Delve into the heart of Ireland in luxury with APT’s 12-day Emerald Ireland Small Group Tour, venturing from the country’s north to south uncovering highlights, heritage and culture.

Ireland is rich in legends and folktales, sweeping coastal views and charming towns dotted throughout the countryside. With vivacious cities to explore including Belfast and Dublin, scenic wonders like Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher, warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes, this isle is an unmissable location.

APT’s Emerald Ireland is a carefully curated 12-day itinerary, travelling to captivating destinations across the country. This luxury Small Group Tour offers a unique look into this part of the world with no more than 24 guests for a more immersive journey. With 100 years of experience in travel, APT delivers incredible experiences, guiding the way and showcasing the best of local culture and heritage.

Drive the Ring of Kerry

Journey around the Republic of Ireland’s Ring of Kerry passing green pastures, crumbling stone forts and quaint cottages. Be driven along panoramic country roads and witness uninterrupted views at every turn with superb vantage points including Moll’s Gap and Ladies View. Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most beautiful touring routes, this region presents endless opportunities for photography. With an experienced guide at the helm, simply relax and soak up the serene landscapes of southern Ireland as you journey through the heart of the county with a group of like-minded people.

Discover the Island’s Rich History

Steeped in heritage and folklore, Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. Best known for the legendary Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it, the castle is also surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds. Wander through numerous gardens and woodland walks, from the intriguing Poison Garden to tranquil lakeside paths.

Surrounded by grasslands and perched atop a limestone outcrop, the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary evokes a sense of serenity and intrigue, shaped by centuries of history witnessed within its walls. A remarkable collection of Gothic and Romanesque buildings, the site is rich in Ireland's medieval heritage.

Step into Belfast’s rich maritime history at Titanic Belfast, located on the very site where the RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched. Explore a series of engaging galleries that trace the ship’s story from conception and construction to its fateful maiden voyage in 1912. Dive into Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and the enduring legacy of the world’s most famous ocean liner.

Sample Local Produce

With an abundance of fresh, local fare, dining in Ireland is a feast for the senses. There are cosy pubs and restaurants aplenty with cheerful melodies and authentic interiors. Hearty meals accompanied by a cold Guinness or two create a lively ambience during lunch and dinners throughout the tour.

Along the vibrant streets of Galway, live music fills the air from bustling establishments. Soak up the Irish atmosphere over dinner in a traditional venue among locals and relish dishes including beef stew, pies and clam chowder, all part of Ireland's culinary palate.

Ireland’s legacy for distilled spirits is represented with enriching on-tour experiences including a gin tasting in The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney and an interactive Irish coffee-making demonstration at The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney.

Indulge in Natural Beauty

Located in County Clare, the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher offer one of Ireland’s most iconic views. On one of the best luxury tours of Ireland, soak in the stunning surrounds of rugged karst landscapes. Admire seabirds as they soar above the waves, gliding effortlessly along the coastline. The clifftop path winds through the landscape, revealing multiple viewing locations.

Embrace one of Europe’s most colossal cliff landscapes at Slieve League Cliffs. Nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, chiselled sea stacks covered in lush wilderness give way to turquoise water. On an in-depth tour with an expert guide, learn about the intricacies of this unique geology as well as stories surrounding the famous site.

Encrypted with ancient legends, trail the landscape of Giant’s Causeway, known for spectacular hexagonal stone formations in addition to thrashing waves. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is used as a filming location for its geological intrigue and otherworldly scenery. Admire the spectacle of the thousands of basalt columns, remnants from millennia-old volcanic activity.

Stay in a Castle

A two-night stay in Donegal’s elegant Lough Eske Castle allows you to savour a five-star experience while immersing yourself in the opulence of 19th century architecture. Spaces adorned with wood panelling, soft furnishings, stone fireplaces and antiques complement verdant views of surrounding nature.

Expand your Horizons

Experience APT’s luxury escorted tours of Ireland in tandem with a river cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube aboard APT’s 26-day Emerald Ireland with Magnificent Europe River Cruise. After your spectacular tour of Ireland, take an included flight to Amsterdam where you will board one of APT’s new-generation river ships. Cruise to Budapest, enjoying a range of onboard and offshore experiences with the assistance of dedicated crew and an expert APT Cruise Director.

In partnership with Tourism Ireland