12 Days
Embark on an epic journey through the Emerald Isle as you experience the luxury of the Belmond Grand Hibernian. Discover the history and heritage of Ireland and its people as you soak up the culture and charm of this mythic country.
The second half of your trip aims to continue the comfort and magnificence of your rail journey with chauffeur-driven transportation to the West of Ireland, where some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes await you.
GET IN TOUCHYour tailor-made Dream Escape programme could include any of the following experiences:
The accommodation provided by Dream Escape during your stay aims to provide an authentic, yet luxurious Irish experience. Options will include a charming country house tucked away within two acres of walled gardens, and an understated Georgian hotel considered to be one of the finest in the entire country.
Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1, it is home to one of the most impressive libraries in the world, the Book of Kells and the Brian Boru Harp.
Killarney is an excellent spot from which to explore the outstanding natural scenery of Co. Kerry. Today and the National Park is renowned for its beauty; Ireland’s highest mountains raise a jagged edge to the sky while at their feet rest three still lakes (Upper Lake, Muckross Lake and Lough Leane) studded with little islands.
Skellig Michael is named by Lonely Planet as one of the top regions in travel for 2017. One of only two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, this inhospitable rock rising out of the Atlantic covers an area of less than 50 acres. Monks settled on the rock during the 6th century; perched on a ledge and reached by an amazing 1,000-year-old stairway is an isolated early Christian monastery.
This world-class modern museum is housed in a striking aluminium-clad building reminiscent of a ship’s hull. Here, you can walk the decks, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the true legend of RMS Titanic in the city that built her. Don’t forget to step aboard Titanic’s little sister, SS Nomadic, which carried passengers to the mighty ship.
Curraghmore House is the historic home of the 9th Marquis of Waterford. Take an exclusive tour of the magnificent mansion and grounds including a visit to the stables, then savour a delicious afternoon tea.
The Belmond Grand Hibernian is a shimmering world of indulgence—contemporary carriages inspired by Dublin’s architecture, fine cuisine enhanced with local delicacies and an ever-changing backdrop of Ireland’s celebrated landscapes.
Dublin is steeped in history, with Viking, medieval and Georgian influences all having left their marks. Since the time of the Vikings, Dublin has been the principal gateway to the Emerald Isle. The medieval city, with its intimate knots of small alleys and broad streets south of the river, was developed in Norman times around St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle, and later came to symbolise British rule in Ireland. The 18th century was the “Age of Elegance”, a time of relative prosperity when the Irish gentry set about remodelling the city into one of elegance, replete with graceful terraces, wrought-iron balconies and fanlight doorways. The city became Ireland’s capital with the establishment of the Republic of Ireland in 1937, and today is regarded as one of the liveliest and most atmospheric in Europe.
Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland. The 19th century was a golden age for the city; it experienced the full force of the Industrial Revolution and in 1888 was granted city status by Queen Victoria. Compact and intimate in size, it boasts a rich legacy of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
Located by the three lakes and mountains of the Killarney National Park, Killarney is well known for its excellent shops, restaurants and cosmopolitan appeal. During the summer months, the lively on-street musical entertainment complements the meandering of tourists and locals alike. On bright evenings, one can browse in a bookstore, admire art or savour the delights of homemade ice cream or a finely prepared lobster.
One of the prettiest small towns in Ireland, with its crooked streets, slate hung houses and bow-fronted shops.It has a long and chequered history. The Battle of Kinsale in 1601 was the ultimate battle in England’s conquest of Gaelic Ireland. The Irish forces and their Spanish allies were defeated which signified the end of the old Gaelic order, Irish resistance and marked a turning point in the history books. For over 300 years it was a garrison town and port of consequence, which left a legacy of Georgian and Victorian architecture.
The Burren is truly is a special place full of wonder, beauty and discovery. It is a karst landscape made up of an extraordinarily rich geological, botanical and archaeological heritage with parts of the region classed as a National Park. This limestone plateau resembles a lunar landscape; in the spring and summer months, great colour abounds against the stark landscape. Ruined forts and castles and numerous prehistoric sites dot the landscape; the region has been aptly described as ‘one vast memorial to bygone cultures’.
Is possibly Ireland’s most famous scenic drive. It encounters some of the country’s finest landscapes, weaving around a breath-taking mosaic of rugged, storm-bashed coast, steep mountains, medievalruins, slate-coloured glacial lakes and welcoming towns and villages. As you might expect, there are many wonderful photo opportunities.
