GOURMET TOUR 2009
This tour is a food lovers dream & offers plenty to whet the appetite for professional and casual gourmets alike. Spend an enjoyable week exploring the gastronomic delights of Ireland’s East, South and South West Coast. Ireland is famous for its excellent natural ingredients due to a rich and diverse landscape suitable for dairy & beef and its abundant coastline full of fish and seafood. The gourmet restaurants around Ireland reflect this in their menus…….
Day 1 - Arrive into Dublin
This morning you will arrive into Dublin Airport, where you will be met by your driver guide in the arrivals hall and escorted to your luxury motorcoach. Cead Mile Failte - A hundred thousand welcomes to Ireland’s capital city, steeped in history and buzzing with youthful energy. Medieval, Georgian and modern architecture provide a backdrop to a friendly bustling port where the cosmopolitan and charming meet in a delightful diversity that is Dublin. Dublin is a delight to explore and very easy to navigate on foot. Dublin’s attractions are many, from castles, museums and art galleries to the lively spirit of Temple Bar.
The group will be transferred from Dublin Airport for some tea/coffee & scones and a panoramic tour of Dublin city.After the introduction to the capital city the driver will bring the group to the hotel for check in and the evening at leisure.
Visit the Guinness Storehouse, the number one visitor attraction in Ireland. Located in the heart of the Guinness brewery at St. James’s Gate, it is a “must see” on any tour of Dublin. Housed in an old fermentation plant, this seven storey visitor experience tells the history of the making of the world famous beer. It is a dramatic story that begins 250 years ago and ends in the Gravity Bar where visitors receive a complimentary pint of Guinness while relaxing and enjoying unparalleled panoramic views over Dublin. Visitors can also enjoy Irish cuisine with a Guinness twist in the Brewery Bar or a relaxing pint of Guinness in the Source Bar. And if you’d like a souvenir to remind you of your trip to the home of Guinness, there’s plenty to choose from in the Retail Store. 2009 markd the historic anniversary of 250 years of brewing at St.James’s gate, and where better to raise a glass to Arthur Guinness - the man who started it all - than at Guinness Storehouse.
Overnight with dinner at the Fitzwilliam Hotel or similar. This modern, 5***** Conran designed classic is uniquely positioned on St. Stephen’s Green, paces away from Grafton Street, Ireland’s premier shopping avenue. Understated luxury & impeccable service make it the perfect hotel for business and pleasure. Dine in the highly acclaimed Michelin Star Thornton’s Restaurant or the fashionable Citron Brasserie. Complimentary broadband in all rooms, Wi-Fi in public areas. State of the art AV equipment in all meeting rooms. Hair & Beauty Salon, Dublin’s hippest & most stylish 2,000sq ft penthouse - the ultimate experience!
Most likely the best way to experience Thornton’s restaurant is to try their 8 course tasting menu. Kevin and Muriel Thornton’s first establishment was the Wine Epergne located in Upper Rathmines from 1989 - 1992. Thornton’s opened in Portobello, Dublin in 1995 and moved to its present location on St. Stephen’s Green in 2002. Located in the heart of Dublin, overlooking magnificent St. Stephen’s Green, Thornton’s is a wonderful location for a sumptuous dining experience. The restaurant occupies the first floor of the Fitzwilliam Hotel and its capacity is 80 persons.
Day 2 - Wicklow & Wexford
After a full Irish Breakfast, you will travel southwards to Co. Wicklow. Travel south of Dublin, along the coast with fine views of the indented coastline travelling into County Wicklow. Traditionally know as the ‘Garden of Ireland’ because of its beauty and abundance of greenery beautifully set off against the backdrop of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain
Enjoy a cooking demonstration at Ballyknocken Cookery School, situated in the renovated Milking Parlour on the grounds of Ballyknocken House & Farm, and a haven for those seeking to learn the skills of preparing fresh local foods in a wonderful countryside setting. The cookery school is state of the art, with large seating and hands on capacity. Top of the range equipment such as Smeg and Newbridge Home is stocked. Run by Catherine Fulvio - Catherine is a graduate of the Ballymaloe and the Alix Gardiner Schools of Cookery. Having being brought up in Ballyknocken House, Catherine believes she learnt most by hanging onto the apron strings of her mother, Mary (Byrne) who has professionally cooked 3 meals per day for guests of Ballyknocken House since 1969! Catherine worked in nearby Tinakilly House before taking over Ballyknocken House in 1999 and subsequently setting up Ballyknocken Cookery School. In between running the kitchens of Ballyknocken House, Catherine has attracted media interest and more recently has been seen on Discovery Channel in US & Canada; Gentse Waterzooi - Belgium’s’ Leading Culinary travel programme..
Continue for overnight with dinner at Dunbrody Country House Hotel or similar. Dunbrody Country House Hotel Wexford is a small luxury hotel located on the dramatic Hook Peninsula on Ireland’s south coast. Owned and operated by husband and wife team Kevin & Catherine Dundon, Dunbrody reflects their joint passion for excellence in all areas - fine food and friendly relaxed service combined with luxury accommodations all within the centuries-old walls of this beautiful Georgian property.
Day 3 - Waterford & Kinsale
After breakfast visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship. On arrival into New Ross you will immediately be drawn to the magnificent sight of the masts and rigging of the historic emigrant ship Dunbrody towering over the quayside. Dunbrody is a full scale replica of the original ship which was built in 1845 for the Graves family of New Ross and which carried thousands of emigrants from Ireland to North America over a period of thirty years, trading extensively all over the world. The ship itself is a beautiful authentic recreation and visitors will experience the sights, smells and sounds of a tall ship crossing the ocean, as well as meeting the captain and crew, and encountering emigrants telling their stories. Dunbrody recalls the romantic age of sailing ships as well as giving a unique insight into the mass emigration of the Great Famine and the years following. All this on the very spot where President John F. Kennedy recalled his great grandparents leaving Ireland in 1849 “famine emigrants carrying only two things, a strong desire for freedom and a strong religious faith”.
Enjoy a walk around Cobh, a unique Irish Port Town, situated on the southern shore of the Great Island in one of the world’s finest natural harbours. Between 1848 and 1950, over 6 million adults and children emigrated from Ireland - over 2.5 million from Cobh, making it the single most important port of emigration in the country. Cobh was the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic. Later the steamers and ocean liners continued carrying the Irish to new lives and new lands.
Travel to Kinsale town. For centuries, Kinsale has been a haven from the sea for travellers and traders alike. Their influence has made Kinsale the most cosmopolitan and charming of ports in Ireland. But where Britons, Spaniards and Irish once fought, yachts now disgorge their sailors to sample “fruits de mer” in the old world atmosphere of Ireland’s Gourmet Capital. You might like to sample the history of the “Wine Geese” in Ireland’s only International Wine Museum in Desmond Castle and the history and crafts of Kinsale in the historic Courthouse. Or possibly visit Charles Fort and 12th Century St. Multose Church or The Courthouse, which houses the Regional Museum.
Enjoy dinner & overnight at Blue Haven Hotel Kinsale or similar. A luxury boutique style hotel situated in the heart of Kinsale. The luxurious bedrooms are individually furnished with exquisite furniture, the ultimate in luxury pocket sprung beds, plasma TVs and finer touches to make each room unique. Each room is a rewarding union of timeless elegance, luxury and classic sophistication. The new Blue Haven Bar, which has been luxuriously refurbished to the highest standards has launched an exciting new menu serving 7 days a week from 12 noon.
Day 4 - Blarney, Cork & Midleton
After breakfast this morning, you will visit the village of Blarney & Blarney Castle. Situated 8km from Cork City, this historic castle is most famous for its stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it. The word Blarney was introduced into the English language by Queen Elizabeth I and is described as pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The stone is set in the wall below the battlements, and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards (grasping an iron railing) from the parapet walk. In the grounds of the castle the Rock Close and its surroundings is a curious place of ancient trees and far more ancient stones, by legend a garden of druidic origin and a centre of worship in pre- Christian days. The place has an aura of magic and mystique with Wishing Steps, Witch’s Kitchen, Druid’s Cave and many other delights, telling a story of centuries past.
Continue to Cork City, which is Ireland’s second biggest city after Dublin and built like Venice upon the waters with the centre on an island. Moreover Cork is known have a rich cultural life and being the European Capital of Culture in 2005. Cork City has all the amenities of a large city but still manages to retain its pleasant atmosphere of a distinctive continental air. Cork was originally a monasteric settlement founded in the sixth century and got its important harbour with the Norsemen erecting it. Cork features architecturally notable buildings originating from the medieval, like St. Patrick’s Street, which is known for its remodelled architecture and shops. When you are walking along the streets, mind the dialect people of Cork people, which is a characteristic sing- song cadence
The English Market is one of the oldest of its kind. Trading as a market since 1788, it predates most of the other markets like it. Barcelona’s famous Boqueria market did not start until 80 years after the English Market first started to serve the people of Cork. The English Market has entrances on Princes Street, Patrick Street and the Grand Parade. It is a covered market for fish, fruit, meat and vegetable. The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. In 1980 it was destroyed by fire and was refurbished by Cork Corporation to an award-winning design by the Cork city architect T. F. MacNamara. Foods from all over the world as well as traditional Cork foods can be purchased.
Afterwards travel to the town of Midleton for a tour of the Old Midleton Distillery - this tour is a journey through the story of Irish whiskey by means of an audio-visual presentation (available in 8 languages). Follow the old distillery trail through mills, maltings, stillhouse, warehouses and kilns - some of these buildings date back to 1795. View the largest pot still in the world prior to sampling the internationally renowned Jameson Whiskey in the bar (minerals for children) - perhaps have the opportunity of becoming a qualified Irish whiskey taster with presentation of certificate before browsing in the exclusive Jameson merchandise outlet and craft shops or relaxing in the elegant restaurant on site.
Return for overnight at Blue Haven Hotel Kinsale or similar. Enjoy your evening at leisure to sample dinner in one of the many restaurants around Kinsale.
Day 5 - West Cork & the Kingdom of Kerry.
Today you will enjoy an epicurean tour of West Cork, famous for its many farmhouse cheese makers. Visit Clonakilty, home of the famous Black pudding, along with the towns of Ballydehob, Schull and Skibbereen, which are pockets of exceptional local gourmet and organic food.
Possibly stop off for a visit to Mannings Emporium , which is easily spotted on the sweeping bay road to Bantry. It has a very continental look, despite it being one of the oldest shops in the area. Val is a second generation shopkeeper, looking after this place since the late 70’s, and the premises have been in the family since the 1940’s. A striped awning adorns the front of the shop, covering the array of wooden vegetable baskets on display underneath. These contain the best fresh produce from the locality and more. In summer, locally grown green beans, peas, salad leaves, tomatoes and strawberries are here, alongside more exotic, tropical fruits. Winter finds more traditional carrots, turnips, cabbages, Swedes and parsnips, and good old fashioned Irish potato varieties like Kerr Pinks. Inside, the place really lives up to its name - this is an ‘Emporium’ in the truest sense, with row after higgledy piggledy row of jars containing all manner of good things to eat. The deli counter displays a vast choice of Irish and Continental cheeses.
Continue on to the picturesque town of Kenmare, cradled in the heart of Kenmare Bay - this town is a haven of tranquillity, gourmet food, superb accommodation and breathtaking scenery in one of the most natural, unspoilt environments in Europe.
Dinner & overnight at Caragh Lodge or similar. One mile from the famous “Ring of Kerry”, in an award winning garden of Azaleas, Camelias and Magnolias, you will find Caragh Lodge. A mid Victorian house, Caragh Lodge was originally built as a fishing lodge and is on the shores of Caragh Lake, looking towards the McGillicuddy Reeks (Ireland’s highest mountain). The Proprietor, Mary Gaunt, personally supervises the kitchen and reservations for dinner are advisable. Seafood, Wild Salmon and Kerry lamb feature strongly on the Menu. In keeping with its surroundings the Lodge is furnished throughout with antiques and the 15 comfortable bedrooms are centrally heated and have ensuite facilities.
Day 6 - Ring of Kerry
Today explore the beauty of Co. Kerry and scenery that is second to none, when you drive the Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry Tour takes you through spectacular coastal and mountainous scenery along the base of the highest mountain range in Ireland, The MacGillycuddy Reeks, the highest peak being Carrantuohill rising 3,414 feet. The journey takes you through villages and towns depicting typical rural life in Ireland.
Travel through Killarney town, which was the first Tourist Destination in Ireland and has a tradition of welcoming visitors for almost three centuries. The town of Killarney - one of Ireland’s best known tourist destinations - lies adjacent to the boundary of the National Park on its north-eastern edge. Its name comes from “Chill Airne”, meaning “church of the sloe”, the original site of which is thought to be the location of the present day St. Mary’s Church of Ireland. Monarchs, Poets, Artists, Writers and Composers have visited and been inspired by the unique and unsurpassed beauty of the region. The breathtaking beauty of the landscape, the majestic mountains and mystical lakes combine to make Killarney the ultimate jewel in ‘quality holiday destinations’. Its world famous National Park and Muckross House & Gardens offer wonderful experiences never to be forgotten. Killarney is truly - ‘A place for all Seasons’.
Visit Muckross House and Gardens. Muckross House is a 19th century manor house, beautifully situated close to Muckross Lake, second largest of Killarney’s three lakes. Now a major visitor centre, the House has two main themes, the environment of the National Park and the folklore of County Kerry in the 19th and 20th centuries. Skilled craft workers carry on some of the traditional crafts of Kerry as their predecessors did in bygone days. The gardens informal in size are noted for their fine collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, extensive water gardens and an outstanding rock garden of natural limestone.
You might like to stop for some lunch at O’Neills Pub - In the same family for 150 years, Michael and Bridie O’Neill’s pub, the Point Bar, is beside the Valentia Island car ferry. Renovated in true character by the present owners, it’s always neat and makes an appealing place to drop into for a quick one while you’re waiting for the ferry - but even better to stay awhile and make the most of their super fresh seafood, served during the summer. The menu covers everything from a whole range of salads and open sandwiches on brown bread - fresh and smoked wild salmon, smoked mackerel, crabmeat, crab claws - to hot dishes like deep-fried squid and a couple of hake and monkfish dishes with garlic and olive oil.
Return to Caragh Lodge for dinner & overnight.
Day 7 -Listowel, Foynes & Adare.
After a hearty Irish Breakfast travel towards Listowel. Nestled in the northern half of the Co Kerry is the traditional lively market town of Listowel, situated on the banks of the River Feale. Listowel has a long history dating back to 1303 where it first appears in the Plea Roll. Fortress to the Fitzmaurice family the town developed around Listowel Castle and its magnificent market Square, one of its many distinguishing features. Described as the ‘Literary Capital of Ireland’, Listowel has produced an abundance of world famous writers including John B. Keane and Bryan MacMahon, giving it a uniqueness not to be found in any other part of Ireland. Listowel is home to Writers’ Week, the annual Literary Festival held in June, the famous Listowel Horse-Racing Festival held in September and Listowel Food Fair held in November.
Continue to Foynes Co. Limerick to visit the Foynes Flying Boat Museum & to enjoy an Irish Coffee. In 1942, Brendan O’Regan opened a restaurant and coffee shop in the Foynes terminal building and employed a Chef named Joe Sheridan. It was not long before Joe realised that the passengers coming to wait in the terminal in cold and rainy weather needed something to make the coffee a bit stronger. Thus, Irish coffee was born. Since then Irish Coffee has become one the most popular welcoming drinks in the world. Today, Foynes celebrates this wonderful drink every summer at the Irish Coffee Festival.
You can travel back in time in the museums authentic 1940’s cinema, while watching the award winning film ”Atlantic Conquest”. The museum features the original Terminal Building, Radio and Weather Room (complete with transmitters, receivers and Morse code equipment). The exhibits feature an introduction to the first transatlantic passenger service and Foynes during the war years. On July 9th 1939, Pan Am’s luxury Flying Boat, the “Yankee Clipper” landed at Foynes to become the first commercial passenger flight on a direct route from the USA to Europe. Now the “Yankee Clipper is back - our latest exhibit is the world’s only full scale replica of the Boeing 314, “Yankee Clipper”. We also have a special children’s room with cockpit and flight simulator. A new addition is a full scale model of the B314 Flying Boat at the Museum.
Travel through Adare Village, one of Ireland’s prettiest villages. The village is characterised by thatched roof cottages, Tudor style houses, beautiful gardens and ivy clad medieval churches in picturesque surroundings on both sides of the street beside the river Maigue.
Dinner & overnight at the Mustard Seed at Echo Lodge or similar. Nestled in the heart of the County Limerick countryside in a converted 19th century convent is The Mustard Seed at Echo Lodge. Set on ten acres, the celebrated, stylish country house is surrounded by colourful gardens and mature trees. The Mustard Seed also welcomes non residents for dinner and has long been highly acclaimed for attracting lovers of good food and wine from around the globe. Echo Lodge Country House Adare oozes style without pretention. The house combines the spaciousness and elegance of an earlier age with the comfort and amenities of today.
The Mustard Seed is one of Limerick’s most recommended restaurants serving award winning food using the best quality ingredients from the kitchen garden and local suppliers. Head Chef David Rice carefully creates the 4 course table d’hote menu to reflect the availability of ingredients with each season.
Day 7 - Depart from Shannon
Alas it is time to bid farewell to Ireland. You will be transferred to Shannon Airport, where you will bid farewell to your driver and check in for your return flight.
Slan Abhaile (Safe Home).
