Exploring Ireland Tour

Tour #19

March 1-9, 2009

Ireland is a country that dates back to the 13th century and is known for its medieval castles, charming villages, narrow, winding roads and warm Irish hospitality. You’ll marvel at the spectacular countryside and the “Ring of Kerry.” Breakfast is included daily plus four typical Irish dinners. Don’t miss this great tour at a great price as the magnificent scenery on this Emerald Isle is world famous!

Mar. 1 Depart on an overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie before touring this most interesting country.

Mar. 2 Arrive Dublin. In the afternoon there will be a tour of the Guinness Museum, the birthplace of this famous beer. Tonight, enjoy a welcome reception to meet other friends that will be traveling with you on this tour.

Mar. 3 Morning free to stroll down the longest shopping street in Ireland. Later, you’ll tour the highlights of Dublin including centuries-old historic places.

Mar. 4 After breakfast, everyone will board our motorcoach for a countryside tour to the famous Waterford Crystal factory, to see the cutting of this fine product. Continue on to Cork and Macroom through the green countryside to stay in Killarney for two nights including an Irish dinner each evening. (See Awake, 4/22/04, p. 18) This is Ireland as you always imagined it!

Mar. 5 An exciting day of travel on a scenic drive around the famous “Ring of Kerry” with breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. You’ll travel on winding roads along the cliffs to visit the quaint villages of Waterville and Sneem before returning to your hotel where dinner is again included.

Mar. 6 Today you will visit the renowned Blarney Castle with time to shop at the Blarney Woolen Mills outlet, known for its woolens, china, jewelry and other Irish treasures. Next, you will visit the Bunratty Folk Park, which depicts life in Ireland in time’s past before checking into your hotel.

Mar. 7 This is a day to remember as you drive along the Atlantic coastline to see the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, a solid wall of rock that rises 700 feet above the pounding surf of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to the city of Galway. Surprise, tonight you will attend a medieval banquet where the Lords and Ladies of the castle will sing and perform during dinner.

Mar. 8 Another great day as you travel along the Shannon River. The highlight will be staying overnight in the beautiful 15th century Cabra Castle that’s pictured above. This evening, enjoy a gourmet “Farewell Dinner!” (Book early as last year’s trip was sold out.)

Mar. 9 Depart to the Dublin Airport for your return flight home. Traveling with friends from other parts of the country is something you will not forget.