An ideal introduction to the Emerald Isle for first-time visitors who have limited time to spare. Begin in Dublin, the bustling Irish capital, with an overnight and orientation drive that includes O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. You will also have time to explore the city on your own. Head west for the popular seaside resort of Galway and through the limestone plateau known as The Burren to the majestic 668-foot Cliffs of Moher for spectacular views of the Clare coast, Galway Bay and Aran Islands. On to Adare with its beautiful thatched cottages, and at Killorglin, join the famous “Ring of Kerry,” the panoramic coastal drive that boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland. Overnight is in the popular, vibrant resort of Killarney, then travel over the Kerry Mountains to Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence. You will have time to visit the castle and shop for Irish handicraft. Via the Rock of Cashel, where St. Patrick preached, journey back to Dublin for the conclusion of your Irish experience.
Highlights:
Scenic Highlights: The Burren, Ring of Kerry and Lakes of Killarney, Rock of Cashel
Itinerary:
Day #1 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland. Check into your hotel. In the afternoon there is free time to rest or explore the lively Irish capital. This evening, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for dinner at the hotel. (D)
Day #2 Dublin. After a hearty Irish breakfast, a morning orientation of the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive along statue-lined O’Connell Street. Then, admire elegant Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and famous Trinity College. The afternoon is at leisure; discover for yourself the buzz of this fascinating city—Temple Bar, Crafton Street, and St. Stephen’s Green are all within walking distance from each other and give you a wonderful insight on how Dubliners go about their everyday life. This evening, why not join a fun optional Irish cabaret evening with dance, song, and laughter? (B)
Day #3 Dublin–Galway–Cliffs of Moher–Ennis. Take the road to Galway this morning, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan center with cobblestone streets, colorful shops, and a busy café and bar culture. Cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Tonight, you have a chance to attend an optional medieval banquet at Knappogue Castle. (B)
Day #4 Ennis–Adare–Ring of Kerry–Killarney. Stop for photos in Adare, a village known for its prize-winning thatched cottages. At Killorglin, join the road known as the “Ring of Kerry” for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive: sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View. Before dinner you might want to join an optional visit to Muckross House, built in the 19th century for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife, watercolorist Mary Balfour Herbert. (B,D)
Day #5 Killarney–Blarney–Cashel–Dublin. More scenic splendor as you head over the Kerry Mountains into County Cork and to Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, stop at the Rock of Cashel, where St. Patrick preached. Back in Dublin tonight, celebrate the success of your tour with an optional dinner evening at the Guinness Storehouse. (B)
Day #6 Dublin. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Hotels:
DUBLIN Jurys Inn Custom House (F)
ENNIS Auburn Lodge (ST)
KILLARNEY Holiday Inn (F)