OPTIONAL TOURS DUBLIN
OPTION 1: FULL DAY OR HALF DAY TOUR Dublin City Tour
Dubh Linn, meaning ‘dark pool’ is today called Baile Atha Cliath, ‘the town of the hurdle ford’, crossing the River Liffey that cuts Dublin in two. Today it is a gracious city with two faces, on either side of the Liffey.
The north side of the Liffey has the wide boulevard of O’Connell Street, one of the grandest streets in Europe; the Custom House, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture; Moore Street market, which rings with raucous Dublin cries; and unpretentious pubs frequented by real Dublin characters.
Dublin’s south side is the cultural and fashionable part of the city with its elegant Georgian buildings, two cathedrals and a castle, and Ireland’s treasure houses, the National Gallery and Trinity Library.
It is in Trinity Library where you start your visit today. Trinity College was founded by Elizabeth I in 1592, Trinity is the sole college of Dublin University. The Old Library houses some 200,000 of the college’s collection of more than 2 million volumes.
The most priceless manuscript it has is the Book of Kells, a Latin text of the Four Gospels with illuminated pages, which dates from about AD 800.
Travel down Dame Street to visit St Patrick's Cathedral. Jonathon Swift, the author of Gulliver’s Travels was once the dean in this Cathedral and today Swift’s tomb is in the south aisle. This cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic Architecture in Dublin. You will also get an opportunity to view the Georgian Squares of which Dublin is famous and get a guided panoramic tour of the city.
*** We can add in a lunch stop to make the tour a full day tour
OPTION 2: FULL DAY TOUR The Garden of Ireland Tour
The County of Wicklow, located just 16 miles south of Dublin is known as The Garden of Ireland. The area is famed for its many beautiful formal gardens including Avondale, Powerscourt and Mount Usher, and for its stunning and epic landscape. Popular films such as Brave Heart and Excalibur were filmed in the area, which is also home to Ireland’s famous
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 1 Ardmore Film Studios. The County of Wicklow is beloved by hikers and there are many beautiful trails of various degrees through the mountains. Wicklow is also home to Glendalough, the ancient monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin and is open to visitors year round.
Your first visit today is Powerscourt House & Gardens
Powerscourt is one of Europe’s great treasures and one of the most beautiful country estates in Ireland. Situated in the mountains of Wicklow on 1000 acres (404 hectares), it was originally an important strategic site for the Anglo-Normans who came to Ireland in the 12th century. By the year 1300 a castle had been built here and was in the possession of the le Poer (Power) family from which it takes its name.
Take your time during your stay at Powerscourt to explore and discover the beauties of the House and Gardens.
Main features include: Japanese Garden Italian Terraces Tower Valley (featuring Pepper Pot Tower) Walled Garden Dolphin (fish) Pond Pets’ Cemetery
Glendalough Glendalough is where St. Kevin, descendent of one of the ruling families in Leinster, founded his monastery in the 6th century. Glendalough flourished under St. Kevin and many references in the Irish annals describe the activities of the monastery, which included numerous dwellings, workshops and areas for manuscript writing and copying. The buildings that survive today date from between the 8th and the 12th centuries. The Valley of Glendalough is famed for its natural beauty and for a series of carved plain stones and crosses, some of which mark stations on the pilgrims’ route.
OPTION 3: FULL DAY TOUR: Belfast Day Tour
When you arrive in Belfast, guests in one motor coach change transportation to local Black Taxis and set off on a journey into the two communities of the city, the Nationalists and the
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 2 Loyalists. These communities engaged in bloody conflict for almost 30 years and you will get close up and personal in the narrow streets and view the famed wall murals, and be amazed at how close they all lived to each other even during the worst of times. Guests on the 2nd motor coach will take the official city tour seeing the City Hall, Queen’s University, the parliament building at Stormont and visit the amazing new Titanic Signature Building.
Groups meet for lunch in city centre and in the afternoon swap positions with guests on motor coach #1 taking the official city tour and guests on motor coach #2 changing to the Black Taxi experience.
OPTION 4: FULL DAY (for numbers of 10-18) Cooking in the Castle Kitchens
The Spectacular Georgian Kitchen at Howth Castle offers an unusual and stimulating setting for you to incentivise your employees, foster team building or entertain your key clients. The opportunity to cook in an historic kitchen, in existence since 1750 retaining many original features, is a truly fascinating and rewarding experience. We can create bespoke programmes to suit your specific needs or choose from our most popular corporate options. To wrap up each ‘Hands On’ class, everyone sits down to savour the delicious food and wine. It is not only a bonding experience but also the perfect example of how much fun cooking can be.
Cook & Dine Cookery Class
Just like a dinner party, with friends or colleague gathered together in the castle kitchen. You cook a three course lunch or dinner under the watchful eyes of our experienced tutors. Once the food is ready. Its aprons off, candles lit, lights dimmed, the wine is poured and Bon appetite
OPTION 5: FULL DAY Newgrange & The High Crosses
Newgrange was constructed over 5,000 years ago (about 3,200 B.C.), making it older than Stonehenge in England and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Newgrange was built during the Neolithic or New Stone Age by a farming community that prospered on the rich lands of the Boyne Valley.
Archaeologists classified Newgrange as a passage tomb, however Newgrange is now recognised to be much more than a passage tomb. Ancient Temple is a more fitting
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 3 classification, a place of astrological, spiritual, religious and ceremonial importance, much as present day cathedrals are places of prestige and worship where dignitaries may be laid to rest.
Newgrange is a large kidney shaped mound covering an area of over one acre, retained at the base by 97 kerbstones, some of which are richly decorated with megalithic art. The 19 metre long inner passage leads to a cruciform chamber with a corbelled roof. The amount of time and labour invested in construction of Newgrange suggests a well-organized society with specialised groups responsible for different aspects of construction.
Lunch will be served in the country cottages at Tankardstown House.
After lunch you will make the short journey to Monasterboice. The impressive ruins include a large cemetery, two churches, one of the tallest round towers in Ireland and two of the tallest and best high crosses.
Monasterboice has many interesting features to explore, but the clear highlight is the superb high crosses. Like murals and church sculptures, these magnificent examples of Celtic art brought the Bible to life for those who could not read.
The cross near the entrance to the site is Muirdach's Cross. It dates from 900-923 AD and stands 5.5m (16 feet) tall. It is named for an abbot mentioned in the inscription on the base: "A prayer for Muirdach for whom the cross was made."
** Please note, it is recommend to book Newgrange at least 1 year in advance ** To have the tour exclusive you must pay for a minimum of 48 guests into Newgrange
OPTION 6: FULL DAY Cruise to Dublin’s North Coast
This morning we will take a brief journey by coach to the seaside village of Malahide, home to the enchanting Malahide Castle. Malahide Castle, set on 250 acres of park land in the pretty seaside town of Malahide, was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles. A tour of the castle will let you experience how the Irish Nobility lived for many years. You will get some interesting insights in to the history of the castle and some of the scandals of it’s inhabitants. Malahide Castle is no longer available for dinner events.
Undoubtedly, one of Dublin’s most scenic villages, the fishing town of Howth is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. Howth has beautiful walks along the three piers, plenty of boutiques and a number of fine restaurants and cozy pubs. Why not pop in to Ivan’s Fish Mongers for a fresh oysters tasting and a glass of bubbles?
After lunch you will take the Dublin Bay cruise back to the hotel. You will see some of Ireland’s most breathtaking views on this relaxed journey. The boat will drop travel up the Liffey and drop you right back in the city centre.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 4
**Based on minimum numbers of 40 **Minimum: 80 (for private charter of the boat) **Maximum: 140 on the boat at one time, so, we could look at offering this option to the whole group at the same time (based on maximum numbers of 280)
OPTION 7: FULL DAY Cheers to Dublin
Often described as Ireland’s national pastime, drinking to the average Irish person is not a life or death issue – it’s much more important than that! (to paraphrase Bill Shankley!) Today we bring you to the Old Jameson Distillery and The Guinness Storehouse, two historical and cultural landmarks in Dublin city, and come to grips with two of Irelands most famous and popular exports!
Today you visit The Old Jameson Distillery. It is an old distillery, which has been turned into a museum explaining the history of Irish whiskey and the process of whiskey making. The tour ends in the bar for a fun whiskey tasting session where everybody will get a chance to sample Irish whiskey. Volunteers are given the opportunity to taste the difference between Scotch, Bourbon and Irish Whiskey and receive a diploma which qualifies them as qualified Irish Whiskey tasters.
Next on the agenda is Guinness Tasting!! After the Old Jameson Distillery we bring you to the Guinness Storehouse, a historical and cultural landmark in Dublin city. Visit the Guinness Storehouse where you will learn how the famous brew is made, discover the secrets of Guinness as well as sample it! The Guinness Storehouse is the visitor centre of the Guinness Brewery, which opened to the public in December 2000. A warehouse of the original brewery (founded in 1759) it has been transformed into a hi-tech visitor centre covering 6 floors. Containing 3 bars, the visit culminates with a pint of the ‘black stuff’ in the Gravity Bar on the 6th floor of the centre, (Dublin’s highest pub) where you can also enjoy 360-degree views over the city. Try your hand at pint pulling in the Training Bar.
We will make a stop along the way for a pub lunch.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 5
OPTION 8 FULL DAY Game of Thrones Filming Location Experiences
Some of the most famous scenes in the BAFTA award winning show where filmed ‘on location’ at Castle Ward Estate including ‘Winterfell’ – House of the Stark Family, so now is your chance to experience these locations for yourself and see why this stunning location was chosen by the HBO film scouts.
Draft Itinerary – 40pax – 2.5 hours:
0:00 Intro to Game of Thrones & Castle Ward – Big screen digital video clip showing ‘behind the scenes’ special effects used in the show for filming ‘Winterfell’, ‘Rob’s Camp’ etc.
0:15 Split group into 2 groups (20pax) and then circulate through 2 activity zones:
Group 1 (1 hour)
Group is introduced to activity by ‘Rob Snow’ character costumed archery instructors who get everyone kitted out in their very own Game of Thrones costume in our newly built ‘Winter fell Archery Range Film Set’. Next it is time to test your aim using medieval archery bows from the show and some friendly competition.
Group 2 (1 hour)
Film Location cycle trail treasure hunt – using the medieval map find the various key filming locations from the show such as stunning Robbs Camp out at Audleys Castle point. At each location teams are required to ‘find that spot’ using the screenshots from the show they have been supplied with and then take a picture of their team posed with some props from the show at this exact spot – an Anneka Rice type challenge!
02:15 Medieval mulled wine & lemon cakes of ‘House Stark’, team scores announced and prize giving
02:30 Depart
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 6 OPTION 9: HALF DAY The Abbey Theatre Backstage Tours (For numbers of 10-12 guests)
For over one hundred years the Abbey Theatre has celebrated the power of theatre and the joy of bringing together writers, directors, actors and audiences. Join us for an exclusive insight into the history and behind the scenes workings of Ireland’s national theatre on our guided backstage tours. Get access to areas rarely seen by the public, as our knowledgeable tour guides lead you on an engaging visit through the many aspects that come together to make Ireland’s national theatre, exploring the fascinating challenges of each new production. Enjoy an introduction to the our historic art collection and be inspired by our founders, William Butler Yeats, Lady Gregory and the Fay brothers As the Abbey Theatre is a busy working theatre, the tours are scheduled to match the running dates of the Abbey stage plays. There are some dates where tours are not available.
OPTION 10: HALF DAY Dublin’s “Fabulous Food trail” walking tour (For numbers of up to 20 guests)
Food led, our experienced and knowledgeable guides bring you to out of the way places and will open your eyes to the very best Irish and international food.
We visit bread shops, food halls, street markets, cheesemongers, fishmongers, butchers, bakers and lots more depending on the day. Best of all you’ll meet the people whose families have traded in the area for generations and still produce wonderful food. And we also meet those bringing new international tastes and food ideas to the Irish table.
Our gentle 2½ hour stroll has lots of stops with frequent, generous tastings along the way. And we point out good places for lunch, dinner or a pint. Soak in the history and culture of the city and enjoy delicious foods in historic neighbourhoods, off the beaten track yet all within a stone’s throw of the city centre.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 7 OPTION 11: HALF DAY Croke Park Etihad Skyline Tour (for numbers of up to 20 guests)
What better way to see Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant and dynamic capital city, than from almost 50 metres high on the roof of Ireland’s most famous sporting arena? This two-hour tour offers visitors unmatched panoramic city views and insights into Dublin’s celebrated landmarks combined with the thrill of walking on the roof of the Home of Gaelic Games. Learn about Ireland’s cultural and sporting history in this unique experience that’s not for the faint hearted.
No visit to the stadium is complete without a visit to the newly refurbished GAA Museum which houses a vast array of artefacts and offers the opportunity to test your hurling and Gaelic football skills, in the museum’s newly renovated games area. The museum visit is included in both Skyline and Stadium tour admission.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 8
OPTIONAL TOURS SHANNON
OPTION 1: FULL DAY Cliffs of Moher & St. Tola’s Goat Farm
Good Morning Rise and Shine with a full Irish Breakfast before departing for a full day coastal tour of Co. Clare. We visit the Cliffs of Moher extending for 8 kms these cliffs are the most outstanding natural features of the west of Ireland. Today, however you will get to see the Cliffs from a very different view point. You will be brought to the quaint village of Doolin where a private boat will be waiting for you. You will cruise the fresh seas of the Atlantic Ocean to the Cliffs.
The cruise will take you to the foot of the Cliffs, you will get to explore the caves and crevices and experience the natural wildlife.
On arrival back to Doolin we will have Irish Coffees waiting to warm you up.
We then stop for lunch in a local pub. Visit the Burren area, which is huge limestone plateau with remarkable flora and fauna, where alpine and Mediterranean plants grow together. Mile after mile of stark rock resembling a lunar landscape, with huge dolmens and cairns to round towers and crosses.
We’ll finish of this day tour with a visit of St Tola’s Goat Farm.
Brought to you from the West of Ireland, near County Clare’s wild Atlantic coast, St. Tola Irish organic goat cheese has achieved exceptional critical acclaim since its launch over twenty- five years ago. From young, fresh crottin through to mature, year old Gouda, all cheeses are handmade and matured to suit our customers’ individual requirements. As such, cheese from the St. Tola range is now among the most sought-after artisan produce in Ireland.
The tour takes approx 1 hour and includes a full tour of our working organic farm. There is a chance to pet their beautiful goats, see them during feeding time and get a better understanding of organic farming. A cheese making demonstration is included and also a tasting of our gourmet cheeses. St Tola products are made from 100% Irish Organic Goat Milk and are certified organic. They contain no artificial colours, preservatives or GMO ingredients. They are 100% traceable from farm to fork.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 9
OPTION 2: FULL DAY TOUR: Galway City Tour- ca. 6 Hours
Galway is excellent for shopping as well as sightseeing. We will visit Eyre Square in the centre of Galway a memorial garden to the late John F Kennedy who visited the city in June 1963. The Collegiate Church of St Nicholas was built in early 14th century and later enlarged; it houses many fine carvings and relics. We also visit Spanish Arch which was built in 1594 to protect the quay where Spanish ships unloaded their wares; four centuries ago, the city had a thriving trade with mainland Europe and the Galway Crystal Heritage Centre. Afternoon at leisure for sightseeing and shopping.
OPTION 3: FULL DAY TOUR: Aran Islands
A Rich Culture
Today the Island features the Aran Jumper and celtic Arts and crafts such Basket Weaving and Dancing. Such is the culture of the island’s 850 residents, many people akin the daily rituals as going back in time where you can still find the horse and trap and hear the Gaelic language spoken as the first language and its consequent tradition.
The island of Inis Mór (meaning the big island) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland. Well known internationally, it is steeped in history and resembles an outdoor museum with over 50 different monuments of Christian, pre Christian and Celtic mythological heritage. There isn’t far you can go before being somewhere where there’s something of historical interest and little reason to question its importance in modern Irish Culture.
An outdoor Museum
The islands featured monument is the world heritage site of Dun Aonghasa Fort which stands over a dramatic 300 foot cliff that spans the entire western part of the island and faces the moods of Atlantic sea. Others include the Black Fort set over cliffs, the seven Churches, St Benins Church perched isolated on a hill at the southern tip of the island, Temphaill Chieran, and the old Light House at the islands highest point. Other places of a geological nature include the worm hole which is a large natural square hole in the ground beside the sea, and the puffing holes where inland holes in the ground, fountain water on a turbulent day.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 10 Journey to the edge of the ancient world and visit Dun Aengus, one of the most magnificent and dramatically situated Celtic stone forts in Western Europe. While viewing the Atlantic from a 300ft cliff you will hear tales of Celtic gods, phantom islands, and mythical voyages westward which sparked a passion for exploration that was destined to change the course of world history.
Explore also, the ancient Christian site of the ‘seven churches’ dated to the 5th century. Founded by St Brecan, it is the most impressive ecclesiastical site on the island. Here you will learn of the transformation from pagan Celtic Aran to early Christian Aran.
OPTION 4: FULL DAY Golf in the Shannon Area Welcome to the Shannon area- the ideal centre for your visits to the unspoiled Irish green on the golf courses, here you can plan the parkland courses of Dromoland & Adare Manor or to some of the world renowned Atlantic Links courses of Doonbeg, Lahinch and Ballybunion. Golfing is part of the local culture here and therefore for everyone! The area offers many great golf courses for all tastes and ambitions.
OPTION 5: FULL DAY The G Experience, for all the Golf Widows!
Visit the chic 5* boutique hotel close to Galway, welcome coffee, 45 minutes spa treatment, cup cake decorating, enjoy a signature cocktail in this special hotel – designed by acclaimed hat designer Philip Treacy the public areas are in fact inspired by the catwalks of high fashion. Maximum 10 persons
OPTION 4: HALF DAY TOUR: Foynes Flying Boat Museum ca. 3 hours
Foynes, Ireland, became the center of the aviation world from 1939 to 1945. On July 9th 1939, Pan Am's luxury Flying Boat, the "Yankee Clipper" landed at Foynes. This was the first commercial passenger flight on a direct route from the USA to Europe. During the late 1930s and early 1940s, this quiet little town on the Shannon became the focal point for air traffic on the North Atlantic.
During this period, many famous politicians, international businessmen, film stars, active- service-men and wartime refugees passed through Foynes. In fact, the site was initially surveyed in 1933 by Colonel Charles Lindbergh and his wife Ann, who landed in Galway Bay flying his Lockheed Sirius. In December 1935, the Irish Times announced that Foynes would be the site for the European Terminal for transatlantic air services. Colonel Lindbergh
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 11 returned again representing Pan Am in 1936 to inspect the facilities and also in 1937 to view the departure of "Clipper III".
In 1942 Eleanor Roosevelt arrived in Foynes under the alias "Mrs. Smith". Earlier that year, Captain Charlie Blair, later to become the husband of the actress Maureen O'Hara, had made the first non- stop passenger flight from Foynes to New York in 25 hours, 40 minutes. The era of the flying boats was colorful but brief. In 1945, hundreds of people watched as Captain Blair piloted the last American Export flying boat out of Foynes to New York. Upon arrival, he turned around and piloted the first landplane, a DC-4, back to open the new airport at Rineanna, later to become the Shannon International Airport. Shortly afterward, Pan Am, after 2,097 Atlantic Crossings through Foynes, made their last flight to Lisbon from Foynes. Only a day before, their first landplane had also landed at Rineanna.
OPTIONAL TOURS KILLARNEY
OPTION 1: FULL DAY TOUR The Gap of Dunloe:
The Gap of Dunloe is without a doubt one of the most exciting and picturesque tours in Ireland. On arrival at the Gap you will be greeted by a number of ponies and carts – known locally as jarvies and jaunting carts. The carts will take you up through the windy mountainous road. Stunning scenes will await behind every turn in the road. At the end of the trail you will reach Lord Brandon’s cottage where a BBQ feast will be sizzling away waiting for you.
After a delish lunch and a well deserved glass of wine you will take a short stroll down to the lake. A group of boats will transport you back to the town. Surrounded by water as far as the eye can see, and towering mountains, you will understand why the Gap of Dunloe, is one of the most unspoilt and beautiful locations in Ireland.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 12 OPTION 2: FULL DAY The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a tourist trail in County Kerry, south-western Ireland. The route covers the 179 km circular road starting from Killarney, heading around the Iveragh Peninsula and passing through Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen and Killorglin. You will also see the famous Charlie Chaplin monument in Waterville where Charlie himself holidayed a number of times.
The Ring of Kerry is one of the most scenic tours in Ireland. It’s a road that takes you through 10,000 years of dramatic history. It’s a road that takes you from deep forest to the crashing waters of the Atlantic. It’s a road through rugged, majestic landscapes: where wild stag roam and where tumbling waterfalls crash into crystal streams teeming with wild salmon.
On the Ring you can include some additional visits such as The Kerry Bog Village. The Kerry Bog Village, located on the beautiful Ring of Kerry gives you a fascinating insight into how people lived and worked in Ireland in the 18th Century. The village is the only one of it’s kind in Europe and is one of Kerry’s leading attractions.
You could also drop in and say hello to Kissane’s Sheep farm. Kissane Sheep Farm is a traditional, working sheep farm with approximately 1.000 mountain sheep and hundreds of lambs. The farm is run by John Kissane and his son, Sean, and has been run by the family for the last 150 years. In May 2005, the farm was opened for visitors to enjoy and to learn about sheep farming in Ireland. Many groups and individuals have since visited the farm enjoying its activities such as sheepdog trails and herding, sheep shearing and feeding the orphan lambs.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 13
OPTION 3: FULL DAY TOUR Blarney Castle, Cork City & Kinsale
Climb up to the battlements of the central keep, which is all that is, left of the 15th century castle. Hang upside down with an attendant holding your feet, and kiss the Blarney Stone, where upon you’ll be blessed with the gift of the gab. If you want to stay a strong and silent type simply admire the lush pastoral views. Visit Blarney Castle grounds and have a pleasant walk. In the village visit Blarney Woolen Mills in a converted 19th century factory, excellent for tasteful Irish gifts and clothing.
Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Cork followed by some time at leisure, before making your way to Kinsale where you will have lunch, before returning to your hotel.
The Harbour town of Kinsale has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cork. Famed for its abundance of award winning restaurants & stunning Harbour views, a trip to Kinsale is worth the mere half hour journey from Cork city. Beautiful scenic walks around historical grounds and coastal inlets are a great way to spend an afternoon, before dining in one of the many restaurants where seafood is a specialty.
OPTION 4: FULL DAY Golf in the Killarney Area
Welcome to the Killarney area- the ideal centre for your visits to the unspoiled Irish green on the golf courses, here you can plan the parkland courses of Tralee & Killarney or to some of the world renowned Atlantic Links courses of the Old Head of Kinsale or Waterville. Golfing is part of the local culture here and therefore for everyone! The area offers many great golf courses for all tastes and ambitions.
OPTION 5: For the Golf Widows- ESPA at The Hotel Europe!
ESPA at The Europe is a 50,000 sq ft luxury award winning spa offering 16 treatment rooms, 2 express treatment rooms as well as a finishing touches studio and provides the ideal way to relax.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 14
OPTION 6: FULL DAY A Delightful day in Dingle
Once cited as 'the most beautiful place on earth' by the National Geographic; was voted among the top 100 destinations in the world by Trip Advisor - The Dingle Peninsula, renowned for its rugged beauty and quiet clean beaches, stretches 49 km into the Atlantic Ocean. Ireland's second highest mountain, Mount Brandon, is situated to the north of the island, reaching a height of 952 metres. To the west of the peninsula lie the Blasket Islands, a group of six principal islands and several smaller ones. The town is one of the most visited in Ireland and has received many accolades. Its narrow streets are dotted with fine fish restaurants, art galleries, craft shops selling local pottery, clothing made from hand weaved cloth, sculptured figurines, gold and silver jewellery. Outside of the harbour lives Dingle's own dolphin, Fungie, a male bottle nosed dolphin who wandered into the bay in 1983 and decided to stay. He is very friendly and always greets visitors with great enthusiasm.
What better way to spend your first full day in Ireland than experiencing stunning scenery and an Irish coffee?
Today you will have the option to dine in some Dingles delightful pubs and soak up the electric atmosphere of this very special little town before going to The Skellig Visitor Experience.
The Skellig Visitor Experience
In the Skellig Visitor Experience you can experience many aspects of those offshore Skellig islands while remaining on the dry land, in a custom built, stone clad, grass roofed, prize winning building located right on the waterfront beside the Valentia Island bridge at Valentia, County Kerry!
Here, through re-creations and models you can study the works and lives of the Skellig monks of the early Christian period, their activities, their endurance and their dedication in gaining a foothold on a tiny, inhospitable, offshore island and creating a community there that survived for some 600 years. In The Skellig Experience’s 80-seat auditorium, through a 14- minute film presentation you can follow the footsteps of those Skellig monks, and wonder at the legacy of architecture that they left behind.
The Skellig Experience Centre also offers – again through artifacts and realistic re-creations – an experience of Skellig lighthouse – its history – its light keepers and its service to mariners since the 1820’s.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 15 In The Skellig Experience Centre the underwater life of Skellig is presented through a gallery of the still photographs of visiting international Skellig divers and through a colourful video exclusively from Skellig waters.
OPTION 7: HALF DAY Muckross House and National Park
This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.
A great way to travel to the house is by horse and jaunting cart through the National Park. You cannot come to Killarney and not take a jaunting cart!
OPTION 8: HALF DAY Guided Walk in Killarney (max 10 guests)
Visit ancient places like the old copper mines (dating back 4000 years), 6th century monastery ruins on Innisfallen Island or the 15th Century Ross Castle. See where Brother Cudda slept for 200 years, where Queen Victoria visited in 1861 and where President De Gaulle of France stayed in 1969. Also, in the same year, where part of the award winning Ryan’s Daughter (starring Robert Mitchum) was filmed. See our native red deer or the Japanese Sika introduced here in the mid 19th Century. Unusual trees here are the arbutus (Strawberry Tree) fuscia and Monte Rey Pines. You might see the rare Kerry cow on your walk (brought to Ireland by the Celts). In season, you will also see abundant local flora including wild mint, garlic and myrtle.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 16
EVENING OPTIONS DUBLIN
OPTION 1: Kildare Village
For a great day out, nestled within landscaped grounds and presented in an authentic village environment, Kildare Village Chic Outlet Shopping is label heaven.
You will find it difficult to resist temptation with over 60 brands such as Louise Kennedy, DKNY, Juicy Couture, Brooks Brothers, Anya Hindmarch and Hugo Boss offering up to 60% off all year around.
By day the Kildare Village is a shopping mecca but to make an alternative use for the venue, why not take over the venue at night time? Kildare Village can be taken over exclusively and we can use it as an alternative night out! Take over the court yard with rambling musician, stilt walkers, fire eaters and create a magical carnival atmosphere. In the courtyard we can create authentic Irish food stations- with the hog on the spit, bacon & cabbage and Irish stews all being served- the scents of which fill the air and if the weather is inclement we can move the group indoors! What a night to be had under the star light!
Option 2: Taylors Three Rock- Irish Night
Taylors Irish Night involves a rip roaring evening of traditional Irish song and dance accompanied by a great selection of quality Irish food to delight your pallet. The resident band and traditional Irish Dancers provide breathtaking performances for the audience and never fail to entertain.
The Cabaret Show has the perfect blend of top traditional entertainers presenting an evening of Irish 'craic'. From well-known songs to foot tapping dances, soulful ballads to lively music, and side-splitting mirth by the resident comedian Noel V. Ginnity, the performer’s infectious energy radiates from the stage!
*** Suitable to take the whole group on the same evening
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 17 Option 3: Dine Around Dublin
Dublin is home to some of Europe’s top restaurants. Tonight why not split up in to smaller groups and experience some of the best local food the Emerald Isle has to offer. Start the evening with a warm up drink in a local pub in your groups and then sample some great Irish cuisine. We can split the group into groups of varying size, dependent on your requirements. I have highlighted some great restaurants below:
Pig’s Ear
Offering full a la carte menus for both Lunch & Dinner this beautiful restaurants aim is to provide a great quality dining experience in relaxed, informal surroundings with an emphasis on good value for money. The restaurant itself boasts spectacular views over Trinity College and the cricket grounds. They have 2 beautiful rooms, overlooking Trinity playing grounds, which can both be booked exclusively for parties or corporate dining for groups of 30-40. The menu itself is very interesting and really focuses on Irish food. Be brave here, try something you may not normally choose, it will be worth it!
Fallon and Byrne
Located just off Grafton Street, Fallon and Byrne is one of Dublin’s most interesting restaurants. As you enter the building you walk through a buzzy Artisan food hall. Similar to the fashionable food halls of New York, Fallon and Byrne specialise in local produce. You will have the opportunity to speak with fish and cheese mongers, sommeliers, and bakers about the progressive Irish food movement.
Once you go upstairs to the restaurant, the atmosphere is completely different. The dining room is bright, chic and contemporary. The food itself will not let you down. The chef at Fallon and Byrne commands only the best and freshest ingredients. The menu is wonderful mix of Irish and Continental dishes.
Bang
Newly refurbished, Bang restaurant is stylish and relaxed with a great city centre buzz. Passionate about food, menus are changed regularly and always reflect what is freshest and seasonal. There’s lots of choice available at Bang – from the good value pre-theatre or a la carte dinner menus to the unique experiences offered by the 'Taste of Bang', a popular seven course, tasting menu or 'Afternoon Tea at Bang'. With a fabulous private room that seats up to 40 guests, Bang remains one of the city’s favourite Private Dining venues.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 18
OPTION 4: Royal Hospital, Kilmainham
The RHK is a very classy venue and ideal for an upscale Gala Dinner Event. 20 minutes from down town hotels this venue looks spectacular when we dress it for gala events and we have produced some unforgettable nights of dancers, harpists, Celtic Tenors and haunting voice choirs there in the past.
Drinks in the Baroque Chapel: The striking original craftsmanship of the Baroque Chapel is still retained, featuring oak carvings and flamboyant Baroque ceiling. The Irish-made stained glass windows, dating from the 19th century depict the Coats of Arms of the various masters. These unrivalled features provide us with an historical setting for a wide variety of modern day uses, offering a pre dinner reception area for up to 330 persons.
Dinner in The Great Hall:
The Great Hall, which is typical 17th century in style, was the soldiers dining and recreational area in days past. The high ceiling and magnificent windows inherited from this classical period offer an airy and versatile space for modern day use. Being the largest room in the North Range, it offers an unique backdrop for Gala Dinners.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 19 OPTION 5: A taste of Guinness at The Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is not only one of the most iconic buildings in Ireland, it is also one of the most iconic buildings in the world. The Storehouse is home to “the black stuff”. No trip to Dublin is complete without a trip to Guinness, and tonight you will experience the Storehouse like no other.
On arrival to this impressive, industrial building you will be greeted by a Guinness host. The shop will remain open where you can buy exclusive Guinness gifts. You will walk through the process of how Guinness is made and end up at Gravity Bar.
Gravity bar is a 360 degree room with floor to ceiling glass walls throughout. The best views of Dublin are found here. It is the perfect location for a pre dinner drink and a welcome to Dublin.
Afterwards we move down to the 5th floor for the real party. Live buffet stations with chefs and artisan’s are at your service. Here we offer the Guinness & Food experience which means guests can enjoy an informal night with different buffet stations including show cooking, pint pulling stations, bowl dining, cheese bar, “build your own burger” bar, Guinness & Oyster bar etc.
This certainly is one of Ireland’s most impressive venues and will take your breath away. The food at Guinness is also first class.
After dinner you can party long in to the night in one of Dublin’s most exclusive venues.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 20 OPTION 6: The Round Room
The Round Room was built in 1821 for the much-anticipated visit of King George IV. For nearly 200 years the Round Room has continued making history and has been the venue of choice for historic events in Irish History – such as the proclamation of The Irish Declaration of Independence.
When you enter the Round Room and look up to the spectacular star enchanted ceiling – a gift of Fiber Optic lighting, you will quickly realise that the sky is your limit for how spectacular your event can be when you choose the Round Room.
The round room is a chameleon venue which is capable of taking on thousands of varied characteristics that are required for individualistic events. With state of the art conference facilities and our dedicated project management team, the round room is the conference centre of choice in Ireland. Located in the heart of Dublin City, located between Trinity College and St Stephens Green
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 21
EVENING OPTIONS SHANNON
OPTION 1:
The group slip 50/50 and half go to The Corn Barn and The other half go on the Dine around, and on the following night the groups switch over
The Corn Barn
Experience the magic of Irish traditional music, song and dance at the Traditional Irish Night in the Corn-Barn. Enjoy the company of the finest local singers, dancers and musicians while dining on wholesome good food produced locally.
On arrival you are welcomed by the ‘Fear an Ti’ who offers a drink of Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur or a glass of mead. He introduces an evening of entertainment which celebrates all the best traditions of Ireland in music, song and dance amid the ambience and aspects of 19th century Ireland.
The delicious and wholesome four course dinner is a pleasant balance of Irish traditional dishes with musical accompaniment. Following dinner the 40 minute show includes storytelling, dancing and music with instrumental pieces and ballads weaving the story of Irish traditional music through the ages. You are invited to enjoy the company of the finest singers, dancers and musicians and experience the homeliness, friendship and warmth of a true traditional Irish evening.
OPTION 2:
A Medieval Evening in The Brian Boru Hall at Dromoland Castle
With a capacity from 80 - 450 people, The Brian Boru Hall at this 5 star luxury hotel in Clare Ireland is ideal for a wide variety of functions such as Conferences, Dinners, Product Launches, Fashion Shows and corporate events in Ireland.
With extensive props and stunning sound and visual aids, the hall can be dressed and transformed to fit any theme: from a very elegant dining experience with accompanying orchestra to a cultural theatrical extravaganza.
Tonight, you can recreate the scenes of Game of Thrones, with Dromoland Castle in the background, in your themed costumes and re-live the Stark family’s lives. This would be a great option, if you don’t chose to use this activity in the early days of the programme.
After your Game of Thrones activities you will walk walk to the castle, in costume, where STOMP perform lively & loudly in outdoor pre-function space before you enter the Brian Boru Hall for dinner.
Track music plays during dinner. After dinner the light dim and cloaked figures carrying candles move through the crowd to form a guard of honour along the walls, then the spot lights pick out the entrance of one bodhrán player who jumps onto the centre dining table, surprising the diners – he beats out a solo beat – until out of the darkness and one by one 8 dancers emerge all on dining tables for the most spectacular flash-mob of Irish dancers you have ever seen…The piece continues with the appearance of a Celtic Warrior drummer and
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 22 you then experience the frantic trade off between drum and bodhrán as 4 female dancers join the act to perform a spectacular hard shoe routine on the guests’ dining tables!
We bring down the decibel levels then for a top class professional dance and music set, culminating in a very high energy Grand Finale ensuring standing ovations all round…. Send them home begging for more!
This is a well produced show of different performers with full professional production, sound & lighting effects.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 23
EVENING OPTIONS KILLARNEY
OPTION 1:
The group slip 50/50 and half go to Molly Darcy’s and The other half go on the Dine around, and on the following night the groups switch over
Molly Darcy’s
Group 1: Night 1
Shindig at Molly Darcy’s
The Award Winning Molly Darcy's Traditional Irish Pub & Restaurant is the perfect location for a taste of Kerry. Where wooden floors, stonewalls, beamed ceilings, open fires and live Irish entertainment create a warm and friendly welcome.
The Award Winning Molly Darcy's Traditional Irish Pub & Restaurant is the perfect location for a taste of Kerry.
You will enjoy an evening of great entertainment in this fantastic pub. The traditional band will are happy to play any number of songs upon request in between the jokes and jibes. The dancers at Molly’s really are mesmerising to watch. Make sure you bring your dancing shoes tonight as you could be on the dance floor learning a jig.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 24 OPTION 2: Exclusive Takeover of Muckross Farm 6.30pm – Arrival of the group to Muckross Farm
Due to the size of the group I would suggest using two entrance points A. Quills Farmhouse and B. the Forge – staggering the arrival of the buses into 10 minutes intervals.The group would then have approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to circulate around the site (directed by our staff) and take in and interact in the various demonstrations on display.
A List of traditional demonstrations that are available are as follows:
Sugán Rope & Blacksmith at Tinsmith Sheep dog Clydesdale Horses Chair making work Trials at Work Thatching & Lace Making Harness Stone Dancing at the Scalloping Maker Carving Crossroads Potatoe Cakes Gaelic Carriage Basket Bread making on from the Stove Games Building making the Open Fire Demo. Bodhrán & Milking the Separating the Butter Musicians in the Uileann Pipes Cow Milk making Kitchen Demo. Spinning & Sheep Stone wall Pony Trap Old time Steam Weaving Demo. shearing building Threshing
We can also locate a number of drinks stations throughout the site, complete with a drinks selection of the clients choosing and tasting plates of homemade traditional breads.
The group would th en be directed to Quills Farmyard (no.9 on map), to the sound of a full Irish Pipe Band.
The band would then pipe the group into the marquee (located at the front of Quills Farmhouse) for an evening of food and traditional Irish entertainment.
The marquee we use is a full glas s sided marquee which can be lined and draped in the client’s company colours or those of their choosing, overlooking the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Various menu options are available and can be tailored to the tastes of the client. Full bar selection also available in the marquee, including wine, draught and bottled beer, spirits, non-alcoholic beverages etc.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 25 Entertainment options vary from a Traditional Irish ballad group to a full “Riverdance” type show.
Wallace Travel Group, 8 Main Street – Finglas – Dublin 11- Email: [email protected] Tel +353 (0) 18361611 – Fax +353 (0)18361724, www.wallacetravelgroup.com Page 26