☘️UNFORGETTABLE IRELAND-8 DAY ESCORTED TOUR

DAY 1

Welcome to Ireland and Dublin Airport! Make your own way to your city centre hotel. The remainder of the day is free to experience the Historic Fair City of Dublin. Your hotel will be within walking distance of the city centre. Dublin is a city with a soul. Founded in 841 by the Vikings, it is a city with an interesting past. Its many monuments tell of its history.  Today, Dublin is the Cosmopolitan capital of the Irish Republic and a city of over one million people, a city ready to welcome all who wish to visit. Sightseeing on your own, you may wish to visit some of the sites listed below.

Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Its historic buildings include Dublin Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and imposing St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191. The Cities parks include the beautiful St. Stephen’s Green and the huge Phoenix Park, containing Dublin Zoo. Visit the The National Museum of Ireland and explore Irish heritage and culture.

Trinity College & the Book of Kells

A must is a visit to Visit Trinity College . The 8th century Book of Kells and the long room with its 200,000 books are the highlights of the College. Trinity was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st on grounds confiscated from an Augustinian priory and is the oldest University in Ireland. The Campanile, erected in 1852, was built on what is believed to be the centre of the monastery. Built to further the education of the ruling Anglo-Irish families, restrictions were imposed to prevent Catholic from attending courses. These restrictions were not fully lifted until the 1970’s. Trinity however admitted women in 1902, earlier than most British universities. Most of the main buildings off the main square were built during the Georgian period, some of which replaced older buildings. Within its walls, you will be able to admire Parliament Square and its 18th Century edifices. Trinity College has had many famous students such as Jonathan Swift and Samuel Beckett who later became a lecturer in French at the university. The Inter-denominational Church is very much worth a visit, should it be open during our visit.

Christchurch Cathedral

King Sitric Silkenbeard, the 1st Christian Viking King of Dublin, built the city’s first church on this site in 1038.The current building was built in 1172 by the Anglo-Norman Richard de Clare (Strongbow). Similar to St Patrick’s Cathedral, it is adorned with funeral monuments, including the reputed tomb of Strongbow. Unlike St. Patrick’s however, Christchurch posses a crypt which stretches nearly its entire length & much of the Cathedrals memorabilia is displayed here. Attached to the Cathedral is Dublinia an excellent exhibition of medieval Dublin.

Guinness Storehouse

You may wish to visit the world famous Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe’s largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors on the Tour will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness – the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion. The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once a tour has finished the group is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy a pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse. Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, “Five” at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce.  Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford. This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home.

Enjoy a theatre performance in one of Dublin’s famous theatres, or marvel at the world renowned Riverdance Show (limited time performances).
Meet back at your hotel in the evening for a meet and greet with your Driver and your group as you have a drink before you dine.

Overnight: Dublin (Dinner and bed & breakfast)

Gaeilge & Fáilte 2023

DAY – 2

County Kerry

On day 2 you will you will depart Ireland’s Capital traveling to County Kerry. En route stop in the town of Blarney to visit Blarney Castle. , a medieval stronghold which still retains its old world charm with its towers, battlements and gated entrance built on a rocky outcrop. Though earlier fortifications were built on the came spot, the current keep was built by the MacCarthy Clan of Muskerry dynasty, a cadet branch of the Kings of Desmond, and dates from 1446. The Blarney Stone is among the machicolations of the castle. Here you will find the legendary Stone of Eloquence, situated on the parapets of the castle, to gain the gift of eloquence – that is the ability to persuade people and being able to talk yourself out of trouble, Kiss it & you’ll never again be lost for words. Enjoy some time for shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills. The presence of the Woollen Mills during the famine shielded Blarney from the worst effects of the famine, due to its employment of local workers. In 1976 Chris Kelleher, himself a mill worker, bought the old mill property. Within a short period of time Chris & his family transformed the mill into what is perhaps the largest quality craft shop in Ireland.

Overnight: Kerry (Bed & breakfast)

DAY – 3

The Ring of Kerry

Today you will have a superb tour of the Iveragh Peninsula, which will give you the opportunity to Discover the Ring of Kerry. Taking in spectacular scenery – mountains, peat bogs, lakes & magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving Killarney pass through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, then to Glenbeigh where the cliff road affords panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula & Dingle Bay.

Dingle Peninsula – Corca Dhuibhne

The Dingle Peninsula has the most rugged coastline in Ireland. The steep sea-cliffs such as Slea Head allow magnificent views in addition to award winning sandy beaches such as Inch Beach in the south, which runs over 3 miles long. The Peninsula stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean on the south west coast of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The area is dominated by the range of mountains that form its spine, spanning from the Stieve Mish range to the Conor Pass and Mount Brandon, Ireland’s second highest peak. On the way to the sea town of Waterville, along the the coast via Coomakista Pass and Derrynane and on to Sneem you will see views from Coomakista Pass, of Derrynane Bay and Abbey Island, Deenish Island and Scariff Island that are just spectacular wonderful! Continue to Sneem Village, famous for its brightly colored houses, before arriving back in Killarney.

Sheepdogs

Along the Ring of Kerry stop at a local farm for a sheepdog demonstration. Your visit starts with an overview of the different breeds of sheep, followed by an introduction to the farmer’s most important tools, his border collies. Next you will see a superb demonstration of sheep herding as the farmer with his dogs demonstrate how, by working together, he can take a flock of sheep from the mountain top to the sheep pen close to the farmyard.

Killarney National Park – Pony and Trap (Jaunting Car Ride)

OPTIONAL: Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park. Enjoy transportation of a different kind! A pony and trap (also known as a Jaunting Car) helps you discover areas of Killarney National Park that you might not otherwise visit. Relax aboard the jaunting car as your Jarvey (driver) takes you through the magnificent scenery of the National Park.
Today enjoy dinner on your own in one of the many restaurants or pubs in Killarney town.

Overnight: Kerry (Bed & breakfast)

DAY – 4

Travel northwards to Tarbert & take a short boat ride across the mouth of the river Shannon to land on Clare’s shore at Killimer.

Cliffs of Moher

Travel along the coast to the Cliffs of Moher, the most majestic cliffs in Ireland which rise from the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can admire the Aran Islands & Connemara Mountains.

The Burren

The Burren is a high plateau of porous limestone situated in Northern Clare. The limestone is bare with no trees growing here or land covering the stone. But the Burren is not as deserted as we believe: the cracks allow different types of flowers to grow all year round.  The rocks of the Burren hide many caves such as the Ailwee Caves and is the location of numerous ancient monuments including the Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb. The Tombs are two prehistoric wedge tombs located in the north central area of the Burren. A neck ornament dating from c.800 to 700bc, concealed in one of the limestone grykes is now displayed at the National Museum of Ireland (Kildare Street site) in Dublin.
Amaze at the 5,800 year old Poulnabrone Dolmen and Ballyalban Fairy Fort – home of the little men with green hats and orange beards!

Bunratty Castle

OPTIONAL: Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle or similar. Bunratty Castle, built in the 15th century by the Earl of Thomond, stands on the banks of the Raite River in County Clare. The Earl was known for his generosity and his lavish banquets. The entertainment today is provided by the superb Bunratty Singers and is a compliment to the lively mead reception, a four-course meal and, of course, good wine! Guests are invited to enjoy an unforgettable evening & take a true step back in time to Medieval Ireland.

Overnight: Limerick (Bed & breakfast)

DAY – 5

Galway City and River Cruise with an Irish Scone & Irish Coffee

The exciting Galway City! Today, we travel to Galway City, renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations, and events. Stroll down Shop Street – a charming pedestrianized street which is the cultural heartbeat of Galway City. Galway is known as “the city of tribes” ( Cathair na dTreabh) and was once home to Christopher Columbus. The city is western Ireland’s traditional capital and home to some of our finest traditional musicians. You can explore highlights like the Spanish Arch, St. Nicholas Cathedral, the colourful Shop Street and maybe even sample some world famous Galway Bay oysters. Galway City has attracted a bohemian crown of musicians and artists which add so much to its character. We recommend to pop by the beautiful Cathedral, built in 1965, the Salmon Weir Bridge and along the trout stream to the Collegiate of St Nicholas of Myra, which was built in 1320. The Collegiate is close to Nora Barnacle’s house (Mrs. James Joyce) and to the famous Lynch window from which the English language receive the word to Lynch (hang). Continue on along Shop Street to see the splendor of the rich merchants’ houses during the time that they controlled the commercial life of the City, Lynch’s house being an excellent example. Pass by the Eyre Square, the accepted centre of Galway City. On the western side of the square is Browne’s doorway which is all that remains of a mid-17th century merchant’s house. The square also has a statue to Padraig O’Conaire, a noted Irish writer and a curious rusted metal sculpture representing the famous Galway Hooker, a boat which is unique to Galway. Galway, the largest county in Connaught, is celebrated in song and story throughout the world and takes centre stage on Ireland’s western seaboard.

A spectacularly beautiful county, it is a medley of contrasts – the wildest and remotest of countryside teamed with one of Europe’s most vibrant and popular cities. Drawn as if by a magnet, visitors come again and again, captivated by this most special of Irish counties. Galway City at the mouth of Galway Bay is both a picturesque and lively city with a wonderful avant-garde culture and a fascinating mixture of locally owned specialty shops, often featuring locally made crafts. Indeed local handcrafts are a feature of the entire region including hand knits, pottery, glass, jewelry and woodwork. The city has many relics of its medieval past. It has changed considerably over the last number of years and features a fascinating juxtaposition of new and ancient architecture. The centre of the city is conveniently compact enough to ramble around comfortably. Anyone who knows the song ‘Galway Bay’ will be familiar with the Claddagh, previously a fishing village of thatched cottages, now an area just outside the city centre. Here is the birthplace of the world famous Claddagh ring, a souvenir many bring home, just to keep a little piece of Galway with them always.

Galway Cathedral

The largest catholic church in Galway, the Cathedral is located on Nun’s Island, on the west bank of the River Corrib near Salmon Weir Bridge. It was the last large church in Ireland to be made from stone, and features a huge octagonal dome that complements the skyline of the City of Galway. Erected on the site of an old jail, the parking lot of the cathedral contains a white cross in the pavement. It marks the site of the prison graveyard. The cathedral combines many features from different styles and periods of architecture. There are many treasures of art inside and outside.

Enjoy a Cruise along the Corrib River to Lough Corrib including scones & an Irish coffee. This journey on the Corrib Princess takes passengers along the majestic River Corrib and onto the lake. Visitors will see unsurpassed views of the historic monuments & natural amenities that make this one of the most spectacular waterways in Ireland.

Overnight: Galway (Dinner & bed & breakfast)

DAY – 6

Connemara Region

Today travel through the beautiful Connemara Region filled with lakes, rivers, bogs & mountains. A land of small villages where Gaelic is still the spoken language, and little has changed since the beginning of time. It is undoubtedly the wildest and the most romantic part of Ireland. Enjoy some time at leisure in Connemara National Park.
Visit Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey is stunningly located in the Kylemore Pass in Connemara. The Castle was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry, inspired by his love for his wife Margaret. He built the House after having spent his honeymoon in the area. The architecture is best described as neo-gothic and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period. One of Kylemore Abbey’s most famous features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church. Today, and since 1920, the abbey is home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns. They established a private school for young girls, which was the renowned Kylemore Abbey international School. The school eventually closed in 2010. Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor centre, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants.

The Gothic church is available to visit and as a venue for choir groups to sing in. You can make a wish at the Giants Ironing Stone, meet the resident Connemara Ponies and enjoy wholesome food and home-baked goods in the Café or Garden Tea House. Please note: Lunch is not included in tour price. You won’t want to miss a browse through the Craft and Design Shop for unique gifts including Kylemore Abbey Pottery, award-winning chocolates handmade by the Benedictine Nuns, Kylemore Abbey Luxury Caramel Sauce and Kylemore Jams handmade onsite in their Chocolate Kitchen! The beautiful neo-Gothic Church is a short walk from the Abbey, nestled nearby is the Mausoleum where Mitchell and Margaret Henry are buried side by side.
Connemara Heritage & History Centre and the Dan O’Hara’s Homestead
Next, you will visit Dan O’Hara’s homestead and The Connemara Heritage & History Centre. The Centre offers a unique insight into the history and heritage of this most beautiful part of Connemara and the West of Ireland. Here you will enjoy tea and Irish scones.

Overnight: Galway (Bed & breakfast)

DAY – 7

Historic Dublin City

Depart Galway for Dublin today. En route Visit Clonmacnoise on the banks of the Shannon. Explore the visitors centre and take a tour to see the high towers, the 11th century cathedral & the wonderful high crosses. Continue on to Dublin to discover Dublin’s Fair City. The North Side of the city offers striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on O’Connell Street & the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe. The cities south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares & is home to Trinity College, Dublin Castle & two Anglican Cathedrals.

EPIC

Visit EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.
Over the centuries, over 10 million people emigrated from Ireland. This state-of-the-art interactive experience is located in the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin’s Docklands, the original departure point for so many of Ireland’s emigrants. It will inspire and guide you on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration around the world, from early times to the modern day.
OPTIONAL: on your final evening, why not enjoy entertainment at Taylor’s Three Rock or similar. Visit this lively pub in Rathfarnham for an excellent night of music and dance. A ballad group will regale visitors with ballads both happy and sad and will (after a few pints) have visitors singing along with them. The music is interrupted for a short while to enjoy the best of Irish Dancing guaranteed to get feet tapping. Visitors will later be sent into the night with fond memories of a memorable night in a Dublin Pub.

Overnight – Dublin (Bed & breakfast)

DAY – 8 

Farewell!
After a final Irish breakfast transfer to Dublin Airport for your departure flight home under own arrangements.