Day 1: Book of Kells, Little Museum of Dublin & The Shelbourne
Your tour departs from your hotel at 2 PM. You'll stay at The Shelbourne, a hotel that has been at the heart of Dublin's political and social life for centuries. After you meet your tour director, visit Trinity College for a campus tour, then go to the library to see the Book of Kells, an ornate 9th-century manuscript crafted by scholarly monks; it is perhaps Ireland's greatest cultural treasure. Next, visit the Little Museum of Dublin. Located in a Georgian townhouse, this award-winning, 'people's museum' tells the fascinating story of the city's history with humor and hospitality. Return to your hotel mere steps away for a welcome drink with your group before dining independently.
Day 2: Jameson Bow St. Distillery & Roly's Bistro
Visit the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in the historic Smithfield area of Dublin. Choose from a selection of Jameson signature serves and hear stories about the company since its founding in 1780. Savor a tasting of three whiskeys from the Jameson portfolio, then visit their maturation warehouse for a tasting straight from a barrel. For lunch, you'll visit one of Dublin's most popular restaurants, Roly's Bistro, which has been serving traditional European cuisine in its upscale Ballsbridge neighborhood since 1992. The afternoon is free to explore as you wish.
(B, L)
Day 3: Glendalough, Russborough House, Falconry & Lyrath Estate
Enjoy the delightful scenery of the Wicklow Mountains on the way to Glendalough, once a thriving monastery founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. Walk through the deep valley that attracted monks and scholars from throughout Europe and view the picturesque ruins of a round tower, churches, and Celtic crosses. Next, tour Russborough House, one of Ireland's most beautiful Georgian homes. See its collection of precious art ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and then enjoy an exhilarating encounter: a falconry demonstration, where you can interact with powerful birds of prey under expert guidance. You'll dine this evening at Lyrath Estate Hotel & Spa in the small city of Kilkenny, known as the medieval heart of Ireland.
(B, D)
Day 4: Kilkenny Castle, Cork Tasting Trail & Hayfield Manor
Tour the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle. Here you will see glorious 17th-century tapestries, family portraits, and sumptuous furnishings reflecting the lifestyle of the powerful Butler family who resided there. Next, travel south for a lunchtime tasting tour, sampling local delicacies and culinary delights as you explore the streets of Cork, Ireland's second-largest city. Dine this evening at your hotel, a welcoming and luxurious manor house steps from the heart of the city.
(B, D)
Day 5: Kinsale Tour, Killarney Jaunting Car Ride, Rozzers Restaurant & Europe Hotel
Explore the colorful coastal town of Kinsale, famed as Ireland's gourmet capital and a haven for art lovers. Discover the port's pivotal role in Irish history and hear how it was once the scene of a battle with the Spanish Armada. Travel on to the friendly town of Killarney for a classic jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to the scenic ruins of Ross Castle. The Europe Hotel & Resort is your home for the next two nights. Dine at the award-winning Rozzers Restaurant in Killeen House Hotel.
(B, D)
Day 6: Ring of Kerry Highlights & Sheepdog Demonstration
Enjoy a leisurely morning before embarking on a drive along Ireland's most popular scenic route, the Ring of Kerry. See the highlights of this majestic coastal drive, taking in rugged ocean views, charming villages, and serene mountain vistas. Next, visit a sheep farm to watch expert dogs demonstrate their skills as they cooperate with the farmer to mind their flock. Back at your hotel, your evening will begin with a demonstration of cocktail-making. Savor your choice of cocktails before dining with your group.
(B, D)
Day 7: Cliffs of Moher & Dromoland Castle
Drive north to cross the Shannon River on a ferry to visit the spectacular beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, soaring 700 feet above the Atlantic surf. Behold breathtaking panoramic views and stroll along the clifftop walk. Travel on to Dromoland Castle Hotel. This fairytale castle was the ancestral home of the O'Briens whose lineage traces back to Brian Boru, one of Ireland's last High Kings. Relax in elegant surroundings before enjoying dinner in the oak-paneled dining room.
(B, D)
Day 8: Irish National Stud & Gardens, Merry Ploughboy & College Green Hotel
Make your way back to Dublin for your farewell evening. Along the way, your first stop will be The Irish National Stud in County Kildare. Here you'll see impeccably-bred stallions alongside protective mares and frolicking foals; get an up-close experience with them. Stroll around delightful grounds to explore St Fiachra's Garden and Japanese Gardens. In the evening dine on Irish specialties at Merry Ploughboy Gastropub while enjoying traditional Irish songs and step-dancing.
(B, D)
Day 9: Tour Ends in Dublin
Your tour ends after breakfast.
(B)
Key: (B) Breakfast | (L) Lunch | (D) Dinner
Authentic Local Experiences:
- Stay in some of Ireland's most lavish and storied castle and manor house accommodations.
- Experience an unforgettable encounter with majestic birds of prey, guided by expert falconers in the stately setting of Russborough House.
- Meet artisanal producers and discover the culinary delights of Ireland's second-largest city as you take in traditional and modern stops along the Cork Tasting Trail.
Dining Experiences:
- 8 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), and 6 dinners (D).
Trip Highlights:
- Book of Kells & Trinity College
- Cliffs of Moher
- Cork Tasting Trail
- Glendalough
- Irish National Stud
- Jameson Bow Street Distillery
- Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kinsale Walking Tour
- Russborough Falconry
- Sheepdog Demonstration
Hotels:
- Shelbourne Hotel | Dublin (2)
- Lyrath Estate Hotel & Spa - Kilkenny (1)
- Hayfield Manor Hotel | Cork (1)
- The Europe Hotel & Resort - Killarney (2)
- Dromoland Castle Hotel | Dromoland, Newmarket-on-Fergus (1)
- The College Green Hotel - Dublin (1)