Ireland Unveiled - Beyond the Blarney

Cead mile failte – a hundred-thousand welcomes! Your Small-Group Discovery Begins! At 6:00pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Ireland’s Capital City Take a morning orientation drive to see O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. Free time this afternoon. This evening, discover the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world’s most popular beers on a fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at the legendary Guinness Storehouse. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS In Dublin, where “the Craic is always mighty,” you’ll find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and their famously warm welcome runs through the heart of this super-cool capital. Dublin’s streets are lined with vibrant art, hip cafes, historic buildings, and the sound of buskers that all contribute to the city’s unique vibe.

Sheep and Scones This morning head to Athlone, a bustling town by the River Shannon and at the center of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. On to Rathbaun Farm where you’ll try your hand at scone baking, learn about sheep herding, and enjoy coffee and scones. Mid-afternoon arrival in Galway gives time to explore this colorful city this afternoon and evening. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT LOCAL TASTES Someone’s in the kitchen at Rathbaun Farm, just outside Galway. You can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. Learn about the life-time tradition of sheep farming in this beautiful Irish landscape.

Views and Villages Your day begins with a drive to the 668-foot Cliffs of Moher, where you savor the breathtaking panorama of the Clare coast. A scenic route across the limestone plateau of The Burren takes you to Bunratty Folk Park, where 19th century Ireland comes alive in the thatched cottages and farmsteads of a re-creation of a “living” village. Time to explore before a memorable and entertaining medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS The Cliffs of Moher tower high above the wild Atlantic and stretch more than 8 miles along the coast of County Clare. Jaw dropping views, heart stopping drops and limitless panoramas at every turn. One of the great iconic visits in Ireland, your camera will be working overtime!

Beauties of Counties Clare and Kerry This morning, hear all about the origins of famed Irish Coffee at the start of the drive around part of Ireland’s southwestern peninsula, the spectacular Ring of Kerry. Along the way pause for a guided seaweed discovery and tasting walk with a local expert on the beautiful Atlantic shoreline. On to your overnight in charming Killarney. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE VIKING VEGGIES The Ring of Kerry borders the Atlantic coast and is known for its stunning sea views and beautiful beaches, as well as a bounty of Atlantic Irish seaweed growing wild. This superfood served as a staple for early settlers (including the Vikings) and continues its role in the local economy ever since. Carrageen Moss (aka Irish Moss) for example has high iodine content and supports thyroid health, promoting healthy metabolism. High in minerals, seaweed is low in calories, fat, and sugar. Taste for yourself on a guided walk!

Explore the Park A full day to relax and enjoy the diverse delights of Killarney, from walks, hikes or cycling to famed jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park. So much to explore. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT PARK PEACE Beside the town of Killarney lies Killarney National Park, a 26,000-acre natural wonderland, a lake-filled fantasy of ancient woods, misty mountains, and majestic red deer. Listen to the silent voice of nature and count the “wows” as you explore by foot, jaunting car, or bike.

Island Life Head to County Cork this morning and to Baltimore, a village whose heritage revolves around sailing and fishing. From here take the short ferry ride to remote Cape Clear Island where an islander describes life for the 110 residents on a walking tour. Overnight in the village of Blarney. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE A FERRY GOOD DAY Cape Clear Island is just 3 miles long by 1 mile wide. Situated 8 miles off the coast of West Cork, it is the southernmost inhabited part of Ireland with its own distinct culture and history. An islander guide will talk about life on the island as you take a stroll from North to South Harbour. On the ferry journey to and from Cape Clear, watch for whales, leatherback turtles, dolphins, and even sharks. A truly memorable experience!

Emigration and Whiskey In Cobh visit the “Queenstown Story” that tells the history and heritage of this small port including the famine, emigration from Ireland, the story of the coffin ships, the Titanic, and the sinking of the Lusitania. At The Old Midleton Distillery join the Jameson Experience Tour, a guided tour of the original distillery that produced the famous Jamesons Irish Whiskey. Learn about the hard-working people and processes responsible for the whiskey that bears John Jameson’s name. Back in Blarney, time to visit the castle and maybe kiss the Blarney Stone, which is supposed to give the “gift of the gab,” and the ability to communicate with eloquence and wit. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT KISS THE STONE The Blarney Stone is a legendary block of limestone built into the battlements of Blarney Castle. According to tradition, kissing the stone endows the kisser with the gift of eloquence. The term “blarney” has entered the English language, meaning smooth, flattering talk.

The Apple of Life First stop today is Highbank Orchards and see first-hand the legacy that the Calder-Potts family created in the 17th century right up to the present day. Learn about the fantastic properties of their home-grown apples as you wander through the orchards. Later stop in Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s most quaint towns with medieval cobbled lanes and secret alleys. Return to Dublin and this evening enjoy an unforgettable evening of Irish song dance and laughter at Taylors Irish Cabaret. The perfect way to round off your time on the Emerald Isle. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE APPLE OF YOUR EYE Highbank Orchards in Kilkenny is run by Julie & Rod Calder-Potts whose family built the original Highbank Organic Farm back in the 19th Century. The fertile Kilkenny limestone soils are uniquely suited to produce delicious apples organically. Throughout the years Julie and Rod have become famous for their delicious juices, ciders, apple cider and balsamic vinegar, treacle, and not least of all—sumptuous Apple Syrup.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)