This morning we drive from Galway city centre out to the village of Cong, a picturesque village well worth exploring and home of Ashford Castle, former home of the Guinness family. We continue into the heart of Connemara, Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht area and as wild Ireland as you can get. Along the way we will stop at Kylemore Abbey, home of the benedictine nuns with all-organic produce to sample. For lunch we’ll stop in the beautiful coastal town of Clifden, home of the wild Connemara ponies, and the heart of the west. Later, we can stop at the Connemara Marble Museum to check out Ireland’s famous green marble. This afternoon and evening you’ll have time to enjoy more of Galway and it’s vibrant night life.

Overnight Galway

Leaving Galway, we make our way to Killarney with a morning stop at the legendary Cliffs of Moher, towering over the rugged West Clare coast. We then have a choice of things to see: Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, where you can experience the Irish way of life centuries ago, or, Limerick’s medieval King John’s Castle then traveling via Adare for some breathtaking scenery. Next we’ll tour through Killarney National Park, famed for it’s outstanding beauty, with possible stops at Muckross House & Gardens and the Torc Waterfall. Tonight in Killarney, you’ll experience Irish music, singing and dancing at the top-rated show: Celtic Steps.

Overnight in Killarney

It’s a day of remarkable vistas on the Wild Atlantic Way! This morning we’re off to Dingle, one of the loveliest villages in all of Ireland. Along the Wild Atlantic Way drive we will see spectacular coastal scenery, the Blasket Islands and superb beaches where we can drive onto the beaches and walk along the sand. Dingle itself is a happening place, boasting old world charm mixed with a modern Celtic vibe. Choices in Dingle include a whiskey tour or the Dingle Crystal factory tour. This artisan town is fun to walk around and check out all the the various boutiques and pubs. Later, we head back to Killarney via Connors Pass, a truly memorable drive with hidden lakes and spectacular vistas! Tonight enjoy an evening stroll or jaunting cart through Killarney’s colorful streets then pop into a pub for some traditional Irish music and local flavor.

Overnight in Killarney

Today we continue along the Wild Atlantic Way, heading down to Kinsale. Our route takes us though Kenmare, Glengarriff, Bantry and some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery. (When you think of Ireland… these are the views you’re envisioning!) Lots of great options for today: Taking the ferry over to the tranquil gardens of Garnish Island, made lush by its proximity to the gulf stream. Also along this drive are old abbeys we can explore as well as mountains and boat rides. As we arrive in Kinsale we can tour historic Charles Fort. Kinsale is a lovely port town with a marina, beautiful views and dozens of great places to eat, drink and shop…. Perfect for strolling and exploring this evening.

Overnight in Kinsale

Heading north today, we make our way to Dublin. Our first stop is the world famous Blarney Castle and Gardens, a medieval stronghold set in glorious countryside with outstanding gardens. A highlight of any trip to Ireland! Continuing north we visit the iconic Rock of Cashel, coronation site of the Celtic Kings of Munster for hundreds of years and one of the oldest ecclesiastical buildings in Ireland. From here we continue to Dublin and, time permitting, can take a quick stop in Kildare to tour The Irish National Stud, where some of the finest thoroughbred racehorses in the world are produced. This evening you can explore Dublin’s exciting pedestrian shopping area, Grafton Street, and watch the famed street buskers.

Overnight in Dublin

Today we embrace Dublin and it’s rich history. Our first stop this morning is Trinity College to view the 9th-century Book of Kells and the distinctive Long Room Library. Next, we visit St Patrick’s Cathedral, the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland, founded in 1191, resplendent and full of fascinating history. Later, we have options that include Phoenix Park and the Farmleigh House & Estate, or, the Viking Museum (Dublin was founded, twice, by vikings!). We can finish off the afternoon with a visit to the whimsical and entertaining Leprechaun Museum, or, a visit to the award-winning Little Museum of Dublin to discover the lesser known history of Dublin’s everyday-people. In the early evening you’ll catch a ghost tour to experience Dublin’s darker side.

Overnight in Dublin

After breakfast, we’ll begin the day with a tranquil stroll in the Victorian gem, Stephen’s Green city park. Next, we tour Kilmainham Gaol, a prison founded in 1787, and a sobering reminder of Ireland’s fight for independence. For lunch we’ll head to the famous Temple Bar district to get some traditional Dublin flavor. This afternoon you’ll visit one of the most important buildings in Irish history, the 13th century Dublin Castle, the seat of English Administration in Ireland for 700 years. Tonight you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at The Winding Stair, Dublin’s beloved bookstore with a chic restaurant upstairs. After dinner you can watch the sunset as you cross the Ha’Penny Bridge, Dublin’s oldest pedestrian crossing over the River Liffey.

Overnight in Dublin