Day 1: Depart from U.S. Depart on your overnight transatlantic flight to Ireland from the U.S. Day 2: Dublin You’ll arrive in Dublin where you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Ireland’s majestic capital. This afternoon, enjoy an introductory driving tour to the most vibrant spots in the city including Phoenix Park, Trinity College, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This afternoon, visit the Guinness brewery for a tasting tour and panoramic view of Dublin. This evening, there will be a welcome dinner held in your honor. Day 3: Jameson Distillery and Cobh Journey south through the middle of Ireland with a stop to visit the Rock of Cashsel on the way to Cork. Tour the world famous Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery before heading west to Cobh, known as Queenstown during the height of the Irish migration. It was the last port of call for most ocean-liners before heading for the “New World” - including the HMS Titanic. At the Heritage Center, learn more about the historic vessels and the people that passed through this important port. Day 4: Blarney/Farm Visit Your first stop this morning will be Blarney Castle, home of the Blarney stone. You’ll have a chance to kiss the famous stone to gain the ‘gift of the gab’. Time will be available to shop for everything Irish in the wonderful Blarney Woolen Mills. This afternoon you will visit the farmhouse of the Crowley family, who will regale you with tales and song of farm life through the years while you sip on the famous Irish coffees. Day 5: Cliffs of Moher/Burren/Galway Bay Heading north, enter the Burren, one of the most remarkable geological formations in Ireland, and home to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Witness the incredible 700 foot wall of rock that rises from the Atlantic ocean. Make a lunch stop at one of the most famous pubs in Ireland, and then follow the coastline, passing some spectacular beaches, sensational surf and mystical graveyards, on your way to Galway. Day 6: Island of Inishmore Today is a special one as you will catch the ferry from Galway Bay to the Island of Inishmore (Great Island), part of the Aran Island chain. Tour the island and learn more about the mostly Irish-speaking islanders, including their fishing boats or currachs, which are made of tarred canvas. Your local guide will regale you with tales of life as an Islander, as you journey along the single track roads. Day 7: Galway on St. Patrick's Day Your St. Patrick’s Day will be spent in the lovely city of Galway, where you will enjoy a walking tour of the medieval Quay St. Known as the ‘City of Tribes’, you’ll learn more about the families that ruled this cosmopolitan trading port. See where Columbus left from when he started his ‘mystery tour’ into the new world! Embrace the most traditional of all St. Patrick’s Day parades as you enjoy area dance troupes, children’s groups and even pets, all bedecked in green. After the parade, people visit in the parks, pubs and shops to enjoy a lovely day of togetherness. Day 8: Shannon/Return to U.S. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Shannon Airport for your flight back to the U.S. |