The treasures of Ireland are legendary. The beauty of the land itself and the creations of its inhabitants are extraordinary. Discover Ireland's fortresses and castles and other architectural splendors in an 8 Day Tour through the country. Explore the monastic ruins at Glendalough and travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland.
Day 1 - Depart USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
Day 2 - Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital city! Spend the afternoon relaxing or start exploring on your own. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your traveling companions. (D)
Day 3 - Tour Historic Dublin
Glimpse Viking and medieval times as you pass by Christ Church to stately St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a legacy of religious power from the 12th century. On then to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin – Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the old library and see one of Ireland’s greatest treasures – the famed 8th century Book of Kells. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Perhaps, explore the city’s stylish shops, galleries and museums, stroll through a park or relax in a café or pub. (B)
Day 4 - Dublin / Glendalough / Waterford / Cork
Travel to the monastic ruins at Glendalough, settled by St. Kevin in the 6th century. On to ancient Waterford, settled by the Vikings in the 9th century and the oldest city in Ireland. Its colorful cafés and pubs overlook the quayside. Next, on your way to bustling Cork, see a hidden treasure. After dinner, a local historian will share adventurous tales of the sea and Cork’s history, ever entwined with great ships and majestic liners. You will also hear about Cobh, the last port of call for the ill-fated RMS Titanic. (B,D)
Day 5 - Cork / Cobh / Blarney / Killarney
Today visit Cobh. The Heritage Centre brings the Queenstown (as Cobh was once named) story of emigration to life. Then on to Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don’t miss the chance to walk across to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. On to the market town of Killarney. (B)
Day 6 - The Ring of Kerry
Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the balance of the day is free. (B,D)
NOTE: The hike is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear.
Day 7 - Killarney / Cliffs of Moher / Limerick
Departing Killarney, cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare to walk along the Cliffs of Moher: a magical vista awaits you. Afterward, head to your hotel in Limerick. Tonight, why not attend an optional Medieval Castle Banquet. (B)
Day 8 - Limerick / Depart Shannon
You will be transferred to the airport in Shannon for your homebound flight.
A transfer to the Crowne Plaza Hotel - Dublin Airport is also available, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m. Extra nights can be booked in Limerick or Dublin. (B)
B=Breakfast, D=Dinner
Hotels on this tour
Camden Court, Dublin
The Cork Hotel, Cork
Killarney Scotts Hotel
Limerick The George HotelÂ
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