Castles & Legends of Ireland

Day One

Depart on an overnight flight to Dublin and begin your journey to the Emerald Isle.

Day Two

Arrive in Dublin, meet your Irish guide and driver, and begin exploring Ireland’s capital with a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Founded in 1191, the cathedral is one of Dublin’s most important historic landmarks and has long been connected with the story of Ireland.

Continue through the countryside to Kilkenny, a beautifully preserved medieval city known for its winding lanes, historic buildings, and imposing castle.

Day Three

Travel into County Waterford for a private guided visit to Curraghmore House, the historic home of the Marquess of Waterford. Surrounded by more than 2,000 acres of woodland, gardens, and pastureland, Curraghmore is one of Ireland’s great country estates.

Discover the stories of the Beresford family, admire the estate’s architecture and artwork, and see the remarkable Shell House, decorated with shells collected from around the world.

Return to Kilkenny with time to experience more of this atmospheric medieval city.

Day Four

Travel south to Blarney Castle, one of Ireland’s most recognizable landmarks. Explore the castle grounds and gardens, and climb to the top of the medieval stronghold for an opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone.

Spend time shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills before continuing to Midleton for a guided distillery experience. Learn about Ireland’s whiskey-making traditions and the craftsmanship behind some of the country’s best-known spirits.

Journey across the scenic Cork and Kerry countryside to Killarney.

Day Five

Spend the day traveling the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic routes. The journey reveals rugged mountains, peaceful lakes, Atlantic coastline, picturesque villages, and ever-changing views of the Iveragh Peninsula.

Along the way, experience a traditional sheepdog demonstration and learn how highly trained border collies work with their handler to manage a flock. Continue through the colorful village of Sneem and visit the seaside community of Waterville before returning to Killarney.

Day Six

Travel north along the Wild Atlantic Way and through the extraordinary landscape of the Burren, a region known for its limestone formations, archaeological sites, and rare plant life.

Continue to the Cliffs of Moher, where towering cliffs rise dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean. Follow the paved pathways for magnificent views of the coastline, the Aran Islands, and the open sea.

The journey continues into the Galway area.

Day Seven

Discover Galway, known as the “City of the Tribes.” Explore its lively pedestrian streets, colorful storefronts, historic buildings, traditional pubs, and independent shops. Enjoy time along Quay Street and experience the energetic atmosphere that has made Galway one of Ireland’s most beloved cities.

Later, visit a local crystal workshop to learn how Celtic designs and Gaelic motifs are carefully cut into fine Irish crystal. Watch an artisan demonstrate the skill and precision required to create these intricate patterns.

Day Eight

Journey through the beautiful landscapes of Connemara to Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian Walled Garden. Built as a romantic castle in the 19th century, Kylemore later became home to a community of Benedictine nuns.

Explore the restored rooms of the abbey, visit the Neo-Gothic church, and stroll through the impressive Victorian Walled Garden. Learn about the remarkable people whose stories have shaped Kylemore during its more than 150-year history.

Continue into County Donegal for a special two-night stay at Lough Eske Castle, a magnificent castle hotel surrounded by woodlands near the shores of Lough Eske.

Day Nine

Enjoy time to experience the beautiful setting and extensive grounds of Lough Eske Castle.

Later, discover the natural beauty and maritime heritage of County Donegal during a cruise on Donegal Bay. The bay’s waters offer wonderful views of the surrounding mountains, islands, and rugged coastline.

Visit a local weaving studio for a traditional loom demonstration and learn how skilled craftspeople transform wool into distinctive Irish textiles using techniques passed down through generations.

Return to Lough Eske Castle for another evening in the Donegal countryside.

Day Ten

Travel to the village of Belleek for a guided visit to the world-famous Belleek Pottery. Founded in 1857, Belleek is known for its delicate Parian china and intricate handcrafted designs.

Follow the production process and watch skilled artisans demonstrate the molding, painting, glazing, and decorating techniques behind each piece.

Continue through the Irish countryside to Dublin for the final two nights of the tour.

Day Eleven

Explore Dublin on a guided city tour featuring many of the capital’s best-known sights. See O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, the River Liffey, and the city’s historic Georgian neighborhoods. Visit Christ Church Cathedral and discover more than 1,000 years of Dublin history.

Celebrate the final evening with traditional Irish music, song, and dance at the Merry Ploughboy, a memorable conclusion to the journey.

Day Twelve

Transfer to Dublin Airport for the return flight home, taking with you lasting memories of Ireland’s castles, cities, coastlines, countryside, and welcoming people.