Explore Ireland’s timeless allure on the Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour. This 12-hour excursion whisks you away to the medieval marvels of Rock of Cashel and the legendary Blarney Castle, where you’ll have the chance to plant a kiss on the famous Blarney Stone. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares captivating insights into the region’s rich history and culture, while you soak in the breathtaking vistas of the Galtee Mountains. With a maximum of 25 passengers, this personalized journey promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you enchanted and eager to uncover more of Ireland’s enchanting secrets.
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour takes small groups from Dublin hotels to explore the medieval Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle, including the famed Blarney Stone.
- The tour provides guided insight into the region’s history and cultural heritage, with scenic views of the Galtee Mountains and Golden Vale.
- Entrance fees for Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, are included in the $140.50 per person price.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users due to the challenging terrain and accessibility issues at the historic sites.
- The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and has received an overall 4/5 rating from customers.
Tour Overview
The Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour offers visitors a comprehensive 12-hour experience exploring Ireland’s historic sites and natural beauty. Priced at $140.50 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 25 passengers and departs in the morning from selected Dublin hotels, returning around 7:45 PM.
Highlights include the medieval Rock of Cashel, where guests can stroll where St. Patrick walked, and the iconic Blarney Castle, where they can kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the ‘gift of the gab.’
Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy scenic views of the Golden Vale and Galtee Mountains. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide, providing an immersive and well-organized exploration of Ireland’s treasures.
Itinerary Highlights
Exploring medieval ruins, Celtic crosses, and round towers, visitors can stroll where St. Patrick walked and admire the Catholic Church, a prime example of medieval architecture, at the captivating Rock of Cashel.
Next, travelers will have the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, said to bestow the ‘gift of the gab’ and seven years of eloquent speech.
The tour also includes:
- Exploring the castle’s enchanting gardens and the mystical Witches Cave.
- Enjoying panoramic views of the Galtee Mountains as the coach traverses the scenic Golden Vale agricultural plains.
- Learning about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage from the knowledgeable tour guide.
- Taking in the natural beauty and enchanting atmosphere of these iconic Irish landmarks.
Inclusions
The Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour includes transport in a luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi, as well as entrance fees for the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle and Gardens. This ensures a comfortable and seamless journey, allowing you to fully learn about the captivating history and stunning landscapes.
Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by a professional guide who’ll share their knowledge and insights, enhancing your overall experience. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off from listed accommodations, making it a hassle-free and convenient way to explore the area.
While lunch isn’t included, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in local cuisine at your own expense, further enriching your cultural experience.
Important Information
Although the Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour caters to a wide range of visitors, it’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users due to accessibility concerns.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking. Plus, pets and smoking aren’t permitted on the tour, ensuring a comfortable experience for all participants.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, with highlights such as:
- Exploring the medieval ruins and architecture of the Rock of Cashel.
- Kissing the Blarney Stone for the ‘gift of the gab.’
- Enjoying the scenic views of the Golden Vale and Galtee Mountains.
- Discovering the Witches Cave at Blarney Castle.
Customer Reviews
Customers who have embarked on the Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour generally praise the knowledgeable tour guides, though some have noted minor discrepancies between the advertised itinerary and the actual experience. The tour’s overall rating of 4/5 showcases a positive customer sentiment, with high marks for value, safety, and organization. As seen in the table below, the tour’s strengths are its expert guides and smooth operations, while areas for improvement include ironing out minor logistical issues.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Value for Money | 4/5 |
| Safety | 4.5/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Organization | 4.5/5 |
Pickup Locations
According to the information provided, the Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour offers pickup from various major hotels in the city, including the Intercontinental, Shelbourne, Merrion, Westin, and Gresham.
This convenience allows travelers to easily access the tour without the hassle of navigating to a central meeting point. The pickup locations are designed to cater to the diverse accommodation needs of participants, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure.
By offering this service, the tour operator demonstrates a commitment to providing a hassle-free experience, allowing guests to focus on the highlights ahead rather than logistics.
The key pickup locations include:
- Intercontinental Hotel
- Shelbourne Hotel
- Merrion Hotel
- Westin Hotel
Cancellation Policy
The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy, providing guests with the option to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This allows travellers to adjust their plans without incurring any penalties, ensuring a worry-free experience. Whether unexpected circumstances arise or plans change, the cancellation terms provide peace of mind and the flexibility to accommodate last-minute adjustments.
This policy is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or who are subject to unpredictable circumstances, as it eliminates the risk of financial loss.
Accessibility
Despite the tour’s comprehensive offerings, it isn’t suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users, limiting accessibility for certain travellers.
Visitors with mobility challenges may find navigating the historic castle and its grounds challenging, as the tour doesn’t provide accommodations for wheelchair accessibility. Those planning to join the excursion are advised to carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking, ensuring the experience aligns with their individual needs and preferences.
The tour’s accessibility limitations include:
- Uneven terrain and steep staircases within the castle.
- Lack of elevators or ramps for wheelchair users.
- Absence of specialized equipment or assistance for travellers with physical disabilities.
- Potential difficulties for those with visual or hearing impairments to fully engage with the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
According to the tour information, outside food and drinks are generally not allowed on the tour. However, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during any free time or breaks.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Dressing in layers is recommended to adapt to changing conditions during the day’s activities.
How Often Do Bathroom Breaks Occur During the Tour?
The tour typically includes several scheduled bathroom breaks throughout the day to accommodate passengers’ needs. Participants can expect to make stops at appropriate intervals, such as before and after major attractions, to ensure comfort during the lengthy excursion.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Blarney Castle?
Visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs at Blarney Castle, including keepsakes like Blarney Castle mugs, t-shirts, and locally-made crafts. The castle’s gift shop offers an assortment of items to commemorate one’s visit and the legendary Blarney Stone.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Visitors are generally free to take photos throughout the tour, with the exception of some indoor areas like the Blarney Castle itself where photography may be restricted. It’s best to check with the tour guide about any specific photo guidelines.
Recap
The Dublin: Blarney Castle Small Group Tour offers a captivating journey through Ireland’s enchanting landscapes and historical wonders.
With a personalized experience and expert guidance, participants can enjoy the region’s rich culture, from kissing the legendary Blarney Stone to exploring the medieval splendor of Rock of Cashel.
This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the magic and charm of Ireland’s hidden gems.
