Our outstanding base for this fascinating tour is the exceptional Bloomfield House Hotel, which enjoys an idyllic setting in the heart of County Westmeath’s lakelands. Nestling in picturesque parkland, overlooking Lough Ennell, it’s little surprise that this stunning property recently featured in the “Fab Fifty Places to stay in Ireland” list. Take a stroll in the country air to the lakeside jetty, enjoy the tranquillity of the walled garden, or indulge yourself with a spa treatment. Our sightseeing takes in Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum where you can explore the Palladian mansion and formal gardens then delve into the parallel lives of the estate’s aristocratic landlords and their tenants during the tragic Great Irish Famine. We spend a day in Galway, a compact city built around commanding Lynch’s Castle and home to a Latin Quarter and pretty Eyre Square. We also head to the fair city of Dublin, where our guided tour will get your sightseeing off to a brilliant start.