IRELAND
A Place of Breathtaking Landscapes and Fascinating People
Looking for a little R&R? In a gorgeous setting with a relaxed way of life? Well then, Ireland is the place for you! On our sample itinerary, you’ll discover the remarkable western Irish coast, visiting County Clare with the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, visit Kinsale and maybe even kiss the Blarney stone, visit the Rock of Cashel and then cruise on up to Galway and ride around Connemara with its stunning views, soak up the incredible scenery and end up at historic Bunratty Castle right on the banks of the Shannon.
UNIQUELY BETHESDA TRAVEL CENTER
“It All Starts with a Conversation!”
Together, in our detailed consultation we create the vision of your very own personalized itinerary. We determine how much time to spend in each destination, choose from our favorite hotels, arrange appropriate transportation and create unique experiences with our dynamic local guides! Relax while our team brings everything to life. Our customized travel app gives you easy access to all itinerary details, plus suggestions for your free time and some dining ideas! We seamlessly integrate technology, experience and attention to detail to create your very own custom-tailored “Trip of a Lifetime!”
OUR SAMPLE ITINERARY
Day 1
Shannon and County Clare
Welcome to Ireland! On arrival in Shannon, meet your driver for the private transfer to your lodgings in Lahinch. Free time now to recover from jet lag and explore your new neighborhood! Beach time, anyone? Irish surfing is popular here! (Brrrr!)
Day 2
Exploring Lahinch and the Burren plus the Cliffs of Moher
Daily breakfasts provided in each hotel. We suggest exploring the rocky limestone plateau of the Burren and the Burren Interpretive Center in Kilfenor. We also recommend visiting the portal tomb of Poulnabrone, Kilmacduagh monastery, and the Cliffs of Moher to see the breathtaking views of these cliffs 700 feet above the ocean! {Have an extra day? Why not schedule a visit to the Aran Islands?!}
Day 3
Head off to County Kerry! En route: Dingle and Kenmare
Now its time to head south, passing Spanish Point to cross via ferry to County Kerry with a chance to visit the Dingle Peninsula and enjoy the beauty of the Irish coast as you ride along Conner Pass and the Slea Head Drive! Be sure to stop in Dingle to stroll through the charming town and shop in the local boutiques
Day 4
The Ring of Kerry
Perhaps spend today circuiting the Ring of Kerry! The road will bring you along the spectacular beautiful views of the deep forest to the dramatic seascapes of the Atlantic. Suggested stops could include Killarney National Park, making sure to see Ladies’ View, Torc Waterfall, Ross Castle, the lakeside Muckross Abbey (with a chance for a jaunting car ride), and Manor House and its lovely gardens! Enjoy perhaps the SEAFARI cruise adventure along Kenmare River Estuary for a view of the local wildlife with eagles and seals frequently spotted!
Day 5
The Gorgeous Southwestern Coast
Scenic day today en route to Skibbereen! Stop along the way at Molly Gallivan’s Cottage & Traditional Farm, Garnish Island gardens in Glengarriff, seaside Bantry Bay, or Gleninchaquin Park for spectacular views and as well as waterfalls, sheep, and horses! While in the area, be sure to visit the Skibbereen Heritage Centre and Drombeg Stone Circle! Continue to the historic harbor town of Kinsale to check-in at your lodgings
Day 6
Explore Kinsale, Blarney and Cobh (it’s pronounced “COVE”)
A day trip eastward to Blarney to kiss the Blarney stone and receive the gift of the gab! Great shopping too at Blarney Woolen Mills! And while you’re here, suggest exploring Cork, where you might be interested in a look at St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral or Cork City Gaol? Continue to the cute seaside town of Cobh full of boutiques and shops, and home to the port that the Titanic originally embarked from. Do not miss the Cobh Heritage Centre describing the emigration from Ireland in the middle of the XIX-c, and also the Titanic Experience, a reminder the SS Titanic docked here before heading out on its fateful voyage in 1912, encountering the iceberg just three days later
Day 7
Rock of Cashel Today
Sleep in and relax in Kenmare, or consider an excursion to the impressive Rock of Cashel, a remarkable defensive castle which is home to an amazing collection of Celtic art. It is a fine example of medieval architecture in Europe. See the ancient ruins of Hore Abbey and the Cashel Folk Village Museum!
Day 8
On to Adare and Galway
On the ride north, stop by charming Adare for a pub lunch and chance for a wee bit of shopping! Reach Galway and check into your lodgings. Free time now to see the Cathedral, walk along Middle Street, or visit the lovely Quay Street! This university town is home to too many pubs to count!!
Day 9
Connemara Is Next Up!
Transit Connemara en route to Clifden today! Take a leisurely ride along the Sky Road for stunning views of the rugged landscapes, stopping by the lakes of Connemara National Park, or the historic Kylemore Abbey with its Victorian Walled Garden and gothic church! Time permitting, visit the incredible scenery around Killary Harbour, which is Ireland’s only true fjord, plus Delphi and Leenane! Also, consider a stop by Croagh Patrick and the peat bogs or the peaceful lake of Lough Corrib!
Day 10
Lovely Connemara heading south to Bunratty
Consider a few stops in Connemara that you may have missed before riding along to Bunratty for your overnight. Explore Bunratty Castle, known for the recreation of rural and countryside life in the Victorian XIX-c!? What about a fabulous costumed medieval banquet in the Bunratty Folk Park this evening!?
Day 11
Return Home
Transfer to Shannon Airport now for your home-bound flights. Same-day arrival in the USA. Welcome home!
When should I go?
The ideal time is from April to October {Avoid the crowds! There are lots of benefits to off season travel}
Call us now! Our experienced travel team is eager to listen to your interests and desires to craft a uniquely personalized itinerary. Remember! Our specialty is listening to YOU as we work together to craft the very best itinerary, pace and hotel selections for you and your family!
And now, Bon Voyage! We are just a phone call or an email away!