Ireland South Daytripper

Your tour departs at 2:00 PM from your hotel. The Dunraven, your home for the next five nights, is a luxury, family-run hotel in the heart of Adare, one of Ireland's prettiest villages. Adare's history stretches back to the 12th century, and the hotel is one of oldest in Ireland, dating back to the 18th century.(Departures on June 4, July 30, Aug. 6, Sept. 3, and Sept. 10 will instead stay at the luxurious Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel & Spa, located on 44 acres of beautiful grounds just outside of Adare.) Take a guided walking tour to see the village's charming thatched cottages and ancient churches, and discover the many historic buildings that were built in the early 19th century by the Earl of Dunraven. In the evening, go to the nearby Fitzgerald's Woodland House Hotel for a welcome drink and dinner featuring local and organic produce. (D)

Travel to the Cliffs of Moher, stunning sea cliffs that tower above churning Atlantic swells. Proceed on to the Burren, an incredible landscape of glacial-era limestone dotted with cliffs, caves, and unique flowers and wildlife. Immerse yourself in farm life as you watch highly skilled sheepdogs herd their flock; then sit down to a cup of tea and homemade scones. Dine in your hotel in Adare this evening. (B, D)

Take one of Ireland's most scenic rail journeys from Cork and arrive in the seaport town of Cobh. Its picturesque harbor was the last glimpse of Ireland for millions of emigrants over the centuries. Take a guided walking tour to explore Cobh's role as the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic, and take some independent time to discover the town. Depart for Blarney Castle where you can kiss the “Stone of Eloquence” or explore the elegant gardens. Continue on back to Adare, where you'll dine in your hotel. (B, D)

Travel to the rugged mountainous landscapes of the Dingle Peninsula; many people speak Irish in this stronghold of traditional culture. In Ventry, stop for lunch at Páidi Ó Sé's pub. Páidi Ó Sé was a legendary Gaelic footballer, and his pub is a lively spot for sport and music, attracting celebrity visitors. Travel on to the charming town of Dingle to enjoy some free time, and then head to the South Pole Inn for a drink; you'll hear the story of Ireland's Antarctic explorer, Thomas Crean, who made several trips to the South Pole with Robert Scott and Ernest Shackleton. Return to Adare where your evening is free to explore and dine independently. (B, L)

Depart for a scenic drive through the highlights of the famous Ring of Kerry, taking in the rugged coastline and mountainous landscapes. Admire the scenery at Ladies View, so named because Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting were charmed by the vista on the Queen's visit to Ireland in 1861. Stop in the stunning Gap of Dunloe for a visit to Moriarty's, our CIE Tours preferred shopping partner. Head to Killarney, where you'll travel via jaunting car to view the lakes and enjoy a photo opportunity at the picturesque Ross Castle, before having some free time to explore the town independently. Return to Adare for a farewell dinner with your group at your hotel. (B, D)

Head to Dublin for a lunchtime private pub experience at Taylors Three Rock. A band will play traditional music just for your group - and you'll have the opportunity to learn the art of pouring a pint of Guinness. Spend the rest of the day exploring independently on a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour. A voucher will admit you to your choice of one of the city's top attractions: Guinness Storehouse, the GPO Museum, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, or Teeling Whiskey Distillery. Enjoy an evening free to discover Dublin's pub and restaurant scene. Your hotel is in a great location in the historic Liberties - near the Guinness Storehouse and close to the lively pubs of Temple Bar. (B, L)

Your tour ends in Dublin after breakfast. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner >