Called the Emerald Isle, Ireland is known for its lush green landscapes contrasted by its rugged rocky cliffs outlining its coasts. Its beauty is unquestionable! But maybe, just maybe, the most interesting part of visiting Ireland is the stories that it has to tell.
I’m excited about returning to Ireland in 2022! In 2018, I traveled with my son, Sean, and his middle school when students visited Dublin, Killarney, Cork, Galway ; and traveled there again with both my sons, Sean and James, with their high school rugby team for an Irish Rugby tour, in 2019. Both trips were fantastic.
Having the last name McMahon, it is easy to feel connected to Ireland’s countryside. In fact, I purchased the McMahon Clan pattern in an Irish wool scarf during my visit. I felt even more at home in County Clare, located on the west coast of Ireland in the Munster province, where the MacMahons were lords of the Corca Baisgin, where the local folks talked to me as if I were their neighbor.
Ireland is an easy country to visit. The coasts, the cliffs, and the countryside can all be visited in a semi-circle route — and there’s just so much to see (and do)! The natural highlight of the Cliffs of Moher was my favorite stop on my tour: once during a beautiful, sunny day and the next time on a frigid, misty, and foggy day. Both visits were unique in the beauty and magnitude of the craggy Cliffs dropping to the deep depths of the Atlantic Ocean slamming into the shore below. It’s a breathtaking experience no matter what the weather.
But beyond its beauty are so many stories that Ireland has to tell! Authors, poets, medieval times, sheep herding, fishing, rugby, Gaelic football, dairy farming, the list goes on and on. Thankfully, the “luck of the Irish” is with you as you’re invited to immerse yourself in Iconic Ireland this summer on July 3-12, 2022.
Dublin, Killarney, Cork, Galway are all unique destinations and a definite pleasure to experience. Come along and join an intimate group of seasoned travelers as part of the “Iconic Ireland and the Ashford Castle” tour. You’ll first discover Dublin, its lyrics and legends, strolling along cobblestone streets and admiring colorful doorways and stately Georgian Squares. Your city tour will take you to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College where you’ll see the Book of Kells, an ancient biblical manuscript of the Gospels, which has resided there since at least 1661. More fun is to be had as you wander along Grafton Street and take in lively performers or stop for a pint in Temple Bar or relax in St. Stephen’s Green.
Then, it’s off to County Kilkenny to Newtown Jerpoint, taking a step back to the 12th century and wandering the medieval church ruins and tomb which legend says is the final resting place of “Father Christmas” (St. Nicholas). After exploring Jerpoint Park, lunch will be enjoyed with the O’Connells at Belmore House. This peaceful rural setting is the perfect backdrop to connect with the locals. We’ll enjoy both the warmth of our hosts and delicious Irish food before continuing south to the delightful city of Cork. You’ll have the evening to enjoy Cork’s sights, sounds, and favors.
Next, it will be time to “pucker up” as you journey to Blarney Castle, dating back to 1446, in search of the fabled Stone which bestows the “gift of gab” to those who kiss it. Heading further west to the beautiful lakeside setting of Killarney and the peninsula of the Ring of Kerry, you’ll join a local specialist who’ll take you on a scenic, guided tour strolling over wooded paths and lakeshore trails taking in faraway views of Ireland’s highest mountains. You’ll circle the Ring of Kerry known for its famous “forty shades of green” that have inspired writers and poets for centuries.
Then, it’s on to one of my most memorable spots as we travel north to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Like me, you’ll never forget these dramatic cliffs rising some 200 meters above the sea! You may even spot a colony of curious-looking puffins that live in the Cliff’s nooks and crannies. After taking in the endless ocean views our next overnight stop is Galway where you can immerse yourself once again in the culture of the port town. Some say it’s the most “Irish” destination in Ireland where you’ll hear the Irish language being spoken on its streets and in the village’s brightly painted pubs, restaurants, and shops.
While in Galway, you’ll visit Connemara Marble Factory and watch as master craftsmen carves marble. You’ll have plenty of time to explore this vibrant city on your own before joining the local specialist in the center of Galway to learn more about the bustling medieval port and its historical sights. The day will end with a hearty three-course meal, with a choice of classic dishes and an included drink.
There are so many stories to tell of Ireland, its legends, and traditions. I hope you’ll join me in taking in its beauty this summer and immersing yourself in its centuries old culture. When you return home, you’ll be telling your own stories of Iconic Ireland!
Schedule your 15-minute Luxurious Journeys Zoom call with me to learn more.
Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle
Sunday 3rd July 2022 , Dublin, Ireland –
Tuesday 12th July 2022 , Dublin, Ireland
*Twinshare option, Land only price, Flights available
$3550.00 pp land only.
Complete Itinerary: https://s3.amazonaws.com/travefy-storage/itinerary-content/9E1C56853454574A39F68134D9C408F75729E7F6471EAD436BA26DA4A0ACF60C-vFalse.pdf
Blog Contribution by Karen Snyder of Word
