The Splendour of Steam aboard the Emerald Isle Belle – Prestige Package
From the moment you arrive on the Island of Ireland, the cares of everyday life seem to gently melt away. Ireland is renowned for its warm hospitality, and you’ll feel it at every turn as we steam our way across the beautiful Emerald Isle. This wonderful steam holiday begins and ends in Dublin and takes you deep into the enchanting, rugged landscapes of the north west.
We’ll enjoy two relaxing nights each in County Donegal and County Mayo before steaming right across Ireland to spend three nights in the ever-popular and picturesque town of Killarney.
Throughout the journey you’ll travel behind the lovingly restored locomotives and in the historic carriages of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI). These magnificent engines look and perform exactly as you’d imagine classic steam should – so much so that the experience has been compared to stepping into the world of the Isle of Sodor from Thomas the Tank Engine! Adding to the fun is the RPSI team themselves, who embody the very best of Irish “craic”. You’ll find them everywhere, especially in the lively heart of the train – the beautifully wood panelled bar car, which proudly claims to be the only railway bar in the world serving draught Guinness.
This holiday includes the 'Prestige' package, allowing you to travel in true luxury, enjoy the finest seats on board the train and stay in excellent hand-picked hotels.
Tour Includes
- 9 nights hotel with Irish breakfast
- 4 lunches and 4 evening meals
- Steam train journeys from Dublin to Longford, Ballina to Westport, Westport to Killarney, and Killarney to Dublin
- A private table for 2 on board the Emerald Isle Belle
- Complimentary tea and coffee on board the Emerald Belle
- Welcome glass of sparkling wine on board the Emerald Belle
- A glass of house wine or pint of Guinness with lunch on board the Emerald Belle
- Coach transfers to and from each hotel throughout the holiday
- Luggage courier service to and from each hotel throughout the holiday
- Services of an experienced representative from Belle Trains
10 days from £6,950pp
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Inbound Travel
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Itinerary
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Your Prestige Package
You will be welcomed on board with a glass of sparkling wine, before you are seated in the elegant RPSI Craven carriages, lovingly restored to provide a calm and comfortable setting for your journey. With softly draped curtains at the windows, gentle table lighting and fresh flowers on each table, the atmosphere reflects the timeless pleasure of classic rail travel. Tables, originally designed to seat up to four passengers, are reserved for just two guests, allowing plenty of space to relax and enjoy the journey at an unhurried pace. You are guaranteed a window seat, offering uninterrupted views of Ireland’s changing scenery. Couples are seated at their own private tables, while parties of four enjoy two tables opposite one another across the aisle, creating a comfortable, sociable space. Solo travellers will share a table with no more than one fellow passenger.
As the countryside unfolds outside, you will be served carefully prepared refreshments, followed by a light lunch showcasing fresh, locally sourced, and seasonal ingredients, washed down with a glass of house wine or a pint of Guinness. On the train travel days, a three-course evening meal is also included at your hotel and of course breakfast is included each morning in your hotel throughout the holiday. Complimentary tea and coffee are available whenever you are travelling on the train, and additional drinks may be purchased from your carriage steward or enjoyed in the convivial on-board Bar Carriage, which offers a range of refreshments including draught Guinness. Prestige is perfect for those who appreciate outstanding comfort, impeccable service and those added little extras that make a holiday feel truly special.
The Emerald Isle Belle
Enjoy the timeless pleasure of steam travel through Ireland’s lush, green landscapes aboard the private train of beautifully restored Craven carriages. Lovingly maintained by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI), these carriages are Ireland’s equivalent of the British Mark 2 coach, originally built in the 1960s during the final great era of steam. With large picture windows and sliding ventilators, the carriages allow the sights, sounds and scents of steam travel to drift naturally inside – from the rhythmic beat of the locomotive to the occasional speck of coal dust adding a touch of nostalgic authenticity.
Ireland’s distinctive 5 ft 3 in broad gauge railway also means the carriages are wider than those found in the UK, offering a noticeably more spacious and comfortable experience. For many, one of the great joys of the journey is the much-loved Bar Car – truly a pub on wheels and a cherished part of Irish railway tradition. Serving the only draught Guinness available on any train anywhere in the world, it’s the perfect place to relax with a pint, enjoy the passing scenery and share stories with fellow travellers, all in the friendly company of the knowledgeable and welcoming RPSI team.
Optional Excursions
Belle Trains offer an immersive selection of optional excursions for you to add onto your journey, including rail journeys, cruises, scenic drives and more. Details of the optional excursion programme will be sent to you in advance of the holiday departure so you can select which excursions you'd like to join.
Make your own way to the hotel in Dublin.
On arrival at the hotel, your local representative from Belle Trains will meet you and assist with check-in. The evening is yours to dine in one of the many restaurants in Dublin.
Included Highlights
After breakfast, we transfer to Dublin Connolly station to meet our private train, The Emerald Isle Belle. Waiting at the platform are the beautifully maintained vintage carriages of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI), headed by one of their magnificent steam locomotives – either No. 171 Slieve Gullion or Q Class No. 131.
Departing in the mid-morning, we steam gently around the north of the city before heading west, leaving Dublin behind as the landscape opens out into the timeless heart of rural Ireland. Along the way, green fields, rolling countryside and shimmering loughs drift past our windows as we make our way towards Longford in the centre of the island. From here to Sligo, a diesel locomotive assists our journey as we cross the many rivers and waterways that rise in this region, forming the headwaters of the mighty River Shannon.
We arrive in Sligo in the mid-afternoon, where our waiting coaches take us onward through striking scenery of lush hills, rugged coastline and distant peaks to our hotel for the evening.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Recently named the fourth-best region in the world to visit by Lonely Planet, County Donegal is a place to savour at your own pace. During our stay, you’re free to relax and explore independently or choose from a selection of optional excursions designed to showcase the very best of this remarkable region.
Possible excursions may include a delightful journey on the Fintown Railway along the shores of Lough Finn, offering peaceful lake and mountain scenery, or a visit to the breathtaking sea cliffs at Sliabh Liag. These dramatic cliffs soar to almost three times the height of the famous Cliffs of Moher, providing some of Ireland’s most awe inspiring coastal views. Another option is a scenic coach excursion across the now invisible border into Northern Ireland to visit the historic city of Derry, a vibrant city set on the banks of the River Foyle with a rich and compelling past.
The town of Donegal itself enjoys a beautiful setting overlooking Donegal Bay, backed by the rugged outline of the Bluestack Mountains. Traditionally focused around its historic central square known as The Diamond, this charming former market town is easy to explore and offers an appealing mix of shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as cultural highlights such as the 15th-century Donegal Castle and the Railway Heritage Museum.
Please note: details of the optional excursion programme will be sent to you in advance of the holiday departure so you can select which excursions you'd like to join.
Includes Breakfast
Included Highlights
After breakfast, we travel by coach along a beautiful stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, with the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Ox Mountains rising gently to the south, as we make our way to Ballina. Set at the mouth of the River Moy, this charming and unspoilt town has a rich cultural heritage, and there is time to wander and explore before we rejoin our train.
Ballina sits at the end of a tranquil rural branch line, where our private train awaits to take us southwards, joining the main line towards Dublin. At Claremorris we pause to change locomotives before continuing to Westport, arriving in good time for dinner.
We spend two nights in Westport, a town where dramatic, wide open landscapes meet a wonderfully warm and welcoming atmosphere. Colourful streets, lively pubs filled with traditional music and menus celebrating the very best local produce all combine to make this one of Ireland’s most enjoyable places to stay.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Take time to discover the beautiful scenery and fascinating heritage of the Westport region at your own pace or choose from a range of optional excursions designed to showcase its highlights.
These may include a relaxing boat cruise on Clew Bay, a sparkling Atlantic inlet dotted with more than a hundred islands and known for its wildlife, oyster farms and distinctive whiskey experiences. Other options may include a visit to Westport House, often described as Ireland’s Most Beautiful Home, whose story is steeped in legend and linked to the famous Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley.
Alternatively, you may wish to explore Kylemore Abbey, a serene Benedictine monastery set within 1,000 acres of dramatic Connemara mountainside, offering a truly memorable blend of history, nature and tranquillity.
Please note: details of the optional excursion programme will be sent to you in advance of the holiday departure so you can select which excursions you'd like to join.
Includes Breakfast
Included Highlights
After breakfast at our hotel, we join our train at Westport station for what promises to be a memorable day of steam travel. Climbing steadily to Claremorris, we then turn south east, crossing the River Shannon at Athlone before joining the main line from Galway.
Continuing eastwards, we travel through a landscape shaped by ancient history, passing a series of eskers – long, raised ridges formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago – as we make our way to Portarlington. Here, we pause for a relaxed leg stretch, with an excellent opportunity to admire and photograph our magnificent steam locomotives as we change engines. From Portarlington we head south west along the busy main line towards Cork.
After a brief stop for water at Limerick Junction, we continue to Mallow, the junction for the scenic branch line to Killarney and Tralee. As the countryside becomes increasingly dramatic and mountainous, our locomotive works harder, delivering a thrilling finale as we steam westwards into Killarney, our welcoming home for the next three nights.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Killarney is widely regarded as the gateway to Ireland’s largest National Park, a breathtaking and unspoilt landscape where the dramatic peaks of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks – Ireland’s highest mountain range – sweep down to the world famous lakes below.
During our stay, there is plenty of time to enjoy the area at your own pace or to join one of our optional excursions. These may include exploring the National Park by traditional pony and trap or by boat, in some cases departing directly from your hotel, offering a wonderfully gentle way to experience this beautiful setting.
Another popular option is a journey around the renowned Ring of Kerry, a spectacular 179 kilometre (111 mile) scenic route encircling the Iveragh Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning coastal vistas, sandy beaches, tumbling waterfalls, ancient stone forts and welcoming villages such as Sneem and Waterville. Railway enthusiasts may also choose to travel on the steam hauled journey along the branch line to Tralee, combined with a visit to the unique Lartigue Monorail and its fascinating museum – a charming and memorable glimpse into Ireland’s railway heritage.
Please note: details of the optional excursion programme will be sent to you in advance of the holiday departure so you can select which excursions you'd like to join.
Includes Breakfast
Included Highlights
After breakfast at our hotel, the Emerald Isle Belle sets off on its final journey, heading towards the elegant conclusion of the tour in Ireland’s fair capital city. Our steam locomotive works steadily as we climb out of Killarney, travelling through dramatic, mountainous scenery to reach the junction at Mallow, where we join the main line from Cork to Dublin. From here, we enjoy a spirited run along one of Ireland’s most important railway corridors, before easing into the suburban landscapes surrounding Dublin.
Following the circular route around the city, we arrive in the mid-afternoon at our original starting point, Dublin Connolly station. With sunset not until around 10pm, there is plenty of time to enjoy the city at leisure. You may wish to explore Dublin’s rich history and vibrant culture, or simply take a gentle evening stroll along the banks of the River Liffey as it winds through the heart of the city – a fitting way to reflect on a very memorable journey across Ireland.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
After breakfast, make your own way home at leisure.
Includes Breakfast
Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
Accommodation
You will spend one night at the Belvedere Hotel in Dublin, two nights at Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal, two nights at Knockranny House Hotel & Spa in Westport, three nights at the Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney, followed by one night at the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin.
Belvedere Hotel
Just a few steps away from Parnell Square, in the heart of Georgian Dublin, the elegant Belvedere Hotel is perfectly located for easy access to public transport and Dublin’s attractions. Recently refurbished, the warmly decorated modern rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making equipment. There's a relaxed bar and grill restaurant offering a range of dining options.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Shower or Bath
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
General
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
Accessibility
- Disabled Rooms Available
Service
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Laundry Service
Hotel
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Lough Eske Castle
Housed in a restored 17th-Century Castle on the shores of Lough Eske, this award-winning 5-star resort provides guests with a memorable, relaxing and supremely comfortable stay. Cedars Restaurant has a terrace and features traditional dishes including seafood from the nearby port of Killybegs. The Gallery Bar serves light meals and snacks whilst the Father Browne Bar provides a cosy setting for enjoying a drink or having a light bite to eat. The new whiskey cellar showcases Donegal’s unique whiskeys with bespoke tasting experiences. Onsite leisure facilities include complimentary history tours, use of the guest bicycles, and access to the luxurious spa with a steam room, sauna and outdoor hot tubs. The swimming pool is located in a glass atrium, set within manicured gardens, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- 5 Star
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Indoor Swimming Pool
- Sauna or Steam Room
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
Service
- Gym
Hotel
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Restaurant
- WiFi Available
Knockranny House Hotel & Spa
This family owned and run hotel was recognized as one of the "Hot 100" hotels in Ireland by the Irish Independent in 2024. Set in secluded grounds on a hillside, this luxury hotel enjoys a peaceful location with breathtaking views of Croagh Patrick to the west and the Nephin Mountains to the north. The welcoming atmosphere at Knockranny House Hotel Westport begins with the open log fires in the reception hall and is carried throughout the property with its antique furniture, excellent spa facilities, award-winning cuisine and friendly service.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- 4 Star
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Indoor Swimming Pool
- Sauna or Steam Room
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
Service
- Gym
Hotel
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Restaurant
- WiFi Available
The Europe Hotel & Resort
This luxurious five-star hotel set in one of Ireland’s most magnificent locations, on the shores of Lough Léin, The Europe is an unrivalled leader of the luxury hotels in Ireland. Warm upscale rooms feature lake views and traditional furnishings. The resort boasts three different dining options; a Signature fine dining Panaroma Restaurant with views to the lakes & Mountains of Killarney, The Brasserie offering five-star casual dining from award-winning chefs with a terrace for al fresco dining in the summer months, and Riva, a hidden gem in the resort offering exquisite mediterranean cuisine set against stunning views of the lakeshore. Facilities include a world class spa, (featured in the Forbes 2026 Travel Guide) as well as a fitness centre, tennis courts and horseback riding, complimentary for hotel guests.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- 5 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pool
- Sauna or Steam Room
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Fridge
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
Service
- Gym
Hotel
- Swimming Pool
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- WiFi Available
The Shelbourne
Affectionately known as ‘The Grand Dame of Dublin’, The Shelbourne is the most prestigious and historic 5-star luxury hotel in the city. For almost 200 years, it has looked out over the beautiful St. Stephen’s Green, surrounded by the main cultural and historical sites and shopping areas. This hotel offers exquisitely appointed guest rooms, spectacular meeting spaces and a tempting choice of menus, bars and lounges. The exceptional range of amenities include an opulent luxury spa, beauty salon, gentlemen’s barbershop, and health club with a swimming pool, as well as an in-house florist.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- 5 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Fridge
- Telephone
- Shower over Bath
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
Accessibility
- Disabled Rooms Available
Service
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Gym
Car Parking
- No on-site Car Parking
Hotel
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- WiFi Available
Travel Options
When it comes to getting you to your destination, Leger Holidays makes it easy with a selection of travel options to choose from.
Make your own way breaks to Europe
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of travelling to your hotel at your convenience and leisure.
Departure Dates
Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
