Couples Escape Itinerary

A couples escape itinerary for Ireland’s Ancient East from Hook Lighthouse

2-day itinerary

Featuring:  Discover the world’s oldest intact working lighthouse, walk the cliffs of and picnic at Baginbun where Ireland was both lost and won, explore the ancient Kilkenny Castle, visit St. Valentine himself at Whitefriar Street Church

and traverse the famous Trinity College Dublin and see one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures, The Book of Kells.

Distance:

Hook Lighthouse to Dublin City:  183km

Explore the world’s oldest intact operational lighthouse.  Climb the 115 steps of the ancient tower and step back in time to lighthouse life some 800 years ago.

As the oldest intact operational lighthouse in the world, it offers a deep maritimate heriatge and of course knock-out views of the sea east coast. Lonely Planet recently deeming it “the world’s flashiest lighthouse”. But it’s far more than a lonely old beacon… guided tours take visitors right inside a structure that has watched over the rocks here for 800 years, there’s a homely cafe and art workshops are available for kids.

Once you’ve captured your fill of coastal photos, head north to the nearby Baginbun beach and cliffs, this secluded and picturesque bay is the perfect picnic spot and it also features a distinctive Martello Tower.  The tranquil looking beach is Baginbun, the scene of epic high drama in 1170 when Ireland was lost and won again during the first Anglo-Norman invasion.

Take to the road bound for the turreted Kilkenny Castle, one of Ireland’s greatest historical landmarks. Touring its hallowed halls will give you an insight into the fascinating history of Ireland’s famous Butler dynasty. After a leisurely wander through the formal rose gardens hit the motorway for Ireland’s capital.

Arrive at the 18th century Carmelite Whitefriar Street Church as here lies the patron saint of love, as a casket containing a number of St Valentine’s bones in a shrine in the centre of the ancient church.

Explore Dublin’s historic Trinity College and enjoy an opportunity to see the world-famous Book of Kells, The Authenticity Guided Tour of Trinity College

takes in the four major historic squares of the College, provides an insight into the history of the College and also gives an introduction to the Old Library and the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure and the world’s most famous medieval manuscript.

For all details and booking information see: www.irelandsancienteast.com

Download a copy of our Couples Escape itinerary.