YOUR ITINERARY:

Friday; (day 1) is the start date in Ireland. Departure from the US would be on Thursday (due to overnight flights). Group departure on Friday morning from Dublin Airport to Kilronan Castle. If your flight arrives after our group departure, we recommend you booking a flight one-day earlier. 

Day 1, Friday | Arrive Ireland! Dublin - Roscommon**

Morning arrival at Dublin Airport. After clearing customs, collecting luggage and arrival of all international passengers booked by Celtic Tours*, we transfer from Dublin Airport and our tour begins. We make our way for a leg-stretch stop in the medieval town of Athlone. Time to explore the town and perhaps get a refreshment before we continue on. We make our way from here to our castle hotel*. Once checked-in, time allowed to explore your deluxe settings before we enjoy dinner at our castle hotel this evening. Overnight in Roscommon**. (D)

(*You must arrive 30-minutes before the group transfer departs Dublin Airport to avail of the group departure. **Some departures feature Lough Rynn castle hotel, where you would overnight in Leitrim.)

Day 2, Saturday | A splendid day of touring!

After a restful night in our castle hotel and a hearty breakfast, we set off for a memorable day of exploration. Our journey begins as we travel northwest to our first stop-Parke's Castle, a beautifully restored 17th-century stronghold set along the scenic northern shores of Lough Gill in County Leitrim. Once the residence of English planter Robert Parke, the castle offers a striking glimpse into Ireland's storied past. We then cross the border into Northern Ireland and make our way to Enniskillen for a visit to the renowned Boatyard Distillery, set on the picturesque banks of Lough Erne. Here, you'll enjoy a 90-minute experience that includes a refreshing gin and tonic reception, an engaging tour and tasting, and the unique opportunity to sign and label your very own 70cl bottle of Boatyard gin to take home as a keepsake. Following this fantastic visit, we return to our castle hotel for a delightful dinner and a relaxing evening. Overnight in Roscommon.**. (B, D)

Day 3, Sunday | Roscommon - Cliffs of Moher - Bunratty

After breakfast, we depart our castle hotel and journey south, beginning with a panoramic coach tour of vibrant Galway City, where you'll enjoy a brief stop to soak in its lively atmosphere. We then continue to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most iconic natural wonders, offering unforgettable views over the Atlantic. After this breathtaking experience, we travel onward via Lahinch and Ennis to Bunratty. This evening, enjoy dinner at our hotel. Overnight at the Bunratty Castle Hotel. (B, D)

Day 4, Monday | Bunratty - Limerick - Adare - Bunratty

Today promises a refreshing journey through Ireland's rich history and charm. Our first stop is Limerick City, where the imposing King John's Castle stands proudly in the heart of the medieval quarter. Step inside and travel back over 800 years as the castle's interactive displays bring its dramatic past to life. We then make our way to the postcard-perfect village of Adare, renowned for its thatched cottages and timeless atmosphere. After a leisurely day of exploration, we return to Bunratty. This evening, delight in the unforgettable Bunratty Castle medieval banquet and show. Overnight in Bunratty. (B, D)

Day 5, Tuesday | Bunratty - Blarney - Waterford

After breakfast the perfect day unfolds as we leave Bunratty and make our way to the charming village of Blarney. Here you can choose to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, stroll the castle's romantic gardens, or indulge in some delightful retail therapy among the local craft shops. From there, we continue to the Viking city of Waterford for a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal - the beating heart of the world's luxury crystal industry, where master craftsmen transform molten glass into exquisite, heirloom-quality pieces. Later we arrive at the beautifully restored 18th-century coastal mansion, Faithlegg House, a stunning property renowned for its warm hospitality and elegant comforts. Dinner at our hotel this evening. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday | Waterford - Kildare

After breakfast, we depart Faithlegg and continue our tour. We make our way to Newbridge. Arrive late morning to explore the famed Newbridge Silverware showroom and the quirky Museum of Style Icons. A lovely visit. We continue the short drive to the atmospheric Barberstown Hotel in Straffan, a charming country house hotel that offers excellent hospitality, accommodations and cuisine. We enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening. Overnight in Kildare. (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday | Kildare - Dublin - Kildare

A relaxed start to our day to day, departing Barberstown Hotel after breakfast and heading to Dublin for a panoramic tour of the city, followed by a visit to the EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum. A fantastic interactive experience, which uncovers the dramatic and inspiring stories of the Irish who traveled the world, from early times to the modern day. After your tour, you are free to explore this lively city on your own and at your own pace. Dublin offers a wealth of iconic sights to see, along with shopping, pubs and more! After your exploration, meet our driver at the designated meeting point and we head just outside of Dublin city to one of Dublin's famous venues, The Merry Ploughboy Pub for a fabulous dinner with traditional Irish entertainment. Return to Barberstown Hotel for overnight after dinner and the show. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday: Kildare - Tour ends

An early morning transfer takes you to Dublin Airport for the return flight home. Pick up your last-minute gifts at the duty-free shops before boarding your flight. You arrive home the same day. (B)

*Note: Barberstown Castle is a Four-Star Country House with a historic 13Th Century Castle on the grounds (rooms are in the hotel and not in an actual castle)