We begin our adventure to the Emerald Isle with an overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland. We can sit back, rest, and enjoy the in-flight service.

 

 

We arrive at Dublin airport today and transfer to our Dublin hotel under our own arrangement. We are free to explore the city at our leisure this afternoon as our hotel will be within walking distance of the city center. This evening we enjoy an Irish welcome dinner together. 

 

 

After breakfast we depart Dublin and travel to the town of Blarney for a visit to Blarney Castle and its magical Kissing Stone. We’ll take some time to enjoy shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills. The presence of the Woollen Mills during the famine shielded Blarney from the worst effects of the famine, due to its employment of local workers. The success story at the mills continued until a disastrous fire in 1869. By August 1871, the mill was once again operational with a labor force of 222. In 1976 Chris Kelleher, himself a mill worker, bought the old mill property. Within a short period of time Chris and his family transformed the mill into what is perhaps the largest quality craft shop in Ireland. 

 

 

Today we discover the famed Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile panoramic drive around the island’s southwestern tip. We’ll take in spectacular scenery - mountains, peat bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. We’ll make a visit to Muckross House, which was built in 1843 by the Herbert Family, in Elizabethan style. This house is one of the prettiest residences of Ireland. Muckross, surrounded by beautiful gardens, is in the heart of the Killarney National Park. 

 

 

This morning we travel northwards to Tarbert and take a short boat ride across the mouth of the river Shannon to land on Clare’s shore at Killimer. We make our way to the Cliffs of Moher. These majestic cliffs in Ireland rise from the Atlantic Ocean over 600 feet and extend for over4 miles. On a clear day, one can admire the Aran Islands, the Connemara Mountains and the many sea birds that live here on the cliffs. This afternoon we tour the Burren Region. The Burren is a strange and unique region in Europe. “Burren” means “large stones,” and its name describes this impressive scenery perfectly well. We will also discover the testimonies of its rich history thanks to countless castles and monastic ruins. This evening we will enjoy a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. Guests are invited to enjoy an unforgettable evening in the splendor of this magnificent castle. 

 

 

After breakfast, we travel to Dublin via the medieval city of Kilkenny, which is perhaps the most attractive city in the country. We will visit Cahir Castle en-route, a stunning 15th century castle set on a small island in the River Suir. Here we will take a guided tour of the castle once the stronghold of the powerful Butler Family. Continuing onto Kilkenny, we visit the magnificent Kilkenny Castle overlooking the Nore River and one of the most beautiful castles in the world and one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. Standing guard along the Nore River for the past 900 years, Kilkenny Castle is a must-see for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Ireland’s fascinating past. Our lodging for the next two evenings will be in Dublin. 

 

Upon arrival in County Down, visit the story of St. Patrick and his place in Ireland’s history at the St. Patrick Centre, located beside Down Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Grave in the Medieval heart of Downpatrick. It features an interpretative exhibition which tells the fascinating story of Ireland's Patron Saint. The visit begins with the impressive 'In the Footsteps of Saint Patrick' Imax presentation about the life of St. Patrick and has aerial video footage of some of the landmark sites in Ireland associated with St. Patrick. A series of interactive displays allows visitors to explore how Patrick's legacy developed in early Christian times and reveals the fabulous artwork and metalwork which was produced during this Golden Age. The exhibition also examines the major impact of Irish missionaries in Dark Age Europe - a legacy which remains to this day.

Afterward, proceed to the Hill of Slane, another significant site associated with St. Patrick's missionary efforts. Here, you can explore the history and significance of the hill, which holds a prominent place in Irish folklore and Christian tradition. Take in the stunning views and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the area before continuing your journey.

Following the visit to the Hill of Slane, explore Saul Church, an ancient site closely linked to St. Patrick's early missions in Ireland. It is believed that this is where St. Patrick established his first church in Ireland. Discover the historical and spiritual significance of this sacred place as you explore its ruins and learn about its role in the spread of Christianity in Ireland.

Next, journey to Slieve Patrick, where the saint is said to have undertaken a period of fasting and prayer. Located in the picturesque Mourne Mountains, Slieve Patrick offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for reflection and contemplation. Experience the tranquility of this mountain site and connect with the spiritual essence that inspired St. Patrick during his time here.

Conclude the day's explorations by visiting Down Cathedral overlooking Downpatrick, which stands close to what is believed to be the burial place of St. Patrick. Visitors can access the cathedral via gardens at the back of the St. Patrick’s Centre or through English street from the town center. The Cathedral is impressive inside and has a wonderful organ and a very interesting seating arrangement. It is generally accepted that the main walls of the Cathedral date from the years after 1220. It suffered destruction on numerous occasions including during the wars with Edward Bruce in 1316; and finally, on the suppression of the monasteries in 1541, the Cathedral was laid waste. Rather than lose the connection with Patrick, the name began to be used for the growing town, which assumed the name Downpatrick. What the visitor sees now is an almost entirely new interior, a replica of that which it replaced.

This evening, return to our hotel in Dublin, reflecting on the rich history and spiritual significance of the sites visited throughout the day. (B)

 

 

After a final Irish breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our departure flight home.