Enchanting Emerald Isle Summer 2018

Day 1: Arrive Dublin – Afternoon Sightseeing

Embrace the whimsy and charm of Dublin, a multicultural modern city that celebrates its fascinating past and exudes an enduring sense of fun. Meet your Local Specialist this afternoon for a guided city tour that will see us ramble past the elegant Georgian Squares and St. Patrick's Cathedral. A special Welcome Reception this evening sees us us enjoying a fun night out at a classic public house in the city. Admire the authentic Victorian bar and walk up the original staircase from Trinity College, which was featured in the Michael Caine film 'Educating Rita'. Welcome Reception

Day 2: Dublin – Strokestown – Enniscrone

Journeying through the lush green countryside, we stop at Strokestown Park House, a magnificent 18th century mansion preserved with its original furnishings and fabrics. In its old stables, we experience a Cultural Insight at the Irish Famine Museum where we will delve into the stories of the 1840s famine and see the haunting pleas of starving tenants on the estate and the response they received. We leave the fascinating historical evidence of the potato famine behind and continue and continue onto the town of Enniscrone. Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Enniscrone – Westport – Galway

Travel to the picture-perfect town of Westport and meet your Local Specialist for a walking tour. Learn about the town's heritage, from when it was first settled approximately 5,000 years ago, through to modern day times. Visit the Benedictine monastery of Kylemore Abbey, set against the striking backdrop of Lake Kylemore, and meander through its walled Victorian gardens. We continue to Galway, the 'City of Tribes', where we'll view Galway Cathedral and spend the rest of the evening at leisure. Full Breakfast

Day 4: Galway – Cliffs of Moher – Killarney (2 Nights)

The sheer Cliffs of Moher plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean providing endless ocean views which we will have an opportunity to admire during a morning visit. Later, we cross the Shannon estuary by ferry to Killarney, our home for the next two nights. Spend the evening at leisure soaking up some unforgettable Irish craic or delve into the town's fascinating history and culture. Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Ring of Kerry Excursion

Dramatic vistas are ours to enjoy today as we circle the achingly beautiful Ring of Kerry - one of the most scenic drives on the Emerald Isle. See a breathtaking landscape that has inspired poets, artists and writers for centuries before returning to Killarney where you have the rest of the afternoon to explore this quaint town on your terms. Or stop at Torc Waterfall for a leisurely guided walk with a Local Specialist taking you along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the 19th century Muckross Estate. Please Note: This leisurely paced walk meanders over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. Walkers should wear good walking shoes for a stroll through picturesque surroundings. Full Breakfast

Day 6: Killarney – Blarney – Kilkenny

Kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and receive the 'gift of the gab' before browsing through Blarney Woollen Mills for Irish gifts, warm Aran sweaters and Celtic jewellery. Travelling to County Kilkenny, we'll discover the 'lost' town of Newtown Jerpoint, founded in the 12th century and hear about the saint buried there who inspired the legend of Santa Claus centuries ago. Later, we meet local farmers Joe and Maeve O'Connell at their home, Belmore House, and hear the tale of the 'lost' town before indulging in a delicious Be My Guest dinner. Full Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Day 7: Kilkenny – Dublin

Visit Kilkenny Castle, an Anglo-Norman mansion that sits majestically over the River Nore. In the castle basement, you'll find the Butler Gallery, one of Ireland's most important art galleries outside of Dublin. Returning to the Irish capital, we'll visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells, said to be the world's most famous medieval manuscript. All that's left to say is a rousing sláinte or two while we enjoy a memorable Farewell Dinner, marking the end of a magnificent journey through the Emerald Isle. Full Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 8: Depart Dublin

It's time to close the chapter on an unforgettable Irish holiday. We bid our newfound friends and Travel Director a fond farewell. Transfers are available. Conditions apply. Full Breakfast