Dublin & the Enchanting Emerald Isle

Meet your group and Tour Manager at your hotel in Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland. This gorgeous city is steeped in history and tradition and is the perfect place to start our Irish adventure. Every turn reveals historic architecture, welcoming locals, and lively music that encompasses the country's spirit. Tonight, we dine together at the hotel. Overnight Dublin. 

• Dinner

This morning, a coach picks us up at the hotel to transfer to Dublin's train station in the city center. Our destination is Cork, and on arrival, we meet a local guide who escorts us to the Jameson Distillery Midleton for a guided tour. During our time here, we learn fascinating aspects of the whiskey distilling process, including Jameson's triple-distilling method that produces a smoother taste. Of course, what is a whiskey tour without a tasting opportunity? Enjoy a wee dram before we continue onto the next site of our afternoon excursion: Cork Gaol. This 19th-century prison was built in a castle-like manner to be the "best in the three kingdoms." Wander through its interiors, checking out the corridors and cells while soaking in the harrowing atmosphere. The evening concludes with a three-course dinner at our hotel. Overnight Cork. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, prepare for a grand introduction to the Kingdom of Kerry. We venture west into Kerry by coach, making our first stop at the famous Blarney Castle. One of Ireland's greatest treasures, this iteration of the medieval castle was built in 1446, but the property's history reaches far beyond that point. There is time to explore the castle and its beautiful grounds, including its fascinating poison garden, filled with many nefarious plants, such as wolfsbane, ricin, and opium. Before leaving, climb the 127 steps to plant a kiss on the castle's most notable attraction, the Blarney Stone.

From the castle, we continue further into rural Ireland to the 200-year-old residence that once belonged to Molly Gallivan, a famous bootlegger of Poitin, or Irish moonshine. The family-run property is now a Visitors Center and offers a glimpse back in time. Tour this well-preserved farm, its buildings, and its ancient stone formations, then relax for a bit as you are served tea, scones, and perhaps a bit of traditional moonshine. We continue to our Killarney hotel for the evening. Overnight Killarney.

• Breakfast, Dinner

A beloved Irish attraction, the Ring of Kerry is our destination for today. As one of the most dramatic areas of scenery in the country, this iconic drive is wrapped in views of the tumultuous sea, craggy cliffs, and the windswept Irish countryside. We begin our experience in Killarney National Park, taking a horse and carriage ride through the spectacular scenery on an old-fashioned jaunting car tour headed by a local jarvey, or driver. Find yourself enthralled by a landscape where Irish folklore abounds, and enjoy passing views of Ross Castle. After, a tour guide joins us on our excursion to offer fascinating insight as we drive to the Ring of Kerry's most beautiful points, including Torc Waterfall, Molls Gap, and Ladies View. Wrap up the evening with another look at iconic Ireland at the Muckross House. Savor a multi-course Irish meal while traditional singers and dancers take to the stage. Overnight Killarney. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

A day filled with the unique culture of the Emerald Isle and breathtaking scenery lies ahead as we depart our hotel by coach bound for Foynes in County Limerick. The day's first stop sees us to the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum. Whether your interests lie in the early days of aviation, maritime history, or Irish coffee, there is something here for everyone. Explore exhibits dedicated to each before we continue to Tarbet to ferry across the River Shannon. Eventually, we arrive at Doolin, where we take a ferry to cruise along Ireland's West Coast and marvel at the UNESCO Global Geopark Cliffs of Moher. Seeing this iconic natural attraction from the land is memorable, yet experiencing it from the water is nothing short of inspiring. Watch as the towering cliffs rise out of the ocean, and keep watch for notable sites, including O'Brian's Tower, the Great Sea Stack, and even the sea cave used in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

Our route takes us back on land toward Galway via the UNESCO Burren region of Ireland. We pause at a local smokehouse for a smoked salmon masterclass that includes a demonstration and a tasting alongside a glass of wine. Dinner is served this evening at our Galway hotel. Overnight Galway.

• Breakfast, Dinner

The Wild Atlantic Way is our guide this morning, taking us deep into the wild landscapes of Connemara. Our day begins among the peaceful surroundings of Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine nunnery was initially built as a residence in 1867 and was converted to a nunnery in 1920. Dramatic mountains, lakes, and 1,000 acres of immaculate grounds frame the historic structure. Afterward, we continue to Maam Cross station to board one of Ireland's newest heritage trains, the Galway to Clifden Railway. This line first opened in 1895 to connect the rugged wilderness of the Galway region with Clifden on the coast. Step back in time to this historical era on a restored steam train, and enjoy tea and scones in the dining car while watching the beautiful route unfold. We return to Galway this evening, where you are free to head out into the city to experience its pubs, restaurants, and nightlife independently. Overnight Galway. 

• Breakfast

We are transferred from our hotel to the train station in Galway city center this morning, where we board the train to Dublin. The journey takes us through the heart of the Emerald Isle, presenting all the small towns and countryside sprinkled throughout the island's interior. We arrive this afternoon and are greeted by a coach and tour guide at the Hueston train station. A panoramic tour is ideal for us to get reacquainted with the capital city. We venture along the River Liffey to some of the city's most significant sites, including its five beautiful Georgian Squares. The coach deposits us at our elegant hotel in Dublin's city center, at which point you are welcome to continue exploring at your own pace. Many attractions are within walking distance, thanks to the hotel's prime positioning and the city's exceptionally walkable design. Perhaps visit Dublin Castle or explore the local museums. Overnight Dublin. 

• Breakfast

Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at the hotel this morning ahead of your day of adventure. A local guide joins the group in visiting EPIC The Immigration Museum, where you can learn how and why Irish citizens left behind their homes during the great immigration period. There are 20 galleries detailing the struggles and triumphs that came with the diaspora. The day continues with a visit to the world-famous Guinness Storehouse, where you will have the opportunity to grab a pint yourself at the Gravity Rooftop Bar, and a guided walking tour of the city. Follow ancient cobbled streets to places like Trinity College, the eclectic riverside district known as Temple Bar, and the Grafton Quarter shopping district, home to a range of high-end shops, restaurants, cafés, and more. The abundant shops on Grafton Street will surely hold the perfect souvenir to memorialize your time in Ireland. The tour concludes at the urban respite that is St. Stephens Green. From this point, you are welcome to continue sightseeing on your own ahead of tonight's dinner at Taylors Three Rock, a thatched-roof farmhouse beloved for its Irish cuisine and traditional music, dancing, and entertainment. It is the perfect place to toast a successful adventure with a pint. Overnight Dublin. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

After exploring Ireland from coast to coast and being immersed in its traditions and heritage, your journey concludes this morning. Enjoy a full Irish breakfast before transferring to Dublin's rail station or airport for your journey home. 

• Breakfast