ENCHANTING IRELAND

2019 Dates:  April 30-May 8  …  August 10-18  … October 5-13

1^st Day:  Overnight flight to Dublin

2^nd Day: DUBLIN TOUR & BOOK OF KELLS
Upon arriving in Dublin we transfer to our hotel where we have accommodations for the evening. We take a tour of Dublin that includes seeing O'Connell Street, St. Stephen's Green, the seat of government at Leinster House and the city's public buildings. We'll take a stroll through Trinity College's campus in the center of the city with a student guide and view the priceless 8^th century Book of Kells. The evening is free to enjoy dinner at one of Dublin’s many restaurants or pubs.  

3^rd Day: CLONMACNOISE MONASTIC SITE & GALWAY CITY TOUR 
We journey across the rolling pastures of Ireland’s heartland to visit Clonmacnoise.  This monastic settlement was founded in 545 AD and is set on the banks of the mighty River Shannon and features elaborate high Celtic crosses that are decorated with biblical scenes. We then head to Galway and enjoy a guided walking tour through the city center. We are treated to a tasty dinner this evening and spend tonight and tomorrow night in Galway. (B,D) 

4^th Day: CONNEMARA CATAMARAN CRUISE & KYLEMORE ABBEY
Today we’ll explore scenic Connemara to admire how constantly-changing cloud formations give the granite hills, sparkling lakes and peat bogs an added dimension. We head to Kylemore Abbey to tour elegant rooms and the charming church which is set beside a tranquil lake. We'll enjoy a short catamaran cruise of Killary Harbour, a 9-mile fjord. A tasty lunch is included this afternoon. Return to Galway where the evening is free to explore the city on your own. (B,L) 

5^th Day: CLIFFS, SHEEPDOGS & TRADITIONAL IRISH NIGHT
We travel south around Galway Bay and through the Burren, a region of rounded limestone hills which has a curious lunar-like appearance. Immerse yourself in farm life and watch trained sheepdogs obey their owner as they direct sheep through various obstacles. We are treated to some spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher, which rise almost 700 feet (200m) above the pounding Atlantic surf. Embark on a ferry ride across the River Shannon Estuary and head to Killarney. We check into our hotel in Killarney for our 2-night stay before going to a cozy pub for a fun-filled Irish night featuring a lively show with dinner. (B,D)  

6^th Day: JAUNTING CAR & RING OF KERRY
Our day begins with a horse-drawn jaunting car through the Killarney National Park to scenic Ross Castle, set on the shores of Lough Leane. We then head  to Muckross House for a guided tour and a stroll through the gardens. Following this is a ride on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive – the Ring of Kerry – with plenty of stops for photo opportunities. We'll savor a light lunch and take a break to relax in the colorful village of Sneem.  We cross to Valentia Island by bridge and tour the Skellig Experience, which explains the life of early Christian monks on the rocky offshore island of Skellig Michael. Return to Killarney in the late afternoon. (B,L)

7^th Day: BLARNEY CASTLE & TRADITIONAL MUSIC SESSION
We start the day with a drive through the mountains into richer farming country on the way to Blarney Castle. Once there we can kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” or explore the tranquil gardens. Treat yourself to quality Irish-made goods at Blarney Woollen Mills before traveling along the coast to the Marine Bar in Dungarvan for a creamy Irish coffee and traditional music.  We then drive to Waterford to see the creation of the crystal masterpieces at the House of Waterford Crystal. Accommodations tonight are in Waterford. (B,D) 

8^th Day: WATERFORD WALK 
This morning we join a local guide for a walking tour through the narrow streets of the old city to discover Waterford’s long history and some of its colorful characters. We'll visit the nearby Medieval Museum, a modern building which incorporates a 13^th century Choristers’ Hall and  the 15^th  century Mayor’s Wine Vault. A stop in Kilkenny follows for a look around the compact city center and some time to have lunch on your own. We continue on to Dublin and  check into our hotel. In the evening we'll go to the popular O’Connell’s Restaurant where a warm welcome and a superb dinner await you. (B,D) 

9^th Day: We transfer to Dublin Airport for our flight home. (B)

2020 Dates: April 28-May 6 ... Aug 8-16 ... Oct 3-11    Price: $2,299

Price: $2,199 per person, double occ
single supplement: $585

Our Tour Package Includes:

*Accommodations for 7 nights
* 7 Breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
* Gratuities for the included meals
*Sightseeing and admissions
* Cruise in Killaney Harbor
* Ferry across the River Shannon Estuary
* The services of a professional tour escort
* Baggage handling
* Taxes
* Transfers in Ireland

Airfare is additional