Highlights: Tullamore Dew / Dead Center Brewing / Seans Bar

Morning: Departing Dublin's fair city, we journey through Ireland's Ancient East, delving into the rich tapestry of the country's famous lush landscapes and whiskey and craft beer heritage. 

Our first destination is Tullamore, located in the heart of County Offaly. Immerse yourself in the world of whiskey at the recently renovated Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre. Here, a guided tour reveals the secrets behind the iconic triple distillation process and concludes with a tasting of their refined spirits in their elegant tasting room. After savoring the flavors of Tullamore, continue your journey to Athlone, a town that boasts a rich monastic history intertwined with the origins of Irish whiskey.

Afternoon: Onwards to Dead Centre Brewing, we wander. Positioned at the forefront of Ireland's craft beer movement. Engage with the brewers and learn about the process of creating that perfect brew, from carefully selected local ingredients to the complexities of distribution. A tasting session here highlights the diversity of the craft beer scene and the passion and creativity that drive it.

No visit to Athlone would be complete without a visit to Sean's Bar, the oldest pub in Ireland, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy a pint in a setting filled with centuries of history. 

Lodging:  Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone (1-night stay)

Evening: Spend your evening wandering through Athlone’s idyllic setting on the banks of the river Shannon.

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: Brewed - brick oven pizza (a match made in heaven)

Dinner: On Your Own

Highlights: Clonmacnoise / Micil Distillery (Salthill) / Galway Music and Pub Tour

Morning: We set off towards the vibrant city of Galway, a jewel in the West of Ireland known for its lively streets, colorful arts scene, and maritime heritage. Your first stop en route to Galway is the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise, nestled on the banks of the River Shannon. This early Christian site, founded in the 6th century, offers a peaceful and spiritual experience amidst its towering crosses, round towers, and church ruins, providing a tangible connection to Ireland's early Christian heritage and monastic tradition.

Afternoon: As we approach Galway, we'll make a detour to the Micil Distillery. This family-run establishment is a testament to the revival of the traditional poitín and gin distillation craft in the West of Ireland. Here, we will engage with the rich history of the Micil family, whose distilling traditions date back over 170 years, and discover the meticulous process behind their award-winning spirits during a guided tour. The tour offers an intimate glimpse into the passion and craft that define small-scale distillation, complete with tastings that highlight the unique flavors of their products.

Upon arrival in Galway, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant energy. Wander through the cobbled streets, from pub to pub, enjoying the music on offer in pubs or on the street. Galway is one of the friendliest of cities and offers a chance to mingle with locals and travelers alike, sharing stories and pints in the cozy ambiance of Galway's famed pubs.

Lodging:  Hyde Hotel, Galway (2-night stay)

Evening: As darkness falls, consider participating in a Pub Tour (limited spaces available). This experience will show you some of the well-known watering holes and some of the lesser-known spots in the West End. An unforgettable night, combining the warmth of traditional Irish pubs with the lively spirit of Galway's music scene. 

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: On Your Own - On the go

Dinner: On Your Own

Highlights: Spiddal / Cnoc Suain / Connemara Peninsula / Mescan Brewery / Kylemore Abbey

Morning: Embark on a day-long, awe-inspiring journey from Galway that weaves through the West of Ireland's breathtaking landscapes, embracing the Connemara Peninsula's rugged beauty. 

Begin your day by departing Galway City early, heading west towards the quaint village of Spiddal. Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way, Spiddal offers a glimpse into the heart of Ireland's Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) regions, with its artisan craft shops and traditional thatched cottages providing a charming backdrop for a leisurely morning stroll. 

From Spiddal, venture deeper into the heart of the Connemara Peninsula to Cnoc Suain, a restored 17th-century hill village set in 200 acres of natural bogland and meadow. Here, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the landscape and engage with Ireland's rich cultural heritage through interactive experiences that celebrate the Irish language, music, and ecology. Cnoc Suain provides a serene and educational interlude that connects you with the ancient rhythms of Irish rural life.

Afternoon: Continue your journey through the dramatic scenery of the Connemara Peninsula, where the rugged mountains meet the wild Atlantic coast. This area is famed for its natural beauty and offers countless opportunities for photography and quiet reflection. 

Your next stop is Kylemore Abbey, an iconic landmark nestled at the base of Druchruach Mountain. This Benedictine monastery, built in the late 19th century, is renowned for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, Victorian Walled Garden, and captivating history. Take time to explore the estate, enjoy the serene walks, and perhaps indulge in a light lunch at the café, sampling some local produce.

Later in the day, we make our long-awaited return to one of our favorite and most passionate brewers in the country, Mescan Brewery. Located near the base of Croagh Patrick and named after St. Patrick’s own brewer, this small but innovative brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers, using pure mountain water in their brewing process. A visit to Mescan Brewery offers an insightful look into the craft beer brewing process, with a guided tour and tastings that allow you to sample their range of distinctive beers. It’s a fitting tribute to the end of your journey through Connemara, combining the region's natural resources with the creativity and passion of its people.

This itinerary promises a day filled with discovery, from the linguistic heritage of Spiddal and the traditional Irish life at Cnoc Suain to the majestic beauty of Kylemore Abbey and the artisanal brews of Mescan Brewery, offering a comprehensive experience of Connemara’s diverse allure.

Evening: Explore more of Galway's charm!

Breakfast: At Hotel

Lunch: On the Go or Kylemore

Dinner: On Your Own

Highlights: Burren / Cliffs of Moher / Home of Irish Coffee / Writers Museum / Celtic Cultural Presentation

Morning: Today, we travel a very scenic leg of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, traversing some of Ireland's stunning western landscape, punctuated by visits to some of the country's most iconic natural wonders and cultural sites. We depart Galway (sadly) and set course for the unique landscape of the Burren in County Clare. This area, famed for its lunar-like surface, rare flora, and ancient archaeological sites, provides a fascinating start to your journey. Take a moment to wander through the limestone pavements and discover the ancient dolmens and megalithic tombs that pepper this extraordinary terrain.

As you leave the Burren, continue towards the majestic Cliffs of Moher, but with a twist: experience these towering sea cliffs from the vantage point of the water. Boarding a boat tour from Doolin offers a unique perspective of the cliffs, allowing you to fully appreciate their sheer scale and the area's biodiversity, including the thriving seabird colonies that call these cliffs home. The boat ride showcases the cliffs' natural beauty and provides a thrilling adventure as you navigate the Atlantic swell.

Afternoon: After the exhilarating boat tour, journey on to Foynes, a small town with a rich maritime and aviation history. Visit the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, where the world's first transatlantic passenger flights landed. As if this story wasn’t captivating enough, you’ll also learn the story of how the world-famous Irish Coffee was invented here, providing a warm and informative stop where history comes to life.

Your final stop before reaching Killarney is Listowel, a town with a deep literary tradition. Here, visit the Listowel Writers' Museum, which celebrates the lives and works of some of Ireland's most renowned writers. Housed in a 19th-century Georgian residence, the museum offers insights into the region's rich literary heritage through exhibitions, artifacts, and personal memorabilia of the authors. This visit provides a contemplative end to your journey, connecting you with the cultural soul of Ireland.

Lodging: The Arbutus Hotel, Killarney (2-night stay)

Evening: Conclude your day as you arrive in Killarney, nestled in the scenic beauty of County Kerry. Entertainment this evening will be Celtic Steps The Show, which brings you through the language of music, song, and, of course, dance. 

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: Soup & Sandwiches On Your Own - Doolin

Dinner: On Your Own in Killarney

Highlights: Ring of Kerry / Valentia Island / Killarney Brewing / Skellig Distillery / Portmagee Distillery

Morning: Embark on a breathtaking journey from Killarney, following the winding roads of the Ring of Kerry, a route renowned for its mesmerizing landscapes, historical landmarks, and the enchanting Skellig Ring. This day-long itinerary is carefully crafted to blend the natural beauty of County Kerry with unique cultural and gastronomic experiences, starting from the moment you leave Killarney.

As you set out, the Ring of Kerry beckons with its panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean. Your first major stop, Valentia Island, is reached via a short and scenic ferry ride from Cahersiveen or by crossing the bridge at Portmagee. On Valentia Island, make your way to the historic cable station, which was the western terminus of the first transatlantic telegraph cable connecting Europe with North America in 1866. This site offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in global communication history and stunning views of the surrounding seascape.

After soaking in the history and beauty of Valentia Island, continue to the picturesque village of Portmagee. Here, visit the Portmagee Distillery, one of the newer additions to Ireland's whiskey scene. Delve into the craft of whiskey making with a guided tour, learning about the distillation process and the supreme importance of cask selection. Of course, we will enjoy a tasting session of their finely crafted spirits. Within that experience, you’ll also learn about the local sea-fearing vessel, the Seine Boat.

Afternoon: As you journey on, enter the realm of the Skellig Ring, an extension of the Ring of Kerry that offers even more dramatic views, if that were possible. The Skellig Ring road takes you closer to the edge of the Atlantic, with unmissable views of the Skellig Islands, known for their early Christian monastic heritage. This less-traveled road reveals the raw beauty of Kerry's coastline, dotted with opportunities to stop and admire the views, take photos, or simply breathe in the fresh Atlantic air.

The scenic highlights of your journey—the lush greenery of Molls Gap, the serene beauty of Ladies View, and the rugged landscapes of Derrynane—are but a few of the treasures you'll encounter as you complete the loop back to Killarney. Each offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Ireland's southwest, making the Ring of Kerry a truly unforgettable experience.

Evening: In the evening, return to Killarney, where a visit to the Killarney Brewing Company awaits. This local brewery prides itself on crafting high-quality beers with unique flavors, drawing on the rich brewing heritage of the area. Enjoy a tour of the brewery, learning about the brewing process from grain to glass, followed by a tasting session of their diverse range of beers. Pair your beer tasting with some of their famously fancy pizzas, a perfect culinary end to a day filled with adventure, discovery, and the natural beauty of Kerry.

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: On Your Own Deli Stop - Picnic

Dinner: On Your Own at Killarney Brewery

Highlights: Clonakilty Distillery or Michael Collins Center / Kinsale Mead Co. / Charles Fort Kinsale / Rising Sons Brewery/Franciscan Well

Morning: Another day and another enriching journey from Killarney to Kinsale. It's a day filled with the beauty of Ireland's landscapes and the depth of its beverage culture, now further enhanced by a detour through the historic town of Charles Fort before reaching Kinsale. 

Begin your adventure departing from Killarney, driving through the picturesque Irish countryside, where each bend in the road unveils breathtaking vistas of mountains, valleys, and rugged coastlines, emblematic of Ireland’s enchanting natural beauty.

As you approach Kinsale, make a strategic detour to Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress sitting majestically at the water's edge. This 17th-century garrison offers panoramic views of Kinsale Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean beyond, serving as a silent witness to Ireland's tumultuous history. Exploring Charles Fort, you’ll walk through centuries of military strategy and daily life within its walls, offering a tangible connection to the past and a deeper understanding of the strategic importance of Kinsale in maritime history.

Afternoon: Following your exploration of Charles Fort, continue to Kinsale, where your first visit is to the Kinsale Mead Co. This meadery is at the forefront of reviving the ancient craft of mead making in Ireland, offering a fascinating insight into the production of this honey-based drink, enriched with fruits and spices. The tour and tasting session here highlight the varieties of mead and its significance in Irish culture and mythology, making for a uniquely enlightening experience.

Evening: Next, your journey leads you to Cork City, where you can enjoy some free time and delve into its vibrant craft beer scene with visits to the Franciscan Well Brewery and the Rising Sons Brewery. Franciscan Well, built on the site of an old Franciscan monastery, marries traditional brewing techniques with innovative flavors, offering a glimpse into the evolution of craft brewing in Ireland. The Rising Sons Brewery, a family-operated microbrewery, further exemplifies the craft with its selection of award-winning beers, each creation telling its own story of local inspiration and craftsmanship.

Lodging: The Metropole Hotel, Cork (1-night stay)

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: On Your Own in Kinsale

Dinner: On Your Own

Highlights: Ballykilgavin / Rock of Cashel / Glendalough / Farewell Dinner 

Morning: Your adventure begins with a drive towards the iconic Rock of Cashel, a stunning ensemble of medieval buildings set dramatically on a limestone hill in County Tipperary. This historic site offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland’s ecclesiastical history and provides panoramic views of the surrounding plains. Exploring the Rock of Cashel, you'll wander through centuries of Irish history, with each stone and ruin telling a story of kings, saints, and conquests.

Continue your journey through the Irish countryside to the heart of County Laois, where the hidden gem of Ballykilcavan Brewery awaits. Nestled within a working farm that has been in the same family for 13 generations, Ballykilcavan has opened its doors to craft beer enthusiasts, offering a unique farm-to-glass experience. A tour of the brewery reveals the process behind their award-winning beers, which are crafted from barley grown on the farm itself and water sourced from their own well, emphasizing the brewery's commitment to sustainability and local produce. The following tasting session is an opportunity to savor the distinct flavors of their brews, each a testament to the quality of their ingredients and the passion behind their creation.

Afternoon: Your final destination before reaching the Dublin area again is the serene and mystical Glendalough, located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. This ancient monastic site, founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, is set amidst two tranquil lakes and surrounded by dense woodlands and steep mountains, offering a peaceful retreat from the modern world. Strolling through Glendalough, you'll encounter the iconic round tower, ancient churches, and Celtic crosses, all the while enveloped by the natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. The site's spiritual history and breathtaking landscapes make it a perfect place for reflection and the ideal final stop on your Irish journey.

Lodging: The Grand Hotel, Malahide (1-night stay)

Evening: We gather for our last toasts and sharing of cherished memories at our Farewell Group Dinner.

Breakfast: Included At Hotel

Lunch: On the go

Dinner: Included Farwell Group Dinner

Airport Transfers

A Transfer will be provided from the Hotel to the Airport at 7:30 a.m. If traveling earlier or later, you can get a taxi (or pool with others in the group) or use public transport.

To ensure a smooth departure, it's crucial to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight to accommodate check-in, security, and the United States Preclearance process, which is massively convenient when coming into the US (as a domestic flight). Still, it’s a bit of work in Dublin.

Breakfast: Included at the hotel