Check into your hotel room and get settled for your cozy stay in the beautiful Shannon Springs Hotel. Head to the iconic Bunratty Castle & Folk Park set on 26 acres of unspoilt Clare countryside, featuring over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting. Rural farmhouses, village shops and streets are recreated and furnished as they would have appeared at that time according to their social standing, from the poorest one roomed dwelling to Bunratty House, a fine example of Georgian residence built 1804 home of the Studdarts, the last family to occupy Bunratty Castle. After the breathtaking experience in Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, drive back to the Shannon Springs hotel, where you can freshen up for the evening ahead.

Included: Entry to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

Enjoy a delicious meal in Durty Nelly’s, one of Ireland’s landmark Irish pubs. Nestling in the shadow of the magnificent Bunratty Castle and the adjourning Folk Park, it is the first stopping off point for generations of visitors to Ireland at the nearby Shannon Airport. Apart from the warm Irish welcome that you’ll find at Nelly’s, dinner is made with the finest and freshest local produce ensuring a fine dining experience. After enjoying a delicious dinner at Durty Nelly’s. retire for the night in a stunning room at the Shannon Springs Hotel.

Included: Dinner for two at Durty Nelly’s, Overnight stay at the Shannon Springs Hotel for two people.

After enjoying a relaxing morning exploring by yourself, head to Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg. Can you imagine what life was like for people in the Bronze Age? At Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg, you will experience the resilience and fortitude of these early bronze age settlers. When you complete your experience at Craggaunowen, make your way to Knappogue Castle & Gardens. Standing strong since 1467, Knappogue Castle boasts a rich history that reflects the dramatic tapestry of Ireland itself. Founded by Sean MacNamara, a descendant of the Dalcassian warriors who fought alongside Brian Boru, Knappogue served as a powerful symbol of the MacNamara Clan’s lineage and influence in County Clare.

Included: Entry to Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg, Entry to Knappogue Castle & Gardens.

Experience a truly unique entertainment and dining experience in the iconic setting of the world famous Bunratty Castle. The lifestyle of medieval Ireland is recaptured at the Castle with the medieval banquet. Once the preserve of the nobility who resided in these fortresses, it can now be experienced by everyone. Delight in a four-course meal in the historic castle and be entertained by the world famous Bunratty Castle Singers. Enjoy music, song and dance while you dine in the Great Hall of Bunratty Castle. When the medieval banquet is complete, head back to the luxurious Shannon Springs Hotel to retire for the second night of your epic trip to Ireland.

Included: Bunratty Banquet for 2 people.

After refuelling with a scrumptious bite to eat, enjoy a walking tour of Ennis courtesy of Jane O’Brien, the owner and operator of Ennis Walking Tours. Jane is an expert guide with a masters in local history and has been running tours of Ennis since 2005. Her tours provide a highly entertaining and thought-provoking experience of the charming town of Ennis. When the walking tour is finished, it is time to move on to your next luxurious accommodation! Venture through the picturesque towns of Kilrush, Kilkee and Kilbaha on your way to Loop Head Lighthouse Attendants Cottage. Check into this iconic accommodation and relax in the sheer beauty of nature.

Included: Walking tour of Ennis for two – Ennis Walking Tours.

After settling into your unique accommodation, freshen up before heading to Keatings Bar and Restaurant. The bar’s idyllic setting looking out across Kilbaha Bay, on the mouth of the River Shannon, adds to the experience of dining. Keatings Bar and Restaurant is renowned for its locally caught, fresh seafood, as well as, for its warm welcome and traditional, family-friendly atmosphere. After enjoying your evening meal, travel back to Loop Head Lighthouse Attendnats Cottage to retire for the evening.

Included: Dinner for two at Keatings Bar & Restaurant, overnight stay in Loop Head Lighthouse Attendants Cottage.

Explore the rugged beauty of Loop Head Peninsula and discover the enchanting Bridges of Ross! Once a trio of natural sea arches, now a single remaining marvel, the Bridges of Ross offer breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this hidden gem is a must-see on your Loop Head journey. After enjoying the natural wonders of the Bridges of Ross, take a leisurely drive to Kilbaha Gallery, just a short distance away. The charming gallery, located in the heart of Kilbaha Village, is a treasure trove of local artistry and creativity. Discover a unique collection of paintings, sculptures, and crafts, all inspired by the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of West Clare. Venture into the local towns of Kilkee, Cross or Carrigaholt and grab yourself lunch of your choice.

Included: Entry to Kilbaha Gallery.

Head back to the Attendants Cottage and relax some more before driving to Carrigaholt to cap off your day with a delightful dinner at The Long Dock. Renowned for its warm hospitality and mouthwatering cuisine, this cosy restaurant offers a true taste of coastal Ireland. Indulge in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, traditional Irish dishes, and creative culinary delights, all crafted with love and care. With its charming ambience and stunning views of Carrigaholt Bay, it’s the ideal spot to relax and relish the flavours of the Wild Atlantic Way. Retire for the night at the Attendants Cottage and enjoy the unique sights and sounds of the wild sea amidst stunning views.

Included: Dinner at The Long Dock Carrigaholt, Overnight stay in Loop Head Lighthouse Attendants Cottage.

Take a scenic drive to Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, located just 20 minutes away in Kilrush. Upon arrival, take in the beauty of the restored 19^th century garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll before lunch. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site café, where locally sourced ingredients highlight the best of Irish cuisine. Afterward, join a guided tour of the gardens with expert guides to learn about the fascinating history and diverse plant species. Once you’ve explored the beautiful surroundings, head to the nearby Kilrush Museum to delve deeper into the towns rich maritime and cultural heritage.

Included: Entry to Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, Lunch at Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, Guided Tour at Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, Entry to Kilrush Museum.

Continue your journey with a drive along the coast to The Bellbridge House Hotel, nestled in the picturesque area of Spanish Point. Upon checking in, take some time to relax and soak in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. In the evening, you can enjoy a hearty, traditional Irish meal at the hotel’s own restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and locally sourced seafood, or venture to a nearby restaurant of your choice to explore more of the region’s culinary delights. Either way, you will enjoy a delightful dining experience by the coast. Retire for the evening at The Bellbridge House Hotel, with their rooms that are exceptionally decorated, blending modern comfort with classic elegance, providing a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.

Included: Overnight stay in The Bellbridge House Hotel.

After taking in the stunning views at the Cliffs of Moher, drive to the Kilfenora Burren Visitor Centre, located in the heart of the Burren region. At the visitor centre, you’ll learn about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of this remarkable limestone landscape, as well as the rich cultural history of the area. After this, continue your journey to Caherconnell Stone Fort, an ancient, well-preserved ring fort. Here, you can take a self-guided tour or join a demonstration of traditional sheepdog herding, offering a glimpse into rural Irish life and the area’s archaeological significance. Both stops provide a deeper connection to the Burren’s natural beauty and heritage.

Included: Entry into the Burren Visitor Centre, Entry into Caherconnell Stone Fort.

After exploring Caherconnell Stone Fort, make your way back toward Spanish Point, enjoying the scenic drive through the Burren’s rugged landscape. Before returning to The Bellbridge House Hotel, stop for dinner at the nearby Armada Hotel, renowned for its stunning oceanfront location. Indulge in a delicious meal at one of their restaurants, where locally sourced seafood and Irish specialities take centre stage. Savour the fresh flavours while enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic. Afterward, take a short drive back to The Bellbridge House Hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the trip to Ireland filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and memorable experiences!

Included: Dinner for two in the Armada Hotel, Overnight stay in The Bellbridge House Hotel.

Thank you to all the sponsors of this epic prize.

• Aer Lingus
• Avis Car Hire
• Shannon Aviation Museum
• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
• Durty Nelly’s
• Shannon Springs Hotel
• Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg
• Knappogue Castle & Gardens
• Ennis Walking Tours
• Keatings Bar & Restaurant
• Loop Head Lighthouse Attendants Cottage
• Loop Head Lighthouse
• Kilbaha Gallery
• The Long Dock
• Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre
• Kilrush Museum
• Bellbridge House Hotel
• Moher Cottage
• Cliffs of Moher Experience
• Burren Visitor Centre
• Caherconnell Stone Fort
• The Armada Hotel