Killaloe and its twin heritage town Ballina sit, comfortably on either bank of the River Shannon, where it emerges from Lough Derg on the Clare/Tipperary border. Once the capital of Ireland, it was from here that Brian Boru rose to become High King and to banish the Vikings at Clontarf around a thousand years ago. Cromwell, the Jacobites and Williamites all crossed the river here. It's a much more relaxed and hospitable place today, especially in the Lakeside Hotel and Leisure Centre overlooking the river and the lake.

The new road network means we can leave Belfast a little later than before at 10am, make a lunch stop just south of Dublin, and arrive to a warm Co Clare welcome in the afternoon, with time to settle in or even have a swim in the super hotel pool or take a look around the town before dinner.

We are welcomed on arrival with a taste of Ireland - a small glass of Guinness and smoked salmon canapés, a taste of things to come on this new Ulsterbus Tour where we enjoy spectacular scenery, fascinating towns, the very best of traditional music, dance, food and drink.

From Killaloe we travel west to the unique Burren, visit the majestic Cliffs of Moher, spend time in the historic town of Ennis, travel south to Adare, often called the prettiest town in Ireland, and north by boat for a cruise on Lough Derg. There is live music in the bar and a very special last night treat - a sumptuous Irish Buffet with traditional entertainment including an Irish dancing exhibition, songs and music where the performers are happy to explain the origins and traditions of all on show.