Taste of Ireland

Depart from your hotel at 2 PM for a panoramic view of Dublin. Drive through the lively streets with a local guide, seeing this historic city’s highlights: Trinity College, elegant Georgian homes, and modern buildings rising by the River Liffey. Visit Dublin Castle for a guided tour and see the splendid State Apartments; for centuries, this impressive complex was the seat of colonial power in Ireland, and now hosts official ceremonies. Return to your hotel for a welcome drink with your group, then on to the Merry Ploughboy Pub for a dinner of Irish specialties and a lively show with traditional music and step-dancing. (D)

Travel through lush green countryside on your way to Blarney Castle. Along the way, stop for photos of the stately ruins of the Rock of Cashel on their hilltop perch. At Blarney, climb the winding staircase to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and gain the gift of the gab, or wander the beautiful gardens. Arrive in the friendly, lakeside town of Killarney, where you’ll dine at your hotel this evening. (B, D)

Visit CIE Tours preferred shopping partner Moriarty’s in the beautiful Gap of Dunloe, before embarking on the famed Ring of Kerry scenic drive. The winding, 100-mile route reveals breathtaking coastal and mountain views, with plenty of photo stops. Pause for a casual lunch in a cozy restaurant. Continue on to Valentia Island to visit the Skellig Experience, a visitor center telling the story of the neighboring island of Skellig Michael, which you’ll see off the coast. Learn how this island, a filming location for “Star Wars,” was once the austere home of early Christian monks. Stroll around the quaint, colorful village of Sneem, and at Moll’s Gap for panoramic views of Ireland’s highest mountains. Visit a farm to see a demonstration of skilled dogs herding sheep. Return to Killarney and enjoy a free evening to dine and discover the pubs as you wish. (B, L)

Take a ferry across the River Shannon, then drive along the coast of County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone soaring almost 700 feet above the Atlantic. Continue on to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a medieval-style feast of traditional Irish fare at a castle. Lords and ladies will serenade you with songs and harp music evocative of medieval times. (December and January departures may offer a different dining experience.) (B, D)

Drive to the vibrant, artistic city of Galway for a panoramic tour and free time to browse the local shops, watch street performers, see the medieval buildings, or relax in a pub or café. Travel across the country to Dublin, where you’re free to dine in one of the city’s excellent restaurants or to explore its legendary pubs. (B)

Your tour ends after breakfast today. (B)