Dublin & the Tall Ships 2012 

Our tour begins in Holyhead, where you meet your Tour Manager before making the ferry crossing to Dublin. On arrival we transfer to the 4-star Gresham Hotel, our base in the city for four nights. (D)

This morning we explore the vibrant city of Dublin on a guided tour of the city. Among the pretty Georgian streets, we take in the famous Trinity College and the Book of Kells, a magnificent masterwork of Western calligraphy dating from 800AD. We also visit the historic Jameson Distillery, where their popular whiskey has been produced since 1780. The rest of your day is then at leisure, allowing you to watch the mighty vessels arriving in Dublin from Spain in the exciting finale of the Tall Ships Race. (B,D)

The tall ships are still in Dublin today - about a hundred are expected - so you may wish to see them before they leave in an impressive sailing parade. Alternatively, perhaps visit the lavish rooms in Dublin Castle, or head to the National Museum. Otherwise, Phoenix Park, the largest walled city park in Europe, boasts wonderful formal gardens and a zoo, and is well worth a visit. (B)

Today we travel to Wicklow, - "the Garden of Ireland". Here we visit the gardens of the magnificent Powerscourt Estate, before continuing to the Glendalough - the stunning 'Valley of the two Lakes'. After time to admire the views we head to Avoca, best known as TV's Ballykissangel. We return to Dublin by rail, following the coast of sweeping Dublin Bay. (B,D)

After checking out of the hotel, we take the ferry back to Holyhead, where our tour concludes. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Where shown, these meals are included in the price of your holiday