Compare The Best of Ireland: A Week on the Emerald Isle by Road Scholar vs Ireland to Island Tour by Overland Ireland

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: Sunday – Dublin to Cobh, County Cork

The Rock of Cashel on your South and West Skellig Michael Experience Ireland Tour

Our Ireland small group tour begins by leaving the capital of Dublin for the South of Ireland with our first destination being Cobh, County Cork – one of the world’s finest natural harbors and the last port of call for the Titanic.

As we journey to County Cork we will stop at the Medieval Rock of Cashel. The Rock dates back 1000 years. You will be treated to a tour of the round tower, chapel, cathedral and castle! Take the first of many jealousy inducing photos of your tour!

Once you have built up a thirst at Cashel we will make our way to the world-famous Midleton Distillery for lunch and a tour. There is so much to taste and learn at this whiskey museum and visitor center. This is the home of the best whiskeys in the world.

Spend the night in Cobh soaking up the beautiful harbor views, colorful houses and great nightlife.

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

The Ultimate Tour of Ireland - Small Groups, Big Experiences on your Overland Ireland Ultimate Small Group Tour

Day 2: Monday – Blarney & The Ring of Kerry

Before embarking on our small group tour of Kerry we will tick off a very important item on your bucket list of Ireland. This morning you will kiss the Blarney Stone where you will receive the ”gift of the gab”. While at Blarney we will also have time to stroll around its beautiful grounds and explore the gardens, castle and rock close.

After lunch we will enter the Kingdom of Kerry. Your guide will give you some time to wander the streets, shops and delights of Kenmare. This is your gateway to the Ring of Kerry experience – Ireland’s most scenic and celebrated drive.

Tonight we will stay in Portmagee in anticipation of our trip to Skellig Michael in the morning! Star Wars fans will be very familiar with this as this is where Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) used the powers of the force to pull a perfect of Guinness. It is the only time that Luke Skywalker has ever turned to the “dark side”.

Total driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Discover Portmagee

Your Fully Guided Overland Ireland Small Group Tour Lets You Meet Friendly Locals

Day 3: Tuesday – The Skellig Michael Experience

Climb Skellig Michael on your South and West Skellig Michael Experience Ireland Tour

It is time to get excited. There are only a very select few places on this planet that can be described as “out of this world” and Skellig Michael is unquestionably one of these. Today we will embark on this hypnotic journey to the islands. You will feel like you have journeyed to a “galaxy far, far away”.

The island is naturally rugged, and the 599 steps will lead you up the 700ft climb to its peak. It is home to one of the world’s most treasured bird sanctuaries where you will see all types of wildlife and fauna in its untouched natural habitat. Your imagination will be captivated by one of the oldest and best-preserved monasteries in Europe. This is a sublime sanctuary, a place of peace and power where the presence of the monks can still be felt.

After you disembark from your epic journey to the past your afternoon is yours to enjoy in Killarney – The capital of Kerry.

Total driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Comfortable Accommodation on your Overland Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 4: Wednesday – Killarney to Dingle

Our day begins with an adventurous 2 hour cycle through Killarney National Park. There are numerous trails to choose from so that you can take it at your own pace. Discover Muckross House and gardens, Torc Waterfall and many other beautiful spots along the way. There is always an option to go jaunting around the park if you feel like taking it easy today!

From Killarney we will make a short drive to Inch Beach to stretch our legs and refresh for an afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula.

Tonight we stay in the celebrated, cozy coastal town of Dingle. The evening is yours to absorb the atmosphere in Dingle’s famous quirky pubs, fantastic restaurants and stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions. This just might be the location for that perfect pint of Guinness.

Total driving time: 3 hours

Cycling Killarney National Park on your Ireland Adventure Tour

Comfortable Transport on your Overland Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 5: Thursday – Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

Cliffs of Moher on your South and West Skellig Michael Experience Ireland Tour

Today, before we leave the Kingdom of Kerry, we watch a local sheepdog show off his finely-honed skills, during a sheepdog demonstration. Next, we take the ferry to County Clare, home of the spectacular Cliffs of Moher and the natural beauty of the Burren National Park.

From Skellig to the Cliffs, we are spoiled for natural beauty. The cliffs are spectacular and need to be seen in person to be justly appreciated. We will explore the cliffs by foot with the roaring Wild Atlantic providing the perfect backdrop! Your Overland Ireland guide will take you off the beaten track and point some very special locations along the way. There are many secret passages that we will show you that are not on the typical tourist route. Friends at home will definitely be very envious when you share your snaps from this stunning landmark.

We will spend the evening in the most welcoming and colourful fishing village of Doolin, the home-town of traditional Irish music.

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Traditional Food and Contemporary Cuisine on your Overland Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 6: Friday – The Aran Islands

Jump from Ireland to Island on the Doolin ferry to Inishmore – the largest of the Aran Islands. The magnificent Aran Islands are romantically remote and have inspired many a poet and playwright! Sharpen your pencil before hopping aboard!

We will take our bikes and cycle around the coastline where we will see many ancient sites along the country roads. Jaunting and bus tours are an option for all guests. Landmarks include the medieval Christian ruins of the Seven Churches and Clochán na Carraige. We will visit the famous ring fort of Dún Aonghasa, which lies 100m over Galway Bay.

Learn a few words of Gaelic from the locals and treat yourself to a feast of seafood before making our way back to Rossaveal Pier in County Galway. From here we will take a short drive to the picturesque market town of Clifden which is nestled between the Twelve Bens mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean.

Total driving time: 1 hour

Cylce The Aran Islands on your South and West Skellig Michael Experience Ireland Tour

Day 7: Saturday – Galway to Dublin

Galway on your South and West Skellig Michael Experience Ireland Tour

Your final day on the Ireland to Island tour will not disappoint. Today you will travel through Connemara National Park on route to Ireland’s capital of culture – Galway City. Before you lose yourself on the bustling streets of bohemian Galway we will take a short hike on Diamond Hill in the heart of Connemara where you will be spoiled with panoramic views of the hills and valleys.

In Galway we will take a historic tour of the city and you will have some free time to soak up the atmosphere. Street performers, live music and dance and colourful locals will keep you entertained during your stay. Sit back and relax in one of their award winning cafes and restaurants and watch the world go by.

Late afternoon you will be taken back to Dublin City armed with recommendations of places to see and things to do if you have a couple of days left in the Emerald Isle. On the journey back over 40 shades of green, why not reminisce about your time on this best small tour group ever!

Total driving time: 4 hours