Spud x Travel Counsellors - A Tailored Experience
Introduction
At Spud, we pride ourselves on crafting unique and customised experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Recently, we had the pleasure of partnering with The Travel Counsellors to provide a corporate group from France with a seamless end-to-end experience combining travel, transfers, and accommodation, along with a 3-day multi-experience itinerary. This partnership aimed to provide a luxurious and culturally rich immersion into the heart of Wicklow and Dublin, with the group staying at the 5-star Powerscourt Hotel, which offers panoramic views of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain.
Day 1: Immersing in Culture and Heritage
Curated Lunch and Private Tour of Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery
The group began their journey with a curated lunch followed by a private tour of the Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery. They learned about the history of the estate and the Fercullen brand. The highlight was a whiskey tasting session in a private suite at the distillery, providing a perfect blend of education and indulgence.
Golf Experience at Powerscourt Golf Club
Next, the group enjoyed a golf experience at Powerscourt Golf Club with the clubs head PGA professional. This experience catered to all levels of golfers and included elements of learning, competition, and fun. It was a perfect mix of sport and relaxation amidst the stunning landscapes of Wicklow.
Day 2: Exploring Nature and Dublin’s Rich History
Falconry Demonstration
After a morning of productive meetings and a working lunch, the afternoon began with a falconry session, lead by The National Bird of Prey Centre where the group learned about the history of this ancient sport and witnessed various birds, including owls, hawks, and falcons, in action. Demonstrations showcased the birds' capabilities in flight, leaving the group fascinated.
Guided Tour of Wicklow Mountains National Park
Then it was on a to an executive bus tour of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The group learned about the effects of the Ice Age on the landscape and enjoyed a stop at the famous Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake. Fans of the hit show Vikings were thrilled to see the set and location of the town of Kattegat.
Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), Co. Wicklow
Historical Tour of Dublin City
Later that afternoon, the group headed into Dublin city for a historical tour. They explored the city’s rich history, learning about famous citizens, Viking influences, and the original settlement of Dubh Linn at Dublin Castle and Wood Quay.
Authentic Irish Dining and Traditional Music Session
The evening featured an authentic Irish dining experience, followed by a traditional Irish music session and performances by world-famous dancers. This immersive experience gave the group a true taste of Ireland’s vibrant culture.
Visit to The Cobblestone in Smithfield
To cap off the day, the group visited The Cobblestone, a local favourite in Smithfield Market. They were amazed by the mix of ages among the pub’s regulars, all enjoying great conversation and music by local musicians. The night ended on a high note with an impromptu sing-song by a local group, which the French visitors joyfully joined.
The Cobblestone Pub, Smithfield Market (Photo Credit: The Cobblestone Pub)
Day 3: Discovering Enniskerry and Adventure Activities
Walking Tour of Enniskerry
The final day began with a walking tour of the planned estate town of Enniskerry and Knocksink Wood. The group learned about the town’s history, unique stories, nature, and development. They also discovered its connection to many famous shows and movies. The tour included visits to craft shops, cafés, and restaurants, providing a comprehensive look at this charming village.
Knocksink Bridge, once Irelands Tallest Bridge
Country Pursuits at Powerscourt Estate
The trip concluded with an afternoon of country pursuits at Powerscourt Estate with Orangeworks. Activities included 4x4 off-road driving with Land Rover Defenders, clay pigeon shooting, axe-throwing, and cerebral games to test the mind, all set against the stunning backdrop of the estate.
Conclusion
This 3-day itinerary perfectly encapsulated the essence of Ireland’s culture, entertainment, and hospitality. By partnering with The Travel Counsellors, we were able to provide the client with a seamless end-to-end experience, combining travel, transfers, and accommodation along with three days of unique experiences. The strong collaboration with The Travel Counsellors was crucial in ensuring every detail was meticulously planned and executed, creating moments of surprise and delight at every turn. At Spud, our mission is to craft customised journeys that not only leave lasting impressions but also forge deep connections with Ireland’s rich heritage. This project exemplified our commitment to excellence and leveraging our unique insights, contacts, and creative backgrounds to deliver truly unique and memorable experiences.