Enchanting Ireland

Day 1 : Fly to Ireland

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

Day 2 : Dublin

This lively modern city is brimming with historic landmarks and Georgian-style buildings. We view Dublin’s highlights including a guided visit through Christ Church Cathedral. We end our first exciting day on the Emerald Isle at our beautiful hotel.

Day 3 : Clonmacnoise

We travel west this morning to Clonmacnoise. This beloved ancient monastic site, with its remains of nine churches, a round tower, and high Celtic Crosses, was long a major center of religion and education and drew scholars from all over Europe. It’s truly a magical place with a scenic setting on the River Shannon. Later, experience authentic Irish hospitality at Connolly’s Rathbaun Farm. Here, sheep graze the fields and the fragrance of home-baked scones and a peat fire fill the air. We visit with our hosts Frances and Fintan in their charming thatched cottage and sample freshly baked scones with a pot of Irish tea.

Day 4 : Kylemore Abbey

We begin the day at the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory where Celtic motifs are expertly cut into colored crystal. Then, enjoy the opulent canvas of Connemara, dense with gleaming rivers and lakes, stunning coastal views, and rugged rock formations. Later, stroll the vibrant gardens and neo-Gothic Church of Kylemore Abbey, home to a Benedictine Community of Nuns since World War I. Back in Galway this evening, take in some local culture by stepping into the city’s lively entertainment scene.

Day 5 : Cliffs of Moher

Our scenic morning drive takes us into the otherworldly beauty of the Burren in County Clare. Here, limestone has eroded over the ages to form moonscape patterns called karren. Next, we stop at the Cliffs of Moher. This mighty coastal wall, 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!

Day 6 : Killarney

Today begins in Adare, often called Ireland’s prettiest village with its thatched cottages and beautiful stone buildings. We spend the next two nights in Killarney, a vibrant little town surrounded by incredibly beautiful countryside. Later we enjoy a traditional jaunting cart tour of Killarney National Park.

Day 7 : Ring of Kerry

We spend today savoring one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, the Ring of Kerry. Undulating hills, rugged mountains draped with green forest, shimmering lakes, emerald valleys, dramatic seascapes, and quaint villages all mark an unforgettable day. Tonight, our cultural experience continues with traditional Irish folk music and dancing at Kate Kearney’s Cottage. We always receive a hearty welcome when we walk through the doors of this 150-year-old family-run establishment.

Day 8 : Blarney Stone

At Blarney Castle this morning, you can kiss the fabled stone and be rewarded with the gift of gab. If you still want something to talk about, there is 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, at the stunning Rock of Cashel, we 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 the day at Kilkenny Castle. This palace was originally built to guard against crossings of the River Nore in the 13th century. 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 our special Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 10 : Fly Home

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