Panoramic Cork City & Blarney Castle
Duration: 4 hours
Tour Code: cob-003
Price:
$149.00 per person
Free
Irish history and tradition are yours to discover during this intimate orientation tour of Cork City, and a visit to Blarney Castle.
Depart from the Cathedral town of Cobh for the drive along North Ring Road to Blarney, the little village that lies in the protective shadow of historic Blarney Castle. Built in two sections, the Castle features a massive oblong keep, and typical Irish battlements. Below them, the famous Blarney Stone is set in the wall, and to kiss it, one has to lean over backwards from the parapet walk of the battlements.
During your visit to the castle, you will have an opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which, according to legend, imparts the gift of eloquence to all whose lips touch it. Next, you will visit the home of Blarney Woollen Mills, a building that dates back to 1793, and is today considered to be one of the finest craft and gift centres in Ireland. Upon arrival, you will enjoy an Irish coffee, and browse through a wide range of Irish clothing, crystal, linen and handicrafts.
Next, you will embark on a panoramic orientation tour of Cork, Ireland's second city. Once a swampy island located on the estuary of the Lee River upstream from Cork Harbour, the city is now an important shopping and commercial capital of the south. Today, the Lee River flows through the city in two main channels, so that you find yourself constantly crossing bridges. In fact, it is this feature that gives Cork its distinctive continental flair. Today, Cork is a University City brimming with jazz, film, opera, theatres, restaurants, and all of the amenities of a large city, yet it still manages to retain the pleasant charm and friendliness of a country town. During your drive through Cork, you will see some of the city's famous sites, including St. Finbarr's Cathedral, the Old Courthouse, City Hall, and the renowned Bells of Shandon.
Following your tour, you will return to Cobh and your awaiting ship.
Please note: The visit to Blarney Castle includes approximately 300 yards of walking, and 110 steps to climb. The castle's stairwell is narrow, and its top is narrow, with steep steps. Only guests in good physical condition should attempt the climb to kiss the stone.