Slow Travel: Discover the Heart of Ireland
A Slow Journey Through Time
Experience the charm of Ireland at a leisurely pace with this carefully crafted train itinerary. Inspired by Tourism Ireland's Slow Tourism Month - Ireland Unrushed, this sustainable journey invites you to step off the beaten path and savor the natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality of Ireland's most captivating regions. As the train meanders through picturesque landscapes, take time to explore charming towns, quaint villages, and scenic countryside.
Image above: Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Co. Dublin
Part 1: Dublin
Beginning in the historical Dublin City, walk the streets and you'll feel the energy of over 1,000 years of history, as echoes of the Vikings mix with buzzing boutiques, cobbled streets reverberate with the sounds of buskers, and 18th century parks play host to festivals, film and food markets.
Visit top attractions such as The Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick’s and Christ Church Cathedrals, The Book of Kells at Trinity College and Dublin Castle. Attend a show in the many theatres dotted around the city, explore the buzzing shopping areas or relax and unwind with a stroll through the many parks. Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city or choose from a range of walking tours, from a food tour to a literary pub tour.
Stay at:
Buswells Hotel - City centre
Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel - Scenic location outside the city, access by dart/taxi
Image above: Guinness Storehouse, Co. Dublin
Part 2: Dublin to Cork
Travel by train from Dublin Heuston to Cork (Kent) Station, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, arriving into the centre of the city.
Cork City has a vibrant mix of history, culture, and charm. Wander the lively English Market, explore the historic Shandon Bells, or visit the impressive St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Art lovers will enjoy the Crawford Art Gallery, while whiskey enthusiasts can tour the Jameson Distillery in nearby Midleton with day trips available from Cork City. Other one day coach tours include Mizen Head, Blarney Castle and Cliffs of Moher.
Take a stroll along the scenic River Lee, soak up the local atmosphere in cozy pubs, and experience the city’s famous foodie scene. Or discover the best of the city on an open top hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Stay at:
Bayview Hotel - Scenic location outside the city access by bus or train/taxi
Castle Hotel Macroom - Nearby town, access by bus
Cork’s Vienna Woods Hotel - Near city centre, access by bus/taxi
Garryvoe Hotel - Scenic location outside the city access by bus or train/taxi
Image above: Jameson Distillery, Midleton, Co. Cork
Part 3 : Cork to Killarney
Travel from Cork (Kent) Station to Killarney via train and arrive into the town centre. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Killarney is a paradise of natural beauty and historic charm. Explore Killarney National Park, home to the stunning Lakes of Killarney, Torc Waterfall, and the scenic Gap of Dunloe. Visit the historic Muckross House & Gardens, step back in time at Ross Castle, or take a boat trip to the mystical Innisfallen Island. Enjoy a jaunting car ride through the park, hike up Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak, or relax in the town’s lively pubs and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on an epic 180km guided Ring of Kerry coach tour which departs from Killarney daily, or set off on a day trip to explore the stunning Dingle Peninsula.
Stay at:
Arbutus Hotel, Killarney - Town centre
Killeen House Hotel - Near town centre, access by taxi
Randles Hotel - Town centre
The Victoria, Killarney - Town centre
Image above: Ross Castle, Co. Kerry
Part 4: Killarney to Tralee
Take a short train journey from Killarney to Tralee, approximately 35 minutes.
Tralee offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Visit the Kerry County Museum to step back in time, explore the stunning Tralee Bay Wetlands, or enjoy a show at Siamsa Tíre, the National Folk Theatre of Ireland. Stroll through the beautiful Tralee Town Park, home to the Rose Garden, or take in the breathtaking views along Banna Strand. With its lively pubs, great shopping, and nearby scenic drives, Tralee is a must-visit destination in County Kerry. The highlight will be a castle stay. Make sure to find out the history of the castle.
Stay at:
Ballyseede Castle - Near town centre, access by taxi
Image above: Ballyseede Castle, Co. Kerry
Part 5: Return to Dublin
Take a train from Tralee back to Dublin. This journey will take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.
To book any of the properties listed above, please contact us by email at reservations@originalirishhotels.com, or call us on +353 1 2958900.
ABOUT ORIGINAL IRISH HOTELS
Original Irish Hotels is a collection of unique, owner-run hotels, located in Ireland’s most outstanding destinations. Open the door to the magic of unmissable moments with Ireland’s leading collection of independent hotels.Our hotels are dotted around the entire island of Ireland in must-see locations, from the Wild Atlantic Way, to Ireland’s Ancient East, the Causeway Coast, Dublin and the treasured heartland of Ireland’s midlands and lakelands.Irrespective of where our hotels are, Original Irish Hotels pride themselves in hosting a unique and truly memorable experience for our guests, and soon to be friends. The collection is made up of a range of traditional and boutique hotels, castles, manor and country houses, all run by locals, ensuring a unique experience every time.