The Blarney Highlights Van Tour offers travelers a chance to explore Ireland’s iconic landmarks in comfort and style. Departing from Cork or Ringaskiddy, this 7-hour excursion takes guests on a scenic journey through the picturesque Cork countryside, culminating in a visit to the renowned Blarney Castle. With expert guidance and the opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, this tour promises an unforgettable experience rich in history and culture. But what else can one expect on this captivating adventure?
Key Points
- This 7-hour tour departs from Cork or Ringaskiddy and visits Blarney Castle, Blarney Woollen Mills, and provides a panoramic drive through Cork’s city and countryside.
- Guests can skip the line to kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and explore the castle grounds.
- The tour includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes van with a professional guide providing on-board commentary.
- Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is eligible for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
- Based on 3 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with praise for the guide, transportation comfort, and value for money.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Blarney Highlights Van Tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience starting from either Cork or Ringaskiddy, with a price range of $146.55 per person.
The 7-hour tour includes skipping the line to kiss the Blarney Stone, visiting the Blarney Woollen Mills, and a panoramic drive through Cork City.
A comprehensive 7-hour tour that includes skipping the line to kiss the Blarney Stone and visiting the Blarney Woollen Mills.
Travelers can also explore the charming town of Kinsale.
The tour includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes van, knowledgeable guides, and pickup and drop-off from the cruise ship.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Looking for more options in Cobh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour starts at 8 AM from either the Cobh Cruise Terminal or the Ringaskiddy Cruise Terminal.
First, guests skip the line to kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.
Next, they visit the Blarney Woolen Mills, the largest Irish store in the world.
Then, they enjoy a panoramic drive through Cork City, viewing highlights like the River Lee, St Finbarres Cathedral, Shandon Bells, English Market, and Grand Parade.
The tour continues with a scenic drive through the Cork countryside to Kinsale, where guests can view Charles Fort and James Fort overlooking the harbor.
An optional visit to Cobh may be included.
Transportation and Guide
Guests travel in a luxury Mercedes van during the Blarney Highlights Van Tour. The van provides a comfortable and air-conditioned ride throughout the tour.
The professional guide offers on-board commentary, sharing insights and historical information about the sights along the way.
The tour includes:
-
Pick-up and drop-off from the cruise ship terminal, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.
-
A knowledgeable guide who provides valuable information and context throughout the tour.
-
Air-conditioning in the van, ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the weather.
Important Information
Although the Blarney Highlights Van Tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it offers a comfortable and informative experience for travelers.
The tour departs from either the Cobh (Cork) Cruise Ship Terminal or the Ringaskiddy Cruise Ship Terminal. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and refrain from bringing pets or smoking on the air-conditioned coach.
The tour includes skip-the-line access to Blarney Castle, where visitors can kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
With a professional guide providing on-board commentary, travelers can enjoy a panoramic drive through Cork City and the countryside, as well as an optional visit to the historic town of Cobh.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Recommendations
According to the 3 reviews available, travelers overwhelmingly rate the Blarney Highlights Van Tour 5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewers highlight three key strengths of the tour:
-
Knowledgeable and engaging guide: Travelers praise the tour guide’s extensive knowledge and ability to provide insightful commentary throughout the experience.
-
Comfortable and reliable transportation: The luxury Mercedes van is noted for its cleanliness, comfort, and efficient transportation between the various stops.
-
Excellent value for money: Customers feel the tour offers great value, with the price-to-experience ratio exceeding their expectations.
- Private Tour Of, Blarney Castle, Cork City and Kinsale
- Private Taxi Tour of Blarney Castle ,Cork City and Kinsale .
- Full Day Private Shore Excursion of Blarney, Kinsale & Cork
- Private Taxi Tour of Blarney Castle, Jameson Distillery and Cobh
- Cycling From the Town of Youghal Bike Rental
- Guided Tour in French of Cobh
Exploring Blarney Castle
The highlight of the Blarney Highlights Van Tour is undoubtedly the visit to the iconic Blarney Castle. Guests skip the line and climb the historic castle’s winding staircase to the top, where they can kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
Believed to bestow the gift of eloquence, the Blarney Stone is a thrilling experience. Visitors also explore the castle’s lush gardens, home to impressive rock formations, fern-filled grottos, and stunning views.
The tour provides ample time to wander the castle grounds and soak in the rich history of this quintessential Irish landmark.
Discovering Blarney Woolen Mills
After exploring the historic Blarney Castle, the Blarney Highlights Van Tour takes guests to the nearby Blarney Woolen Mills.
This renowned Irish store offers visitors a unique shopping experience. Guests can:
-
Browse the vast selection of traditional Irish knitwear, tweed, and tartan goods.
-
Discover quality Irish craftsmanship and learn about the history of wool production in the region.
-
Shop for souvenirs and gifts to bring home, from classic Aran sweaters to Claddagh rings.
The Blarney Woolen Mills provides a perfect complement to the Blarney Castle visit, offering a chance to immerse in Irish culture and history.
Experiencing Cork City and Kinsale
As the Blarney Highlights Van Tour continues, it takes guests on a panoramic drive through the picturesque city of Cork. Visitors marvel at the iconic landmarks, including the River Lee, St Finbarres Cathedral, Shandon Bells, and the bustling English Market. The tour then ventures into the Cork countryside, arriving at the quaint town of Kinsale, known as Ireland’s gourmet capital. Guests have the opportunity to view the historic Charles Fort and James Fort, overlooking the charming Kinsale Harbor. An optional visit to Cobh allows for exploration of St Coleman’s Cathedral and the Titanic Experience.
| Cork City Highlights | Kinsale Highlights |
| — | — |
| River Lee | Charles Fort |
| St Finbarres Cathedral | James Fort |
| Shandon Bells | Kinsale Harbor |
| English Market | – |
| Grand Parade | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though the tour may not be wheelchair-accessible. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and pets and smoking are not allowed on the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides an air-conditioned van and the guide will make stops where guests can purchase refreshments if needed during the 7-hour excursion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration on this specific tour. The 7-hour tour itinerary is fixed, though travelers can opt to visit additional sites in Cobh on their own after the main tour ends.
Can I Request Specific Pickup and Drop-Off Locations?
Yes, customers can request specific pickup and drop-off locations. The tour provider offers transportation from the Cobh (Cork) Cruise Ship Terminal or Ringaskiddy Cruise Ship Terminal, and will accommodate other meeting points as needed.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 15 passengers. The tour operates in a luxury Mercedes van, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger coach tours.
The Sum Up
The Blarney Highlights Van Tour offers a captivating 7-hour journey showcasing Ireland’s iconic sights. Travelers can explore the renowned Blarney Castle, kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, and discover the charming Blarney Woollen Mills, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and expert guidance. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, allowing visitors to enjoy Ireland’s rich history and vibrant culture.
You can check availability for your dates here: