Ireland with Bradley!

Bradley and a Borton Overseas Specialist will meet the group at Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport for an evening departure. Borton Overseas can assist with departure arrangements from other US locations – please inquire!

Welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival in Dublin, luggage will be collected before boarding our deluxe motor coach for the journey to Galway. Our experienced Irish driver guide will accompany us throughout the trip, sharing stories, pointing out landmarks, and guiding our visits along the way. A stop in the town of Athlone will be made for lunch. A Galway City Tour follows before arriving at our hotel, located in Eyre Square. Time will be available to relax and enjoy Galway City Centre before an early welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Park House Hotel, Eyre Square Galway

Today we will tour the loop of Connemara via Oughterard and Maam Cross. This landscape is a mixture of rivers, lakes, woodlands, rich meadowlands, rugged hills, dramatic mountains and as you get near the coast, you’ll find a stunning unpolluted coastline of sandy beaches and blue waters.
Next, we will visit Glengowla, home to a working sheep farm. The sheepdogs, who are an integral part of the farming family, will demonstrate their skills for us. You will have the chance to meet some of the friendly sheep.
Our next stop is at the Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. The story of Kylemore – both
Castle and Abbey – is a remarkable one, with a fascinating history spanning over 150 years. Kylemore is home to a community of nuns of the Benedictine Order who came here in 1920 after their abbey in Belgium was destroyed in World War I. Here they opened a renowned boarding school for girls and began restoring the Abbey, Gothic Church and Victorian Walled Garden to their former glory. Lunch on own at Kylemore Abbey Café.
You will be free for dinner in Galway this evening. Overnight at Park House Hotel, Eyre Square Galway

Today we visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s favorite visitor experiences. The cliffs tower over the rugged West Clare coast. Walk the safe, paved pathways and view the incredible Cliffs that sit on Europe’s most westerly tip and enjoy the spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. Then travel through the Burren, famous for its Lunar-like Limestone landscape and its unique flora. About 20 species of orchids grow wild here. Enjoy a Ferry crossing from Killimer to Tarbert. The Shannon Ferry will take us on this memorable 20-minute journey across the estuary linking the iconic destinations of the Banner County of Clare to the Kingdom of Kerry.
A group dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. Overnight at The Brehon Hotel, Killarney

This morning, a Hawk demonstration will amaze us all, while interacting with these majestic birds. At Falconry
Kerry, we are entertained and educated about birds of prey, their importance in the local ecosystem and throughout
history, hunting together with humans.
Next up, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most scenic touring routes. Travel through the charming towns of Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, and Waterville before reaching Coomakesta Pass, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the countryside. Continue to Derrynane, the former home of Daniel O’Connell, known as “The Liberator” for his pivotal role in Ireland’s history. The journey continues through Caherdaniel and the picturesque village of Sneem before ascending through Moll’s Gap. Take in the magnificent vistas at Ladies View, named for the admiration expressed by Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting during their visit in 1861. Continue through the stunning landscapes of Killarney National Park, finishing the day along the shores of the beautiful Lakes of Killarney. We will stop for a group lunch and a pint of Guinness along the Ring of Kerry.
Once back in Killarney, we will be treated to an Irish Brown Bread Making class. Learn the traditional recipe of
Ireland and the skills to recreate this hearty bread at home. The remainder of the day to explore and dine in Killarney on own. Overnight at The Brehon Hotel, Killarney

Today’s touring will include a visit to Cork and Blarney Castle. The Castle was built in 1446 as a defensive fortress. The castle which stands today is in fact the keep of a much larger fortress. All visitors should kiss the famous Blarney Stone, high up on the Castle battlements. Tradition holds that those who kiss the Blarney Stone will be endowed with the gift of eloquence or “the gift of the gab”, as the locals call it. After the castle, you can visit the Blarney Woolen Mills Store for some shopping and time on own for lunch. Then it is onward to Kilkenny! You will have free time to explore the sights, do some shopping, or enjoy the restaurants and pubs of this charming city on your own. Overnight at Kilkenny River Court Hotel

Along the way to Ireland’s capital city, Dublin, we will stop at Irish National Stud & Gardens for a guided tour. This is a thoroughbred horse breeding facility, established in 1946 under the National Stud Act and owned by the Irish
Government. The gardens, created from 1906 to 1910, are planned to symbolize the life of a man and are acclaimed as the finest Japanese gardens in Europe. Both mares and foals can be seen running freely in the luscious green paddocks. There will be time for lunch at the National Stud Café. As we arrive in Dublin, our first stop will be at the Claddagh Ring Workshop where we will learn some basic jewelry making skills and everyone will make their own silver ring to take home. The Claddagh Ring is a traditional Irish design representing love, friendship, and loyalty. You will be free this evening for dinner and Dublin nightlife. Overnight at Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

This morning, enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of Dublin, including O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and Leinster House. You will learn about the history of the city and what it is like to live there today. You will have the afternoon free to sightsee independently. Enjoy the bustling Dublin streets or visit one of the many sites such as Trinity
College Library and the Book of Kells, the Irish Immigration Museum, or check out the doors of Dublin. A special evening is in store with dinner and a show at The Merry Ploughboy, regarded as the best traditional music show in Dublin. A highly entertaining performance of live traditional Irish music, song and Irish dancing. The very best of fresh Irish food is served, offering a choice menu. Overnight at Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

After breakfast, we will check out and transfer via motorcoach to Dublin airport for our midday flight back to Minneapolis/St. Paul.