Emerald Isle Essentials: A 10-Day Journey Through Castles, Coast & Countryside

Pick up your rental car and head to Mount Juliet Estate. Explore the property and settle in for a relaxing dinner and drinks at one of the restaurants on the property. If you’re up for a short drive (20–30 minutes), head into Kilkenny for dinner at Kyteler’s Inn, a medieval two-floor inn with cozy stone and beamed bars, hearty food, and nightly live Irish music. For a smaller, intimate spot, Cleere’s Bar is a local favorite.

Take a day trip to Waterford. Golfers shouldn’t miss the Waterford Castle Golf Resort, an 18-hole, par-72 Des Smyth-designed course on a private island, accessible via a complimentary car ferry. For the non-golfers, the House of Waterford Crystal offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour on what it takes to make Waterford Crystal. Afterward, explore the charming town or dive into history at the Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum.

On the way towards your next hotel, spend the first half of your day at the Rock of Cashel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 12th-century cathedral complex is surrounded by remarkably well-preserved medieval buildings and offers dramatic hilltop views over the countryside. It is truly stunning and possibly even more so in a downpour, which there is always potential for! Grab a late lunch at Feehan’s Bar in Cashel before continuing to Cork, where you’ll check into The River Lee Hotel for the afternoon and evening.

Wake up early to visit Blarney Castle, and plan to spend the full day—there’s so much more than the famous stone! The castle grounds are extensive and stunning—be sure to visit the Poison Garden and wander the river paths and forest trails. Return to Cork in the evening for dinner. Enjoy a cocktail at the hotel bar—they’re top-notch.

On day five, after breakfast at the hotel (a Fora Reserve perk), you’ll be heading to another castle, but this time it also happens to be your hotel! Head to Adare Manor for a once-in-a-lifetime hotel experience. Spend the day strolling through “Ireland’s Prettiest Village” of Adare, exploring the estate’s forest paths, or trying activities like falconry or archery. For a truly luxurious touch, enjoy afternoon tea at the Manor.

From Adare Manor, you’ll be heading to one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes: the Cliffs of Moher. You may recognize the cliffs from a number of movies (Harry Potter!) and they are breathtaking. After checking into your home base in Doolin, you can drive to the Cliffs—alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, there is a walking path, but it is definitely a challenge! The cliffs are extremely windy and can get quite cold, so dress accordingly. (You’re right off the Aran islands and I would recommend an Aran sweater.) Back in Doolin, cozy up for dinner, a pint, and some live music at Fitz’s Pub, conveniently accessible from the Hotel Doolin from indoors.

Drive to Galway, a lively university town known for its food and music. Stop on the way for lunch at Moran’s Oyster Cottage for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have. Spend the day wandering the city—consider a walking tour to get acquainted with its history—and then enjoy live music in a cozy pub in the evening.

If you don’t feel like you’ve gotten your share of castles, take a day trip to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, about an hour outside Galway. Alternatively, this would be a time to head back to Dublin if you’ve seen enough castles and want more time in the city. A tour of Tullamore D.E.W. on the way is a great excursion. Note: You’ll need to book in advance if you want the full experience.

Spend your last days in Dublin. If desired, return your rental car on the way into town since it won’t be needed in the city. A walking tour is a great way to start. Dublin highlights include the Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells at Trinity College, and a meal and pint at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to 1198. Walk through Temple Bar for atmosphere, and for whisky enthusiasts, the Teeling Distillery tour is a fun, off-the-beaten-path experience.