9 Day Irish Explorer

Authentic Local Experiences

See Donegal’s spectacular Slieve League cliffs – and enjoy an Irish coffee while taking in the view.
Gain a unique insight into the history and heritage of the stunningly beautiful west of Ireland at Dan O’Hara’s Homestead and enjoy a farmhouse lunch.
Enjoy a pint at Blakes of the Hollow Pub – and see the handcrafted “Game of Thrones” door carved from the trees of the Dark Hedges.

Dining Experiences

8 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L) and 7 dinners (D) including a welcome dinner, Nancy’s Bar in Ardara, and Abbey Tavern traditional Irish dinner and show.

2020 Irish Explorer 9 Days / 8 Nights / 16 Meals

B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner

Day 1: Dublin Touring & Glasnevin Museum

• Our Tour begins at 2:00 PM at the lobby of the Clontarf Castle Hotel, which is not far from Dublin Airport.
• A local guide will walk you through the Dublin City Centre to explore the city and visit the historic monuments and the Georgian squares of the city.
• We will also visit the famous Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, before heading back to the Clontarf Castle Hotel for a welcome drink and dinner.

(D)

Day 2: Florence Court House & Blakes Pub

• Visit Florence Court House, home of the Irish Yew. The original tree, discovered in 1760, can still be viewed on the grounds. Tour the magnificent 18th century mansion, renowned for its elaborate rococo plasterwork. Next, visit Blakes of the Hollow Pub, a Victorian bar that retains many features original to its founding in 1887. Famed author John McGahern, a regular visitor, described it as “one of the happiest and most beautiful bars in the whole of Ireland”. Take a photo by its official “Game of Thrones” door highlighting the series’ sixth season. Continue your travels north to Donegal. With its windswept hills where only sheep can thrive, Donegal is renowned for woolen production and tweeds.

Day 3: Slieve League Cliffs & Glengesh Pass

• We are heading to Teelin for the most amazing viewing point of Slieve League, the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
• We will explore the coastline as well as the amazing Ganesh Pass for a unique view of mountains and valleys.
• You will also enjoy live weaving and spinning demonstrations at a local woolen shop before heading for dinner at the famous Nancy’s restaurant in Andara.

(B, D)

Day 4: Belleek Pottery & Galway Cruise

Discover the secrets that have made Belleek Pottery is one of the most enduring success stories of Irish craftsmanship during a tour of Belleek Pottery. You’ll go behind the scenes to see how this world-famous fine china is made. Travel south to Galway and embark on a cruise of Lough Corrib for unsurpassed views of castles and various sites of both historical and cultural interest (seasonal).

(B, D)

Day 5: Scenic Connemara & Dan O’hara Homestead

• Visit the beautiful Connemara to enjoy the view of the constantly-changing cloud formations, crystal lakes and traditional peat bogs.
• Visit the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory and learn how craftsmen are mastering the fine glass cutting technique.
• Explore the breath-taking view of the hills and lakes and stop at Dan O’Hara’s Homestead.
• See how the locals traditionally farmed and see Connemara ponies before heading back to Galway for dinner.

(B, L, D)

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher & Killarney

• Day 6 will find you exploring the famous Cliffs of Moher. The picturesque scenery 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean is one of a kind. Walk to O’Brien’s Tower and admire the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
• Journey through to County Clare and some beautiful and rugged countryside.
• Enjoy lunch independently in a coastal village.
• Take a short ferry ride across the River Shannon Estuary before arriving in Killarney with some time to relax and explore before dinner.

(B, D)

Day 7: Ring of Kerry Tour

• Head out on the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s most famous and popular scenic drive.
• Visit the Skellig Experience to discover the history of the rocky island of Skellig Michael where monks lived in early Christian times and where part of “Star Wars VII” was filmed.
• Immerse yourself in farm life and watch trained dogs herding sheep.
• Enjoy a casual lunch and continue around the scenic drive.
• Pause for panoramic mountain views at Moll’s Gap.
• In Killarney enjoy free time and discover some of the excellent restaurants and lively pubs.
• (B, L)

Day 8: Blarney Castle & Dublin’s Abbey Tavern

• It’s time to visit Blarney Castle, where you’ll have the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, walk around the beautiful and colourful parks and gardens.
• Visit Blarney Woollen Mills where they sell beautiful Irish-made goods; the perfect gift for someone or a great souvenir to bring home
• If you enjoy photography, the stately Rock of Cashel is a must if you want to capture some amazing pictures.
• Head back to Dublin and to the Abbey Tavern to treat yourself to some great Irish cuisine!

(B, D)

Day 9: Tour Ends in Dublin

Program ends after breakfast.
(B)

B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner