Fly overnight to Shannon or Dublin, Ireland.
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Upon arrival in Shannon or Dublin, your first taste of Ireland is a visit to the majestic Cliffs of Moher. From here the only land one could reach is the eastern seaboard of the United States. Later you'll arrive in Galway, the City of Tribes where accommodations for the next two nights are provided at the Menio Park Hotel.
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Today we discover the beauty of the Connemara region, home to windswept mountains, sparkling lakes and a dramatic Atlantic coastline. See the gothic revival lakeside castle, the magnificent Kylemore Abbey, which dates back to the 19th century where it was built as a private residence. It is now home to an order of the Benedictine nuns who have run a girls boarding school for years. We will also explore the beautiful Victorian Gardens, the largest of their kind in Ireland. Back in Galway, don't forget to explore Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter.
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This morning we will visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Built in 1480, Bunratty Castle offers a wonderful insight into the life of these times. You'll view tapestries and furniture that are hundreds of years old. Your journey continues through the beautiful thrashed village of Adare, pass Limerick and on into Killarney, where you will stay for the next two nights. Impressive hotel accommodations are provided at the Killarney Towers Hotel located in the heart of the downtown area.
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The spectacular sights and sounds of the Ring of Kerry are included today, the center piece of Killarney National Park. See the famous Gap of Dunloe and take time to soak up the scenery at "Ladies View," one of the most beautiful view points along this famous route. This afternoon visit the 19th century Muckross House and enjoy a personal guided tour of the classic interior before exploring the beautiful limestone gardens that sweep down to the banks of Muckross Lake.
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Today you'll head for the village of Blarney where you have the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone at the top of Blarney Castle. It is said that those who kiss the stone are bestowed with the gift of eloquence. Time is allowed for shopping at the Blarney Woolen Mills before traveling to the Old Jameson Distillery in Middletown. Our last stop is Cobb Heritage Centre where you'll relive in gut-wrenching detail the story of thousands of Irish families as they fled the famed famine for a better life across the ocean. This evening you will overnight at the Towers Hotel in Waterford.
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This morning begins with a tour of the new Waterford Crystal Visitors Centre for a look at the centuries-old tradition of Ireland's famed glassware. Visit Kilmainham Jail, the hallowed ground of the Republic of Ireland where many Irish freedom fighters spent their last days. Accommodations for the next two nights are at the Bewleys Hotel, Ballsbridge, in Dublin.
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This morning enjoy the sights and sounds of Dublin as your tour director takes you on a guided tour of the city. You'll see Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the National Gallery. The remainder of the day is free for you to continue exploring the city on your own. This evening enjoy one of Dublin's best evenings of Irish food and entertainment at the Merry Ploughboy Music Pub.
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Today you'll be transferred to Dublin airport for your return journey home.
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