October 10 – 17, 2024
I have designed this tour to showcase the beauty of Ireland, the wonderful people and culture, while sharing some of my favorite places.
This tour has a few ‘choose your own adventure' options, as well as free time – if you want it – to explore at your leisure. You are, of course, always welcome to join Doug & I, or sit back and relax, if you choose not to self-explore.
Highlights of the Heart of Ireland Tour
This tour has a maximum of 6 travelers.
Accommodations: Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable and carefully selected accommodations that showcase the warmth and charm of Irish hospitality (including one castle!).
Culinary Delights: Start your mornings with daily breakfast and savor the essence of Ireland with expertly guided food tours that will introduce you to the rich tapestry of Irish cuisine.
Dining Experiences: Delight in the camaraderie of our small group during 4 group dinners, featuring authentic Irish flavors and lively conversations.
Inclusive Experiences: Your journey will be filled with exclusive experiences:
- Craft your own Claddagh Ring at SilverWorks (optional; included in tour cost): Unleash your creativity with a hands-on experience at SilverWorks. Craft your own unique Irish keepsake to cherish as a memento of your journey.
- Visit an Authentic Irish Pub: Step back in time and immerse yourself in in the craic at one Ireland's most authentic pubs. Sip on a local brew as you imagine the tales the building could tell.
- Hike atop the Cliffs of Moher (weather permitting): Fewer than 3% of people view the Cliffs of Moher from beyond the visitors centre viewing platforms. Join the 8km (5 mile) hike back to Doolin to take in the amazing views. (Optional; those who don't wish to hike will be taken back to Doolin by Doug or I prior to the hike.)
- Indulge yourself with a Seaweed Bath: Soak your muscles in a relaxing seaweed bath in Clifden. (optional; not included in tour cost)
- Castles, Cuisine & Craic: All the very best that Ireland has to offer. Meticulously crafted to create a tour you won't forget.
Personal Touch: I will offer pre-trip recommendations and expert planning guidance for your free time, ensuring that your Irish adventure aligns with your unique interests and preferences.
Receive: Customized Ireland Travel Planner & Journal (my gift to you – but if you don't want one that's ok)
Gratuities for group meals are included in tour price.
Tour cost: $2475
Price is per person sharing. Single supplement $575 applied to solo travelers. If you are solo and open to sharing a room let me know!
Tour price does not include airfare
Daily Highlights
If you want a bit of time in Ireland's capital city I recommend arriving a day early.
I can recommend city center accommodations and help you plan a day that fits your interests.
Whether it's uncovering the secrets of Trinity College, chilling in one of Dublin's lush parks, doing a bit of retail therapy on Grafton Street, or immersing yourself in the Temple Bar vibes, Dublin is waiting for you to discover what makes it one of Europe's best cities.
Doug & I plan to arrive on this day, but we do have to wait on a few dates on our Senior's calendar before we can commit.
Our Irish adventure starts today in the heart of Dublin! First things first, you've got a fun decision to make.
Option one: Dive into the deliciousness of Dublin with a food tour that promises not only entertainment but also some seriously tasty treats. If you're a foodie, this might be right up your alley.
Option two: Fancy trying your hand at crafting a Claddagh ring? Head over to SilverWorks for a hands-on experience in creating your own piece of Irish jewelry. It's a chance to tap into your creative side and leave with a unique souvenir.
As the day winds down, we find ourselves in a ‘hidden secret' of Ireland – the town of Abbeyleix. Our accommodation for the night is a 200-year-old Georgian House- and we have whole place to ourselves. We'll kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious dinner before venturing out for some true Irish craic at one of the most authentic pubs you can find.
This morning we'll hit the road and bid farewell to the enchantment of Abbeyleix as we venture west towards Doolin. I've got some intriguing stops lined up!
First on the list is the mystical Rock of Dunamase – a place steeped in history and a view that'll make you want to freeze the moment. Then, we'll swing by Lough Gur, home to Ireland's largest stone circle – ancient mysteries surrounded by serene landscapes.
As we roll into Doolin, we'll be calling the cozy Doolin Inn our home for the next two nights. And if the weather's playing nice, join Jody for a stroll to the picture-perfect Doonagore Castle? It's the kind of place you'd see on a postcard, trust me.
We'll be enjoying a group dinner at Anthony's before we gear up for an evening of fun at a lively local pub.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the Doolin Inn before we delve into the exploration of the Burren. Despite its lunar appearance, this rocky terrain conceals a surprisingly lush and productive landscape.
Our journey will lead us to megalithic portals and stunning vistas. To satiate your taste buds, we'll also immerse ourselves in the flavors along the Burren Food Trail, adding a culinary dimension to our day of discovery.
Later this afternoon we visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Choose to hike back to our Doolin accommodation if the weather permits, or opt for a comfortable ride back to Doolin, allowing you to relax or perhaps indulge in a bit of shopping.
Tonight immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of one of Doolin's pubs where the notes of traditional Irish music weave through the air. Let the tunes and the warm company set the tone for a craic filled evening.
Today, our journey unfolds as we bid farewell to Clare and head towards charming Clifden in County Galway, but not without a few enticing stops along the way.
As we roll into Clifden, there's time for those seeking a touch of indulgence to experience seaweed baths and treat themselves to a bit of pampering. (Optional; not included in tour price.)
Our abode for the night is the Station House, strategically located at the heart of Clifden. The town, filled with unique shops and inviting pubs, beckons you to explore at your leisure.
This evening we come together for a group dinner at a local pub that exudes warmth and welcomes.
After dinner, the night is yours to enjoy. Stay for live entertainment in the pub or opt for a stroll through the charming streets of Clifden.
Today we dive into the breathtaking beauty of Connemara, Ireland's original ‘wild west'. The agenda includes dramatic coastal drives, invigorating hikes, and the stunning allure of Kylemore Abbey.
Tonight, the evening is yours to savor at your own pace. In Clifden, options abound; indulge in a scrumptious seafood dinner at a local restaurant, unwind by a cozy fireside in one of the town's pubs, or simply settle in at our hotel. The choice is entirely yours to create a relaxing and memorable evening in the capital of Connemara.
Today marks our farewell to Clifden as we set our course for Ireland's Ancient East.
Our evening retreat awaits at Kinnitty Castle, heralded as an ‘absolute gem' and (in my opinion) one of the most authentic castle stays in Ireland.
Upon our mid-afternoon arrival, take time to relish the castle and its expansive grounds. For a leisurely stroll, explore the wooded fairy trail or, if you're up for a more extensive walk, venture along a section of the Slieve Bloom Way.
As the day transitions into evening, we'll convene for a group dinner in the castle's Dungeon (Bar) before adjourning to the Library for after dinner drinks and lively conversation.
This morning, savor some leisure time to soak in the ambiance of the castle and its picturesque grounds before we set out for the ‘Valley of the Kings'.
Our journey today invites us to step back in time, exploring Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, and the Hill of Tara, where Ireland's ancient kings were chosen.
As the day winds down we make our way back toward Dublin, wrapping up our tour with a final night near Dublin Airport.
Slán Abhaile
As the time comes to part ways, we prefer not to say goodbye but rather ‘see you soon'.
Whether your journey leads you to Dublin Airport for your homeward flight or you venture on to explore more of Ireland independently, Doug and I extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us and wish you ‘safe home‘.
Are you ready join me in Ireland?
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon do I need to decide?
ASAP. Space is very limited.
Bookings are first come first served so click the Hold My Spot button as soon as you are sure.
What is ‘hold my spot'?
HOLD MY SPOT is a pre-reservation that does not require any money but it does confirm that you will be joining me in Ireland next fall.
Do you have payment options?
I do! You can make monthly payments or pay in a lump sum 3 months prior to the tour date.
To save the payment fees you can choose to pay by cash or check.
If you would like to use my payment portal the fees charged by my payment processor are added to your payment. (I am not making any profit on this tour hence the payment costs.)
What is a single supplement?
Room rates are based on 2 people sharing a room. If you are traveling solo and prefer not to share a room then you pay the full room rate.
More questions?
Message me – we'll hop on a call chat about it!