Day 1 : Fly to Ireland

Our journey to the Emerald Isle begins with a pleasant overnight flight to Dublin.

Day 2 : Dublin

Discover the lively, modern city of Dublin with a tour of its top highlights featuring historic landmarks, Georgian-style buildings, and a guided visit through Christ Church Cathedral. We conclude our first exciting day on the Emerald Isle with a dinner at our beautiful hotel.

Day 3 : Clonmacnoise

We travel west this morning to Clonmacnoise, a ruined monastery nestled along the banks of the River Shannon. This ancient site, with its remains of nine churches, a round tower, and high Celtic Crosses, was long a major center of religion and education attracting scholars from all over Europe. Later, experience authentic Irish hospitality at Connolly’s Rathbaun Farm, where we watch sheep graze the fields as the fragrance of home-baked goods and a peat fire fill the air. We visit with our hosts France and Fintan in their charming, thatched cottage while sampling freshly baked scones and a pot of Irish tea. Our accommodations for the next two evenings are in Galway.

Day 4 : Kylemore Abbey

We begin the day at the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory in Pollacappul, where Celtic motifs are expertly cut into colored crystal. Then, enjoy a scenic drive through the dramatic canvas of Connemara, dense with gleaming rivers and lakes, stunning coastal views, and rugged rock formations. We arrive at Kylemore Abbey, home to a Benedictine Community of Nuns since World War I. Enjoy time to explore this expansive historic site including the castle, Victorian walled gardens, a neo-gothic church, traditional home-cooked dining, beautiful trails, and a shop with handmade Irish goods. Back in Galway this evening, take in some local culture by stepping into the city’s lively entertainment scene.

Day 5 : Cliffs of Moher

Soak up otherworldly beauty on our morning drive through the Burren in County Clare, famous for its archaeological sites, unique rock formations, and glacial-age limestone that has eroded over the ages to form moonscape patterns. Next, we stop at the Cliffs of Moher, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mighty coastal wall and geological marvel, extending five miles along the coast and plunging 700 feet to the sea, once gave assurance to World War II pilots that they had reached European shores. Later, we explore Ireland’s heritage at the folk park of Bunratty. Life in old Ireland comes alive during this evening’s merrymaking at a Medieval Castle Banquet! Our hotel for tonight is in Limerick.

Day 6 : Killarney

Today begins in Adare, a traditional Irish village known for its thatched cottages and beautiful stone buildings. Our journey continues to Killarney, a vibrant little town surrounded by incredibly beautiful countryside and our home for the next two nights. We enjoy a traditional jaunting cart ride in Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first national park. Tonight, our cultural experience continues with authentic Irish cuisine, folk music, and dancing at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150-year-old family-run establishment.

Day 7 : Ring of Kerry

We spend today relaxing on one of Ireland’s most picturesque drives, the Ring of Kerry. Keep cameras ready to capture the undulating hills, rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, emerald valleys, and dramatic seascapes. We arrive in Killarney and settle into our accommodations, then spend the evening exploring the city and its incredible live music.

Day 8 : Blarney Stone

Our morning begins with a tour of Blarney Castle, including an opportunity to kiss the fabled stone and be rewarded with the gift of gab. We also have time to shop for some treasured gifts among the array of Waterford Crystal, Irish Sweaters, and other locally made items at Blarney Woollen Mills Store. Then, we travel to the stunning Rock of Cashel to learn about the rise of this majestic fortress, once an assembly place for kings, and later, an important religious center.

Day 9 : Kilkenny

We start our day with a tour of medieval Kilkenny Castle. This palace was built in the 12th century to guard against crossings of the River Nore and you can still see three of its original four towers today. Afterwards, explore the medieval city’s narrow winding streets at leisure, then visit the National Design & Craft Center or enjoy lunch at a local pub. We return to Dublin for a special Farewell Dinner this evening to celebrate our spectacular journey and new friendships.

Day 10 : Fly Home

We fly home from Dublin with wonderful memories of the Emerald Isle.