Irish Inspired

Travel to Dublin to cruise along the river Liffey. See the Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to gain insight into the establishment’s impressive history. While enjoying Trinity College take a legendary look at the 9th-century Book of Kells. Before the end of your day grab a pint at Guinness Brewery and see this luscious logger history.

 

---

Travel down and see the delightful scenery of the Wicklow Mountains. Take a stop at the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic reproduction of an 1840s vessel that brought desperate Irish emigrants fleeing famine to the New World. Travel to Cobh to walk this harbor town. This was the last port of call for the Titanic in 1912 and was also the main point of embarkation for Irish emigrants between 1848 and 1960. Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” or explore the tranquil gardens. Tour the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle to see glorious 17th-century tapestries, family portraits, and sumptuous furnishings reflecting the lifestyle of the Butler family who once resided there.

---

 

Ireland’s most popular scenic drive, the Ring of Kerry. Discover the glorious Dingle Peninsula, made famous in the movies “Ryan’s Daughter” and “Far & Away,” which showcased the wonderful scenery found here. Take a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car through the Killarney National Park to Ross Castle and Kenmare Estate. Visit Moriarty’s in the Gap of Dunloe. Stop in the picturesque village of Adare, with its thatched cottages and colorful garden, before proceeding to Limerick for a panoramic tour.

 

---

Travel along the coast of County Clare to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, soaring 700 feet above the churning Atlantic. Drive through the austerely beautiful landscape of the Burren on your way to Galway. Take a walk through the thriving historic city of Galway, see its charming medieval streetscape, filled with small local shops and cafes, and many street musicians.

---

Travel north to Claremorris to visit Ballintubber Abbey, known as “the Abbey that refused to die,” Ireland’s only royal abbey, which has been in continuous use for more than 780 years. Visit Belleek Pottery, then follow the Atlantic shore to Donegal town. Explore the Giant’s Causeway, huge hexagonal columns formed over 60 million years ago. Visit the historic city of Belfast, taking a panoramic tour to see grand government buildings, the peace wall, and the docks where the RMS Titanic was built in 1912. Visit the magnificent Titanic Belfast, a high-tech attraction that will immerse you in the story of the doomed liner.

---

FUN FACTS:

• The Colorful Georgian Doors of Dublin are a very historical architectural hallmark. 

Legend has it that after the death of Queen Victoria, in 1901, the English Parliament ordered the citizens of Dublin to paint their doors black in mourning; however, in an act of rebellion, they painted their doors different colors instead. 

• Local Lingo 

Dia Dhuit (Hello)           Mucker (Friend)     Gargle  (Beer or alcohol)
Slán leat  (Goodbye)      Póg (Kiss)                 Pint of Gat  (pint of Guinness)
Sláinte  (Cheers!)           Craic (Fun)               Jammy (Very Lucky)

• Must-Have Souveniers 

Irish Whiskey   ~  Aran Sweater  ~  Wool Blanket  ~  Waterford Crystal