Ireland: Semi Guided
JUne 3-12, 2019
(dates are flexible)
“May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields...””
Total package price:
$5413*
Includes airfare, transfers, guides, hotel accommodation and more.
*Price is per person (based on double occupancy) and both price and availability are subject to change and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process.
(Price goes down with additional travelers)
From breathtaking landscapes and enchanting castles, to other-worldly formations...
take the roads less traveled and explore the sights and secrets of Ireland.
June 3:
DEPARTURE
Today you embark on your journey to Ireland! Pack your jacket and a camera as you set off for the Emerald Isle!
June 4:
ARRIVE in Ireland
Explore Dublin
When you arrive in Ireland you will transfer to your hotel.
After settling into your hotel, grab a bite to eat in the famed Temple Bar area of downtown (beware, it can get very busy in the pubs at night).
Then, enjoy the city by checking out some of the most popular sites!
Here's a list of the sites you can see/explore:
Upper O'Connell Street (City Sightseeing Shop)
Abbey Street
Abbey Street / Abbey Theatre
Nassau Street
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Leinster Street
National Art Gallery
Merrion Square
Dawson Street
Pearse Street
College Green (Irish Whiskey Museum & Dublin Visitor Centre)
Dame Street / Temple Bar
Dame Street / Dublin Castle
Christ Church Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Teeling Whiskey Distillery
High Street
Guinness Storehouse
Royal Hospital Kilmainham
Kilmainham Gaol
Heuston Station
Parkgate Street
Phoenix Park
Parkgate Street
National Museum of Decorative Arts & History
St. Michan's Crypt
Smithfield
St. Michan's Church
Constitution Hill
Brian Boru Pub
Glasnevin Cemetery
Mountjoy Square
Parnell Square
Croke Park
Do make sure to check out Ireland’s prestigious academic institution, Trinity College. The college sits in Dublin’s city center and boasts alumni including esteemed literary legends such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, and Samuel Beckett. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 for the exclusive use of Protestant men, the university now welcomes all religions and genders. Tourists from the world over come to wander the historic cobblestoned campus and see the Book of Kells, a prized medieval manuscript housed in the Trinity College Library.
The Book of Kells located within the walls of Trinity College Dublin was written around 800AD. This beautiful and fascinating masterpiece is considered the greatest example of medieval illumination for over 1,200 years.
Described in the Annals of Ulster in 1007 as ‘the most precious object in the western world,’ the historic and cultural significance of the Book of Kells has only increased over time.
You'll stay the night in Dublin
June 5:
Wicklow Mtns
Glendalough
Check out of your hotel and drive south to the Wicklow mountains.
Depart for Ballymacarbry via the Wicklow Mountains. Visit St. Kevin's 6th century monastery at Glendalough. The steep wooded slopes of Glendalough, the “valley of the two lakes”, harbor one of Ireland’s most atmospheric monastic settlements. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years
Guided Hike: This hike will lead you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Co. Wicklow. The trail ascends steeply up by the Poulanass Waterfall before joining a boardwalk. More than 600 wooden steps lead you to a viewing point overlooking the Upper Lake. The boardwalk skirts the top of the cliffs before descending through blanket bog and heath into the picturesque Glenealo Valley, home to a large herd of deer. A rough track then leads you back down into Glendalough Valley.
Approx Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
(Please note that this walk requires sturdy footwear & a rain jacket)
Continue on to Ballymacarbry
June 6:
Cahir Castle
Rock of Cashel
Doolin
Depart for Doolin via Tipperary and Limerick.
Visit Cahir Castle & Swiss Cottage- It is one of Ireland's largest and best preserved castles, and a short fairy trail can be followed from the castle to the charming cottage.
Continue onto Cashel to visit The Rock of Cashel. This was the seat of kings and mediaeval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977 and he became High King of Ireland in 1002.
Continue on to the West Coast of Clare via Limerick
You'll have the evening free in Doolin
With allegedly more musicians per square mile in this county than anywhere in the world, it’s unsurprising that this small fishing village is hailed as the capital of Irish folk music. Musical traditions still reign strong today, and those looking for an authentic taste of traditional Irish music won’t have to look far in Doolin.
The village’s three historic pubs, Gus O’Connor’s, Mcdermott’s and Mcgann’s, all host nightly music sessions, where you can hear Gaelic poetry set to music and admire the soulful timbre of traditional instruments like Celtic harps, tin whistles, fiddles and Irish flutes. Musicians from all over the globe visit Doolin in search of the genre’s roots, and a number of events throughout the year bring together local and international musicians for impromptu jam sessions.
June 7:
Inis Mor
The Aran Islands are one of Ireland’s most unique destinations, but most visitors only admire them from afar. Today, you'll take a round-trip ferry from Doolin to Inis Mór to give you the whole day to explore independently and visit sights such as Dun Aengus, the Black Fort, the Seven Churches, and Clochan na Carraige.
Your driver will bring you to Doolin Pier in time for a 10am departure. Set sail on the around 1-hour and 15-minute journey to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, and enjoy spectacular views of Galway Bay and the Cliffs of Moher as you cruise out across the Atlantic. On arrival in Kilronan Harbour, you’ll have the entire day to explore the island at your own pace. Perhaps rent a bike, or ride a horse around the island, and take in sights such as Dún Aonghasa (Dun Aengus), the Aran Heritage Centre, Dún Duchathair (The Black Fort), Na Seacht dTeampaill (The Seven Churches), Teaghlach Einne (House of St. Enda), and Clochan na Carraige.
You could also shop for the islands’ famous Aran Sweaters at the Aran Sweater Market in Kilronan, spot wildlife such as seals and sea birds along the coastal cliffs, and tuck into a typical Irish lunch at one of the harbor’s many pubs, restaurants and cafés.
Make your way back to Kilronan Harbour in time for the return ferry at 4pm sharp. Your tour ends back at Doolin Pier around 5.30pm.
June 8:
Doolin Cliff Walk
The Burren
Cliffs of Moher
In the morning, enjoy a guided hike at the spectacular Doolin Cliff Walk. This is a spectacular cliff walk with commanding views of both the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. Please keep in mind however it is a cliff walk and the path is narrow in places.
** It is not advisable for those who suffer from vertigo **
(Grade: Moderate. Time: 3.5 Hours. Distance: 8 Kms approx.)
In the afternoon, explore The Burren, one of Ireland’s most unique and photogenic landscapes.
Stretching over 160 square km, the Burren, derived from the Gaelic word Boireann meaning ‘rocky place’, is one of the most visited attractions in the Shannon region.
Aptly named, the karst topography is characterized by its unusual limestone formations, naturally sculpted through acidic erosion over thousands of years. The natural landscape is an otherworldly terrain - a giant jigsaw of rocks, made up of grikes (fissures) and clints (isolated rocks jutting from the surface), with pockets of lush greenery poking between the expanses of bare rock.
Your driver will take you the short distance to the Cliffs of Moher.
Towering 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean at their highest point and stretching for five miles along the water, the world-famous Cliffs of Moher define the rugged west coast of Ireland. They are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland.
Once at the cliffs, you can wander a number of winding coastal trails and pathways, capture photos of the dramatic scenery, and walk out to peer over cliff edges at the waves below. The onsite underground Visitor Centre features educational exhibits and a number of arts and crafts gift shops, while the viewing platform atop the historical O’Brien’s Tower provides stellar views stretching west to the Aran Islands, north to Galway, and out along the Atlantic Coast.
June 9:
Galway
Recess
Depart for Galway via Lisdoonvarna & Ballyvaughan
On arrival in Galway you will have a tour of this ancient city including its famous Eyre Square Take time for a ramble down Shop Street to Galway’s Latin Quarter where stands Lynch’s Castle, Galway’s grandest 16th century town house. Stroll up the bustling Quay Street with its many great pubs and lively street performers.
Continue onto Recess
Your hotel rests on the shores of Lough Inagh, one of Connemara's most spectacular lakes. The Lodge is surrounded by majestic Mam Turks and spectacular Twelve Bens mountain ranges on all sides.
June 10:
Connemara
Kylemore Abbey
Tour of Connemara via the spectacular Inagh valley with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks on your right as you travel to Leenane
Guided Hidden Trail of the Kylemore Abbey Estate: Hike one of Connemara’s most spectacular mountain. Explore the mountainous valley above Kylemore for spectacular views over Connemara.Experience the beautiful scenery and learn about the fascinating history of Kylemore and Connemara.Our experienced guides have in depth knowledge of the estate, its history, flora, fauna and geology.
(Grade: Casual. Time: 3 Hours. Distance 6-8 Kms)
Please note this walk requires sturdy footwear & a good rain jacket
The paths cross wet boggy ground, small streams and steep ground as the paths reaches heights of 300m above the Abbey. Visit to Kylemore Abbey Kylemore Abbey's greatest attraction is its location. Nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.
Continue on to Clifden and you might want to have a pint in Griffins Bar on Main Street.
Return to Recess
June 11:
Ennis Friary
Bunratty Castle
Enjoy a leisurely morning
In the afternoon depart for Shannon, Co Clare via the market town of Ennis.
You'll visit Ennis Friary from the 13th century and enjoy some free time in Ennis.
Continue on to Shannon
In the evening, you'll transfer by taxi to Bunratty Caslte. You'll want to arrive a little before the starting time of your banquet at Bunratty Castle in County Clare, so you won’t miss a thing.
Please note the characters you meet throughout the evening are playing a part of someone who might have existed during the medieval times.
This 2-hour banquet is being thrown by Earl of Thomond. Be greeted at the castle’s front entrance by a playing piper in a kilt, then cross over the drawbridge into the castle and be offered a ‘Bite of Friendship’ by your host.
During this experience, make a toast with honey mead, watch the crowning of the Earl and his lady, and be serenaded by Irish music. Enjoy a 4-course meal by candlelight in a traditional medieval banquet hall with long wooden tables and wooden benches. You're in store for a lovey night filled with food, friendship, music, and a few surprises.
June 12:
Depart for EWR
Today you will bid farewell to Ireland.
This morning you will have a driver to take you to the Shannon Airport to board your flight home.
“...and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.””
TRAVEL DETAILS
FLIGHT INFO:
Nonstop flight
DEPARTING June 3, 2019:
EWR
ARRIVING June 4, 2019:
DUB (arriving in the morning)
Nonstop flight
DEPARTING 12, 2019:
SNN (midday flight)
ARRIVING June 12, 2019:
EWR (arriving in the early evening)
HOTELS
All accommodations will be in small inns or premier guesthouses.
Registration form
*Price per person based on double occupancy
**If you are waiting for an updated passport number please provide this as soon as you receive it
Please type Carefully! Inaccurate information will result in travel delays and/or airline change fees.
Pricing details
price Per Person:
$5413*
(based on double occupancy)
(additional pricing for additional travelers is located in the FAQ section)
*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.
INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE
Round trip airfare
EWR-DUB
SNN-EWR
Airport transfers
Experienced Irish Driver-Guide
Taxi required to/from Bunratty Castle (at own expense)
Luxury Mercedes Car/Minicoach
All Driver-Guide expenses
EXCEPT Gratuity to Driver-Guide
Avg 10.00 to 20.00 Euro per person per day
Hotel accommodations** (Irish breakfast at each location)
1 night in Dublin
1 night in Ballymacarbry
3 nights in Doolin
2 nights in Recess
1 night in Shannon
2 Dinners
1 Dinner in Glasha Farmhouse
1 Bunratty Banquet
Tours/Admission
Glendalough
Cahir Castle
Rock of Cashel
Cliffs of Moher
Kylemore Abbey
Ennis Friary
Ferry from Doolin to Inis Mor
Bunratty Banquet
Local Qualified Hiking Guide
Wicklow Mountains
Doolin
Connemara
Most taxes and fees
Airlines taxes and fees
Tour taxes and fees
Service fees and commissions
**Some hotel reservations require you to pay taxes, VAT and resort fees onsite onsite
NOT INCLUDED
Most meals/beverages (unless included in hotel and/or tour)
Some hotels may require payment of city taxes, VAT and resort fees onsite
Tips to guides, drivers and hotel staff
Suggested gratuity for driver: 10.00 to 20.00 Euro per person per day
Optional Travel Insurance
Basic (starting at $204)
Classic Trip+ (starting at $386)
Cancel for Any Reason (starting at $400)
SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Prices and availability are subject to change at any time and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process.
Payment can be made in full to avoid additional administrative and processing fees
(This is also the most stable for pricing. Although prices and availability can change at any time, paying in full reduces that risk.)
REGISTRATION
A completed registration form (per person)
Photo copy of picture/information page of each traveler passport emailed to: christian@zone-travel.com
Credit Card Authorization form with copy of credit card and Government issued photo ID (like a drivers license or passport)
FINAL PAYMENT
Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.
Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.
Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.
CANCELLATION
Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on each individual airline policy.
Based on each vendor rules
30 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost
Commissions, fees and Travel insurance are non-refundable.
Travel Insurance
TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL PASSENGERS - DUE 10 DAYS AFTER INITIAL DEPOSIT
Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.
Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."
Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.
BASIC PLAN:
Your may think you can't afford both the fun and the insurance to protect it. The Basic Plan is so affordable that you can have it all, while still staying in a budget. The plan offers existing medical condition coverage and 24-hour assistance services, allowing you to purchase your trip with complete confidence.
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $10,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $50,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $500.00
Baggage Delay: $200.00
Travel Delay: $300.00
Travel Delay: $150.00
24-Hour Hotline Assistance: Included
CLASSIC TRIP+:
When you book your family on an international vacation, you want the peace of mind that you purchased the right amount of coverage. Classic Trip+ doubles nearly all the post-departure coverage of the Classic Plan, including Emergency Medical and Dental, Emergency Medical Transportation, Baggage Loss, Baggage Delay, Travel Delay, and Missed Connection.
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $50,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $1,000,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $2,000.00
Baggage Delay: $600.00
Change Fee Coverage: $250.00
Frequent Flyer Miles Redeposit Fee: $250.00
Travel Delay: $1,600.00
Missed Connection: $1,600.00
24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included
CANCEL ANYTIME:
You can enjoy the extra flexibility of knowing you can cancel your trip for almost any unforeseen reason that the Classic plan does not already cover at 100% and receive 80% of their non-refundable trip cost back in cash. With features like comprehensive trip cancellation, primary emergency medical coverage and 24-hour travel assistance, the Classic with Cancel Anytime plan is there if life throws an unexpected wrench in your travel plans. Plan must be purchased within 10 days of the first payment date and must cover the full non-refundable trip cost ($10,000 maximum).
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $25,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $500,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $1,000.00
Baggage Delay: $300.00
Change Fee Coverage: $250.00
Frequent Flyer Miles Redeposit Fee: $250.00
Travel Delay: $800.00
Missed Connection: $800.00
24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included
F.A.Q.
How can I make a payment?
You can make a payment (Mastercard, Visa, Discover or American Express) or, if you prefer a check, you can make checks* payable to:
"Zone Travel LLC"
Address:
235 Binns Blvd
Columbus, OH43204
*Checks must be received prior to payment deadline, or will incur late fees added to their final balance. (see Terms and Conditions)
What are the prices if more people decide to come?
2 people- $5413/ea
4 people- $4106/ea
6 people- $3603/ea
What is the single supplement?
Single supplement is $499
What if I don't want to participate in the hiking?
You are welcome to stay behind at the hotel, or travel to surrounding cities to explore.
Your driver can bring you to other towns, but will not act as a guide in those cities.
You will have to leave those towns in time for the driver to pick up those hiking from their locations for the day.
What if I want to stay longer than the driver can stay?
You can arrange with the driver for a later pickup, or you can arrange your own transportation back to the hotel.
***Be mindful, some towns are 1-2 hours away from your hotel. Transportation may not always be available. Coordinate and discuss this onsite with your driver to ensure your safety and comfort. ***
What time does the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet start?
The banquet starts at either 530pm or 845pm.
What is included in the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet?
Inclusions
Entrance fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Beverages
Dinner
Unlimited wine
Live entertainment
2-hour medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle in County Clare, Ireland
Be greeted by the music of a kilted piper before watching a crowning
Enjoy a 4-course meal with wine and honey mead in a traditional medieval-themed banquet hall
Vegetarian options are available upon request at the time of booking
Listen to beautiful melodies played on an Irish harp and fiddle
Exclusions
No beer available