Countryside of the Emerald Isle
From remote islands and historic Dublin, to less-traveled roads and charming villages, this adventure brings together the best of the Emerald Isle. Come to know the culture and welcoming hospitality of the Irish in Dublin, Ireland's rollicking capital city. Step off the beaten path in the seaside village of Kinsale, known as Ireland's "gourmet capital." Overnight amongst a labyrinth of stone walls on the remote and enchanting Aran Islands. Discover the windswept terrain of West Cork's Wild Atlantic Way, one of Ireland's most scenic coastal routes, before arriving in charming Killarney. Travel amongst the tranquil countryside and windswept valleys of the Dingle Peninsula. Raise a glass and celebrate a journey unlike any other through the many sides of Ireland.
Call (716) 675-1190 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17002254
- Tour Operator
- Collette
- Offer
- Offer valid through 3/31/2023
- Duration
- 10 Days
Day | Destination | Description |
Day 1 | Dublin | This is your chance to experience a seldom-explored side of Ireland. From the vaults of Christ Church Cathedral to the rolling hills of Dingle, we'll bring you back to your Irish roots (even if you don't have any). |
Day 2 | Dublin | FAilte and welcome to Dublin, Ireland's cosmopolitan capital. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception in the crypt of Christ Church Cathedral.* Within the medieval walls of the city's oldest structure, surrounded by nearly 1,000 years of Irish myths and legends, toast the start of an incredible adventure. |
Day 3 | Dublin | A local expert escorts you through Dublin's magnificent sights. Exalt in the culture and color of Ireland's world-famous shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street. Get lost inside the gardens of St. Stephen's Green, and marvel at the electric green expanse of the largest enclosed city park in all of Europe, Phoenix Park. This evening, enjoy the Irish tradition of storytelling when a local storyteller joins you during dinner at a popular restaurant. |
Day 4 | Dublin | Take to Ireland's country roads. Tour the Irish National Stud, an area of incredible natural beauty that's home to regal thoroughbreds and opulent gardens. Continue south to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Be amazed by its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. |
Day 5 | Cork | After a relaxing morning head to the coastal village of Kinsale. Enjoy time to peruse the charming shops, galleries and cafEs before joining a local expert for a leisurely walking tour. Later this afternoon, visit the Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Give it a go with a tasting of the distillery's production. |
Day 6 | Cork | Travel through forty shades of green before arriving in the charming town of Glengarrif. Board a ferry and sail to a place that must be seen to be believed, Garnish Island. Sheltered in the Glengarrif harbor of Bantry Bay, this hidden island is home to one of Ireland's most beautiful gardens. Continue over the Cork and Kerry mountains to Killarney via the breathtaking Caha Pass. |
Day 7 | Killarney | Not far from the spirited pubs of Killarney await the enchanting hills and weather-worn bluffs of Dingle. Travel through a maze of green to Ireland's most westerly point, Slea Head, where the locals will remind you that, "the next parish over is Boston." Then, it's your choice! Explore Dingle's country lanes on foot -OR- enjoy time at leisure in Dingle Town, a place where pubs double as hardware stores and the Guinness is always freshly tapped. Upon your return to Killarney, stop by a tea house for some scrumptious homemade treats at a cafE that employs individuals with intellectual disabilities.** |
Day 8 | Killarney | Leave the rugged southern coast behind and embark on an adventure, the likes of which you've never seen. Board a ferry bound for Inisheer, the smallest of the three Aran Islands.*** Take in unrivalled views while sailing beneath the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Upon arriving in Inisheer's ethereal landscape, take a private tour through the labyrinth of stone walls blanketing the island. Learn about the island's 250 inhabitants, their livelihoods and devotion to traditional culture and customs. As the last ferry leaves for mainland Ireland, settle into your island abode*** amid desolate yet striking beauty for an experience that's totally unparalleled. |
Day 9 | Aran Islands | Enjoy a morning to sleep in, or wake early for a sunrise hike**** to O'Brien Castle. Greet the sun as it rises over the Irish mainland and illuminates Inisheer's picturesque stone walls. Later, dive into local culture during a knitting workshop and learn traditional methods and stitches used to make the famous Aran sweaters. Don't worry if you're not a knitter, you'll be a pro before you know it! Next, experience the traditional craft of making the St. Brigid's Cross. Throughout Ireland you will see these crosses affixed to homes to ward off evil and danger. This evening, after ferrying back to the mainland, toast the end of an incredible adventure! |
Day 10 | Ennis | Your journey comes to a close today, leaving you with the spirit of Ireland in your heart forever. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Lodging
- Hampton Hotel - Dublin, Ireland
- Garryvoe Hotel, East Cork - Cork, Ireland
- Muckross Park Hotel & Spa - Killarney, Ireland
- Tigh RuairI, Inisheer - Aran Islands,
- Old Ground Hotel - Ennis, Ireland
- Disclaimer
- * NOTE: Tour prices are land only rates based on per person, double occupancy. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. Government taxes and fees are additional. Land rates are guaranteed at time of deposit. Certain taxes and fees are to be paid upon exiting the country in local currencies.
Airfare is additional and is available through Collette Vacations.