| Walking the Emerald Isle |
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Take to the footpaths for an intimate discovery of Ireland’s most legendary landscapes. Mythical tales of Celtic fairies and heaven-like realms come to mind, as you amble through a patchwork of valleys and mystic lakes. As you walk, absorb the very essence of Ireland.
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Galway
Day 1 Board your overnight flight to Ireland.
Day 2 Touch down in Shannon. A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport and
escorts you to your hotel in Galway. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers at an included dinner. (B in flight, D)
Day 3 Venture out for your first scenic stroll this morning in one of the most breathtaking examples of the Irish countryside, Connemara National Park. Then pay a visit to Kylemore Abbey, a former country estate in the midst of the Irish Highlands. (B)
Killarney
Day 4 Journey south today for a guided walk along some of Ireland’s most mesmerizing coastline. Hike through the Burren, a limestone plateau where fields of rock are interspersed with wildflowers. Then stroll along the majestic Cliffs of Moher, rising out of the Atlantic Ocean to heights of 600 feet. Rejuvenate from your walks with an included pub lunch. Upon your arrival in Killarney this evening, enjoy an included dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 5 When Muckross House and the surrounding woodlands and moors were donated to the Irish state in 1932, Ireland’s first national park was born. Today, Killarney National Park has grown to 25,000 acres of diverse
ecological landscapes from red sandstone mountains to extensive bogs and lowlands. Pass through the ornate halls of Muckross House at the park’s core. Then follow in the footsteps of a local guide on a walking tour through the park’s most awe-inspiring areas. (B)
Day 6 Make your way along the rugged terrain of the Dingle Peninsula on a guided walking tour. The Dingle Peninsula is shrouded in the traditions and legends of Irish culture. As you wander past secluded harbors and seaside cliffs, your guide will point out archaeological sites and ancient ruins along the way. After free time to explore Dingle, your tour director will introduce you to the Gallarus Oratory, a tiny church built nearly 1,300 years ago. (B)
Cork region
Day 7 Today begins with a scenic drive through the Caha Mountains of the Beara Peninsula. Stop in Glengarriff to board your boat to Garnish Island for a one-hour walk. Much of the island’s charm resides in the contrast between the cultivated gardens and the glimpses of wild seascape and barren mountains beyond. This evening, arrive at your hotel in the Cork region for an included dinner. (B, D)
Day 8 Tucked between the hills and shoreline, Kinsale ranks as one of Ireland’s most popular resort towns. Narrow streets wind around gourmet restaurants, yacht-filled harbors and charming pubs. The Battle of Kinsale marked a turning point in Irish history here in 1601. Enjoy a walk along Kinsale’s beautiful coast and a visit to Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress built to protect the town’s harbor. (B)
Shannon
Day 9 This morning, take part in one of
Ireland’s most time-honored traditions by
puckering up to the legendary Blarney Stone on a visit to Blarney Castle. As you continue toward Limerick, stop to wander the paths and groves of Doneraile Wildlife Park. Celebrate your last night in Ireland with an included medieval feast at Bunratty Castle, the Emerald Isle’s most
complete medieval castle. (B, D)
Day 10 Continue into Northern Ireland on our tour extension to Derry, or transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Extend your stay
Derry
Day 10 Cross into Northern Ireland today to Derry, the only remaining walled city on the Emerald Isle. Enjoy a guided tour of the city. (B)
Day 11 Follow the coast this morning to the Giant’s Causeway. You’ll also stop at the Bushmills Distillery for a taste of Irish whiskey. (B)
Day 12 Enjoy a free day in Derry or join an optional excursion to Donegal’s Glenveagh National Park, including a pub lunch. Tonight, dine at our optional Farewell Dinner. (B)
Day 13 Board your flight home. (B)
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Round-trip air transportation with a major airline, airport transfers and escorts
The services of a Go Ahead Tour Director
A licensed local guide at the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher, and Killarney National Park
8 nights accommodation in comfortable, well-located hotels with twin beds and private bath or shower
All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling and local taxes
Buffet breakfast (B) daily; 1 lunch (L); 4 three-course dinners (D)
Private deluxe motorcoach with reclining seats and restroom
Guided sightseeing and entrance fees to select sights as described
Go Ahead travel bag and increased status in our World Traveler Club, including credit toward your next tour |
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| Daily Departures from 1/1/2009 to 12/31/2010 |
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Destination Information
Itinerary
Items Included
Departure Dates
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