Experience the ultimate in Irish holidays and uncover the hidden gems of the Emerald Isle aboard the luxurious Belmond Grand Hibernian train.
About the Tour
Experience the ultimate in Irish holidays and uncover the hidden gems of the Emerald Isle aboard the luxurious Belmond Grand Hibernian train.
Let yourself be taken by the spirit of adventure. Visit thrilling destinations as the train crosses through postcard-perfect scenery. Dine on lovingly prepared cuisine, enriched by the finest regional ingredients, while traditional local entertainment aboard brings each memorable day to a close.
Highlights
- 4 nights aboard the Grand Hibernian in a private cabin.
- All meals aboard the train: full Irish breakfast, two-course lunch and four-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petits fours
- All beverages including alcoholic drinks
- Traditional entertainment on board
- Private visit to the Jameson Experience, tastings at Cork English Market
- Visits to Cobh Heritage Centre, Killarney National Park, Westport House
- Time at leisure to explore Galway, Westport and Killarney city centres
- Excursion to the Cliffs of Moher or a rural Irish farm
- 24-hour steward service
Call to Book 1-877-929-7245
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Dublin
Board the train in Dublin and join the Train Manager for a champagne toast in the Observation Car. Enjoy traditional afternoon tea as we journey towards Cork. Disembark in Cork for a short walking tour of nearby Cobh Heritage Centre, where impressive displays on Irish history include the town's links with the Titanic. Rejoin Belmond Grand Hibernian for your first gastronomic dinner on board, then mingle with fellow guests over coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.
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Day 2 - Cork
After a leisurely Irish breakfast, select one of two morning activities on Cork. The first option is a guided walking tour of the riverside city, with a visit to the vibrant English Market for a sampling of Cork delicacies. The second is an exclusive tour of the world-famous Jameson Distillery in Midleton, finishing with a rare whiskey tasting. Rejoin the train for lunch as we continue to Killarney National Park. Disembark for a fun ride in a traditional jaunting car. Arrive at 15th-century Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane and alight for a scenic boat trip. Afterwards, either stroll back to the train and relax, or enjoy a little free time exploring the charming streets and independent shops of Killarney. As evening falls, drinks, dinner and entertainment on board await.
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Day 3 - Galway
Spend a relaxing morning admiring the ever-changing scenery through your windows. After brunch, we arrive in Galway, on the west coast, where you have a choice of three itineraries. Drive into the hills to visit a traditional farm and watch an exciting sheepdog display. Enjoy afternoon tea before continuing to medieval Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay. Return to Galway and have a look around the town. Or escape to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, rising 700ft above the Atlantic Ocean. Absorb the inspiring views, including the Aran Islands and Twelve Bens Mountains in the distance. Learn more about the area's geology and wildlife in the grass-roofed Visitor Centre. Alternatively, step out on a walking tour of Galway with a knowledgeable guide, then enjoy time exploring the city independently. Discover the Latin Quarter, 18th-century Eyre Square, eclectic shops and traditional pubs. Back on board, dinner is served as the train continues towards Athlone.
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Day 4 - Westport
A full day begins with a visit to the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, in Westport. Set in the splendid grounds of Turlough Park House, on the County Mayo coast, it explores the rural lifestyles of Irish people in the 19th and 20th centuries. Pause for lunch in a local tavern before visiting Westport House, a magnificent stately home with rich interiors dating back over 350 years. In the grounds, admire the views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick, as well as tumbling waterfalls, ancient oaks and possibly a hawk-flying display. Before rejoining the train for the evening, take time to explore Westport's picturesque town centre with its pretty river and tree-line promenade.
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Day 5 - Dublin
The train makes its final journey back to Dublin, where you will disembark for your onward travel arrangements.
Accommodations
The Belmond Grand Hibernian boasts accommodation for up to 40 guests in elegant, private en-suite cabins. Design draws inspiration from Dublin’s classic Georgian architecture, blended with elements of ancient folklore and tradition. The Observation Car brims with the warm atmosphere and elegance of a Dublin saloon. It is the perfect place to mingle with fellow travelers, listen to live musicians and animated storytellers or participate in craft sessions. Take a seat, with a glass of fine Irish whiskey or a pint of local stout, and watch the enchanting scenery from the many large windows.
Cabins
The train offers 16 twin and four double cabins for truly indulgent train ride vacations. All cabins are en-suite, with additional features including a wardrobe, writing desk and chair. Large windows let you admire the verdant landscape as it unfolds. All double cabins can interconnect with twin cabins, making them an ideal option for families travelling together. The train also offers a cabin suitable for guests with limited mobility, specifically designed to allow wheelchair access into the cabin and en-suite bathroom.
Dining
From wonderful artisan cheeses and superb smoked fish to the freshest seasonal vegetables, the onboard menus feature the finest ingredients from the regions the train travels through. The chef and his team serve breakfasts, lunches and dinners in two air-conditioned dining carriages named after Irish counties.
