Irish Gold Coach Tour - 9 Days/8 Nights

A warm Irish welcome awaits with a private airport meet and greet, followed by being shown to the Hertz desk to collect your rental car. Begin your Ireland at Ease adventure with a peaceful drive south to the Wicklow Mountains. Spend the afternoon discovering the natural beauty and historic charm of Ireland’s Garden County. Highlights along the way include:

• Glendalough – Wander among the monastic ruins of this serene valley, where lakes and ancient stones whisper Ireland’s early spiritual stories.
• Powerscourt Gardens – Stroll through one of the world’s greatest gardens and be enchanted by Ireland’s highest waterfall cascading through ancient woodlands.
• Avoca Village – Discover Ireland’s oldest working woollen mill and enjoy a gentle riverside walk in this storybook village.

Overnight at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort, Blessington or similar

From Mountains and Glen to Viking Shores

Wake up refreshed and ready for the open road. Travel from the lake edge, through Ireland’s Ancient East, down to Ireland’s oldest city of  Waterford. Enjoy scenic detours and coastal stops en route. Take the day at your own pace and explore hidden gems along the journey. Suggestions include:

• Curracloe Beach – Stroll along miles of golden sand at Ireland’s most famous beach, known for its tranquil waves and Hollywood-worthy views.
• Dunbrody Famine Ship – Step aboard this full-scale replica and immerse yourself in the moving story of Irish emigration during the Great Famine.
• Johnstown Castle Gardens – Stretch your legs in these stunning Gothic-style grounds, now home to Ireland’s Agricultural Museum.

Overnight Faithlegg Hotel, Waterford or similar

Time Travel and Coastal Charm

Spend the morning enjoying a final walk through Waterford’s Viking Triangle or nearby gardens before setting off for the coastal town of Cobh. Enjoy scenic views and historical depth as you head west along Ireland’s southern shoreline. Recommended stops include:

• House of Waterford –  Delight in expert craftspeople transforming molten crystal into stunning pieces of Crystal right before your eyes. Browse the store and take home a piece of Waterford’s heritage.
• Youghal – Explore this quaint harbor town with medieval walls, a historic lighthouse, and soft sandy beaches.
• Midleton Distillery – Visit the Jameson Experience for a guided tour and tasting at one of Ireland’s most famous whiskey-making sites.

Overnight in Fota Resort, Cobh or similar

Titanic, Cathedrals and Gourmet Delights

Spend the day discovering Cobh’s colourful harbourfront, explore nearby Cork City, or relax at the resort’s spa. You can shape the pace of your day. Top activities include:

• Titanic Experience Cobh – Relive the story of the world’s most famous ship and the people who boarded her last in this interactive, emotional museum. See the remains of the boarding pier and gaze out over the historic harbour. 
• English Market in Cork – Taste your way through a gourmet food market filled with artisan cheese, baked treats, and local flavours.
• Kinsale – Enjoy a seaside drive to this historic and vibrant town, famed for its winding streets, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.

Overnight in Fota Resort, Cobh or similar

Legends, Landscapes & Lakeside Welcome

Leave the coast behind and journey into Ireland’s scenic southwest. En route to Killarney, stop at iconic cultural sites and take in the idyllic countryside. Highlights include:

• Blarney Castle & Gardens – Kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence, then lose yourself in a fairytale of magical gardens.
• Béal na Bláth – A poignant and peaceful memorial to Michael Collins, one of Ireland’s key historical figures.
• Killarney National Park - This afternoon, enjoy a relaxing horse-drawn jaunting car ride, with  lake and woodlands scenery.

Overnight at The Brehon Hotel, Killarney or similar.

Scenic Spins and Stunning Vistas on the Ring of Kerry

Spend the day as you wish – explore the tranquil lakes and gardens nearby or take a leisurely drive around the famous Ring of Kerry, stopping for coastal views, artisan shops, and quiet beaches. Top Instagram worthy photo opportunities include:

• Ladies View – Soak in one of Ireland’s most breathtaking vistas, where every glance is a postcard-perfect scene.
• Moll’s Gap – Marvel at dramatic mountain scenery and rolling hills from this scenic pass on the Ring of Kerry.
• Waterville Promenade – Enjoy a peaceful seaside stroll along the charming promenade, once beloved by Charlie Chaplin himself.

Overnight at The Brehon Hotel, Killarney or similar.

Today you’ll cross into County Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way, either via the Tarbert Ferry across the Shannon Estuary or by driving through Adare and visiting Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Choose your pace and preferences. Highlights include:

• Adare Village – Make sure your camera is out for thatched cottages and heritage buildings in Ireland’s prettiest village.
• Bunratty Castle and Folkpark  – Experience medieval life in this preserved medieval masterpiece and adjoining 19th century replica folk village.
• Cliffs of Moher – Stand in awe at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, where nature’s power and beauty collide in towering cliffs.
• The Burren – Wander through this unique lunar-like landscape, filled with wildflowers, caves, and ancient secrets.

Overnight Armada Hotel, West Clare Coast or similar

Pints, Performance & A Perfect Farewell

Return to Dublin with the option to stop in the historic town of Athlone for a coffee (or Irish Coffee!) at Sean’s Bar – reputedly Ireland’s oldest pub. In the evening, enjoy a farewell Irish night with dinner, music, and dancing – the perfect finale to your Ireland at Ease experience.

• Sean’s Bar and Athlone Castle – Sip a pint in Ireland’s oldest pub, where history runs deep, then explore the riverside castle that has guarded Athlone for centuries.
• Clonmacnoise – Wander the peaceful ruins of this ancient monastic city along the River Shannon.
• Guinness Storehouse – Toast your trip at the top of Dublin's most iconic attraction, where the history of “the black stuff” meets 360° skyline views.

Irish House Party – Celebrate the end of your adventure with a night of laughter, music, and traditional Irish cheer in an intimate local setting.

Overnight The Alex, Dublin or similar

Slán Abhaile – Until We Meet Again

Drop off your rental car at Dublin Airport and depart with peaceful memories of Ireland’s beauty and hospitality.

Ready to Feel at Home in Ireland?

Book your 8 Night Ireland at Ease Self Drive Tour today and start your journey to a more relaxed kind of adventure.