Stops on our 2020 Tour - SEPT 9 - 16

Day One

THE ARRIVAL

Today you’ll land at Dublin Airport, where I’ll be waiting to greet you and welcome you to Ireland.  Whether it is your first trip or your umpteenth, it’s always thrilling when everyone arrives!  Our driver, Austin, will take us for breakfast  before journeying to the town of Westport. Upon arrival visit Westport House, an 18th century mansion, set in superb parkland with magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. See stunning rooms with priceless furnishings, paintings, books, and silver. Transfer to your nearby hotel, check in and settle into you room. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome drink, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Day Two

ACHILL

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This morning, travel along Curraun Peninsula to reach Achill Island, joined to the mainland by a short bridge. Follow the Atlantic Drive to capture wonderful and wild scenic views of steeply sloped mountains plunging into the shimmering Atlantic Ocean. Stop to view the deserted village, which provides a haunting reminder of times past on Achill Island. Return to Westport, where you will have some time on your own, in this charming town, before dinner.

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Day Three

THE QUIET MAN
Today, embark on a walking tour of Cong, a place made famous by the 1952 movie of “The Quiet Man” featuring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. Discover places featured in the movie and see some of the movie memorabilia in the Quiet Man Heritage Cottage. Then drive to the wonderful town of Ennis, and check into your hotel. You will have some time to relax before dinner.

Day Four

BUNRATTY
Enjoy free time this morning to explore Ennis. Later, visit the Bunratty Folk Park, which comprises a 19th century village street with a pub, school, general store and many other buildings, where traditional lifestyles and crafts are demonstrated. Then join in the fun and feasting at Bunratty Corn Barn. Enjoy a traditionally Irish dinner as your hosts entertain you with their songs and stories.

Day Five

FLYING BOATSLeaving Ennis, travel south to Foynes and visit the Flying Boat Museum. The museum recalls the early days of air travel, during the 1930’s and early 1940’s. Irish coffee was first created here to warm frozen, weary travelers, and you will learn how to make a perfect one, and of course, drink it! Then continue to the town of Killarney and check into your luxurious Victorian hotel, which is conveniently located in the town center. Enjoy time to relax before dinner in the elegant dining room.

Day Six

MUCKROSS

This morning, visit Muckross house, a 19th century mansion, set beside the tranquil Muckross Lake. A guided tour will fill you in on some local history and the family ties to the United States. Enjoy the elegant rooms and rich furnishings before strolling through the lush gardens. Then set off to see a section of the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. The scenic drive will take you to plenty of stops at strategic locations, where you can take photos. Along the way travel through Kenmare before pausing at Moll's Gap, which overlooks the Lakes of Killarney. Continue to Ladies' View for more spectacular view of lakes and mountains. Then head back to Killarney, where you are free to dine independently

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Day Seven

EPIC IRELAND
Leaving Killarney, travel through Ireland’s countryside into Dublin. Upon arrival, stop to visit EPIC Ireland, which celebrates the dramatic story of the spread of Irish culture around the globe, and how Ireland has changed throughout the years. Drive a short distance to your hotel, check in and enjoy some free time before this evening’s festivities.
Tonight, enjoy a dinner of Irish specialties followed by a lively show of traditional Irish music, songs and displays of step-dancingE

Day Eight

THE JOURNEY HOME

All too soon, our time together will come to an end. Transfer to Dublin Airport in plenty of time to check in for your flight, claim your VAT tax refund, and do some last minute shopping at the duty free stores. Fly home laden with mementos and perfect memories.

Can I travel on the tour as a single?

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We have lots of people travelling alone. There is a single supplement. If you would like to be matched with a like minded roommate , we are happy to help you with that.

Is your tour very active? What about mobility?

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Our tour involves a lot of bus travel. There are some stops that require some longer walks or climbs, but there is always the option to take a leisurely stroll nearby or stop off in a local pub, instead. We get it. It is YOUR vacation. We want you to be comfortable.

What is the average age?

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We have every age group on our tours. There is usually one or two younger people but most are in their 40s and 50s. Regardless, you will have a fun

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Is the weather cold and wet in Ireland?

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There is a reason that Ireland is very green. It rains a lot. Let's face you are not going there for a tan. In June the average temp is usually in the low 60s. It can rise to 70s, but at night you will always need a jacket. Be sure to have rain gear with you, just in case. The place is beautiful, even in the rain, and who cares about getting wet when you’re sitting in the pub?

Imagine breathtaking scenery, while listening to a story of the history of the land. That is Ireland with Michael

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Imagine vip seats at a concert at the National Opera House of Ireland. That is Ireland with Michael

Imagine laughing your way around Ireland with Michael and expert tour guide Austin McArdle. That is Ireland with Michael

Imagine castles, monasteries and ancient sites. That is Ireland with Michael.

The occasional pint with old friends and new ones that you've just met. That's Ireland with Michael