2014 rabbies mini coach tours depart dublin gbp

RABTO 1

Dublin - Multi Day Tours

During the last couple of years our Irish tours have gone from strength to strength. 2014 sees the introduction of two new 3-day tours from Dublin. These tours are scheduled to link up with the current 5-day tours tour making it possible for clients to have touring options of 3, 5, 7, 9 or 11 days- for the price information on the 7-11 day options please see our Combination Tour section.

Guaranteed Departure Tours start from Dublin Nassau Street opposite the Kilkenny Shop and return to the same place.

Multi-day tours including accommodation Price GBPAdult Child Days of operation departs returns tour code

West Coast ExplorerNEW

3 days B&B n/a n/a Monday - 05/05/14, 19/05/14, 02/06/14, 16/06/14, 30/06/14, 14/07/14, 28/07/14, 11/08/14, 25/08/14, 08/09/14, 22/09/14

9.00hr 19.00hr 3DWCIRE

single n/a

Hotel 339.00 271.20

single 399.00

Kilkenny, West Cork and KinsaleNEW

3 days B&B 319.00 255.20 Thursday - 01/05/14, 15/05/14, 29/05/14, 12/06/14, 26/06/14, 10/07/14, 24/07/14, 07/08/14, 21/08/14, 04/09/14, 18/09/14

8.30hr 18.30hr 3DSEIRE

single 339.00

Hotel 349.00 279.20

single 419.00

RABTO 2

Multi-day tours including accommodation Price GBPAdult Child Days of operation departs returns tour code

Escape to the West 5 days B&B* 599.00 447.20 Sunday - 27/04/14 - 28/09/14 9.00hr 19.30hr 5DWIRE

single* 659.00

Hotel 609.00 487.20

single 769.00

Northern Ireland and the Atlantic Coast 5 days B&B 509.00 407.20 Wednesday - 14/05/14 - 17/09/14 9.00hr 19.00hr 5DNIRE

single 579.00

Hotel 639.00 511.20

single 789.00

Package prices include: Accommodation in B&B/ guest house* or 3 star hotels, with private facilities and breakfast; Transportation by top of the range 16 seat Mercedes mini coaches; services of a professional Irish driver/guide.

*For the B&B option on the Escape to the West tour the first night’s accommodation in Galway will be in a 3*hotel (included).

Discount rate applies to children aged 5 - 15, based on 1 child sharing a room with parents or 2 children in a twin room. No children under 5 please.


RABTO 3

WEST COAST EXPLORER3 Day Tour from Dublin

Day 11 Departing Dublin you head west through the farmland and peat bogs of counties Kildare and Offally. Your first stop is the Locke’s Distillery – reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey and discover the true spirit of Ireland! Further west you reach the mighty Shannon River and the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise – with its collection of churches, stone crosses and round towers. After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the attractive little villages, travel into Galway City - your base for the next 2 nights. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants.

Day 2Galway sits on the edge of Connemara and that is the area you explore today. Travel in-land through the Maam Valley to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib – where the classic film “The Quiet Man” was made. There will be time for a visit to Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum. You continue through the heart of Connemara for a visit to the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey. Further round the circuit you will see the Connemara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. Along the way there will be many opportunities for photos of this dramatic landscape

Day 3From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren – one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You will spend most of the morning exploring this unique area. You stop in one of the pretty local villages for lunch. After lunch you visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Here you can walk the cliff top trails, watch the numerous seabirds or visit the award winning environmental exhibition. From here you travel back east to Dublin arriving around 19.00


RABTO 4

KILKENNY, WEST CORK AND KINSALE - South East Ireland 3 Day Tour from Dublin

Day 1Departing Dublin you travel south towards Cork through the lush farming counties of Kildare, Laois and Tipperary. You make a short stop in the heritage town of Cahir with its ruined abbey and impressive castle on an island in the River Suir before continuing on to Blarney on the outskirts of Cork. Here you have time to visit the castle, explore the wood-land walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself – a good place for lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone although in peak season there can be a very long queue! In the afternoon you will explore the beautiful coastline of West Cork with its historic villages, beautiful beaches, inlets and tiny coves. You will end the day in the fishing village of Kinsale – your overnight stop. The town is famous for its food and you have a free evening to explore the narrow streets filled with lively traditional pubs and restaurants.

Day 2Today is spent exploring some of the highlights of the South East staring with the historic port of Cobh - the major departure point for Irish emigration through the 19th and 20th centuries as well as famously the last port of call of the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voy-age. From here you continue east towards Waterford along what is known as the “Copper Coast” – a Unesco Geopark with beautiful scenery and a fascinating history. You make a stop in Tramore – a popular beach for surfing before arriving in Waterford – Ireland’s old-est city, founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century. Here you have the chance to visit the famous Waterford Crystal factory or perhaps one of the excellent museums or just explore the Viking Triangle yourself on foot. In the late afternoon you depart Waterford and travel north to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty pubs and restaurants. Voted Ireland’s friendliest city this will be your overnight stop.

Day 3 You have a couple of hours free to explore the city centre before you depart Kilkenny for the Wicklow Mountains. This area contains some of Ireland’s highest peaks and most impressive valleys. The mountains are mainly made of granite and the deep valleys have

been carved out by glaciers. One of the most impressive areas is around Glendalough (“valley of the lakes”) where you have the choice of taking one of the beautiful walking trails or exploring the ruins 6th century monastery with its famous round tower. After a couple of hours here you continue on the last section of the tour - travelling through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and crossing the famous Sally Gap before descending the short distance back to Dublin arriving around 18.30


RABTO 5

ESCAPE TO THE WEST - South West Ireland 5 Day Tour from Dublin

Day 1Departing Dublin you head west through the farmland and peat bogs of counties Kildare and Offally. Our first stop is the Locke’s Distillery – reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey and discover the true spirit of Ireland! Further west you will reach the mighty Shannon River and the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise – with its collection of churches, stone crosses and round towers. After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the attractive little villages, travel into Galway City for your first night. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants.

Day 2From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren – one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You will spend most of the morning exploring this unique area. You then stop in Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”, for a visit to the old cathedral and lunch in the village.

After lunch you will visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Here you can walk the cliff top trails, watch the numerous seabirds or visit the award winning environmental exhibition. From here you travel south through County Clare passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon estuary and into County Kerry to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney – your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings – your only problem is which one to choose!

Day 3The tour today explores the wonderful Dingle Peninsula – one of the most scenic parts of Ireland and a heartland of Gaelic culture and tradition. The first stop of the day is the beach at Inch – a vast expanse of sand facing out into the Atlantic and very popular with surf-ers. From here increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings going back thousands of years and you will visit some of the best examples along the way. The views here are impressive with the nearby Blasket Islands rising dramatically from the sea and


the mountains of the Ring of Kerry to the south. Weather permitting you will be able to walk on the beaches or along the cliff tops to fully appreciate the fabulous scenery. This area is very important in Gaelic literature and you will learn more during the day. The circuit of Slea Head leads back to Dingle town with its brightly coloured buildings and busy harbour. You will spend the rest of the afternoon here before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could take an evening walk in the Killarney National Park – just on the edge of town.

RABTO 6

Day 4Today you tour one of the world’s classic routes, the Ring of Kerry - 100 miles packed full of interest. After departing Killarney on a clear day there will be views to Ireland’s high-est mountain, Carrauntoohil after which you join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. There will be plenty opportunities for photos stops along the way with great views across to the Dingle Peninsula. Possible stops include the Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace and Cahersiveen ring fort before reaching the little fishing village of Portmagee. Here you can relax and sample local seafood for lunch or alternatively cross to the island of Valencia for a visit to the Skellig Experience where you can learn about the nearby rocky islands and the small community of monks who once lived there.

In the afternoon you make photo stops in Waterville - a favourite holiday place for Charlie Chaplin and then at the top of Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in the country. From here the road drops down to sea level for a visit to Derrynane House – family home of Daniel O’Connell. There are walks in the gardens and down to the beach as well as the house itself. The tour continues on around the Ring with stops at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. There is then time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before arriving back into Kil-larney.

Day 5Today you head back east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom then along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Here you will have time to visit the castle, explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself – a good place for a bite of lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone although in peak season it can be very busy.

In the afternoon the tour continues on to the Rock of Cashel with its medieval monastery complex sitting high above the town and finally Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine Castle and Park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty pubs for one last Guinness before hitting the road again for the last leg of a wonderful journey arriving back into Dublin about 19.30.


RABTO 7

NORTHERN IRELAND & THE ATLANTIC COAST5 Day Tour from Dublin

Day 1Departing Dublin at 09.00 you will travel north towards the border with Northern Ireland. From here it is a short journey into the city of Belfast famous for its industrial past and turbulent history. After a short tour of some of the key areas of the city you will arrive in the newly redeveloped Titanic Quarter where you will have time for lunch and a visit to the award-winning new museum. In the afternoon experience the contrasts between the busy city and beautiful scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens. The tour follows part of this coast from Ballycastle along to the world famous Giants’ Causeway – a stunning piece of coastal scenery. You will spend time exploring this area before arriving in the holiday town of Portrush for the night.

Day 2Today the tour makes its first stop in the historic walled city of Derry - designated as UK City of Culture in 2013. You will have some free time to explore the old city or one of the many museums or galleries before crossing the border again back into the Republic of Ireland. You will now travel into one of the most remote and unspoilt parts of the country – County Donegal with its stunning scenery and strong Gaelic culture. The route passes Glenveagh National Park and Errigal Mountain then follows the coast through traditional fishing villages. Along the way there will be plenty time for walks, photos and soaking up the local culture before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal.

Day 3Travelling south along the coast from Donegal will take you into County Sligo – and grave of famous poet WB Yeats. On route look out for the dramatic mountain scenery of Ben Bulben – great for photographs! Near Sligo Town at Carrowmore is the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland – dating back over 6000 years. The route now turns westwards into County Mayo – an area hit hard by the great potato famine and from where many people emigrated to North America. The road takes you through large areas of farmland, bog and open moor with views to distant hills before coming back to the Atlantic Coast and Achill Island. Here you really are right on the edge of Europe and you will have time to savour the peace and quiet of this beautiful area. From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next 2 nights.


Day 4 Westport sits on the edge of Connemara and that is the area you will explore today. The itinerary will depend on the weather and your guide will advise on the best visits for the day. Possibilities include the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Conne-mara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. Along the way there will be many opportunities for photos of this dramatic landscape.

Overnight again in Westport – why not sample some local seafood in one of the many excellent restaurants.

Day 5 After a leisurely start you will leave Westport behind and travel inland through the heart of Connemara to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib – where the classic film “The Quiet Man” was made. There will be time for a visit to Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum. From here you pass through the Maam Valley and then on to Galway City. Here you will have some free time for lunch and to explore the vibrant city centre. For those customers continuing on the 9 Day All Ireland tour you will be dropped off at your accom-modation in Galway before the rest of the group depart for Dublin with a stop at Locke’s Distillery in Kilbeggan on the way. Arrival back in Dublin about 19.00

RABTO 8

Dublin - Combo Tours

rates GBPCombinations tours including accommodation Public price

Adult Child Days of operation departs returns tour code

Southern Ireland Discovery

Escape to the West,plus Kilkenny, West Cork and Kinsale NEW

7 days B&B 878.00 702.40 Sunday

27/04/14, 11/05/14, 25/05/14, 08/06/14, 22/06/14, 06/07/14, 20/07/14, 03/08/14, 17/08/14, 31/08/14, 14/09/14

9.00hr 18.30hr 5DWIRE3DSEIRE

single 998.00

Hotel 958.00 766.40

single 1188.00

All Ireland Explorer

Northern Ireland & the Atlantic Coastplus Escape to the WestNEW

9 days B&B 1068.00 854.40 Wednesday

14/05/14 - 17/09/14

9.00hr 19.30hr 5DNIRE5DWIRE

single 1238.00

Hotel 1248.00 998.40

single 1558.00

RABTO 9

rates GBPCombinations tours including accommodation Public price

Complete Ireland ExperienceNorthern Ireland & the Atlantic Coastplus Escape to the Westplus Kilkenny, West Cork and Kinsale - NEW

11 days B&B 1387.00 1109.60 Wednesday

21/05/14, 04/06/14, 18/06/14, 02/07/14, 16/07/14, 30/07/14, 13/08/14, 27/08/14, 10/09/14

9.00hr 18.30hr 5DNIRE5DWIRE3DSEIREsingle 1577.00

Hotel 1597.00 1277.60

single 1977.00

Please note: Combination tours - These itineraries are made up of individual tours which are scheduled to link up en route without having to come back to their starting point. Clients will be able to enjoy the individual styles and stories of the different driver/guides as well as a different group of travelling companions on each part of their trip.

RABTO 10


7 DAY - SOUTHERN IRELAND DISCOVERYEscape to the West, Kilkenny, West Cork and Kinsale

Full Itinerary

Day 1Departing Dublin you head west through the farmland and peat bogs of counties Kildare and Offally. Our first stop is the Locke’s Distillery – reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey and discover the true spirit of Ireland! Further west you will reach the mighty Shannon River and the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise – with its collection of churches, stone crosses and round towers. After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the attractive little villages, travel into Galway City for your first night. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants.

Day 2From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren – one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You spend most of the morning exploring this unique area. You then stop in Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”, for a visit to the old cathedral and lunch in the village. After lunch you visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Here you can walk the cliff top trails, watch the numerous seabirds or visit the award winning environmental exhibition.

From here you travel south through County Clare passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon estuary and into County Kerry to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney – your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings – your only problem is which one to choose!

Day 3The tour today explores the wonderful Dingle Peninsula – one of the most scenic parts of Ireland and a heartland of Gaelic culture and tradition. The first stop of the day is the beach at Inch – a vast expanse of sand facing out into the Atlantic and very popular with

surfers. From here increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings going back thousands of years and you visit some of the best examples along the way. The views here are impressive with the nearby Blasket Islands rising dramatically from the sea and the mountains of the Ring of Kerry to the south. Weather permitting you will be able to walk on the beaches or along the cliff tops to fully appreciate the fabulous scenery. This area is very important in Gaelic literature and you will learn more during the day. The circuit of Slea Head leads back to Dingle town with its brightly coloured buildings and busy harbour. You spend the rest of the afternoon here before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could take an evening walk in the Killarney National Park – just on the edge of town.

RABTO 11


Day 4Today you tour one of the world’s classic routes, the Ring of Kerry - 100 miles packed full of interest. After departing Killarney on a clear day there will be views to Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil after which we join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. There will be plenty opportunities for photos stops along the way with great views across to the Dingle Peninsula. Possible stops include the Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace and Cahersiveen ring fort before reaching the little fishing village of Portmagee.

Here you can relax and sample local seafood for lunch or alternatively cross to the island of Valencia for a visit to the Skellig Experience where you can learn about the nearby rocky islands and the small community of monks who once lived there. In the afternoon you make photo stops in Waterville - a favourite holiday place for Charlie Chaplin and then at the top of Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in the coun-try. From here the road drops down to sea level for a visit to Derrynane House – family home of Daniel O’Connell. There are walks in the gardens and down to the beach as well as the house itself. The tour continues on around the Ring with stops at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. There will just be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before arriving back into Killarney.

Day 5Today you head back east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom then along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Here you have time to visit the castle, explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself – a good place for a bite of lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone although in peak season it can be very busy.

At Blarney you will meet your new tour guide and transfer to your new bus for the final section of your trip.

In the afternoon you explore the beautiful coastline of West Cork with its historic villages, beautiful beaches, inlets and tiny coves. You end the day in the fishing village of Kinsale – your overnight stop. The town is famous for its food and you will have a free evening to explore the narrow streets filled with lively traditional pubs and restaurants.

Day 6Today is spent exploring some of the highlights of the South East staring with the historic port of Cobh - the major departure point for Irish emigration through the 19th and 20th centuries as well as famously the last port of call of the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage. From here you will continue east towards Waterford along what is known as the “Copper Coast” – a Unesco Geopark with beautiful scenery and a fascinating history. You make a stop in Tramore – a popular beach for surfing before arriving in Waterford – Ire-land’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century.

Here you have the chance to visit the famous Waterford Crystal factory or perhaps one of the excellent museums or just explore the Viking Triangle yourself on foot. In the late afternoon we will depart Waterford and travel north to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty pubs and restau-rants. Voted Ireland’s friendliest city this will be your overnight stop.

Day 7You have a couple of hours free to explore the city centre before you depart Kilkenny for the Wicklow Mountains. This area contains some of Ireland’s highest peaks and most impressive valleys. The mountains are mainly made of granite and the deep valleys have been carved out by glaciers. One of the most impressive areas is around Glendalough (“valley of the lakes”) where you have the choice of taking one of the beautiful walking trails or exploring the ruins 6th century monastery with its famous round tower. After a couple of hours here you continue on the last section of the tour - travelling through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and crossing the famous Sally Gap before descending the short distance back to Dublin arriving around 18.30

RABTO 12


9 DAY - ALL IRELAND EXPLORERNorthern Ireland, the Atlantic Coast and an Escape to the West

Full Itinerary

Day 1Departing Dublin at 09.00 you will travel north towards the border with Northern Ireland. From here it is a short journey into the city of Belfast famous for its industrial past and turbulent history. After a short tour of some of the key areas of the city you will arrive in the newly redeveloped Titanic Quarter where you will have time for lunch and a visit to the award-winning new museum. In the afternoon experience the contrasts between the busy city and beautiful scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens. The tour follows part of this coast from Ballycastle along to the world famous Giants’ Causeway – a stunning piece of coastal scenery. You will spend time exploring this area before arriving in the holiday town of Portrush for the night.

Day 2Today the tour makes its first stop in the historic walled city of Derry - designated as UK City of Culture in 2013. You will have some free time to explore the old city or one of the many museums or galleries before crossing the border again back into the Republic of Ireland. You will now travel into one of the most remote and unspoilt parts of the country – County Donegal with its stunning scenery and strong Gaelic culture. The route passes Glenveagh National Park and Errigal Mountain then follows the coast through traditional fishing villages. Along the way there will be plenty time for walks, photos and soaking up the local culture before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal.

Day 3Travelling south along the coast from Donegal will take you into County Sligo – and grave of famous poet WB Yeats. On route look out for the dramatic mountain scenery of Ben Bulben – great for photographs! Near Sligo Town at Carrowmore is the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland – dating back over 6000 years. The route now turns west-wards into County Mayo – an area hit hard by the great potato famine and from where many people emigrated to North America. The road takes you through large areas of farmland, bog and open moor with views to distant hills before coming back to the Atlantic Coast and Achill Island. Here you really are right on the edge of Europe and you will have time to savour the peace and quiet of this beautiful area. From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next 2 nights.

Day 4Westport sits on the edge of Connemara and that is the area you will explore today. The itinerary will depend on the weather and your guide will advise on the best visits for the day. Possibilities include the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Conne-mara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. Along the way there will be many opportunities for photos of this dramatic landscape.Overnight again in Westport – why not sample some local seafood in one of the many excellent restaurants.

RABTO 13


Day 5After a leisurely start you will leave Westport behind and travel inland through the heart of Connemara to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib – where the classic film “The Quiet Man” was made. There will be time for a visit to Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum. From here you pass through the Maam Valley and then on to Galway City.

You will be dropped off at your accommodation in Galway before the first tour returns to Dublin. The afternoon and evening are free to explore this lively university city. You will be collected from your accommodation the following morning by your new tour guide.

Day 6From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren – one of Ire-land’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You will spend most of the morning exploring this unique area. You will then stop in Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”, for a visit to the old cathedral and lunch in the village. After lunch you will visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Here you can walk the cliff top trails, watch the numerous seabirds or visit the award winning environmental exhibition. From here you travel south through County Clare passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon estuary and into County Kerry to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney – your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings – your only problem is which one to choose!

Day 7The tour today will explore the wonderful Dingle Peninsula – one of the most scenic parts of Ireland and a heartland of Gaelic culture and tradition. The first stop of the day is the beach at Inch – a vast expanse of sand facing out into the Atlantic and very popular with surfers. From here increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings going back thousands of years and you will visit some of the best examples along the way. The views here are impressive with the nearby Blasket Islands rising dramatically from the sea and the mountains of the Ring of Kerry to the south. Weather permitting you will be able to walk on the beaches or along the cliff tops to fully appreciate the fabulous scenery. This area is very important in Gaelic literature and you will learn more during the day. The

circuit of Slea Head leads back to Dingle town with its brightly coloured buildings and busy harbour. You will spend the rest of the afternoon here before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could take an evening walk in the Killarney National Park – just on the edge of town.

Day 8Today you will tour one of the world’s classic routes, the Ring of Kerry - 100 miles packed full of interest. After departing Killarney on a clear day there will be views to Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil after which we join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. There will be plenty opportunities for photos stops along the way with great views across to the Dingle Peninsula. Possible stops include the Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace and Cahersiveen ring fort before reaching the little fishing village of Portmagee. Here you can relax and sample local seafood for lunch or alternatively cross to the island of Valencia for a visit to the Skellig Experience where you can learn about the nearby rocky islands and the small community of monks who once lived there. In the afternoon you will make photo stops in Waterville - a favourite holiday place for Charlie Chaplin and then at the top of Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in the country. From here the road drops down to sea level for a visit to Derrynane House – family home of Daniel O’Connell. There are walks in the gardens and down to the beach as well as the house itself. The tour continues on around the Ring with stops at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. There will just be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before arriving back into Killarney.

Day 9Today you will head back east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom then along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Here you will have time to visit the castle, explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself – a good place for a bite of lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone although in peak season it can be very busy. In the afternoon the tour continues on to the Rock of Cashel with its mediaeval monastery complex sitting high above the town and finally Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine Castle and Park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty pubs for one last Guinness before hitting the road again for the last leg of a wonderful journey arriving back into Dublin about 19.30.

RABTO 14

11 DAY - THE COMPLETE IRELAND EXPERIENCENorthern Ireland, the Atlantic Coast, an Escape to the West, Kilkenny, West Cork and Kinsale

Full Itinerary

Day 1Departing Dublin at 09.00 you travel north towards the border with Northern Ireland. From here it is a short journey into the city of Belfast famous for its industrial past and turbulent history. After a short tour of some of the key areas of the city you arrive in the newly re-developed Titanic Quarter where you have time for lunch and a visit to the award-winning new museum. In the afternoon experience the contrasts between the busy city and beau-tiful scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens. The tour follows part of this coast from Bally-castle along to the world famous Giants’ Causeway – a stunning piece of coastal scenery. You spend time exploring this area before arriving in the holiday town of Portrush for the night.

Day 2 Today the tour makes its first stop in the historic walled city of Derry - designated as UK City of Culture in 2013. You have some free time to explore the old city or one of the many museums or galleries before crossing the border again back into the Republic of Ireland. You now travel into one of the most remote and unspoilt parts of the country – County Donegal with its stunning scenery and strong Gaelic culture. The route passes Glenveagh National Park and Errigal Mountain then follows the coast through traditional fishing vil-lages. Along the way there will be plenty time for walks, photos and soaking up the local culture before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal.

Day 3Travelling south along the coast from Donegal will take you into County Sligo – and grave of famous poet WB Yeats. On route look out for the dramatic mountain scenery of Ben Bulben – great for photographs! Near Sligo Town at Carrowmore is the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland – dating back over 6000 years. The route now turns west-wards into County Mayo – an area hit hard by the great potato famine and from where many people emigrated to North America. The road takes you through large areas of

farmland, bog and open moor with views to distant hills before coming back to the Atlantic Coast and Achill Island. Here you really are right on the edge of Europe and you will have time to savour the peace and quiet of this beautiful area. From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next 2 nights.

Day 4Westport sits on the edge of Connemara and that is the area you will explore today. The itinerary will depend on the weather and your guide will advise on the best visits for the day. Possibilities include the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Conne-mara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. Along the way there will be many opportunities for photos of this dramatic landscape.Overnight again in Westport – why not sample some local seafood in one of the many excellent restaurants.


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Day 5 After a leisurely start you leave Westport behind and travel inland through the heart of Connemara to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib – where the classic film “The Quiet Man” was made. There will be time for a visit to Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum. From here you pass through the Maam Valley and then on to Galway City.

You will be dropped off at your accommodation in Galway before the first tour re-turns to Dublin. The afternoon and evening are free to explore this lively university city. You will be collected from your accommodation the following morning by your new tour guide.

Day 6From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren – one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora,

early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You spend most of the morn-ing exploring this unique area. You then stop in Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”, for a visit to the old cathedral and lunch in the village. After lunch you visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. Here you can walk the cliff top trails, watch the numerous seabirds or visit the award winning environ-mental exhibition. From here you travel south through County Clare passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon estuary and into County Kerry to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney – your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings – your only problem is which one to choose!

Day 7The tour today explores the wonderful Dingle Peninsula – one of the most scenic parts of Ireland and a heartland of Gaelic culture and tradition. The first stop of the day is the beach at Inch – a vast expanse of sand facing out into the Atlantic and very popular with surfers. From here increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings going back thousands of years and you visit some of the best examples along the way. The views here are impressive with the nearby Blasket Islands rising dramatically from the sea and the mountains of the Ring of Kerry to the south. Weather permitting you will be able to walk on the beaches or along the cliff tops to fully appreciate the fabulous scenery. This area is very important in Gaelic literature and you will learn more during the day. The circuit of Slea Head leads back to Dingle town with its brightly coloured buildings and busy harbour. You spend the rest of the afternoon here before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could take an evening walk in the Killarney National Park – just on the edge of town.

Day 8Today you tour one of the world’s classic routes, the Ring of Kerry - 100 miles packed full of interest. After departing Killarney on a clear day there will be views to Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil after which we join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. There will be plenty opportunities for photos stops along the way with great views across to the Dingle Peninsula. Possible stops include the Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace and Cahersiveen ring fort before reaching the little fishing village of Portmagee. Here you can relax and sample local seafood for lunch or alternatively cross


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to the island of Valencia for a visit to the Skellig Experience where you can learn about the nearby rocky islands and the small community of monks who once lived there. In the afternoon you will make photo stops in Waterville - a favourite holiday place for Charlie Chaplin and then at the top of Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in the country. From here the road drops down to sea level for a visit to Derrynane House – family home of Daniel O’Connell. There are walks in the gardens and down to the beach as well as the house itself. The tour continues on around the Ring with stops at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. There will just be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before arriving back into Killarney.

Day 9Today you head back east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom then along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Here you will have time to visit the castle, explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself – a good place for a bite of lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone although in peak season it can be very busy!

At Blarney you will meet your new tour guide and transfer to your new bus for the final section of your trip.

In the afternoon you explore the beautiful coastline of West Cork with its historic villages, beautiful beaches, inlets and tiny coves. You end the day in the fishing village of Kinsale – your overnight stop. The town is famous for its food and you will have a free evening to explore the narrow streets filled with lively traditional pubs and restaurants.

Day 10Today is spent exploring some of the highlights of the South East staring with the historic port of Cobh - the major departure point for Irish emigration through the 19th and 20th centuries as well as famously the last port of call of the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voy-age. From here you continue east towards Waterford along what is known as the “Copper Coast” – a Unesco Geopark with beautiful scenery and a fascinating history. You make a stop in Tramore – a popular beach for surfing before arriving in Waterford – Ireland’s old-est city, founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century. Here you have the chance to visit the famous Waterford Crystal factory or perhaps one of the excellent museums or just explore


the Viking Triangle yourself on foot. In the late afternoon you depart Waterford and travel north to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty pubs and restaurants. Voted Ireland’s friendliest city this will be your overnight stop.

Day11You have a couple of hours free to explore the city centre before you depart Kilkenny for the Wicklow Mountains. This area contains some of Ireland’s highest peaks and most impressive valleys. The mountains are mainly made of granite and the deep valleys have been carved out by glaciers. One of the most impressive areas is around Glendalough (“valley of the lakes”) where you have the choice of taking one of the beautiful walking trails or exploring the ruins 6th century monastery with its famous round tower. After a couple of hours here you continue on the last section of the tour - travelling through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and crossing the famous Sally Gap before descending the short distance back to Dublin arriving around 18.30

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2014 rabbies mini coach tours depart dublin gbp