The Castles & Culture of Ireland

Welcome to vibrant Dublin! You'll have time to explore on your own when you arrive. In the afternoon, check into The Mont Hotel, a chic retreat in the city’s heart, just steps from iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street. The hotel is a short walk to Trinity College, Christchurch Cathedral, and several other attractions, so you can easily enjoy the city on your own.

For those arriving a day early, check out our optional "Seminar on the Street" - a two-hour Dublin city and historical tour. 

Later today, we'll meet in the hotel lobby to get to know each other, after which we’ll take a short walk to one of Dublin’s favorite restaurants to enjoy the best of local cuisine.

Our day kicks off with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, fueling us for a morning of discovery. We’ll head to 14 Henrietta Street, a captivating social history museum that traces Dublin’s journey from its Georgian roots to the era of tenements. Here, we’ll explore over 300 years of urban life, weaving together the rich tapestry of stories from the people who made this place their home. 

Following our museum visit, we’ll share a relaxed lunch at a traditional Irish pub, enjoying the warm ambiance and hearty cuisine.

In the afternoon, we'll explore the architectural splendor of Trinity College, marveling at the intricate details of the world-famous Book of Kells. As the evening approaches, we’ll point out some of our favorite local restaurants for dinner, perfectly rounding off your day in Dublin.

This morning, we'll leave the city on a scenic 4-hour drive through Ireland’s lush green midlands. Along the way, we’ll pause at The Rock of Cashel, exploring its medieval castle and gothic chapel. The castle is steeped in history spanning millennia.

We'll stop for a leisurely lunch before checking into the luxurious 5-star Sheen Falls Lodge in the quaint town of Kenmare. Enjoy a proper afternoon tea before unwinding with a 60-minute treatment at their award-winning spa, rejuvenating before our evening meal.

We’ll gather for dinner in the hotel’s brasserie, where we can enjoy exquisite cuisine in a relaxed setting. 

After breakfast, we'll set off along the wild Kerry Coast, following the road south towards the famed Ring of Kerry. 

Our journey takes us to a secluded beach where we’ll meet with a local forager. Together, we'll stroll along the shore, discovering native superfoods like seaweed, thriving in the Atlantic’s pristine waters.

Lunch awaits at the charming tearooms of Derrynane House. Afterward, we’ll take the opportunity to explore the boutiques and galleries of Kenmare.

Dinner is in town this evening, where you can choose from a variety of local restaurants. Our day ends back at Sheen Falls Lodge, where we’ll spend the night.

Today, our adventure takes us to the heart of Killarney National Park, the jewel of Kerry. We'll head north, stopping at the historic Muckross House on the shores of Lough Leane. We'll take a traditional boat tour, soaking in the stunning views of Ireland’s towering mountains.

Afterward, we’ll drive for about 3.5 hours to the picturesque village of Adare. You’ll have time to wander through the village and explore its charming craft boutiques.

Our day concludes with a restful night at Gregans Castle Hotel, nestled in serene surroundings.

Our day starts with a hearty breakfast, followed by a creative morning at The Burren Perfumery. This women-owned business is inspired by the region's distinctive rocky landscapes and wildflowers. We're about to discover the art of perfume-making, capturing the essence of the natural beauty surrounding us.

Later in the afternoon, we'll head to the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Stepping away from the crowds, your guide will lead a short walk to introduce us to the myriad of seabirds nesting in the rocky crevices, while we take in the sweeping panoramic views.

Tonight’s agenda features dinner and traditional music in a charming pub in the tiny village of Doolin. Prepare for an evening filled with lively Irish fiddling that will have you stomping along with the locals!

We'll start our day with breakfast, setting the stage for our final exploration along Ireland’s west coast to the bohemian city of Galway, just a 1.5-hour drive north. 

After a delicious lunch, we’ll dive into an engaging Irish Dancing Experience, where we’ll explore various styles such as Step Dancing (think Riverdance), Sean Nós Dancing (the traditional style), and Céilí/Set Dancing (a lively group dance). Led by a skilled instructor, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Irish dance, music, and culture. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a big smile on your face! 

Galway is known for its outstanding cuisine, and tonight, we’ll dine at one of the city's best restaurants. After dinner, we’ll dive into the local culture by visiting one of Galway’s lively, music-filled pubs.

We'll end our day with a restful night at our centrally located hotel, The Hardiman Hotel, located on the famous Eyre Square and just a few minutes walk to the pier. 

We'll return to Dublin by lunchtime today. We can drop you directly at the airport or you can finish your trip in the city. Plan to fly out at 3 pm or after on that day or the next.