Emerald Isle

Welcome to Dublin, the charismatic capital of Ireland! Your journey begins with an afternoon orientation drive at 3pm, featuring iconic landmarks such as O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. Experience the charm of Dublin's Georgian Squares, the grandeur of the 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the intellectual allure of Trinity College's legendary library. The day concludes with a delightful dinner with your tour director and fellow travelers.

Day two takes us to Kildare, where we'll visit the Irish National Stud. From there, we journey to Strokestown for a guided tour of the 1740s mansion and gardens at Strokestown House, including the poignant Famine Museum. This day offers a deep dive into Irish history, from the elegance of Georgian architecture to the tragic events of the Great Irish Famine.

On the third day, we visit the serene Kylemore Abbey, nestled between woodlands and lakeshore near Galway City. This Benedictine Abbey, home to a community of nuns since 1920, offers a glimpse into a life of prayer, work, and community. After exploring the abbey and its beautiful walled garden, we head to Galway for some free time in the afternoon.

Day four takes us from Galway to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. We'll enjoy a light lunch at a local pub, hear stories about life on the island, and embark on a minibus tour that includes a visit to the prehistoric clifftop fort of Dun Aengus. This day offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and historical exploration.

Day five begins with a visit to Rathbaun Farm, where you'll have the chance to bake scones and learn about sheep herding. We then journey along the Clare Coast, stopping to admire the rocky landscapes of The Burren and the prehistoric megalith at Poulnabrone Dolmen. The day concludes with a visit to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher before we head to Limerick for the evening.

On day six, we visit the Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in Foynes, where you'll learn about the era of transatlantic passenger flights and the maritime legends of the River Shannon. We then enjoy a scenic drive on the Slea Head promontory on the Dingle Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

On day eight, we cross the Kerry Mountains into County Cork, stopping at the village of Blarney, famous for its magical Kissing Stone. We then head to Waterford, where we'll take a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship.

Day nine offers time to explore the quaint city of Kilkenny, known as the 'Marble City' for its use of local black limestone in many of its buildings. The city's 'Medieval Mile' is lined with medieval landmarks, charming shops, and traditional pubs. After exploring Kilkenny, we return to Dublin for some free time in the afternoon.