Day 1
Morning Group arrival at Dublin Airport and transfer to city centre Hotel
All flights should be scheduled to arrive no later than 11:00 am
Afternoon Your adventure begins at 12:00 noon with welcome drinks and lunch followed by a Dublin City tour
Time at leisure
Evening Dinner in Dublin City
Overnight in the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Dublin
Day 2
Morning Breakfast at the hotel – Group departure to Glendalough Monastic site and
Powerscourt Estate
Afternoon Lunch at the Powerscourt Hotel
Evening Dinner on own – Overnight in the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Dublin
Day 3
Morning Breakfast at the hotel – Group departure for County Cork
Afternoon Lunch at Castlemartyr Hotel
Ballymaloe Cookery School Cooking Class
Evening Dinner at Ballymaloe – Overnight in the Castelmartyr Resort, County Cork
Day 4
Morning Breakfast at the hotel – Group departure for Irish Whiskey Masterclass at Old
Jameson Distillery in Midleton
Afternoon Lunch in the Malt House Restaurant in the heart of the distillery.
Transfer to Killarney – afternoon at leisure
Evening
Dinner at the Killarney Park Hotel
Overnight in the Killarney Park Hotel
Day 5
Morning Breakfast at the hotel – Group departure to tour the Ring of Kerry
Afternoon Tour Ring of Kerry with Lunch
Evening1 Dinner on own – Overnight in the Killarney Park Hotel
Day 6
Morning Breakfast at the hotel – Group departure for Cliffs of Moher and the Burren
Afternoon Lunch in County Clare with afternoon at leisure in Dromoland Castle
Evening Dinner at Dromoland Castle
Overnight in Dromoland Castle
Day 7
Morning Transfer to Shannon Airport and departure to USA
HOTELS
The Fitzwilliam Hotel 5 Star
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin is the ultimate in contemporary style and Irish warmth and is located within a few minutes’ walk of Dublin’s famed Grafton Street, Temple Bar and Trinity College, at the very heart of Dublin’s city centre. The hotel is one of Dublin’s most luxurious hotels and is located with quiet authority overlooking St. Stephen’s Green in the city centre of Dublin. Experience the best of both worlds: to one side the tranquility and calm of St. Stephen’s Green, to the other, Grafton Street, Dublin’s, most prestigious shopping area.
Castelmartyr Resort 5 Star
Step inside a canvas furnished by nature and embroidered by imagination. Steeped in rich history, the Castelmartyr Resort, with its magnificently restored 18th Century Manor House, spacious, elegant interiors, luxurious accommodations, majestic ballrooms set amidst idyllic rolling countryside, is the ideal location for your leisure and family breaks away.
The resort offers endless possibilities for outdoor pursuits and activities including archery, croquet on the lawn, clay pigeon shooting or a game of hurling. Guests can also choose to take our resident Irish setters, Earl and Countess, for a stroll around the beautiful formal gardens or a walk or run through the adjacent Castelmartyr Woods.
Killarney Park Hotel 5 star
On its own grounds in the centre of Killarney town, the Park has a deserved reputation for elegance and superior service. As well as 68 guest rooms, the Park offers numerous dining options and a luxurious spa facility with leisure centre. There is space to unwind and relax in the traditional cosy library and drawing room, as well as local advice from the concierge for activities in the area.
Dromoland Castle 5 Star
With an extraordinary history stretching back to the 5th Century, Dromoland Castle was originally the ancestral home of one of the few families of Gaelic Royalty; direct descendants of the High King of Ireland.
Approached by a meandering drive that passes acres of magnificent lawns, this luxury, 5-star Castle Hotel overlooks its own golf course and a glistening lake which commands the panoramic beauty of the surrounds. Seamlessly blending Old-World elegance with contemporary luxuries, Dromoland’s tradition of delivering impeccable, unobtrusive service is never compromised. Dromoland Castle Hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the vibrant cities of Limerick and Galway; the magical Shannon region and Ireland’s rugged West Coast.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive early in the morning at Dublin Airport, meet with driver and guide for transfer to the Fitzwilliam Hotel. Room may not be ready upon arrival, but porters will ensure all bags are delivered. At 12:00 noon, enjoy welcome drinks and gluten-free lunch at the hotel, then depart for a city tour of Dublin.
Dublin is one of Europe’s oldest cities. As well as retaining its historical and cultural charms, Dublin offers trendy bars, elegant restaurants and stylish, cosmopolitan shops and hotels. There’s never been a better time to visit! Dublin ranks more than ever among the top tourist destinations in Europe, and this vibrant city hums with a palpable sense that it is creating a new cultural heritage. With a wealth of attractions, many within walking distance of each other, Ireland’s largest city provides a sense of history, culture, music and a bustle that is truly unique.
Half-Day City Tour of Dublin
Spend the afternoon with a guide for this educational and inspiring tour of Dublin. With a mixture of walking and driving, visit iconic Dublin sites such as Trinity College and the Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral as well as some of the hidden gems of the City. Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature and has strong associations with Ireland’s best known literary figures including James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, Maeve Binchy, Roddy Doyle and many more. This is a fun and informative tour.
Trinity College
Trinity College’s Old Library and the Book of Kells Exhibition is a “must see” on the itinerary of all visitors to Dublin. Located in the heart of Dublin City, a walk through the cobbled stones of Trinity College Dublin will transport you back to the 18th century, when the magnificent Old Library building was constructed. Trinity College is the oldest University in Ireland, founded in 1592 right in the heart of Dublin. The Book of Kells is a 9th-century gospel manuscript famous throughout the world. Life beyond the front arch is a bona fide centre of learning for Irish students.
After a day exploring Dublin, enjoy some time at leisure. Dinner tonight will be at a top gluten-free restaurant, then overnight at The Fitzwilliam Hotel.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
The largest church in the country, St. Patrick’s Cathedral was erected in the mid- 13th Century. Restored to its current condition by the Guinness family in the 1800s, it’s a stunning example of early English Gothic Architecture. The major points of interest here are Jonathan Swift’s grave (most noted internationally for penning Gulliver’s travels and for coining the term Lilliputian – and not that he was Dean of the church). The Cathedral was the location of the first performance of Handel’s Messiah in 1742. The interior of the building is adorned with stunning engravings, beautifully tiled floors and stunning stained glass. It’s often used as a venue for concerts and graduations.
Day 2
Enjoy a gluten-free Irish breakfast at the hotel before heading to County Wicklow which highlights some of the best scenery, gardens and views in Ireland. Your first stop will be at the Monastic Centre of Glendalough, before continuing on to Powerscourt House and Gardens.
Enjoy a gluten-free lunch on your visit. Upon return to Dublin, spend the afternoon at leisure relaxing at the hotel or exploring more of Dublin. Dinner tonight will be on your own, then overnight at The Fitzwilliam. Glendalough Monastic Centre Glendalough gets its name from the Irish language. Gleann dá locha literally means the ‘Glen of the two lakes.’ Situated right in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough harbours one of Ireland’s most atmospheric monastic sites. Established by St. Kevin in the 6th century, the settlement was attacked time and again by the Vikings, but nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.
Powerscourt House and Gardens
Powerscourt is one of the most beautiful country estates in Ireland. The house and gardens at Powerscourt are probably the finest in Ireland, both for their design and their dramatic setting at the foot of Great Sugar Loaf Mountain. The gardens contain glorious lakes with spouting fountains and winged horses set in 47 acres of landscape and have been ranked No. 3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens.
Day 3
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer by executive coach to County Cork and check into the Castlemartyr Hotel and Resort. Enjoy a delicious gluten-free lunch at the hotel before spending an exciting afternoon at the Ballymaloe Cookery School.
After dinner at Ballymaloe, return to Castlemartyr Resort for a luxurious overnight stay.
Ballymaloe Cookery School.
As anyone who is celiac, or who cooks for someone who is celiac, will testify that it can be challenging producing really delicious, balanced meals. Today, you will spend a full afternoon at Darina Allen’s Ballymaloe Cookery School and will learn recipes and tips. Unlike any other cookery school in the world, Ballymaloe Cookery School is located in the middle of a 100-acre, organic farm of which ten acres are devoted to organic market gardens, orchards and greenhouses. Darina Allen is Ireland’s best known cook and a best-selling author who presented nine series of her cookery programme, *Simply Delicious*, on television in Ireland. She founded the Ballymaloe Cookery School in 1983. She is a passionate and committed teacher, and her awards have included: Good Food Ireland’s Cookery School of the Year 2012/2013; a José Navarro Foundation Award at the Green Awards 2011 and IACP Cooking Teacher of the Year 2005.
2.00 PM: Arrival at the School. Meet and greet followed by a short tour of the gardens and
farm
2.30 PM: 1-hour demonstration
3.30 PM: Guests will be divided in two different kitchens and working in pairs. Assisted by teachers, they will cook between each other, a three-course gluten-free meal for dinner that evening.
Day 4
Enjoy breakfast at leisure in the hotel dining room then depart Castlemartyr for Midleton, County Cork for a half-day education session on Jameson Irish whiskey at the Old Jameson Distillery Midleton. After lunch, transfer by luxury coach to the picturesque County Kerry via Cork City.
Jameson Whiskey Academy
Jameson whiskeys are gluten-free! Whether you’re a whiskey expert, budding enthusiast or new to the world of whiskey, a visit to the Irish Whiskey Academy is guaranteed to be a memorable and informative experience. Includes:
• Half Day Education Session
• Access to the Old Jameson Distillery, Midleton
• Premium Tastings
• Lunch in the Malt House Restaurant
Cork City
Cork is Ireland’s third largest city (after Dublin and Belfast) and has always been an important seaport. It began on an island in the swampy estuary of the River Lee and gradually climbed up the steep banks on either side. Today the river flows through Cork City in two main channels, so that you find yourself constantly crossing bridges.
The English Market. Dating to 1788, this is one of the oldest covered markets of its kind known to exist in the world. Although it might not be the largest, it is a bustling and pretty place. Take your time browsing through traders’ stalls.
Arrive in Killarney for dinner and overnight at the Killarney Park Hotel.
Day 5
Following breakfast at the hotel, depart for a tour of the scenic Ring of Kerry.
After the tour, enjoy some down time before dinner tonight, on your own, in Killarney. Overnight at the Killarney Park Hotel.
Day 6
Breakfast at leisure in the hotel before departing Killarney for the world-famous Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.
Killarney
Killarney has been welcoming visitors for over 250 years – and became an integral part of “The Victorian Grand Tour” circuit after the landmark visit of Queen Victoria in 1861. Since then it has continued to welcome visitors from all over the world. Killarney is unashamedly a mecca for tourists – home of the lakes and the start and finish of the Ring of Kerry tour. Lakeside, mountains and valleys surround the area making it the perfect place for outdoor adventure including hill walking, boating, fishing and golf.
Ring of Kerry Tour
The Ring of Kerry is a coast road along the shores of the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest corner of Ireland. Beginning at the town of Killarney then passing through Cahirciveen along the headlands of the peninsula, the route then returns along the peninsula with views of Kells Bay and the beautiful Dingle Bay. Pass through the towns of Glenbeigh, Killorglin and Kenmare taking in some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe.
Enjoy lunch in County Clare then continue to the magnificent Dromoland Castle for an afternoon at leisure, and elegant gluten-free dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7
Check out is before or by 12:00 noon. Transfers to Shannon Airport and departure to USA.
The Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. They stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic coast of County Clare in the west of Ireland and reach 702 feet at their highest point just north of O’Brien’s Tower. In the ancient Gaelic language, the Cliffs of Moher means the cliffs of the ruined fort and although there is no longer a trace remaining of this two thousand year old fort, it has given name to the cliffs which are visited annually by almost one million visitors.
The Burren
The word “Burren” comes from an Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place. This is an extremely appropriate name when you consider the lack of soil cover and the extent of exposed Limestone Pavement. However it has been referred to in the past as “Fertile Rock” due to the mixture of nutrient-rich herb and floral species. The grass grows in tufts of earth of two- or threefoot square which lies between the limestone rocks and is very sweet and nourishing.”
Prices on request.
Included in the tour cost:
· Private Guide
· Transportation in an executive luxury touring coach with qualified guide
· Airport transfers: Your tour includes transfers from Dublin Airport to your city centre hotel from 7:00 am until 11:00 am on the morning of October 11th and from Dromoland Castle to Shannon Airport on October 17th from 7:00am until noon.
· All driver and guide expenses for group outings (except gratuities)
· Activities & Entrance Fees
o Ballymaloe Cookery School cooking class and dinner
o Jameson Irish Whiskey Masterclass
o Trinity College & the Book of Kells
o St. Patrick’s Cathedral
o Powerscourt House & Gardens
o Glendalough Monastic Centre
o Cliffs of Moher
· Accommodation in 5 star hotels
o 2 nights in the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Dublin
o 1 night in the Castlemartyr Resort, County Cork
o 2 nights in the Killarney Park Hotel, Killarney
o 1 night in Dromoland Castle
· Meals
o Traditional Irish breakfast each morning except morning of arrival
o Welcome evening meal in Dublin
o Dinner at Ballymaloe Cookery School
o Dinner at the Killarney Park Hotel
o Farewell dinner at Dromoland Castle
o Lunch on six days
Not Included:
· Any expenses incurred prior to arrival
· Airline tickets and baggage fees
· Passport fees
· Personal Travel and Health Insurance
· Expenses resulting from illness or accident
· Loss or damage to luggage
· Items of a personal nature
· Two evening meals (one in Dublin; one in Killarney)
· Gratuities to guide and/or driver
· Gratuities in restaurants
· Laundry
· Telephone calls
· Medical expenses
· Any expenses incurred following departure