Compare The Best of Ireland: A Week on the Emerald Isle by Road Scholar vs Focus on Ireland - Small Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 9 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 1,999 | $ 2,625 |
| Price Per Day | $ 222 | $ 328 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities | N/A |
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| Meals Included |
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| Description | Go off the beaten path and learn the story of Ireland as you speak with locals, taste authentic cuisine, discover ancient traditions and enjoy expert-led excursions to historic sites. | From the dizzying 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher near Galway Bay to the grandiose Georgian architecture of Cork, this experience of Ireland is unlike any other. Take a private tour of Trinity College with access to the famous Book of Kells in Dublin, see the Titanic’s last port of call in Cobh and feast on a Farm-to-Table meal in a Killarney farmhouse restaurant. This family-run kitchen is the domain of chef John Sheehan and his wife Freda, who serve up nothing but authentic Irish recipes—guaranteed to inspire and delight. The once kissed, never forgotten Stone of Eloquence at Blarney Castle enthralls visitors from far and wide, while the old fortress town of Athone on the River Shannon, shines a light on the history of Galway, and the City of the Tribes. |
Day
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
Day
2
Arrival, Orientation, The Rock of Cashel
Cork. L,D The Metropole Hotel Cork
Morning: Early morning arrivals to Dublin airport and transfer to Cork. Ireland’s second largest city, Cork was founded in the seventh century. Today it is a bustling, lively city with a wealth of cultural life and a festive atmosphere. En route we will stop in Cashel for a light lunch before an expert-led field trip to the Rock of Cashel. A spectacular high medieval site dominating sweeping plains, its chapel, cathedral and castle are full of fascinating history.
Lunch: A light lunch will be taken in Cashel.
Afternoon: The transfer continues to Cork, where we will check in to our hotel. There'll be time to relax, before Orientation at approximately 5:30pm. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities and answer any questions you may have. We have set aside some free time in the schedule for your personal independent exploration. Please note that program activities, schedules and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner: A seated three course dinner will be taken in the hotel dining room with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages are available for purchase.
Evening: At leisure to unpack, relax and prepare for the program ahead.
Day
3
Titanic Trail, Cobh, The Queenstown Story
Cork. B,D The Metropole Hotel Cork
Breakfast: A full Irish breakfast buffet in the hotel dining room. Choices vary but will include a variety of eggs, bacon, sausages, tomato, potatoes, cereals, fruit, toast, pastries and jams served with water, juices, tea and coffee.
Morning: We begin this morning in the hotel with an orientation to Ireland, followed by a lecture on the Irish Exodus to the New World.
Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like. You may wish to sample one of Cork's many excellent pubs, cafes and restaurants.
Afternoon: This afternoon we depart by coach for Cobh, where we'll join our local expert on the Titanic Trail, a gentle walk through Cobh, a picturesque seaside town steeped in Maritime History. It was the final port of call for the ill-fated RMS Titanic, and the departure point for many immigrants to the Americas. We'll follow their story at the Queenstown Story, where we can retrace the steps of the 2.5 million adults and children who emigrated from Ireland on coffin ships, early steamers and finally on the great liners.
Dinner: A special evening dinner is held an Irish family home in the local area.
Evening: At leisure after dinner.
Day
4
The Ring of Kerry
Cork. B,D The Metropole Hotel Cork
Breakfast: In the hotel.
Morning: This morning we travel by motor coach with a local expert to explore the Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry is made up of spectacular coastal and mountain scenery, enveloping the towns of Glenbeigh, Cahersiven, Waterville and Sneem.
Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in the delightful village of Waterville.
Afternoon: This afternoon visit a family run sheep farm. Kissane Sheep Farm, in Kenmare County Kerry, is a traditional, working sheep farm with approximately 1000 mountain sheep and hundreds of lambs. The farm is run by John and Anne Kissane, and has been run by the same family for the last 150 years.
Dinner: Dinner is taken en route back to Cork.
Evening: At leisure after dinner.
Day
5
Cork, Blarney Castle, Blarney Stone
Cork. B The Metropole Hotel Cork
Breakfast: In the hotel.
Morning: We board the motor coach this morning for a visit a panoramic excursion around Cork, ending at the vibrant University where you will have chance to explore.
Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon: This afternoon, we make our way to Blarney Castle - home of the famous Blarney Stone. Tradition dictates that the gift of eloquence is conferred on all those who kiss the stone! Following our visit, we return to Cork by motorcoach for some free time to explore. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer advice, suggestions and directions.
Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
6
Transfer to Dublin
Dublin. B,L,D Academy Plaza Hotel
Breakfast: In the hotel.
Morning: This morning we depart via motor coach for Dublin, via Waterford. Here we'll visit the House of Waterford Crystal to see the traditional artisan skills of mouth blowing, hand finishing sculpting and engraving which create the crystal pieces. Following the visit, we'll travel the short distance to the Waterford Treasures Museum.
Lunch: Taken out at the Waterford Treasures Museum.
Afternoon: Enjoy a very special behind the scenes look at the Waterford Treasures Museum's many exhibitions, before our transfer continues before we check into the hotel, with time to unpack and relax before dinner.
Dinner: A seated three course dinner will be taken in the hotel dining room with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages are available for purchase.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
7
Trinity College, The Book of Kells
Dublin. B,L Academy Plaza Hotel
Breakfast: Continental buffet. A full Irish breakfast served in the hotel dining room. Choices vary but will include a variety of eggs, bacon, sausages, tomato, potatoes, cereals, fruit, toast, pastries and jams served with water, juices, tea and coffee.
Morning: This morning we explore Trinity College. Trinity College, sometimes referred to as the University of Dublin, dates back to 1592 and is one of the seven ancient Universities of Britain and Ireland. It is also home to the Book of Kells, one of the finest examples of illuminated manuscript in the world. The artistry and attention to detail in its spellbinding calligraphy and illuminations truly is a sight to behold and the book, dating back to 800 AD, is considered Ireland’s finest national treasure.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch accompanied by a presentation of Dublin poetry and song.
Afternoon: This afternoon we visit the National Museum of Ireland, and enjoy a privately guided exploration of the renowned collection of Bronze Age gold work.
Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening: At leisure.
Day
8
Irish Music & Dance
Dublin. B,D Academy Plaza Hotel
Breakfast: In the hotel.
Morning: Today is at leisure for you to explore further Dublin, or perhaps take a day trip to the stone age tombs at Bru na Boinne or the beautiful Celtic Monastic site at Glendalough. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist you in making arrangements.
Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon: Free time to continue your independent exploration.
Dinner: A served Farewell dinner. Spend your last evening in Dublin enjoying traditional Irish food and wonderful music and song as you say goodbye to your new found friends.
Evening: At leisure after dinner.
Day
9
Program Concludes
Dublin. B
Breakfast: In the hotel. Some participants may depart prior to breakfast, whereupon a boxed breakfast will be provided.
Morning: Transfer to Dublin Airport (DUB) for onward flights. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Day 1: In Dublin’s Fair City
Welcome to the land of legends, misty mountains, lovely lakes and friendly greetings. At Dublin airport, transfers leave for your hotel at 08:30, 11:00 and 13:00. Meet your Travel Director at 14:30 for an orientation of Dublin. Pass the St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christchurch Cathedral. See the 9th century Book of Kells. Walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College accompanied by a Local Expert as they share insights into modern life and the establishment’s impressive history. Enjoy a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over the course of the evening.
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: To Galway, City of the Tribes Relaxed Start
Leave Dublin and set off through the delightful landscapes of the Emerald Isle. Cross Ireland's longest river, the river Shannon, to reach historic Galway, the City of the Tribes, at the mouth of the Corrib River. Easily one of Ireland’s most fun and lively cities, the streets are lined with buskers, the pubs feature live musicians, and the region’s famous oysters. Join your Travel Director to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before setting off for his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy.
Harbour Hotel Galway.
Breakfast
Day 3: The Cliffs of Moher, Adare and Killarney Relaxed Start
Take the scenic route through the mysterious rocky limestone landscape of the Burren, with its underground caverns, streams and rare flora.Stop at the Exhibition Centre, situated next to the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher with breathtaking views of the Clare Coast.Continue past the city of Limerick, stop in quaint Adare and take a relaxed village walk to see its thatched-roof cottages.In the evening, stay in the center of the action in lively Killarney. Gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry, Killarney has been welcoming travellers, who appreciate the spectacular scenery of woodlands and lakes, for over 250 years.
Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 4: Ring of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
This morning enjoy an Insight Choice. Choose to join a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, admire incredible scenery on a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. After, take a leisurely excursion around the magnificent Ring of Kerry with stunning views of mountains and sea. Pass through the small towns of Killorglin, where the famous Puck Fair takes place, and Cahersiveen, birthplace of the great patriot, Daniel O'Connell. Follow the narrow road as it winds along the cliffs to the fishing town of Waterville. Continue through delightful villages like Sneem and cross the peat bogs of the Black Mountains to Moll’s Gap to admire Queen Victoria’s Ladies View. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a Farm-to-Table dinner. Enjoy some Irish home cooking at the family-run kitchen of chef John Sheehan. Join John and his wife, Freda for drinks and a personal insight into classic Irish recipes that are loved throughout the world and help preserve this intangible cultural heritage. Then, settle down for a night of great food and drink in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 5: Cobh and Blarney Castle on the way to Cork Relaxed Start
Drive to the pretty riverside village of Cobh, which was the last port of call for the Titanic. Walk through the Queenstown Story exhibition at the Heritage Centre, which recounts the era of Irish emigration and the life of this once great passenger port. Continue to visit the 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence - once kissed, never forgotten! Or enjoy a sensory walk in the extensive and varied estate gardens. Then Continue on to Cork along the spacious Grand Parade and South Mall and see the City Hall and fine Georgian houses en route to your hotel. In the evening, raise your glass and revel in rich flavours at a lively Celebration Dinner.
Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 6: Kilkenny and Dublin
Drive through prime farmland to the medieval city of Kilkenny, with its majestic castle and river walk. Browse the medieval mile showcasing the hub of Ireland’s arts and crafts scene along its narrow lanes. Then, return to Dublin and your hotel, located in the heart of Dublin’s leafy south side just minutes from the city centre. The rest of the evening is at your leisure to further explore if you wish.
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Breakfast
Day 7: Depart Dublin
Your memorable trip comes to an end. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin airport at 07:00, 09:00 and 10:30.
Breakfast
