Explore the Midlands of Ireland including Lough Derg

Mining Heritage and Megalithic Mysteries

Explore the Arigna Mining Experience, a fascinating look into Ireland’s coal mining past. Travel to Sligo for a visit to the ancient Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

Other alternative experiences today can include a cookery class with lunch (or dinner) at Cloughan Farmhouse, a guided walk or e-bike tour in Longford, or some time to unwind in the natural beauty of Lough Key Forest Park.

Arigna Mining Experience Tour: Discover Ireland’s Last Working Coal Mine. Now it’s time to experience first-hand the working conditions of those who spent so much of their time labouring under these mountains. You’ll be in the company of an ex-miner, someone who knows their way around these mines! Inside the mine, you’ll hear the constant dripping of water, feel the intensity of the darkness, see the cramped areas where miners lay on their sides, chipping away at the rock for hours on end. It’s an experience that’ll leave a lasting impression.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery: This is the largest cemetery of megalithic tombs in Ireland and is also among the country's oldest, with monuments ranging from five thousand to five thousand eight hundred years old.  Archaeologists have recorded over 60 tombs of which 30 are visible. 

Lough Key Forest Park is located in an area of great historical interest and is comprised of vast woodland and numerous islands. There is reference to Castle Island in the annals of Lough Ce as early as 1184. During this time the park was called Moylurg and the Kings of Moylurg were the McDermotts. Space, fresh air, clear skies, natural surrounds, outdoor facilities and activities. Lough Key is where you can experience a unique cluster of activities and attractions that are suitable for all ages and interests where you can do as much or as little as you like in a historical forest setting surrounded by woodland and water at the centre of ‘Irelands Hidden Heartlands’.

Monastic Sites and Castle Retreats

Travel to County Offaly to visit the sacred ruins of Clonmacnoise Monastic Site, followed by a stroll through the gardens of Birr Castle, known for its scientific heritage and telescope. Continue to your next luxury retreat at either Dromoland Castle or Kinnitty Castle, where you’ll spend three nights immersed in Irish history and hospitality.

Clonmacnoise Monastery: We include entrance fees to the spiritual site of Clonmacnoise, an Early Christian site founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the eastern bank of the River Shannon. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches (10th  -13th century), two round towers, three high crosses and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe. The original high crosses and a selection of grave slabs are on display in the visitor centre. The long and varied history of Clonmacnoise is recounted in an audio-visual presentation shown in the visitor centre. There are also exhibitions that deal with the flora, fauna and landscape of the region.

Birr Castle: Set in the heritage town of Birr, Birr Castle Demesne spans 120 acres of stunning parklands and gardens, featuring over 5,000 species of trees and plants, wildlife, and scenic trails along rivers and waterfalls. Discover the Great Telescope, the Lunar Heat Machine, one of the world’s oldest darkrooms, welcome videos, a playground, and Ireland's Historic Science Centre. Explore the legacy of the Parsons family, renowned for their pioneering work in science, engineering, and astronomy over 400 years. Suitable for nature lovers, families, photographers, scientists, and history enthusiasts.

River Shannon Private Cruise (from Dromoland)

Enjoy a curated Secret Escapes experience from Dromoland, including a private boat trip on the River Shannon—an unforgettable way to explore Ireland’s inland waterways.

Falconry and Lakeside Legends  

Take part in a Hawk Walk on the castle grounds, followed by leisure activities at Dromoland. You may wish to do some local sightseeing with a possible visit to the picturesque village of Adare or Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.  

Hawk Walk at Dromoland Castle: Enjoy magnificent wildlife and ancient woodlands. Falconry is an unmissable part of the Dromoland Castle experience. You’ll get up close and personal with mesmerising falcons, hawks and owls in the Castle grounds. Wonderful for a family or corporate activity, our five-star falconry experience will give you access to the world of these magnificent birds of prey and the unique relationship they have with their falconers.

Departure or Extended Exploration

Transfer to Shannon or Dublin Airport for departure. Or you may decide to extend your journey into the South or Nort West, through Northern Ireland or to add some time in Ireland’s Capital City of Dublin.

All itineraries are subject to availability.  The price range covers all of the accommodations listed for 5 nights with bed and full Irish breakfast each day.  Please note High Seaon is from April to October.

Price Per Person staring from (seasonal rates apply)

2 passengers from €4,695 to €6,195 per person sharing
4 passengers from €4,195 to €5,695 per person sharing (2 rooms)
6 passengers from €3,995 to €5,295 per person sharing (3 rooms)

Let us know if you need prices for a different party-size. A single supplement will apply for single rooms and please note all transport costs will apply if you’re travelling solo.

What is included

Hotels: You’ll enjoy 5 nights’ bed and full Irish breakfast in the most sumptuous rooms at the following hotels

• 2 Nights at Kilronan Castle in a Junior Suite
• 3 Nighst at Dromoland Castle in a Deluxe Room

Driver-Guide Services

You’ll have exclusive use of our professional driver-guide services for 5 days. One driver-guide will accompany you for the touring part of your trip. You’ll be safely returned to the airport on your return.

A party of up to two passengers will travel in a luxury saloon vehicle. We’ll provide a luxury minivan for three to five passengers. For a larger group, we’ve got many luxury vehicles to suit your needs. For 2 guests is a luxury Saloon Car and for 4 guests in a Luxury Mercedes Viano.

We also include hotel taxes and fees, communication costs and the help of our local travel experts throughout your trip; 24/7.

We simply want you to focus on having an incredible time. It’s that simple.

Entrance fees are included to the following sites:

• The National Famine Museum - Strokestown
• Arigna Minng Experience
• Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
• Optional Cookery Class ar Cloughan Farmhouse
• Guided Walking Tour or E Bike Tour at Lough Key Forst Park
• Clonmacnoise Monastery
• Birr Castle and Gardens
• Private Curated Tour on Lough Derg
• Private Hawk Walk at Dromoland Castle

We simply want you to focus on having an incredible time. It’s that simple.

What's Not Included

• Your flights to and from the USA or Europe
• Gratuities and tips to driver-guides and local guides
• Anything that we’ve not mentioned above