Timeless Ireland & Ashford Castle

Begin your Irish journey by exploring Dublin on a private walking tour through the heart of the city’s history, exploring areas beyond the most-often traveled streets to learn its secrets. Next, visit the Little Museum of Dublin for a guided tour of this unique, Georgian-era building filled with curated artifacts, art and other items, all donated by the people of Dublin to tell the deeply personal and personable story of the city. This evening you’ll join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local pub.

Embark on a Dublin city tour taking in the highlights and hidden gems of this vibrant city. You’ll see the Customs House on the River Liffey, Trinity College, Dublin Castle, City Hall, Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Next, visit the Guinness Storehouse, an interactive multi-story sensory extravaganza in the heart of the city. Discover 250 years of Guinness history, visit the tasting rooms and learn to pour the perfect pint before completing your visit atop the Gravity Bar for panoramic city views. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Today you venture through Ireland’s Golden Vale, first stopping for a private tour of Blarney Castle. Atop the castle walls is the famed Blarney Stone, where legend says that if you stretch back and kiss it, you’ll inherit the ‘gift of the gab’. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of the castle before heading to Cork. While here, criss-cross the city’s bridges and see the medieval Old Town, the university, City Hall and Shandon Bells before some free time to perhaps visit the famed English Market.

Head to the beautiful coastal town of Kinsale. Ireland’s gourmet capital is renowned for seafood that pairs beautifully with the salty sea air. Bring your appetite and enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on a food tour that showcases a diverse range of culinary treats. Then, arrive in beautiful Killarney and experience an evening of traditional Irish culture and local flavors at Kate Kearney’s Irish Night. Tonight you’ll stay at the Great Southern Killarney, a famous Victorian-era hotel.

Head out for an unforgettable day on Ireland’s Ring of Kerry. This picturesque peninsula brims with history, geography, myths and legends across its iconic landscapes. In Caherdaniel, meet a Local Specialist for the Deluxe Coastal Seaweed Experience — a guided foraging journey along the shore where you’ll learn about edible seaweeds and their health benefits. Focusing on sustainability and environmental appreciation, this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience connects you with nature in a memorable way, offering insights into Ireland’s rich marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. Later, enjoy a free evening to explore the charms of Killarney.

Head into County Clare and visit the Cliffs of Moher for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that is a must for nature lovers. Join energetic Local Specialist Ollie for a hike through coastal trails and green paths from nearby Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center. Listen to fascinating stories about the area while taking in stunning panoramic views of Doolin, the Aran Islands and the Cliffs themselves. Continue to Galway and explore its labyrinthine cobbled streets and colorful shop facades before heading to the awe-inspiring Ashford Castle. This iconic 13th-century 5-star castle hotel was once home to the Guinness family and offers guests every modern luxury. After settling in, cross the bridge to Cullen’s at the Cottage for dinner.

Explore the glorious estate at your leisure where you could enjoy an activity such as falconry, horseback riding, afternoon tea or a session at the spa. Later, venture through Connemara to Kylemore Abbey. Learn of its romantic history and visit the Victorian walled gardens. Tonight, dress for the occasion at an indulgent dinner in Ashford’s George V Dining Room, named after his visit in 1905.

After a late checkout, depart Ashford Castle and head into County Offaly, stopping to explore the once-thriving monastic site of Clonmacnoise, taking in ruins of a cathedral, round towers, high crosses, a church and over 700 graveslabs before heading to Dublin for your final evening.

Say a fond ‘slán abhaile’ to your fellow travelers as you close the curtain on an unforgettable journey through Ireland.