Sit back, relax and let someone else take the wheel this vacation. Chauffeur driven tours would have been seen as quite exclusive in the past, but they are steadily becoming more popular with visitors embarking on trips to Ireland as each year passes. We think of it as the clever choice; enjoy Ireland tours in the comfort of our modern fleet of exclusive vehicles from a driver with expert local knowledge. Never let unpredictable weather, road conditions, a wrong turn or a drink with your meal phase you again. Whether you would like to do sightseeing Ireland vacations or if you have a customized trip based around your areas of interest, we have something for everyone. Popular hobby tours include golfing tours and whiskey tours! A frequently asked question, especially from American guests is “how much should I tip a chauffeur ?”. Generally tips are not expected but if desired at the end of a tour it is always greatly appreciated by drivers. Below we have listed 5 amazing scenic drives and ideas to inspire you when planning an Irish chauffeur driven tour.
1. Sightseeing in the nation’s capital, Dublin
There is so much to see and do in Dublin, that it can be hard to pack it all in. Having a driver that knows the best time to visit each location is a true asset, plus you will never get lost. The Guinness Brewery at St. James’s Gate is a must; pulling a pint post-tour with the incredible views from the Gravity bar is an added treat. A trip to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without a night in Temple Bar, Dublin’s art and cultural district. Tourist favourites also include a trip to Ireland’s largest conservation park – Dublin Zoo, a walk in the majestic deer-filled Phoenix Park or a visit to the home of Dracula author – Dublin Castle. For those of you who enjoy brewery and distillery experiences, Dublin has a plethora of amazing breweries strewn across the city. We strongly recommend a visit to Rascals Brewing for a range of outlandishly creative and delightful IPA’s.
2. Make memories in West Cork
There are few areas in Europe as scenic as West Cork. This stunning location hosts some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, friendly seaside towns and tourist spots. Barleycove Beach located just beyond the holiday town of Schull is home to spectacular white sand, rolling dunes and gentle tides. A short drive from here is Mizen Head, the most southerly point in all of Ireland. The bridge may not be for the faint of heart, but you will be rewarded with incredible ocean views from the old signaling station from the other side.
3. Lough Corrib Scenic Loop Drive, Cong and Galway City
Galway holds a special place in Ireland as the nation’s festival and nightlife capital. Leaving the city and journeying up the Wild Atlantic Way will bring you towards Lough Corrib will offer immense natural scenic beauty before reaching the remarkable little town of Cong. Cong is home to the Quiet Man Cottage where the famous John Wayne film was shot. A mere stone’s throw from here is Ashford Castle, one of Ireland’s most luxurious and decadent resort hotels. A stay here is a real treat with stunningly manicured grounds, phenomenal food and fantastic on-site activities such as horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting and falconry. A traveler’s delight.
4. Ring of Kerry, Kerry
Kerry is world famous for its exceptional beauty and local charm. Starting in Killarney the Ring of Kerry is a 180km loop, which perfectly captures all of the sights and activities within the region. Starting in Killarney, the national park is some to mountains, lakes and valleys which simply must be seen to be appreciated. Muckross House is a popular stop within the park, once hosting Queen Victoria. The Gap of Dunloe is what many envisage as rural Ireland with spectacular picturesque views of old Ireland. Next on your journey is Dingle notoriously friendly tourist hotspot home to best in class Dingle Gin Distillery. A well worth visit after this is the Skelligs, once home to an ancient order of monks the Skelligs were once the most westerly known land in the world. Since then its otherworld appearance, rising sharply from the sea and it’s beautiful honeycomb huts has been used as the backdrop of the recent StarWars trilogies.
5. The Burren. Clare
“And some time make the time to drive out west
Into County Clare, along the Flaggy Shore”
The Irish Poet and Nobel Prize winner wrote this in his poem Postscript when referring to the wonder and beauty of Clare. This rugged karst landscape is a place like no other and makes for a breathtaking journey. This one of a kind location is now a protected national park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ailwee Caves in Ballyvaughan were accidentally discovered by a farmer. Within was a frozen underground waterfall and the ancient remains of the Irish Brown Bear. A tour lasts one hour and is a fun experience for all ages. After stopping here you are a mere drive from the Cliffs of Moher and also the time-trapped Aran Islands, one of Ireland’s few remaining Irish speaking locations.