The Luck of Ireland!
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BOOK TODAY!!
May 11th to 21st, 2024
Travel the Emerald Isle of Ireland
Top of the morning to you, Travel Enthusiasts! Elite Travel & Events Inc is thrilled to announce our upcoming small group travel tour to magical Ireland, taking place May 11th to 21, 2024. Get ready to soak up the magnificent landscapes, immerse yourself in the charming culture, and create unforgettable memories with like-minded travelers from around the world.
Join us on an exploration of the Emerald Isle where we'll see all the must-visit sites, including the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, and the colorful streets of Dublin. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! We'll also indulge in the delicious beer and whiskey of traditional Irish pubs, kiss the famous Blarney Stone for some good luck, and experience the cozy hospitality of an Irish castle on a luxury estate.
Our tour is designed with maximum fun in mind, and we're dedicated to ensuring that every moment is memorable. Our expert tour guides will lead the way, providing unique insights and insider tips to help you get the most out of your trip. Not to mention, you'll be traveling with a small group of fellow adventurers, creating a tight-knit community that's perfect for making new friends.
This is your chance to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Come join us on the ultimate small group travel tour to Ireland in 2024. It'll be an adventure you'll treasure for a lifetime!
AGENDA
Welcome to Ireland!
DAY 1
Saturday, May 11th, 2024
Céad Míle Fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes!) Arrive into Dublin Airport where you will be met by your private driver/guide to commence your tour of the Emerald Isle!
Slane Castle Whiskey Tasting
Your first visit today will be to nearby Co. Meath to Slane Castle, which is set in the middle of a 1,500 acre estate in the heart of the Boyne Valley, Co. Meath. Ireland has a rich history of crafting Whiskey, so where better to discover or deepen your understanding of this past than at Slane Distillery on the historical grounds of Slane Castle. Here we bring this rich history to life through a working distillery where you can witness whiskey making in action and savor the sounds, aromas and flavors of this ancient process.
Dublin and Check In
This afternoon you will arrive in Dublin city. While here, learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness, join the revelers in Temple Bar and follow the footsteps of literary icons in Ireland's vibrant capital, Dublin. Unlike London or Paris, Dublin's manageable size makes it perfect for exploring in a day or two. Since Ireland gained its independence from Britain in 1922, Dubliners are fiercely proud of their rebellious history and small yet mighty city.
Check into the Hard Rock Hotel where you will overnight for the next 2 nights.
Enjoy Dinner in a local restaurant this evening.
DAY 2
Sunday, May 12th, 2024
This morning a private guide will join you for a tour of the Capital City. On the tour learn about all the wonderful sights and landmarks of this ancient city, such as St Patrick’s Cathedral and Christchurch Cathedral. The Book of Kells is celebrated for its lavish decoration. It has been on display in the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin from the mid-19th century, and attracts over 500,000 visitors a year. See the Georgian Squares, O’Connell Street, the Greens and the Phoenix Park, which is the largest urban parkland area in Europe. The president of Ireland resides here. You may also visit the National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street.
EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum
You will then visit EPIC -The Irish Emigration Museum. Don’t just visit Ireland, understand it, with a visit to EPIC, twice winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards 2019 and 2020. You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold here, but you will discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world. Discover Ireland from the outside in and find out why saying “I’m Irish” is one of the biggest conversation starters, no matter where you are. Discover why over 10 million people left this island, where they went and what they brought with them. Uncover stories of adventure, adversity and triumph, as you engage with their personal stories and engage with history in 20 interactive galleries. You can learn more about your Irish ancestry through the Irish Family History Centre (IFHC) which is also located at the museum. Here you can access valuable records, speak with a genealogy expert and join the online community of people on a quest to learn about their Irish roots. Followed by lunch.
The Guinness Storehouse
Later this afternoon you will visit Guinness Storehouse. Located in the heart of the Guinness Brewery at St James’s Gate, Dublin. Housed in an old fermentation plant, now the seven story visitor experience tells the story of Ireland’s iconic drink and brings to life the heritage of Guinness from early days to growth as a global brand, known all around the world. The experience starts standing at the bottom of the world’s largest pint glass, which rises through the building. It’s a dramatic story that begins over 250 years ago and ends in Gravity Bar where visitors will receive a complimentary pint of Guinness while relaxing and enjoying spectacular views over Dublin.
Overnight again at the Grafton Hotel; evening at leisure to dine independently.
DAY 3
Monday, May 13th, 2024
This morning depart Dublin and travel south to Cork... enroute you will stop in Co. Laois to visit Ballykilcavan
Farm and Brewery - The farm has been the home of the Walsh family since 1639 and the current owners, David and Lisa Walsh-Kemmis, are the13th generation of the family to live and work there. They have set up a craft brewery in the 240 year old stone grain store at Ballykilcavan, and grow the barley used to make the beers in the field next to the farmyard. The brewing water is drawn from a well beside the brewery and David has also established a new hop garden. The company sells a range of craft beers from traditional lager, red ale and stout to more exotic Indian Pale Ales and canned beers. Each batch is made by hand on their copper-clad 1000 litre kit and bottled on site.
The Rock of Cashel
After visit the Rock of Cashel - Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, the Rock of
Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a
Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House. Originally the seat of the kings of Munster, according to legend St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital. In 1101 the site was granted to the church and Cashel swiftly rose to prominence as one of the most significant centers of ecclesiastical power in the country. The surviving buildings are remarkable. Cormac’s Chapel, for example, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland. The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions.
Arrival to Cork, Ireland
Arrive in Cork City which is Ireland’s second largest city, and spend 2 nights here. Built on a marsh, the city proper is inter-laced with winding canal and the river, which gives it a distinctly European air. The river Lee divides the city in two and is perhaps best reflected in the well-patterned architectural development incorporating the best of old and new. Cork is the home of Murphy’s stout and also to the world-famous Jazz Festival.
Overnight in the Imperial Hotel Cork City.
Enjoy Dinner in a local restaurant this evening.
DAY 4
Tuesday, May 14th, 2024
Today, you will travel to the other side of Cork Harbor and visit East Cork... Your first stop is in the town of Cobh. The Great Island on which the town of Cobh stands is the largest island in Cork Harbor. The island has a history which dates back to pre-Christian times but the town itself is comparatively new, dating from the 17th century. Cobh's varied history includes a reputation as a health and seaside resort. Famous for its colorful exteriors Cobh was the last port of call for the Titanic on its first and last voyage. It is also renowned as the main departure point for the many emigrants of the great famine of 1846 – 1848 whose story is told in The Queenstown Story Heritage Centre.
Titanic Experience Cobh
You will visit Titanic Experience Cobh – Here, in suitably respectful style the unanswered questions and the incredible coincidences of the Titanic story are brought into high relief on a guided tour. All of the exhibitions have one thing in common: a reverential respect for the gravity of what happened. Upon entry, you're handed a boarding pass which contains details of one of the 123 passengers that stepped aboard the Titanic. Through interactive touch screen and holographic imagery and audio visual presentation, we’re given the background and context to Irish emigration in 1912, we see inside the famous ship built by Belfast manufacturers, Harland and Wolff, and re live the tragic events leading to disaster. The exhibition finishes off with footage of Titanic’s final resting place on the seabed. Followed by lunch.
Jameson Distillery Midelton
After travel to the town of Midleton and visit the Jameson Distillery Midleton ... Visit the Jameson Distillery Midleton, the place of whiskey-making dreams. Take a guided tour around the distillery's heritage grounds and discover exactly what makes this world-famous whiskey so special. Explore the Jameson Distillery Midleton in Cork and come face to face with the largest pot still in the world. It has a capacity of holding an amazing 143,872 litres or 31,648 gallons of liquid. See the micro-distillery in action and experience the live maturation warehouse as you learn what goes into creating such an iconic drink. From field to glass, taste delicious whiskeys as you explore the Cooperage, the Distiller’s Cottage and get a deeper insight into the history, production and stories of this famous beverage. The Jameson Ambassadors are on hand to guide visitors through the unique smells, tastes and sensations. Take a break at the distillery’s food truck which serves a variety of teas, coffees and snacks, browse in the gift store or linger over a drink in the Jameson Bar.
Overnight again in Cork City; evening at leisure to dine independently.
DAY 5
Wednesday, May 15th, 2024
Depart Cork and travel via Blarney to Killarney in Co. Kerry.
You will stop in the village of Blarney where you will visit the renowned Blarney Castle & Gardens ... climb to the top of the castle where you can get the gift of the gab by kissing the Blarney stone! Blarney Castle and Gardens, home of the famous Blarney Stone, is a great place for a day out in Cork. Incredible gardens surround Blarney Castle, built in 1446 by the King of Munster. Climb to the top of the castle and kiss the stone, which will leave you with the gift of the gab. Explore themed gardens like the tropical Fern Garden and the Poison Garden with its deadly and dangerous plants from around the world, including the caged specimens of deadly nightshade, wolfsbane and poison ivy. Relax after your rambles in the Blarney Castle stable yard and café or browse the Court Exhibition Rooms and the souvenir shops.
Arrival in Killarney
Arrive in Killarney. Nationally and internationally renowned as the undisputed centre of tourism in the South West of Ireland, Killarney has it all. While its wild beauty and glorious scenery have, for centuries, established it firmly in the affections of all who have visited, Killarney is also a thriving commercial town offering an abundance of attractions and entertainment. Exciting all summer long, Killarney has been able to hold its premier position amongst other tourist destinations with a variety of festivals and an unequalled nightlife. Over seventy pubs line the streets of this town while a vast array of restaurants and accommodation ensure that every imaginable taste can be catered for. The popularity of the town is not a modern-day phenomenon though. It has welcomed visitors for over 200 years. Famously, one particular lake view was dedicated to the Ladies in Waiting of Queen Victoria, who visited the area in 1861. Their visit has been commemorated by the naming of "Ladies' View",
Check into Randles Hotel where you will overnight for the next 2 nights.
Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant in Killarney tonight.
DAY 6
Thursday, May 16th, 2024
Today you will explore some highlights of the world-famous Ring of Kerry - the name given to the scenic coastal drive around the Kerry peninsula, along the base of the highest mountain range in Ireland.
Enjoy the lovely view of the 3 Lakes of Killarney from 'Ladies View’. The view here is probably the best known of Killarney and is a major attraction for visitors. Queen Victoria's ladies-in- waiting visited here during the royal visit in 1861. They were so taken with the view that it was named after them. If you walk up the road from the viewing point, there is another parking area and a path that leads to a wonderful view of the upper lake. Followed by lunch.
Muckross Farms
Visit Muckross Farms – and here we will organize some activities for the group such as a Sheepherding Demonstration, Gaelic Games workshop to include Hurling & Football, Céilí Dancing & Bodhran Workshop!
Overnight at Randles Hotel ... evening at leisure to dine independently.
DAY 7
Friday, May 17th, 2024
Depart Kerry and travel north to Galway along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way!
Enroute you will stop in the village of Foynes in Co. Limerick. Discover Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime at the original terminal building in Foynes, County Limerick for a tour and Irish Coffee! It recalls the nostalgic era of 1939 to 1945, when Foynes was the centre of the aviation world. Follow in the footsteps of Maureen O'Hara, John F. Kennedy, Bob Hope, Eleanor Roosevelt, and the dignitaries, movie stars and refugees who landed here during World War II. See how this unique story is told by an original film in a 1940s style cinema. Check out the World War II exhibits and take the chance to board a life-size replica of the Boeing 314 Flying Boat. Irish coffee, a popular beverage, was first served at Foynes in 1943 to a group of weary passengers. Watch the wonderful 3D holographic show re-enacting this famous night and after, taste a delicious Irish coffee in its original home. Spend some time exploring the maritime collection in the reinstated control tower and enjoy the panoramic views of the River Shannon.
Visit to the Cliffs of Moher
Later, you will stop off at the Cliffs of Moher; Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with a magical vista that captures the hearts of up to one million visitors every year. Standing 214 metres (702 feet) at their highest point they stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast. From the Cliffs of Moher on a clear day one can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, as well as the Twelve Pins and the Maum Turk mountains in Connemara, Loop Head to the south and the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry. O’Brien’s Tower stands near the highest point and has served as a viewing point for visitors for hundreds of years.
Enjoy a brief stop in Doolin, a charming small seaside village on the northwest coast of County Clare. Set against the rugged Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the spectacular bare limestone landscape of the Burren, Doolin is a place of breathtaking beauty. Traditionally a fishing village, Doolin is now renowned world-wide as the traditional music capital of Ireland.
Arrival in Galway
Arrive in Galway. Galway City is the focal point of Co. Galway and the west of Ireland. It nestles at the neck of Galway Bay and is reputed to have been Columbus’ final point of departure on his voyage of discovery. See St Nicholas Church, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. St Nicholas Church is a medieval church, which is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors. The Spanish Arch is a reminder of the city's trading links with Spain. Part of the medieval town wall is visible on the south side of the arch. Eyre Square is the focal point of the modern city between the old town and the docks and it centers on a small park, named after John F Kennedy.
Check into the Hardiman Hotel, where you will overnight for the next 2 nights.
Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant this evening.
DAY 8
Saturday, May 18th, 2024
Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Connemara. Connemara, made famous by a number of well-known
movies – such as the John Wayne movie – “The Quiet Man”, and more recently “The Field”. Connemara is
a wild and beautiful region of mountains, lakes, tumbling streams undulating bog, unspoilt beaches and
panoramic views. It is a Gaelic speaking region. The centre of Connemara is composed of mountain peaks,
the Twelve Bens or Pins, which culminate in Benbaun. Enjoy a stop in Clifden... This diamond shaped town
is the largest town west of Galway, making it the capital of the Connemara region. Set against a backdrop
of mountains and ocean, this colorful and lively town is brimming with boutiques, gift and souvenir shops,
cafes, fine restaurants and lots of quaint Irish pubs. Followed by lunch.
Galway Walking Tour & Corrib River Cruise
The "Welcome to Galway" Walking Tour will take you on a journey through the narrow streets and historic landmarks of this charming city, known as the "City of the Tribes". With a mixture of heritage, culture, and local interest, this 60 minute walking tour is the perfect introduction to Galway City. This walking tour begins in the heart of Galway City, at The Explore Galway Kiosk, Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. This bustling public space is surrounded by some of the city's most popular shops, restaurants, and pubs, making it the perfect place to begin the experience. Then, Set sail on the Corrib Princess and discover the tranquil scenery of the Corrib river all the way to Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. Depart from Steamer’s Quay in Woodquay, only a short stroll from Galway city centre. Once onboard you’ll take a wonderful journey past Galway University and it’s sports grounds, the old iodine factory, Menlo Castle and other sites of historical and cultural interest. Enjoy food and drinks on board with beer on tap and delightful Irish Coffee’s. (1 Irish Coffee Included) The experienced and helpful crew will ensure you have an excursion to remember.
DAY 9
Sunday, May 19th, 2024
Depart Galway City today & travel north east to Co. Monaghan... here you will visit Brehon Brewhouse, set amongst the grassy rolling drumlins outside Carrickmacross, County Monaghan, just a few miles from the birthplace of Irish poet Patrick Kavanagh. This modern craft ale brewhouse is steeped in 10 generations of history at the family's dairy farm and its old stone cottages. Join the tasting tour, sample the award winning brews and be entertained by the stories. Brehon Brewhouse was founded by dairy farmer Seamus McMahon who wanted to diversify his family homestead and so this Irish craft brewery was born. Brehon Brewhouse offers an immersive experience for craft beer enthusiasts in a cosy, intimate setting. The tours draw on the wealth of literary and familial history from the Carrickmacross and County Monaghan region. See where it all began with a visit to the farm's milking parlor. This is followed by a trip to the brewery to see the master brewer and apprentice at work. All brewing, bottling and canning is done on site to the highest quality using ingredients from the local farming community and eco-friendly, unhurried methods. Round off this experience with a tasting of Brehon Brewhouse's range in the historic family home. Here you will enjoy more nuggets of history about the famous local poet, Patrick Kavanagh and tales of the characters who lived in the area.
Our Final Hotel, Castle Leslie Estate
Your final destination today is the stunning Castle Leslie Estate in the village of Glaslough, Co. Monaghan.
Enjoy your last 2 nights living as King and Queens with Exclusive use of the Castle only for our group!
Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is one of the last great Irish castle estates still in the hands of its founding family since the 1660's. Over the years the family have welcomed everyone from poets to politicians, ambassadors to royalty and world-renowned celebrities. The estate is home to some of the most unique and enchanting accommodation on one of Ireland’s most breath-taking estates. The Castle, rich in unspoiled rural splendor and breath-taking artifacts, offers complete respite from the rest of the world. A haven of tranquillity, you won’t find televisions, radios or minibars within the bedrooms. The Castle features twenty one unique bedrooms - whether your idea of heaven is a romantic boudoir designed with relaxation and privacy in mind or a flamboyant room decorated with rich deep colors, there’s a bedroom to suit your tastes. Each bathroom is unique and features include the first plumbed bath in Ireland, a throne toilet and a complete bathroom hidden away in a doll’s house.
Upon arrival, enjoy Tea/Coffee & Home-made scones with fresh cream & preserves!
This evening, enjoy dinner onsite at Castle Leslie estate with a Pre-dinner drinks reception and dinner is buffet style.
DAY 10
Monday, May 20th, 2024
Today you will enjoy the day at leisure at Castle Leslie Estate.... A host of activities are on offer including pike fishing, exceptional walking trails, archery and clay target shooting, falconry, a fabulous spa and of course the famous world-class equestrian centre (supplement applies).
We can arrange an offsite visit as requested, such as time in the surrounding village of Glaslough.
Today, Lunch at Castle is included (Freshly Made Soup &
Selection of Open and Closed Gourmet Sandwiches).
Tonight, enjoy a Pre-dinner drinks reception and farewell dinner onsite.
DAY 11
Tuesday, May 21st, 2024
Alas, after breakfast, it is time to depart Ireland... Your driver will drop you to Dublin Airport for your return flight to the USA ... Slan Abhaile -Safe Home!
WHAT'S INCLUDED
10 Days Private Driver/Guide Service
($2,997 Value!)
Accommodation (10 Nights in total at 4 hotels + Exclusive Irish Castle)
2 Nights: Hard Rock Hotel, Dublin City
2 Nights: Imperial Hotel, Cork City
2 Nights: Randles Hotel, Killarney, Co. Kerry
2 Nights: Harbour Hotel, Galway City
2 nights: Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan,
*EXCLUSIVE USE FOR OUR GROUP!*
($2,997 Value!)
Tours and Experiences
Slane Distillery Tour
Step on tour guide in Dublin with EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum & Guinness Storehouse
Ballykilcavan Farm & Brewery Tour
Titanic Experience Cobh & Jameson Midleton Distillery
Blarney Castle Cork
Muckross Farms with traditional experiences
Foynes Flying Boat Museum and Cliffs of Moher
Galway Walking Tour and Corrib River Cruise
Brehon Brewhouse
($1,997 Value!)
Food and Beverages
Hotel Breakfast (B) daily (10)
4 Table d’ Hote Dinners (with a local beer, whiskey or soda)
4 Lunches ( with a local beer, whiskey or soda)
Arrival Tea/Coffee & Scones at Castle Leslie Estate
Lunch at Castle Leslie Estate
2 Evening Meals at Castle Leslie Estate (with pre-dinner drinks, wine, and a five-course meal)
($1,497 Value!)
All Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
($297 Value!)
VAT, City Taxes, Entrance Fees and Parking
($297 Value!)
New Friends and Guaranteed Fun!
(Priceless!)
NOT INCLUDED
International Airfare
Gratuities (Tour Manager, Bus Driver)
Meals and Drinks not mentioned
Personal Expenditures and anything not mentioned in the above itinerary
ALL OF THE ABOVE FOR ONLY
LAST CALL SALE!!
GET $200 OFF
VERY LIMITED ROOMS AVAILABLE!
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