Indulge your senses with the beauty and history of Ireland during a visit to the spectacular private gardens at Lakemount and a tour and tasting at the Old Jameson Distillery.
Depart the pier in Cobh for the drive to southwest Ireland where you will visit the private gardens of Lakemount, a 2 1/2-acre pocket tucked into this corner of Ireland that seems to blend seamlessly into its verdant landscape. Within Lakemount, owner and artist Brian Cross has created one of the Republic's flagship gardens; its quality of planting and wonderful contrasts has garnered widespread acclaim.
Next, you will travel east to Midleton, the town from which the famous rare Irish whiskey gets its name. Upon arrival, you will visit the unique, 18th century Jameson Heritage Centre, site of the Old Jameson Distillery. Your 1-hour guided tour of this beautifully restored and self-contained industrial complex will take you right to the heart of the cherished whiskey making tradition. During your tour, you will delight in the fully-operational water wheel and be amazed by the copper pot still that holds 32,000 gallons, the largest in the world. Following an audio-visual presentation about the Irish whiskey legend, you will be invited to relax in the atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub and sample Ireland's finest whiskey.
Before rejoining your coach for the return drive to Cobh, be sure to visit the craft shop, restaurant or coffee shop at Jameson Heritage Centre and lose yourself in the charm of an era gone by.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 90 minutes of moderate walking - at times on uneven ground at the gardens. The walking tour at the Old Jameson Distillery includes approximately 40 steps to climb. The tour is available to guests who utilize a non-motorized collapsible wheelchair, can make their own way on and off the coach and have a companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Weather appropriate clothing, including a windbreaker or light jacket, and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Guests should be prepared for the possibility of rain. The order of the sights viewed or visited may vary.