Compare The Best of Ireland: The Coast, the Countryside and Dublin by Road Scholar vs Country Roads of Ireland - End Dublin, Small Group, Summer End Dublin Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: In Transit to Program

In Flight

Day 2: Arrival Day, Transfer to Killarney

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Afternoon: Arrivals continue, with free time for those who have already arrived. Before dinner we will have an Orientation in the hotel. 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 dinner will be taken in the hotel dining room with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages are available for purchase.

Evening: Free time to unpack, relax and prepare for the program ahead.

Day 3: The Ring of Kerry, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Breakfast: A full Irish breakfast 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 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. We’ll stop in Rossbeigh and enjoy a walk along the dramatic sandy beach that provides a safe haven for all kind of marine life and seabirds. It is a designated natural heritage area and a Special Area of Conservation.

Lunch: A served lunch with water, tea and coffee in the charming village of Caherdaniel. Other beverages are available for purchase.

Afternoon: The excursion continues around the Ring of Kerry, through the picturesque village of Sneem. The village comprises two squares, North and South, with a bridge acting as a knot between them.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: Free time. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions should you wish to further explore Killarney.

Day 4: The Dingle Peninsula, Dinner With A Local Family, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We take a motor coach to the Dingle Peninsula, exploring the area’s rich archaeological heritage and unique culture. Once cited as “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic magazine, much of the peninsula is a Gaeltacht – an area where the Irish language is widely spoken at home, in the workplace and at school. Along the way we’ll make a stop in Dingle Town, where you’ll have the opportunity for independent exploration.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in the colourful fishing port of Dingle.

Afternoon: We’re joined by a local expert to continue our exploration of the Dingle Peninsula, whose Slea Head is the most westerly part of Ireland.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner as guests of a local family in a nearby town. Learn about the rhythm of daily Irish life whilst chatting with your hosts and savouring home-cooked Irish cuisine.

Evening: Free time.

Day 5: Killarney National Park

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Take a pleasant walk to Killarney National Park, home to magnificent native Oak woods and one of the oldest Yew woods in Europe. Enjoy an expert-led gentle hike through the park, and hope to catch a glimpse of the native Irish Red Deer along the way.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time to further explore Killarney. Your Group Leader will be happy to give you suggestions for activities or sights that may interest you in this charming and bustling town.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Free time.

Day 6: Transfer to Galway, The Cliffs of Moher, The Burren

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Harbour Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We depart by motor coach for a leisurely journey to Galway.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in the coastal town of Lahinch.

Afternoon: We take a field trip to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. We’ll have time to linger by the cliffs, which rise like a cathedral into the sky some 700 feet over the wild Atlantic Ocean. The views stretch as far as Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, and the location is also home to one of the major colonies of cliff-nesting seabirds in Ireland. We then continue onwards to the Burren to meet a local expert, who will lead us through one of the largest karst limestone landscapes in Europe, stopping for a gentle walk on its moon-like terrain.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Free time.

Day 7: Galway, Glenlo Abbey

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Harbour Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: This morning we visit a local primary school, equivalent to an elementary school in North America. This is an opportunity to meet with the Principal and interact with local school children to answer their questions and learn about school life in Ireland. The children will also treat you to a short display of traditional Irish music, or present a project they are currently working on. Following this we will enjoy an expert-led walk around Galway. We’ll visit Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and part of the original city wall before making our way down the cobbled streets to the tiny fishing enclave of the Claddagh, immortalised in the song “Galway Bay” and home of the traditional jewellery – the Claddagh Ring – a symbol of love, friendship, loyalty and commitment.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time.

Dinner: A special experience in historic Glenlo Abbey. Be welcomed by your host, a Galway academic and expert in the field of Anglo-Irish literature, before being led in to dine exclusively in the Abbey. The Abbey dates back to 1740, and was part of the ancestral home of two of the fourteen “Tribes of Galway”, the famed merchant families who dominated the economic and social life of the city at the that time. A sumptuous candlelit dinner will be served while you enjoy conversation on the topics of “The Irish Big House” and “Galway’s Literary Tradition”.

Evening: Free time.

Day 8: Inis Mor, Galway

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Harbour Hotel

Breakfast: A full Irish breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Travel by boat to spend a full day on Inis Mor, the largest of the islands of Aran. We’ll have time to explore this last remnant of authentic Gaelic civilisation, where Christian ruins stand side by side with remarkable Pagan relics, as well as having an opportunity to meet a local musician. From here you have free time to explore the island independently, on foot, bicycle, mini-van or traditional horse-drawn jaunty car.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Continue your independent exploration.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Free time.

Day 9: Transfer to Donegal, Sligo, Drumcliffe, Donegal Town

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Mill Park Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We depart by motor coach for County Donegal. Undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most untouched and ruggedly beautiful counties, County Donegal’s striking landscape has remained relatively unaffected by the passage of time. The Donegal people, too, are renowned for their warmth and hospitality.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in the town of Sligo.

Afternoon: En-route from Sligo to Donegal, we’ll make a stop at Drumcliffe, the final resting place of famed Irish poet W.B Yeats. Yeats is remembered as an important cultural leader, as a major playwright and as one of the very greatest poets of the century. The epitaph on his gravestone is well known: “Cast a cold eye / On life / On death / Horseman, pass by!”

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Free time.

Day 10: Killybegs, Glencolmcille, An Irish Dance, Donegal Town

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Mill Park Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Spend the morning with a local journalist and community worker. On foot, explore the pretty town of Killybegs, home to the largest fishing fleet in Ireland.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Experience Glencolmcille, a unique and beautiful place that was chosen as a base by St. Columba, one of Ireland’s three patron saints. The name Glencolmcille, or “Gleann Cholm Cille”, means “The Glen of St. Columba’s Church” in the Irish language. It is not surprising that Glencolmcille is rarely on a standard Irish itinerary – you need to be determined to get there – but due to the stark beauty of its landscape it has been drawing visitors for over 1,500 years. We will also enjoy an expert-led walk to one of the 15 Pilgrimage Stones, retracing the steps of pilgrims from 500AD.

Dinner: Served in a local seafood restaurant, emphasizing the local bounty of the sea.

Evening: Following dinner we will return to the hotel, where you will have the opportunity to meet local musicians and dancers and learn about traditional Irish dance.

Day 11: Transfer to Dublin, Ulster American Folk Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Best Western Academy Plaza Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We depart County Donegal by motor coach for Dublin, the bustling capital of the Republic of Ireland and your final destination. We’ll pass through County Tyrone, one of the six counties of Northern Ireland as we make our way to the Ulster American Folk Park.

Lunch: Lunch will be served in a restaurant near the Ulster American Folk Park.

Afternoon: The Ulster American Folk Park is an outdoor museum that tells the poignant story of emigration from Ulster to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Volunteers in period costumes demonstrate day-to-day tasks of the era and the site consists of period housing, industry and even a full-scale sailing ship. We will then continue onwards to Dublin, a settlement since the 8th Century. Dublin is abundant with great universities, cathedrals and theatres and carries with it a unique literary legacy.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Free time.

Day 12: Exploring Dublin

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Best Western Academy Plaza Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We will set out on foot with a literary scholar to experience the sights, sounds, streets and monuments of James Joyce’s Dublin. Punctuated by readings, stories and bits of history, we will walk in the footsteps of Irish literary giants.

Lunch: Lunch will be served during a theatre performance at one of Dublin's historic buildings.

Afternoon: Free time.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: Free time.

Day 13: Georgian House Museum, The National Museum of Ireland

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Best Western Academy Plaza Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Set out on foot and experience the fascinating “Number 29” Georgian House Museum, where the widow of a prominent Dublin wine merchant originally set up home in 1794. The museum allows you to travel back in time and experience what life was like for the fortunate few who lived in such elegant townhouses, and the less fortunate who worked for them.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Continuing our walk, we will pass the Irish Parliament and visit the National Museum of Ireland, where we will enjoy a privately guided exploration of their renowned collection of Bronze Age gold work.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: Free time.

Day 14: At Leisure in Dublin

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Best Western Academy Plaza Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Experience all of the variety that Dublin has to offer during a day of free time in Ireland’s capital and most populous city. You could take a field trip to the Hill of Tara and the megalithic tomb of Newgrange, or visit Glendalough in beautiful County Wicklow. Alternatively you could relax, sip a coffee and gossip with the locals as you sample some of Dublin’s famed café culture.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Enjoy more free time to continue your exploration of Dublin. Browse the many bookstores, explore the museums, or even try to genealogy research at the National Library of Ireland.

Dinner: A served Farewell Dinner at a local eatery in Dublin city centre. Spend your last evening in Dublin enjoying traditional Irish food and relaxed banter as you bid farewell to Ireland and your new found friends.

Evening: Free time.

Day 15: Program Concludes

Meals: Breakfast

In Flight

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.

Day 1: Welcome to Dublin

On arrival at Dublin airport, transfers leave for your hotel at 08:30, 11:00 and 13:00. Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner, with the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a meal with wine.

Day 2: In Dublin’s Fair City Relaxed Start

Become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during an orientation of the city. Discover Custom House, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy entrance to the 9th century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College accompanied by a Local Expert, who will share their insights into modern life and the establishment’s impressive history. The afternoon is free to explore.

Day 3: A Journey from Dublin to Cork

In the morning, visit one of the country’s main racehorse breeding centres. Continue to the acclaimed 100 year old Japanese Gardens where you can ‘journey through life’ during a walk through the beautiful surrounds. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home of the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of Hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion as you test your skill during a lesson. Continue through Cahir and see its imposing 13th century castle, featured in the film 'Excalibur', on the way to Cork. On arrival, your Travel Director will show you around the compact university city, with its vibrant waterfront and grand Georgian parades.

Day 4: Across the Mountains to Killarney Relaxed Start

Travel to the ruined Blarney Castle. Will you hang upside down from the ramparts to kiss the stone and ensure a lifetime of eloquence? Or enjoy a sensory walk in the extensive and varied estate gardens. Travel across the majestic Derrynasaggart Mountains to the peaceful town of Killarney. For your Farm-to-Table dining experience, enjoy some Irish home cooking in the kitchens of chef John Sheehan. Join John and Freda, your hosts at the 19th Green Guesthouse, and savour the delicious flavours of fresh local cuisine on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Gather together at a Farm-to-Table dinner, using responsibly sourced ingredients from the local community, and gain personal insight into classic Irish recipes that are loved throughout the world.

Day 5: Ring of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

Start your day with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join 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. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear. Explore around the magnificent Ring of Kerry. Here, mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is breathtaking beyond words. Journey past lush lakelands and around towering cliffs as you appreciate sweeping sea views. 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. Maybe take the opportunity to hire a bicycle and enjoy one of the many scenic trails around the lake or through the National Park.

Day 6: Around the Dingle Peninsula Relaxed Start

Continue driving with views of wide skies, peaceful towns and coastal scenery of the Dingle Peninsula — the setting for the film Ryan’s Daughter. Drive to dramatic Slea Head at the peninsula’s far end, before reaching your hotel on the shores of Dingle harbour. With the evening at leisure, why not treat yourself to a relaxing experience at the hotel's spa? Offering holistic and therapeutic treatments, the Peninsula Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of exploring the coast.

Day 7: The Cliffs of Moher and Galway

Journey to the Visitor Centre at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Clare Coast before a delightful drive through the strange, rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay. On arrival, see the Lynch Memorial and Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his voyages to America. See the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy.

Day 8: Free day Galway or Aran Islands Relaxed Start

Spend a day at leisure to relax and enjoy Galway. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the Aran Islands? A genuine highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way. With their cliffs and spectacular coastal views, the islands are a true Irish experience.

Day 9: Londonderry

Continue on to County Sligo, stopping at a peaceful churchyard in Drumcliffe to visit the final resting place of Ireland's famous poet, William Butler Yeats. Admire the Blue Stack Mountains of Donegal as you cross into Northern Ireland, bound for the ancient walled city of 'Derry.' What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down steep Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall.

Day 10: Walk in the Giant’s Steps Relaxed Start

Journey to the iconic Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn how the National Trust is enabling farming and biodiversity to work together, supporting both wildlife and quality food production. Next, prepare yourself for miles of breathtaking beauty as you travel along the road clinging to the Antrim Coast. Continue onto your hotel, overlooking Ballygally Bay. For those who are brave enough, perhaps check out The Ghost Room, in one of the castle’s turrets? In the evening, please join us for a finale Celebration Dinner, where old-fashioned hospitality is blended with good food and wine for an experience that delights the senses.

Day 11: The Antrim Coast to Belfast Relaxed Start

Continue around the Antrim Coast, past the huge Norman castle at Carrickfergus, to arrive in the Northern Ireland capital of Belfast. Meet Hilda, your Local Expert, for a passionate city tour including views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents.

Day 12: Depart Dublin

An early departure transfer will arrive at Dublin airport at 08:00.