Ireland

Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country

Program No. 21258RSBLOG
From the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher to the vibrant city of Dublin, discover myths, history, traditions and local life on this comprehensive exploration of the Emerald Isle.

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At a Glance

The spirit of Ireland is as stirring as a fiddle reel, as hearty as a pub breakfast and as complex as “Finnegans Wake.” Experience it as you explore Ireland’s cities, villages, farms and natural environments and interact with her people on this journey from the rural West to cosmopolitan Dublin in the East. Along the way, enjoy plenty of free time to make your own discoveries.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven, hilly, rocky terrain.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Absorb the beauty of Ireland’s West at the soaring Cliffs of Moher and the otherworldly Burren.
  • Learn about the life of an Irish farmer as one welcomes you to his land and discusses the meeting of tradition and technology in agriculture.
  • Get a look at the Book of Kells in Dublin, attend a show at a historic theatre and enjoy free time to discover the city.

General Notes

Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials. You may be interested in a more leisurely version of this program, "Ireland at a Slower Pace: Countryside & Culture, Galway to Dublin" (#22586).
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Shane Connolly
A native of the Burren, Shane Connolly has a diploma in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a diploma in local and regional studies from University College Cork. He is also qualified with a certificate in agribusiness , a degree in business studies and currently runs a cattle and sheep farm in Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan. An experienced educational excursion leader in the Burren, Shane enjoys good conversation and a laugh. His interests include place names, stone wall construction and folklore.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Shane Connolly
Shane Connolly View biography
A native of the Burren, Shane Connolly has a diploma in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a diploma in local and regional studies from University College Cork. He is also qualified with a certificate in agribusiness , a degree in business studies and currently runs a cattle and sheep farm in Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan. An experienced educational excursion leader in the Burren, Shane enjoys good conversation and a laugh. His interests include place names, stone wall construction and folklore.
Profile Image of Ned Relihan
Ned Relihan View biography
Just outside of the picturesque village of Adare, Ned Relihan works on the family-run Adare Farm. Since 1963, the Relihan’s farm has produced milk year-round from a pedigree Friesian dairy herd as well as raising welfare friendly beef and pork. Starting with these raw materials, the farm has developed a wide range of100% natural dairy product including ice cream and sorbet. Ned is very proud of his farm's heritage and will explain to visitors the everyday challenges faced by dairy farmers in Ireland.
Profile Image of Liam Silke
Liam Silke View biography
Liam Silke is a native of Galway City and is a member of one of Galway's oldest families. Galway-born and bred, he is one of Galway's best-loved characters in his role as the registered Town Crier of Galway. Together with his degree and numerous qualifications in travel, Liam's effervescent personality and wealth of local knowledge makes each walking exploration he leads a unique experience. He specializes in bringing history to life, and the twinkle in his eyes shows how much he enjoys the revival of his city's past.
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