Uncover the Magic
From the crypts of Christ Church Cathedral to the forests of Killarney National Park, dive into a seldom seen side of the Emerald Isle. Experience Ireland’s thriving farm to table movement during a cooking class at one of Dublin’s premier culinary schools. Savor a pint of “the black stuff” at the Guinness Storehouse. Visit the Irish National Stud to learn about one of Ireland’s most lucrative industries. Immerse yourself in “forty shades of green” during your choice of excursion in Killarney National Park. Enjoy an afternoon hike in the Burren, home to a rugged limestone landscape. Take in awe-inspiring views at the Cliffs of Moher. Visit Holy Cross Abbey and learn why many scholars claim the Irish saved Western civilization during the Dark Ages. Above all, gain a new perspective on Ireland and its people.
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Travel to the Emerald Isle for an incredible five-night adventure. This is your chance to experience a seldom-explored side of Ireland. From the vaults of Christ Church Cathedral to the bewitching forests of Killarney National Park, we’ll bring you back to your Irish roots (even if you don’t have any).
Day 2 Dublin, Ireland - Tour Begins
Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital. Tonight, start things off right as you join your fellow travellers for a welcome reception with canapés and cocktails in the crypt of Christ Church Cathedral.* Within the medieval walls of Dublin’s oldest structure, surrounded by nearly 1,000 years of Irish myths and legends, toast the start of an incredible adventure.
Day 3 Dublin
It’s never too early for a pint of the “black stuff.” Your day begins at the Guinness Storehouse where, after a privately guided tour, you’ll have an opportunity to pour your own pint. Next, meet your local guide for an immersive walking tour of Dublin. Explore Stephan’s Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the statue of Ireland’s most famous fish monger, Molly Malone. This evening, put a modern twist on Irish cuisine during a cooking class at one of Dublin’s premier culinary institutions.
Day 4 Dublin - Kildare - Holy Cross Abbey - Killarney
Leave the bustle of city life behind and dive into Ireland’s “forty shades of green.” Visit the Irish National Stud and learn about one of the county’s most historic (and lucrative) industries – horse breeding. Continue to Holy Cross Abbey where a privately guided tour outlines the abbey’s turbulent history. Reflect on the invaluable role Ireland’s monastic life played in the preservation of Western culture during the dark ages and see a relic of the True Cross. Arrive in Killarney for a relaxing two-night stay. Tonight, come to know Kerry’s budding culinary scene during a farm to table dinner at one of the best restaurants in town.
Day 5 Killarney National Park
Today is yours to explore one of Ireland’s most remarkable places – Killarney National Park. Rugged mountains, serene lakes and lush forests come together to create an otherworldly landscape that harkens back to ancient myths. How you explore is up to you! You may choose to join a local expert on a historically inspired walk through the Muckross Estate and Gardens; meander along the lakeshore before arriving at the majestic Torc Waterfall. Or, perhaps you would prefer to explore the park by water, traveling through Killarney’s three lakes to Lord Brandon’s Cottage; a guided walk on the “Kerry Way” leads you through enchanting scenery before stopping at the exact location where Queen Victoria was taken on her historic visit to Killarney.
Day 6 Killarney - Cliffs of Moher - The Burren - Ennis
Cross the mighty Shannon as we arrive into County Clare. Feel like a local when visiting a neighborhood grocery store. Get to know how the locals shop and learn about the foods they eat before joining your fellow travelers on a culinary scavenger hunt. Find the perfect ingredients to prepare a picnic lunch that we will later enjoy while overlooking Clare’s breathtaking scenery.** The Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic locations, stretches five miles along Ireland’s Atlantic Coast. Stand fast as the winds blow in from the Atlantic and the sea rushes up to meet the land far below. Enjoy time to walk along the rambling edge, soaking up unparalleled views and snapping incredible photos. Continue on to the Burren, Ireland’s vast limestone landscape, for a guided hike of this incredible natural heritage region. See its rich collection of rare wildlife and ancient monuments. Tonight, complete your journey at the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis. The time has come to raise a glass and toast the end of an incredible adventure.