Ireland's Icons

Soul-stirring landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling hills, the 'Emerald Isle' has lured the most curious of travelers for centuries. Begin your journey at Powerscourt Gardens for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Across 47 acres, its sweeping terraces, ornamental lakes and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs has earned its status as one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland and the 3rd Best Garden in the world by National Geographic. After a day celebrating the icons of Ireland, embrace its fine cuisine over a Welcome Reception.

History dating back to the 1100s awaits as you join a Local Expert on a Dublin city tour to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral. Here at Ireland's largest church, gain all the insights learning how Irish author Jonathan Swift was once installed as Dean and ultimately laid to rest. With rest of the day at leisure, stroll along Grafton Street and see its lively performers, stop for a pint of the 'Black Stuff' in Temple Bar or relax in St. Stephen's Green. Or, join an Optional Experience of food and fun at a Dublin Dinner and Cabaret.

Visit the Irish National Stud to discover Ireland’s celebrated role in thoroughbred breeding and see retired champions grazing the paddocks. In Cork, your Travel Director introduces the city’s independent spirit, from the 18th-century English Market brimming with local produce to Georgian avenues and the colorful quays of the River Lee. With your evening at leisure, opt for an Optional Experience of traditional Irish entertainment, featuring local musicians and a hearty pub dinner, an authentic taste of Cork’s vibrant music scene.

Today's Brendan Choice gets you up close and personal to one of the icons of Ireland, Blarney Castle, the Witch's Kitchen and Wishing Steps gardens and, of course, the famous stone—said to bestow the 'gift of the gab' upon whoever kisses it. Or, go beyond the castle and don’t miss the chance to amble the 1,500-acre grounds. After your visit to the stone or stroll through the grounds, head west to Killarney. Tonight’s Dine-Around evening invites you to enjoy your pick of Irish specialties. Then finish your day with an Optional Experience of traditional Irish song, music and dance.

Famous for its 'forty shades of green,' the Ring of Kerry has inspired writers and poets for centuries. Drink in the beauty of the coastal drive lined with beaches, colorful seaside villages and views of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be astounded by even more icons of Ireland as you venture inland to a mountainous region dotted with lakes and green woodlands. Enhance your discovery over an Optional Experience Jaunting Cart Ride through Bourn Vincent National Park. Upon arrival back in Killarney, end your day with a decadent three-course dinner infused with Irish flavors.

Begin the day with a ferry crossing of the Shannon Estuary before arriving at the towering Cliffs of Moher. Perched at 700 feet, take in views of the Clare Coast and the pounding Atlantic, where colonies of puffins make their homes. The area is home to Guillemot and Razorbills, Peregrine Falcon, Kittiwake and Fulmar as well as endangered bird species including Choughs. Full of fascinating insights, make your way through the rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay.

Ireland’s cultural center and festival capital, Galway hosts 122 festivals per year. One might say the city’s artistic side is reflected in actor Peter O’Toole, who had a strong connection with Galway. O’Toole claimed that he was born in Galway before being taken to England as a baby and built a house outside Clifden in the county. You’ll feel Galway’s fun, bohemian vibe come to life over an orientation tour. Your Travel Director introduces you to the sights including Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. With the rest of the day at leisure, continue to explore this bustling port city on your own or join an optional trip across to Aran Islands.

Full of curiosities, Kylemore Abbey is a treasure trove of picture-perfect scenery and a storied past as the oldest of the Irish Benedictine Abbeys. Discover more on a Lough Corrib Cruise, where you'll explore one of County Galway's natural jewels and learn about its historical significance. Conclude another grand day arriving at five-star, award-winning, Ashford Castle where a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge. Your exquisite hotel provides a romantic backdrop in superior surroundings, offering both relaxation and comfort you’ve come to enjoy on your Ireland tour. Feel history come alive with past owners including Benjamin Lee Guinness, Lord and Lady Ardilaun and hotelier Noel Huggard who transformed the estate into a hotel in 1939. In addition, celebrities such as John Lennon and Brad Pitt and even royal patrons including King George V have luxuriated at Ashford Castle.

Time for a last-minute stroll on the Ashford Estate. Perhaps take in more of the splendid scenery on out joining a leisurely walk with the Irish wolfhounds. Then cross the midlands, also known as Our Hidden Heartlands, a beautifully unspoiled part of Ireland where life moves at its own pace. Return to the capital where the remainder of the day is free. Dinner awaits tonight, where you’ll raise a glass and toast with your new friends.

As the curtain falls on a memorable journey with new friends, say a fond slán go fóill to Dublin and the 'Emerald Isle'.