Ireland's Copper Coast, Cork & The Titanic Trail

Itinerary

Day 1

Join your coach and travel to Pembroke Dock for our afternoon ferry crossing to Rosslare. Watch the Welsh coastline fade as Ireland's shores draw closer. Upon arrival, we journey to Dungarvan on the beautiful Waterford coast, checking into your hotel for four nights. Settle in and enjoy dinner as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Days 2 - 4

Day 2 – Blarney, Kinsale Cruise & Cork
After breakfast, we travel to Blarney – home to Ireland's most famous castle and the legendary Blarney Stone (admission to Blarney Castle not included). You have time to explore the Blarney Woollen Mills with its extensive collection of Irish crafts, knitwear, and gifts – no admission charge and perfect for browsing.

Later, we arrive in Kinsale – one of Ireland's prettiest harbour towns. Board your included Kinsale Harbour Cruise for a relaxing journey around this historic harbour. Learn about the town's maritime heritage, admire the colourful waterfront, and soak up the coastal atmosphere from the water.

We then head to vibrant Cork City for a guided walking tour. Discover the English Market, St Finn Barre's Cathedral, and the city's fascinating history. Return to Dungarvan for dinner.

Day 3 – Cobh: The Queenstown Story & Spike Island
Today brings one of Ireland's most fascinating historical experiences. We travel to Cobh (pronounced 'Cove') – a beautiful harbour town with an extraordinary story to tell.
Begin at The Queenstown Story, an immersive exhibition that brings to life over 1,500 years of Irish emigration history. Stand where 2.5 million Irish emigrants took their last steps on Irish soil, and discover Cobh's poignant connection to the Titanic – this was the great ship's final port of call before her fateful maiden voyage. Walk in the footsteps of those 123 passengers who boarded here, never knowing what lay ahead.

Next, board a ferry across Cork Harbour to Spike Island – often called 'Ireland's Alcatraz'. This 1,300-year-old island fortress has served as a monastery, a fortress, and one of the world's largest convict prisons. Explore the imposing star-shaped fort, walk through the atmospheric prison wings where thousands were held, climb the ramparts for spectacular harbour views, and uncover stories of rebellion, punishment, and survival. It's a truly captivating glimpse into Ireland's complex past.

Return to Dungarvan for dinner.

Day 4 – The Copper Coast Drive & Waterford
After breakfast, we embark on one of Ireland's most spectacular coastal drives. Following the Copper Coast scenic route along the R675, we journey through 25 kilometres of breathtaking scenery that earned this coastline its UNESCO Global Geopark status. Wind along dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, past stone-walled fields tumbling down to the sea, and through charming coastal villages. Stop for photos at panoramic viewpoints where volcanic rock formations tell the story of 460 million years of geological history, and the remnants of 19th-century copper mines cling to the cliffsides. Pass golden beaches, rugged headlands, and the Victorian seaside resort of Tramore as the coastline unfolds in all its glory.

Arriving in Waterford – Ireland's oldest city, founded by Vikings over 1,100 years ago – you'll have free time to explore at your leisure:
- Wander the historic streets and medieval quarter
- Browse the shops along the quays
- Visit the famous House of Waterford Crystal (optional)
- Explore the Viking Triangle with its ancient city walls
- Stop for lunch in one of the riverside cafés
- Discover Reginald's Tower – Ireland's oldest civic building

Return to Dungarvan for your final dinner, with memories of one of Ireland's most beautiful coastal drives.

Day 5

We make an early start (packed breakfast to go) for our journey to Rosslare and the morning ferry crossing back to Wales. Arriving in Pembroke, we complete our journey home with wonderful memories of Ireland's sunny south.

Tour Includes

• 4 nights stay in Ireland including full Irish breakfast* & dinner
• Return ferry crossings between West Wales and Ireland
• Kinsale harbour cruise
• Guided walking tour of Cork
• Free time in Blarney, Dungarvan & Waterford
• Entrance to The Queenstown Story of the Titanic
• Visit to Spike Island including ferry crossing
• Direct Coach Travel
• Net Zero Carbon

Dungarvan

Dungarvan is a charming coastal town set on the beautiful Waterford coast, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a warm Irish welcome. Nestled between the Comeragh Mountains and Dungarvan Bay, the town enjoys a stunning natural setting that makes it a lovely place to explore and unwind.

At the heart of Dungarvan is its picturesque harbour, where colourful boats bob gently on the water and scenic walks follow the shoreline. The town centre is compact and easy to explore, with a good mix of shops, cafés and traditional pubs where you can enjoy local food and friendly conversation. Dungarvan is also known for its connection to Irish history, with landmarks such as Dungarvan Castle overlooking the harbour and offering insight into the town’s past.

For those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, the surrounding area provides beautiful scenery and coastal views, perfect for a relaxed stroll. The town’s laid-back pace makes it ideal for soaking up the atmosphere rather than rushing from place to place.

With its scenic setting, historic charm and welcoming character, Dungarvan offers a delightful base for discovering Ireland’s south east and enjoying the simple pleasures of coastal town life.

Kinsale & Harbour Cruise

Kinsale is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and characterful harbour towns, known for its colourful streets, rich maritime history and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Nestled at the mouth of the River Bandon, the town is famous for its vibrant waterfront, historic buildings and welcoming charm, making it a highlight of any visit to Ireland’s south coast.

A cruise around Kinsale Harbour offers a wonderful way to experience the town and its surroundings from the water. As you glide through the calm harbour, enjoy superb views back towards the colourful houses, rolling hills and historic landmarks that line the shoreline. The cruise provides fascinating commentary on Kinsale’s naval and maritime past, including its role in key moments of Irish history and the strategic importance of the harbour over the centuries.

From the water, you’ll also spot impressive fortifications, bustling marinas and peaceful coves, all while soaking up the fresh sea air. The gentle pace of the cruise allows plenty of time to relax and appreciate the scenery, making it an enjoyable and informative experience.

Combining charming streets with a scenic harbour cruise, Kinsale offers a perfect blend of history, beauty and coastal character, leaving visitors with lasting memories of this delightful seaside town.

Blarney

Cork Guided Walking Tour

Discover the highlights of Cork on an included guided walking tour through the heart of Ireland's vibrant second city. Often described by its proud residents as Ireland's "real capital", Cork is renowned for its rich history, colourful character and warm hospitality.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll stroll through the city's historic streets as fascinating stories bring Cork's past and present to life. Along the way, you'll admire many of the city's best-known landmarks, including the magnificent St Fin Barre's Cathedral, the famous English Market, elegant Georgian architecture and the picturesque quays of the River Lee.

As you wander through the bustling centre, your guide will share insights into Cork's maritime heritage, local traditions and the people who have shaped this unique city over the centuries. You'll also have the opportunity to appreciate the city's vibrant atmosphere, where historic buildings sit alongside lively cafés, independent shops and bustling streets.

This enjoyable guided walking tour provides a wonderful introduction to one of Ireland's most welcoming and characterful cities, offering a fascinating insight into its history, culture and everyday life.

Waterford

INCLUDED Visitor DestinationWaterford has become the capital of Ireland’s sunny South East. It is Ireland’s oldest city, established by the Vikings in the 9th Century, and you can discover the area’s rich history through a series of fascinating attractions. You can visit the famous House of Waterford Crystal, Waterford’s arguably most famous export. See the Crystal Cutters at work and wander around the huge gift shop afterwards and perhaps purchase yourself a memory! Other highlights include Waterford Treasures’ three museums in the Viking Triangle, the spectacular Mount Congreve Gardens and the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway.

The Queenstown Story of the Titanic

The Queenstown Story is a deeply moving and fascinating visitor attraction located in the heart of Cobh, one of Ireland’s most historic harbour towns. This immersive exhibition tells the powerful story of Irish emigration over more than 1,500 years, focusing on the millions who left Ireland in search of a new life overseas.

Set within the original White Star Line ticket office, the exhibition brings history vividly to life through engaging displays, personal accounts and atmospheric storytelling. Visitors can stand on the very spot where countless emigrants took their final steps on Irish soil, capturing the emotional weight of departure and hope that shaped so many lives.

A key part of the experience explores Cobh’s connection to the Titanic. Known as Queenstown at the time, this was the great liner’s last port of call in 1912. Learn about the 123 passengers who boarded here, their stories, and the lasting impact of the tragedy on the town and beyond.

The Queenstown Story also highlights Cobh’s role as a major departure point during the Great Famine and through later periods of emigration, linking local history to global journeys. Thought-provoking and beautifully presented, this attraction offers a meaningful insight into Ireland’s past and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Spike Island

Spike Island is one of Ireland’s most fascinating and atmospheric historic attractions, set in the heart of Cork Harbour. Often referred to as “Ireland’s Alcatraz”, the island has a remarkable history spanning more than 1,300 years, having served as a monastery, a military fortress and one of the largest convict prisons in the world.

A ferry crossing brings you to the island, where the impressive star-shaped fort dominates the landscape. As you explore, you’ll walk through vast stone corridors, former prison cells and fortified walls, each telling stories of hardship, resilience and survival. Guided tours and informative displays bring the island’s dramatic past to life, offering insight into the lives of prisoners, soldiers and monks who once lived here.

From the ramparts, visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views across Cork Harbour and back towards Cobh, providing a striking contrast to the island’s darker history. The peaceful setting today makes it hard to imagine the island’s turbulent past.

Combining powerful storytelling, impressive architecture and breathtaking scenery, Spike Island offers a compelling and unforgettable experience. It’s a highlight of any visit to Cork Harbour and provides a unique window into Ireland’s complex and fascinating history.

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Accommodation

Lawlors Hotel Dungarvan

Lawlor’s Hotel in Dungarvan is a welcoming and comfortable hotel, ideally located in the heart of this charming seaside town on Ireland’s beautiful Waterford coast. Just a short stroll from Dungarvan Harbour and the town centre, the hotel offers a relaxed base for exploring Ireland’s Ancient East.

The hotel combines traditional Irish hospitality with modern comforts, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Guest rooms are well presented and designed for a restful stay, providing a comfortable retreat after days spent sightseeing along the coast or visiting nearby historic towns.

Dining at Lawlor’s Hotel is a highlight of any stay. Breakfasts are generous and set guests up well for the day ahead, while evening meals are served in a relaxed dining room offering a varied menu and attentive service. The hotel’s bar is a popular spot to unwind, known for its welcoming ambience and selection of drinks, including local favourites.

With its central location, comfortable accommodation and friendly service, Lawlor’s Hotel is an excellent choice for a touring holiday. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk along the harbour, exploring the surrounding countryside or simply relaxing in the hotel, guests can look forward to a pleasant and enjoyable stay in Dungarvan.

For more information on this hotel, please follow this LINK

Hotel location

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