Itinerary:

Day 1: Dublin Cork Kinsale
Youll meet your small group and guide in central Dublin and travel by comfortable minicoach through the lush farming counties of Kildare, Laois and Tipperary, with a short stop in the heritage town of Cahir. Then youll head on to Blarney on the outskirts of Cork. You'll have time to explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visit the village of Blarney a good place for lunch and a bit of shopping. You can check out Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. The castle also houses the famous Blarney Stone, purported to bring eloquence to those that kiss it!

In the afternoon you'll explore the coast of West Cork with its historic villages, beautiful beaches, inlets and tiny coves. At the end of the day you'll reach the attractive fishing village of Kinsale famous for its food where youll spend the night. Have time at your leisure to pop into the artsy shops, traditional pubs and gourmet restaurants. From Kinsale, you can walk less than two miles (3 km) to Charles Fort, where you can take in spectacular views as you explore the 17th-century star-shaped fort, one of the best-preserved in Europe.

Overnight: 3-star hotel or B&B in central Kinsale

Day 2: Cobh Waterford Kilkenny (B)
After breakfast, youll board your minicoach for a short drive to Cobh, a port town known for its maritime history. Your guide will explain the history of Cobh, known as the gateway for Irish emigration through the 19th and 20th centuries as well as being Titanics last port of call.

Youll then follow the road along the Copper Coast a UNESCO Geopark with beautiful scenery and a fascinating history. You'll stop in Tramore a popular beach for surfing, before you reach Waterford, Irelands oldest city. In Waterford youll have time to explore the Viking history of the ancient town, visit the Waterford Crystal factory, or check out one of the excellent museums.

In the late afternoon you'll travel north to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, riverside walks, and plenty of pubs and restaurants. You'll stay overnight in Kilkenny, voted Irelands friendliest city.

Overnight: 3-star hotel or B&B in central Kilkenny

Day 3: Kilkenny Wicklow Mountains Glendalough Dublin (B)
In the morning, youll have free time to explore Kilkenny. Visit Kilkenny Castle, wander through the 17th-century streets, check out the medieval cathedral or the National Craft Center,

After a couple of hours seeing Kilkenny, youll board your minicoach and drive north to the Wicklow Mountains where you'll find some of Irelands highest peaks. Soak in the dramatic mountain scenery as you stop in Glendalough, meaning Valley of the Lakes, where you'll have the choice to hike some of the beautiful trails or explore the ruins of a 6th century monastery, situated in a gorgeous valley flanked by two lakes.

Once you have taken in the rugged beauty of Glendalough, youll travel through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and cross the famous Sally Gap on your way to Dublin, approximately an hours drive away. Youll arrive in Dublin in the evening to conclude your tour.