6-Nights North & West Ireland Castles Tour with Private Driver/Guide

Kildare

The county town of Kildare, Ireland, is set in the heart of the Curragh, the huge, grassy limestone plain 30 mi/48 km southwest of Dublin where Ireland's famous racehorses are bred. Its main attraction is the Irish National Stud on the outskirts of town, where in 1900 Colonel William Hall-Walker used astrology and other unusual theories to produce a string of winners. He gave the facilities and horses to the state in 1943, and today owners from around the world breed and train their horses there. On the adjacent grounds (accessible with the same ticket) are the lovely Japanese Gardens and St. Fiachra's Garden.

In Kildare town, you can climb the round tower next to St. Brigid's Cathedral.

Roscommon

Roscommon is a small lush green county in Ireland with plenty of well-preserved historical features that dates back to the fifth century. Derived from the name Coman mac Faelchon, an abbot who built a monastery, the town became known as Ros Comain (St. Coman’s Wood) and later converting to a more English version, Roscommon. It’s a county where it seated the High Kings of Ireland and birthed historical people from artists, musicians, athletes, explorers, leaders, scholars and soldiers. Travelers can visit the Roscommon castle built in the 13th century, Roscommon Abbey, or the King House, a Gregorian Mansion that holds dramatic episodes of historical tragedies throughout history. This county has over 200 medieval sites to visit!

Mayo

Mayo is a county with an astonishing variety of scenery, an unspoilt natural environment and innumerable places of interest. Here, people have lived in harmony with their surroundings for over 5,000 years. The county has charming picturesque towns and tiny atlantic fishing villages, bustling market towns and the Marian Shrine at Knock. Natural amenities abound - Bountiful rivers and lakes, islands of all shapes and sizes and a long complex coastline ranging from jagged sea sculptures and majestic cliffs to safe golden strands and hidden coves. If it's scenery you're after, we've got it all. For the sports minded Mayo is a paradise. Sea, lake and river fishing, watersports, equestrian pursuits, golf (links and parkland), hill & trail walking...the list is endless. Then of course, there's Mayo's people and culture. Traditional pubs spilling over with Irish Music. Welcoming faces with friendly smiles and a hint of mischevious wit brimming beneath the surface. It's all waiting for you.

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.