The journey begins with an overnight flight to Dublin. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel and visit the General Post Office, a landmark of Ireland’s independence, with time to stroll through Temple Bar or along the River Liffey before dinner.
Travel south toward Kinsale with stops at the Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle and Tipperary, ending in a colorful harbor town full of charm. The next day offers golfers a round at Old Head Golf Links, while non-golfers can explore the Lusitania Museum and Cobh’s Titanic Experience before returning to Kinsale.
Continue to Blarney Castle with its gardens and mystical Rock Close, then on to Killarney with a stop at Kissane Sheep Farm for a sheepdog demonstration. A scenic drive along the Dingle Peninsula reveals dramatic coastal views, ancient ruins and the Blasket Centre before returning to Killarney.
From Kerry, the route heads toward Limerick, passing through the storybook village of Adare and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Following this, travel along the Wild Atlantic Way to Galway, with meaningful visits to Saint Cronan’s Church, Temple Cronan ruins and the atmospheric monastic site of Clonmacnoise.
The journey continues east to Malahide, where you’ll explore Malahide Castle, its gardens, Butterfly House and Fairy Trail. The trip concludes with breakfast in Malahide and a return to Dublin Airport for the flight back to the U.S., carrying memories of castles, coastlines and the warm spirit of Ireland.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
info@nordskies.com
Your Irish adventure begins as you board your overnight flight to Dublin. Rest up during your transatlantic journey, as the charm of the Emerald Isle awaits on the other side.
Arriving in Dublin in the morning, you’ll begin your journey with a smooth hotel check-in and some time to refresh after your travels. Ease into the day by visiting the General Post Office (GPO) – one of Dublin’s most powerful historical landmarks. This iconic site played a central role in the 1916 Easter Rising, a pivotal moment in Ireland’s fight for independence. Its moving exhibits offer a compelling and emotional introduction to the nation’s modern history.
If time and energy permit, enjoy a leisurely walk through Temple Bar, Dublin’s vibrant cultural quarter, known for its cobbled streets, colorful pubs, and lively atmosphere. Alternatively, a stroll along the River Liffey provides a peaceful way to take in the city’s rhythm before settling in for the evening.
Dinner: The Celt
Overnight: Dublin
Leaving the bustle of Dublin behind, you’ll journey south through the heart of Ireland, heading toward the colorful harbor town of Kinsale, a coastal gem known for its winding lanes and gourmet food scene.
En route, explore the legendary Rock of Cashel, a spectacular medieval stronghold dramatically set atop a limestone hill. Once the seat of kings and bishops, its towering ruins and sweeping countryside views offer one of Ireland’s most unforgettable historic experiences.
Next, make your way to Cahir Castle, a fortress of commanding presence built on an island in the River Suir. Among the largest and best-preserved castles in Ireland, its thick stone walls and battlements paint a vivid picture of medieval military life.
Before reaching Kinsale, take a meaningful detour to Tipperary, where you may explore ancestral connections and soak in the atmosphere of this quiet, pastoral county – a special personal touch on your Irish journey.
By evening, arrive in Kinsale, where pastel-colored streets, a welcoming harbor, and a vibrant village spirit invite you to relax and unwind.
Dinner: Jim Edwards in Kinsale
Overnight: Kinsale
Golfers: This is your day to experience a round of golf at the breathtaking Old Head Golf Links, dramatically set on a promontory surrounded by the Atlantic.
For the Non-Golfers: Explore the poignant Lusitania Museum and Old Head Signal Tower nearby.
Later, take a short drive to Cobh to explore the Titanic Experience Museum and admire the famously photogenic “Deck of Cards” houses. Return to Kinsale to enjoy the seaside atmosphere by night.
Overnight: Kinsale
Begin your day with a visit to the world-renowned Blarney Castle, where you can wander through lush gardens, hidden pathways, and ancient stone towers. The enchanting grounds also feature the mystical Rock Close, wrapped in druidic legends and timeless charm.
After your castle adventure, journey west into the heart of County Kerry, arriving in the lively town of Killarney, nestled beside a national park and shimmering lakes.
Experience authentic Irish heritage with a stop at Kissane Sheep Farm in Kenmare, where traditional sheepdog demonstrations bring the countryside to life.
Dinner: Cronin’s Restaurant
Overnight: Killarney
Prepare for a full day of natural beauty as you drive the spectacular Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula. This route offers dramatic coastal views, ancient ruins, and windswept beaches.
Stop at the Blasket Centre to learn about life on the now-abandoned Blasket Islands and soak up the rugged spirit of the region.
After a scenic loop, return to Killarney in the evening for dinner and rest.
Overnight: Killarney
Today’s journey takes you northeast from Kerry to Limerick, with delightful cultural stops along the way.
Begin with a stroll through the picturesque village of Adare, renowned for its storybook-like thatched-roof cottages and charming streetscapes.
Continue onward to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, where you’ll step back in time into a living reconstruction of medieval Ireland.
Dinner: Durty Nellie’s
Overnight: Limerick
** Guests ending trip here head to Dublin Airport for their flight home, while the rest of the guests continue the journey. **
Set out along Ireland’s breathtaking countryside, journeying from historic Limerick to Athlone – with unforgettable stops at some of the country’s ancient landscapes.
Your first stop is Saint Cronan’s Church of Ireland in Ballyquin, Tuamgraney – the oldest church in continuous use in Ireland, a place where centuries of history still echo within its walls.
Before reaching Galway, pause at the Temple Cronan, a hidden medieval monastic site tucked into the Burren’s mystical limestone landscape and rich with legend.
Our last stop for the day will be at the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise Monastic site, beautifully perched on the banks of the River Shannon. Founded in the 6th century, this remarkable site was once a thriving center of religion, learning and craftsmanship in early Christian Ireland. As you wander among its atmospheric ruins – stone churches, high crosses and iconic round towers – you’ll feel the timeless spirit of Ireland’s past.
Dinner: Seans’ bar
Overnight: Athlone
Begin your journey toward Malahide, a charming coastal village near Dublin, and visit local shops and Cafes.
Malahide Castle, just north of Dublin, is a 12th-century fortress that housed the Talbot family for nearly 800 years. Surrounded by 260 acres of parkland, it boasts elegant rooms, lush gardens, a Butterfly House, and a whimsical Fairy Trail. Guided tours reveal its storied past—complete with legends, battles, and a ghost named Puck.
Overnight: Malahide
This morning, it’s time to say goodbye to the Emerald Isle. After breakfast in Malahide, you’ll make your way to Dublin Airport for your return flight home.
As you depart, carry with you the memories of rugged coastlines, ancient castles, vibrant towns, and the warm spirit of Ireland. Slán abhaile – safe journey home! Your unforgettable trip ends as you head to the airport in Dublin for your flight back to the United States.
You’ll leave with unforgettable memories, new stories, and a deep appreciation for Ireland’s rich tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture.
