Waterford, Wicklow Mountains & Suir Valley Rail

We catch the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin, on to our hotel in Arklow.

Discover the beautiful Powerscourt Gardens, set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Sugarloaf Mountain and boasting a wonderful blend of striking terraces, fine statuary, ornamental lakes and a wide variety of trees. Designed from 1731 onwards and stretching over 47 acres, the estate includes formal walled gardens, distinctive Italian and Japanese gardens and the Pepperpot Tower, modelled on a pepper pot from Lord Powerscourt’s dining table!

We then head into the Wicklow Mountains National Park, which covers 20,000 hectares of stunning mountain scenery with vast sweeps of heather-clad moorland, hills, bogland, deep glacial valleys and lakes. The mountains are also home to a variety of wildlife habitats. We enjoy a scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains, passing through the Sally Gap before heading to Glendalough.

Glendalough, the 'Valley of the Two Lakes,' is home to one of Ireland's most important early Christian settlements. Founded in the 6th century by St Kevin, who sought refuge in the area's peaceful landscape, the site is rich in history. Start at the visitor centre before discovering highlights such as the 30-metre Round Tower, built as a refuge during Viking attacks, along with the remains of a cathedral, several churches and ancient stone crosses. On our way back to the hotel, we'll make a short stop in Avoca, which is famous as the filming site of 'Ballykissangel' and known for its fine knitwear.

We start the day with a scenic heritage train journey on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway, taking in the panoramic views as we travel along the picturesque banks of the River Suir and the beautiful Suir Valley.

We continue to the thriving maritime city of Waterford, where we visit the House of Waterford Crystal. Our guided tour takes us through the home of the world-famous Waterford Crystal’s manufacturing facility, where we learn how the stunning crystal is made, including demonstrations from the Master craftsmen using the traditional methods of mouth blowing, hand finishing, sculpting and engraving. After our tour, we enjoy free time to explore Waterford.

Enjoy a day at leisure today and make the most of the hotel's facilities, including complimentary access to the Bay Leisure Centre, featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Or choose to explore the town of Arklow and visit the Arklow Maritime & Heritage Museum, take a stroll along the riverfront or relax on the sandy beach. 

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to Wexford, at the mouth of the picturesque River Slaney. This charming town holds plenty of fascinating sights, from the well-preserved ancient West Gate Tower to the beautiful ruined Selskar Abbey, which stands on the site where the first Anglo-Irish peace treaty was signed. Here we take the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets or enjoy true Irish hospitality in the many bars and restaurants in the relaxed atmosphere of this delightful town.

Enjoy a day at leisure today and make the most of the hotel's facilities, including complimentary access to the Bay Leisure Centre, featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Or choose to explore the town of Arklow and visit the Arklow Maritime & Heritage Museum, take a stroll along the riverfront or relax on the sandy beach. 

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to Wexford, at the mouth of the picturesque River Slaney. This charming town holds plenty of fascinating sights, from the well-preserved ancient West Gate Tower to the beautiful ruined Selskar Abbey, which stands on the site where the first Anglo-Irish peace treaty was signed. Here we take the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets or enjoy true Irish hospitality in the many bars and restaurants in the relaxed atmosphere of this delightful town.

We check out of our hotel early to catch the ferry back to Holyhead; therefore, a voucher will be provided to enjoy breakfast on board. On arrival in Holyhead, we continue our journey home.

We fly to Dublin airport and continue to our hotel in Arklow.

Discover the beautiful Powerscourt Gardens, set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Sugarloaf Mountain and boasting a wonderful blend of striking terraces, fine statuary, ornamental lakes and a wide variety of trees. Designed from 1731 onwards and stretching over 47 acres, the estate includes formal walled gardens, distinctive Italian and Japanese gardens and the Pepperpot Tower, modelled on a pepper pot from Lord Powerscourt’s dining table!

We then head into the Wicklow Mountains National Park, which covers 20,000 hectares of stunning mountain scenery with vast sweeps of heather-clad moorland, hills, bogland, deep glacial valleys and lakes. The mountains are also home to a variety of wildlife habitats. We enjoy a scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains, passing through the Sally Gap before heading to Glendalough.

Glendalough, the 'Valley of the Two Lakes,' is home to one of Ireland's most important early Christian settlements. Founded in the 6th century by St Kevin, who sought refuge in the area's peaceful landscape, the site is rich in history. Start at the visitor centre before discovering highlights such as the 30-metre Round Tower, built as a refuge during Viking attacks, along with the remains of a cathedral, several churches and ancient stone crosses. On our way back to the hotel, we'll make a short stop in Avoca, which is famous as the filming site of 'Ballykissangel' and known for its fine knitwear.

We start the day with a scenic heritage train journey on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway, taking in the panoramic views as we travel along the picturesque banks of the River Suir and the beautiful Suir Valley.

We continue to the thriving maritime city of Waterford, where we visit the House of Waterford Crystal. Our guided tour takes us through the home of the world-famous Waterford Crystal’s manufacturing facility, where we learn how the stunning crystal is made, including demonstrations from the Master craftsmen using the traditional methods of mouth blowing, hand finishing, sculpting and engraving. After our tour, we enjoy free time to explore Waterford.

Enjoy a day at leisure today and make the most of the hotel's facilities, including complimentary access to the Bay Leisure Centre, featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Or choose to explore the town of Arklow and visit the Arklow Maritime & Heritage Museum, take a stroll along the riverfront or relax on the sandy beach. 

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to Wexford, at the mouth of the picturesque River Slaney. This charming town holds plenty of fascinating sights, from the well-preserved ancient West Gate Tower to the beautiful ruined Selskar Abbey, which stands on the site where the first Anglo-Irish peace treaty was signed. Here we take the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets or enjoy true Irish hospitality in the many bars and restaurants in the relaxed atmosphere of this delightful town.

Checking out of our hotel, we travel to Dublin where we spend an afternoon at leisure. There are plenty of historic sites, architectural splendours and iconic monuments to see from the oldest, Dublin Castle, to one of the newest, the Spire of Dublin. Or you may like to experience one of Dublin’s traditional pubs – there are 1,000 lining the city’s cobbled streets! We also have the option to join a guided tour of the city before spending the night in our hotel in the Dublin area.

We transfer to Dublin airport for our return flight home.