Literary Tour of Ireland (8 Night)

Arrive Shannon Airport and meet with your experienced Irish driver/guide. All of the drivers we use are qualified guides and have great personalities that really will make your trip unforgettable. Travel the short distance to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park which is set on 26 Acres. The Folk Park is a stunning recreation of 19th Century Ireland featuring various types of farmhouses, a church, walled garden and village street complete with pub, post office and shops. Travel onwards to what is regarded as Ireland’s prettiest village, Adare, which is lined with stone thatch cottages, some of which are craft & art shops, and contains two Abbeys and a Priory which date back to the 13th century. Overnight Limerick DBB

Drive west through Ennis and Lahinch to see the Cliffs of Moher. This wall of limestone rises to heights of almost 700 feet above the churning Atlantic swells. Visit the Atlantic Edge Exhibition which brings to life the story of the Cliffs of Moher, presenting geology, wildlife & human aspects of the Cliffs in an entertaining way. Drive through the Burren, an area of limestone rock covering imposing majestic mountains, and tranquil valleys with gently meandering streams. With its innate sense of spiritual peace, extraordinary array of flora and wildlife, and megalithic tombs and monuments older than Egypt's pyramids, the Burren creates a tapestry of colour and a seductively magical aura which few people leave without wanting to experience again. Then southwards to cross the wide River Shannon Estuary on a short ferry ride to Tarbert and travel through Listowel and Tralee to Killarney. This little town is world-famous due to its exquisite location beside lakes and mountains. Overnight Killarney DBB

Today you will discover the wonderful scenery of Killarney as you drive around the famous Ring of Kerry. The road winds between the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountains, and the varied Atlantic coast. You will be amazed at the breathtaking views and you will stop for photos at the most dramatic scenes. Continue through the remote villages of Cahirciveen and Waterville. On the return, pass through the colorful village of Sneem and pause at Moll's Gap to view the Three Lakes of Killarney. Stop for a stroll through the splendid Muckross Gardens on the shores of Muckross Lake. Enjoy some free time in Killarney before dinner in your hotel. Overnight Killarney DBB

Depart Killarney and drive through the old market town of Macroom to Blarney. Stop at the Blarney Woollen Mills for quality Irish-made goods and climb the steps of Blarney Castle to kiss the fabled "Stone of Eloquence". Continue to the port town of Cobh, the last port of call on the Titanic’s fatal voyage. Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre, which traces the history of emigration from Ireland to the United States. Learn about travel conditions for the many Irish emigrants on early sailing ships and steam vessels. Follow the coastal route via the town of Youghal to Waterford for dinner and an overnight stay. Overnight Waterford DBB

Visit Waterford Crystal Visitors Centre to see the cutting and polishing of this fine product and also the excellent display of trophies and stemware in the showrooms. Head north to Kilkenny with its intriguing medieval streets and buildings, including Kilkenny Castle, and enjoy the stunning scenery on your way to the ancient monastic settlement at Glendalough that was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century before traveling onwards to Dublin. The Glendalough Valley is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and is renowned for its Monastic Site with Round Tower to its scenic lakes and valleys. Overnight Dublin DBB

Following breakfast, we shall take a half-day guided tour of Dublin, founded by Vikings over 1,000 years ago. See elegant Georgian squares with townhouses and their famous colorful doors, pass the lush vegetation of St. Stephen's Green, cross the River Liffey to drive along the wide thoroughfare of O'Connell Street and pass the General Post Office where the 1916 Rebellion started. Visit Trinity College's Old Library to view the early illuminated manuscript of the Book of Kells and learn about its creation. After lunch (not included), visit the Guinness Storehouse and learn how the 250 year old beverage is made. No visit to the Storehouse would be complete without a sampling of “The Black Stuff” in the Gravity Bar which provides stunning 360 degree views of the city. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner followed by traditional Irish music & dance. Overnight Dublin BB

After a final Irish breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport in time for your return flight.

BB = Bed & Irish Breakfast DBB = Dinner, Bed & Irish Breakfast