Extraordinary Ireland

Begin in Dublin with a city tour led by a Local Expert, discovering how the city’s Georgian expansion shaped elegant streets and squares, including Merrion Square, laid out in 1762. Then visit EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin Docklands, an interactive experience tracing the Irish diaspora and the stories of those who left Ireland and helped shape communities around the world. This evening, settle in at the Clayton Hotel Charlemont, then dine at your hotel with your fellow travelers.

Head into County Laois and meet David Walsh, the owner of Ballykilcavan Farm & Brewery for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. For over 300 years and 13 generations, his family have worked this farm, which also supports his sustainable brewery. You’ll take a tour to learn about the passion that spurred this journey of sustainability, the home-grown story of the beer and its ingredients that you’ll taste. Then, onwards to Killarney, to take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage called a jaunting car and learn about the nature, history and lore of the National Park.

Today you’ll take a scenic hike through Killarney National Park with a Local Specialist. Starting at the 70ft-high Torc Waterfall, you’ll walk through meadowland and forested path to Muckross House. Next, you’ll embark on a day of discovery around the Ring of Kerry, learning about the history, geography and legends of this picturesque peninsula that has inspired writers and artists for centuries.

Today you head north in the Shannon Region to visit the majestic Cliffs of Moher. These must-see sea cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and form part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. After, continue to Doolin Music House for light lunch and an afternoon of music, stories and food, as Christy and his friends share Irish tunes and the humor of pub culture. This evening, arrive at the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point and enjoy dinner at Aileen’s Restaurant, where menus showcase West Clare produce and seasonal ingredients from Armada Farm.

Today, set out on foot to get to know Galway with a Local Specialist, following a walking route through the Latin Quarter and historic center while hearing how this harbor city on Ireland’s west coast has evolved over time. Later, continue to Westport for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on a guided food walk, meeting local businesses and sampling regional flavors that champion sustainable, community-focused producers.

After breakfast, enjoy a cycling experience along the Great Western Greenway, a traffic-free trail following the line of a former railway through peatlands, stone-walled fields and Atlantic-edge scenery. After your ride, cross the Michael Davitt Bridge onto Achill Island and follow sections of the Atlantic Drive, where cliff-edged viewpoints and wide beaches show off the island’s wild coastal character, before returning for dinner at your hotel.

Today, take an immersive dive into craft spirits at The Shed Distillery, home to the famous Gunpowder Irish Gin. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll discover the inner workings of a distillery that blends tradition and heritage with contemporary innovation and a flair for exciting flavor profiles. Afterwards, you’ll venture onwards to Derry~Londonderry and enjoy a walking tour with a Local Specialist. You’ll walk the ancient streets, explore charming courtyards and travel along the famous city walls, learning about the city’s fascinating stories and complex history.

Spend the day at leisure in Derry/Londonderry, a city of layered history set along the River Foyle. You may choose to stroll the distinctive city walls, pause at riverside viewpoints or dip into the cafes and independent shops of the compact center. This evening, gather for dinner at the Da Vinci Hotel.

Visit Glenshane Country Farm to learn about life as a shepherd and watch skilled sheepdogs at work herding sheep. Then journey along the incredible Antrim Coast to the majestic Giant’s Causeway. On an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meet Mark Rodgers, a passionate local guide who channels the spirit of the seanchaí, or Irish storyteller, on an insightful walking tour exploring the myths, magic and majesty of this breathtaking coastal landmark. Afterwards, continue to Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital.

Meet a Local Specialist for a city tour of Belfast’s landmarks. Next, take an extraordinary journey into the past at Titanic Belfast, a museum on the slips where the fated ship was constructed. Experience the development of the ship, its impact on Belfast and the tragedy of its sinking. This evening you’ll travel around the city and explore its pub culture, finishing with a hearty classic fish and chips dinner, done up proper.

Today you leave Northern Ireland to venture back to Dublin with a stop on the way. Make the short drive to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Delve into pivotal diplomatic history on a tour or take a relaxing walk in 100 acres of beautiful grounds. Arriving in Dublin, visit the Guinness Storehouse at St James’s Gate. Learn how Ireland’s most famous stout is brewed as you explore interactive exhibits and enjoy views over the city from the Gravity Bar. After exploring Dublin on your last day together, relax in a local pub for a lunch of classic Irish fare.

Head to the airport for your return journey home.