Irish Elegance

Start your exploration of Dublin with an orientation tour with a local expert that brings to life Dublin’s architectural treasures and history, stretching back more than 1,000 years. Travel along the River Liffey, see Custom House, Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. See the 9th century Book of Kells and enjoy a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College. Back at your hotel, join your travel director for a warm and friendly dinner and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening.

Depart Dublin and pass the famous Curragh Racecourse and green meadows where many of the finest Irish racehorses are bred. Driving south, stop to see the spectacular Rock of Cashel, crowned with medieval buildings that dominate the flat countryside for miles around. Then on to explore Blarney. Choose to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the magical stone to ensure a lifetime of eloquence. Alternatively, meet a senior gardener for a tour of Blarney Gardens. Head to Killarney, where you may fancy a "pint of porter." This town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs so in the evening perhaps join in the "craic."

In the morning, marvel at spectacular mountain and sea views as you travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm to learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts.

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop at the Exhibition Center and enjoy a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, raised approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape, scarred with interesting limestone creases. Journey to Galway, the City of Tribes, and visit the last Cathedral built in Ireland. Take in the scenery from your hotel which is spectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Embark on a superb exploration of the Connemara National Park and see a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Explore Connemara. Choose to visit the magnificent, turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and visit one of Ireland’s oldest oyster farms for a tasting. Learn about their commitment to biodiversity and work promoting sustainable packaging.

Sitting on the edge of Lough Corrib and nestled on the border of County Galway and County Mayo, is the delightful Cong. You may recognize much of the town as it was used as the location in the 1952 film, "The Quiet Man." With free time to explore this quintessential Irish village, see the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey. Then a short drive down the road leads you to Ashford Castle, the highlight of your travels. As you arrive a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate, pamper yourself at the spa, or get to know the hawks and woodland surroundings at the hotel's falconry school. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. Creative cooking, locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu awaits. Gentlemen, a jacket is required.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the morning and perhaps a stroll on the estate. Then cross the midlands to Dublin where the rest of the day is free for independent activities and maybe some last minute shopping.

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport. Departure transfer arrive at the airport at 7:00, 9:00, 10:30.