8 Days, 7 nights in Ireland - July 2024

Day 2 – Saturday, July 20th: Dublin's Dance through Time

After a traditional Irish breakfast, your day starts with a walking tour of Dublin's iconic landmarks (9.30am–11.30am). Explore Dublin Castle, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Temple Bar district. Dancers can opt for a morning Stage Presence session at Riverdance's Liffey Studios.

Our coach gathers the groups for a pub lunch (12.00pm–1.00pm). In the afternoon, discover immigration stories at the EPIC Immigration Museum (1.30pm–3.30pm), followed by a journey into the heart of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse (3.45pm–5.45pm). As evening falls upon Dublin, explore its charm and ambiance at your pace.

Day 3 – Sunday, July 21st: County Wicklow, Tipperary and County Kerry

Bid farewell to Dublin at 9.00am as we embark on a day of natural wonders. Our first stop is enchanting Glendalough (10.00am–11.30am) in County Wicklow, a place where time stands still.

Continuing our journey, we enjoy a group lunch near the Rock of Cashel (1.45pm–2.30pm) in County Tipperary, a prelude to exploring its iconic grandeur (2.30pm–3.15pm.

Next, we immerse ourselves in the scenic beauty en route to Killarney, County Kerry. After arriving around 5.30pm, take time to enjoy the gorgeous Brehon Hotel & Spa, Killarnary Town, and unwind for the evening.

Day 4 – Monday, July 22nd: Blarney Castle & Killarney Exploration

Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast, followed by a 9.00am departure for Blarney Castle & Gardens in County Cork (10.30am–12.45pm). Explore its rich history and don't miss the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence.

Afterward, enjoy an independent light lunch or snack at a nearby café. Departing Blarney at 1.00pm, we return to Killarney for a visit to Muckross House & Gardens (2.00pm–3.45pm), a glimpse into Ireland's storied past.

As the afternoon sun sets, visit Killarney's National Park to see the enchanting Torc Waterfall (4.00pm–4.45pm). Your day in Killarney concludes, and you're free to discover the restaurants and pubs of downtown Killarney.

Day 5 – Tuesday, July 23rd: Dingle Peninsula Expedition

Our day starts at Ross Castle in Killarney (9.30am–11.00am), followed by a magical journey to the Dingle Peninsula. Dancers can opt to refine their skills with a famous dance star in Dingle, while others can explore Dingle town (12.15pm–1.15pm).

Gather for a group lunch at the famous Dingle Pub, accompanied by top trad Irish musicians (1.15pm–2.45pm). Then, head to the coastal town of Ballybunion, Co. Kerry (arrival 4.15pm), and spend time enjoying the beach or cliff walk, all while relishing the evening's stunning views. Staying at a coastal hotel overlooking Ballynbunion - The Cliff House.

Day 6 – Wednesday, July 24th: Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle and Doolin

Depart Ballybunion at 9.15am to catch the 10.00am car ferry across the Shannon River from County Kerry to County Clare. Witness the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher (11.00am–12.30pm) as they plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean.

Next, indulge in a group meal in the charming town of Doolin, known for its immense beauty and trad Irish music (12.45pm–2.00pm). After lunch, explore the famous Bunratty Castle (3.15pm–5.15pm), a 15th-century medieval marvel. Experience Ireland's past at Bunratty Folk Park, a 'living' village and rural setting.

Conclude your day in the Irish countryside in Adare, County Limerick (approximately 6.00pm), where you can unwind at the Woodlands Hotel, Adare.

Day 7 – Thursday, July 25th: Nenagh Castle's History and Kildare's Delights

After a hearty Irish breakfast, we depart the hotel at 9.00am and make a quick stop in Adare's village for photos of the beautiful thatched roofed cottages. Next, we head to County Tipperary, where we visit Nenagh Castle, a medieval building from the 13th century, with a stone spiral staircase all the way to the top (10.00am-10.35am).

We journey to County Kildare for a mid-afternoon meal at the award-winning Green Barn Restaurant. Set in the mature parkland and overlooking the walled kitchen garden, The Green Barn Restaurant delights foodies (12.00pm-1.30pm).

Leaving the Green Barn, we head to the Irish National Stud & Gardens in County Kildare (2.00pm–4.00pm), a working stud farm responsible for breeding champion racehorses. Enjoy guided tours of the stud farm to learn about Ireland's horse breeding history and get close to the magnificent horses.

We end the day back at the Radisson Blu St. Helens (5.15pm), bidding farewell to our expert tour guide and fellow travellers. Enjoy a free evening at the hotel or explore Dublin’s city centre for a final night of fun.

Day 8 – Friday, July 26th: Farewell to Ireland

Savour a final breakfast before independently heading to the airport or continuing your stay in Ireland. At Dublin Airport, indulge in duty-free shopping for last-minute souvenirs.

Tour Highlights:

• Expert Guides: Led by accredited tour guides with decades of experience.
• Luxury Unveiled: Enjoy comfort aboard a state-of-the-art motor coach with onboard wifi.
• Elegance Redefined: Unwind in premium accommodations.
• Gourmet Jubilee: Savour Ireland's rich gastronomic heritage with 13 meals included in tour price.
• Exclusive Insights: Join Irish Dancing Magazine's publisher and director of marketing, sharing expertise on Irish Dancing and their travels to Ireland.
• For Irish Dancers – Dancers may opt in for two unique stage presence and show-style sessions – one in Dingle, County Kerry and one in Dublin.

A Priceless Experience 

This exclusive tour of Ireland isn't just a vacation; it's an experience tailored for for anyone who appreciates Irish culture. Whether you're a young dancer on a memorable graduation trip or someone longing to dance on Ireland's hallowed ground and experience Irish Dance and Trad Irish music, this tour fulfils your dream. But, you don't need to be an Irish Dancer to join this tour....in fact, most of our guests are those who want to experience Ireland's culture with those who know it best at Irish Dancing Magazine.   

Total Price: $2,895.00 per person (based on double occupancy). Single supplement: +$600 for solo travellers. Discounts available for families of three or four in a family room.

Don't miss this opportunity to make your Irish Dance dreams a reality. Secure your spot for summer '24 with a $500 deposit per person by calling Irish Dancing Magazine’s office at 1-630-279-7521. Join us on this extraordinary trip, where every beat of wonder, every note of history and every moment of shared laughter creates memories resonating through generations. Embark on this remarkable journey and let the heart of Ireland dance its way into your soul.