abbey Estate)

During your morning time at leisure at Glenlo Abbey, you can enjoy the opportunity to engage with Falconry on site at Glenlo Abbey. This long-standing tradition can be experienced on the lush grounds of Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate. Come up close and personal with a variety of birds of prey within our 138 acre estate, while guided by one of Ireland's best Master Falconers.

Day 4 - County Galway (Connemara) / Dublin

After breakfast, you leave the wilderness of western Ireland to return to Dublin.

After about an 1h30 drive, enjoy a stop at the Kilbeggan distillery. Established in 1757, this venerable distillery holds the distinction of being Ireland's oldest licensed distillery. Despite facing numerous challenges over the centuries, the resilient spirit of Kilbeggan endures, upheld by the unwavering support of the local community. Upon arrival, you'll embark on an engaging tour of the distillery, gaining insights into its storied past and innovative present. Witness firsthand the harmonious blend of traditional whiskey-making techniques and modern craftsmanship. And of course, no visit would be complete without savoring a sampling of Kilbeggan's celebrated whiskey, a testament to its enduring legacy.

 Lunch will be served en route at a local restaurant.

During the end of afternoon, arrive at your hotel, The Davenport located in the center of Dublin.

End of the day at leisure.

Free dinner. 

Optional activity (with extra fees): Diner and Irish Show.

This evening you will depart your hotel and travel out of the bustling city to the calm of the suburbs where you will enjoy a traditional Irish meal along with an unmissable experience of Irish song, music and dance. You will want to stomp your feet along with the rhythm of the dancers and clap your hands to the beat of the music. The enchanting evening includes a delicious four-course dinner followed by an Irish coffee. Then, your other senses will be delighted by a compelling performance of live traditional music, song and Irish dancing. All too soon, you will reboard your motorcoach for return journey to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 5 - Dublin

After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.

You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

Your hotels :

Located in one of Ireland’s most beautiful villages in Adare in County Limerick, the Dunraven Arms 4* Hotel is a chic country house. Its elegant interiors, beautiful gardens, peaceful atmosphere and attentive service make this establishment a must.

Close to Galway, the Glenlo Abbey Estate 5* welcomes you in a typical rural setting of western Ireland in the heart of a golf course and bordering a lake. The hotel has 2 wings that gives the place 2 atmospheres, one historical Irish mansion style and the other more modern recently built but respecting the history of the establishment. The cosy and well-equipped rooms have all modern comforts. Falconry and Whiskey tasting are optional experiences with extra charge within the estate. The hotel has a bar, beautiful lounges and 2 restaurants, one of which is housed in old Orient Express cars.

The Davenport 4* is located in the heart of Georgian Dublin, minutes from Merrion Square and the National Gallery. In this elegant area you will find beautiful buildings, pleasant gardens and shopping streets. With 115 rooms, the hotel offers a cosy and modern cocoon in the city centre. There is a restaurant serving international and local cuisine and a cosy bar.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in Luxury room at The Dunraven Arms Hotel 4*  (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        2-night accomodation in Classic room at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel 5*((local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        1-night accommodation in Classic room at The Davenport 4*((local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide.

 Your programme does not include:

·        Dinner on day 4 and lunch on day 5.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Visa if necessary.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide 

·        Early check-in and late check-out. (à adapter selon l’offre négociée)

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

·        Optional activities.

Please note:

·        It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        The weather can be unpredictable in Ireland, you can live 4 seasons in one day. The climate is mild and temperate with alternating rain, blue sky and sun. Provide clothing for all seasons and for visiting days: a good windbreaker and raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, a bag with waterproof protection for your personal belongings. 

·        Landscapes with breathtaking views can sometimes be masked by mist.

·        This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

·        Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m. 

·        Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

·        Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.

·        This tour is suitable for wheelchair users. The wheelchair must be foldable and the guest must have a companion travelling with them to assist with wheelchair.

·        Restrooms availble at all venues but no toilet facilities on board coach - emergency stop can be made if required

·        No dedicated shopping only stops but free time allocated during touring days.

·        We recommend flat comfortable shoes, suitable for walking in. Guests should bring layers due to changeable Irish weather

·        Most coaches have air conditioning however it is not guaranteed.

·        The optional activity "Folkloric Diner in Dublin" can be operated only from 4 guests booked.

·        The optional activity "Falconry" is limited to 10 guests.

·        The optional activity "Whisky tasting" can be operated only from 2 guests booked.

 

Contact of your hotels :

The Dunraven Arms
Main St, Blackabbey, Adare V94 KV2P Irlande

Glenlo Abbey Golf Club

Bushypark, Galway, H91 XD8K, Irlande

Telephone : +353 91 519 600

The Davenport
8-10 Merrion Street Lower,
Dublin, Ireland
Telephone : +353-1-607-3500.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.

Dublin

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.

Departing from the pier and enjoy a short panoramic city tour.

On the road, visit Dublin Castle. The castle played an important role from the Middle Ages up until 1922 as it was the residence of representatives of the British monarchy. It has survived numerous rebellions during its history, such as the 1916 uprising, and is today the theatre of official ceremonies such as the investiture of the President of the Republic. It was here that the 1998 peace agreements with Northern Ireland were signed.

You will have lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch, you will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.

Your programme includes:

·        Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.

·        Lunch with beverage package (beer or wine or soft drink + mineral water + coffee or tea).

·        Services of an English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        The castle may close with little to no notice due to State functions.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

 

Day 1 - Edinburgh

 

Meet at Edinburgh Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

 

You will be transferred to the Virgin Hotel Edinburgh 5*.

 

Day and dinner at leisure.

 

Day 2 - Edinburgh/Greenock

 

Your full day tour begins with a walking tour of the city. See the Georgian architecture of Princes Street in New Town and drive down parts of the famous medieval Royal Mile with the imposing Edinburgh Castle at one end and the 17th century Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. The Palace was the home of Mary Queen of Scots from 1561 to 1568 and was occupied by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745. The scene of many a great historical drama including notorious murders, and power-hungry personalities, the Palace is now the Queen's official residence in Scotland. You will head to one of the city's high vantage points for some spectacular views over the city before visiting the castle.

 

A majestic landmark which dominates the capital city's skyline just as it has dominated Scotland's long and colourful history, Edinburgh Castle is the best known & most visited of Scotland's historic buildings. Perched on an extinct volcano and offering stunning views, this instantly recognisable fortress is a powerful national symbol, and part of Edinburgh's World Heritage Sites.

Once inside, you will have the opportunity to see the castle's many different architectural styles, reflecting its importance throughout the history of Scotland, with the oldest section dating back to the 12th century. You will also have the opportunity to view the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.

 

Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

 

After lunch, take a journey through the history and alchemy of whisky. Here you will enjoy a dram.

 

You will then be transferred to the port of Greenock, to embark on board your ship.

 

Your hotel:

 

Boasting an ideal location in the Edinburgh city centre, the Virgin Hotel Edinburgh is close to the old town. With its sober, elegant decor, you will love staying at this ideally located hotel.
 

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

 

Your programme includes:

 

·        1-night accommodation in Standard room at The Virgin Hotel Edinburgh 5* (or similar) including breakfast.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).

·        Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

 

·        Lunch and dinner on day 1.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Visa if necessary.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Early check-in and late check-out.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

 

Please note:

 

·        It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m. 

·        Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.

·        Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.

·        This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

·        Edinburgh is compact and hilly. This program requires to be able of walking up moderate slopes and numerous stairs.

 

Contact of your hotel:

 

Virgin Hotel Edinburgh
1 India Buildings, Victoria Street

Edinburgh EH1 2EX

Telephone: 0131 526 4810

 

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.