An Emerald Isle Adventure: Ireland Self-Drive Tour

Discover Dublin's rich 2,000-year-old history on this half-day walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Starting in the heart of the city, participants visit Christ Church Cathedral, founded in 1030, and stroll through the historic Dubh Linn Garden of Dublin Castle. The tour showcases the city's architectural diversity, including the Neoclassical former House of Parliament and Georgian-style City Hall. Highlights include iconic areas like Grafton Street and Temple Bar, famous landmarks such as the Ha’penny Bridge, and Trinity College, home to the renowned Book of Kells. The tour also covers the site of the world’s first performance of Handel’s Messiah and delves into Dublin’s Viking past. Concluding at O’Connell Street, the tour leaves participants with a deep understanding of Dublin’s history and a foundation for further exploration.

The Old Jameson Distillery tour takes travelers on a journey into the romantic past of the art of Irish whiskey making. Although Jameson is sold all over the world today, it has its roots in this small distillery on Bow Street, founded in 1780 by John Jameson. A must-do for whiskey enthusiasts, begin the tour with an introductory video, "The Story of Jameson", and then enjoy a fully guided tour of the recreated facility, learning about the whiskey-making process. View the giant copper pot still and learn about triple-distillation—the reason behind the smoothness of the drink. Afterward, guests are invited to participate in a comparative tasting and sample a complimentary glass of Jameson, which is growing in popularity faster than any other whiskey in the world.

Today is all about magnificent Irish panoramas! The 111-mile Ring of Kerry is one of the country's most spectacular scenic displays, winding past unspoiled beaches, medieval ruins, mountains, lush green pastures, and craggy island overlooks. Highlights of this drive include Derrynane National Historic Park, the colorful town of Kenmare, Skellig Michael, and the sprawling estate of Kells Bay House and Gardens. Just south of Killarney on the Ring of Kerry, lies the pristine landscape of Killarney National Park with miles of meandering trails for every level of hiker. The 15th-century Ross Castle is one of the park's biggest attractions, as is the Victorian Muckross House. Travelers can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings with a stop at the Torc Waterfall, a picnic at the Lakes of Killarney, or a walk through the park's yew woodland. Be sure to carve out some time for a tour of Killarney and the park in a traditional jaunting car. After a whirlwind day of sightseeing, travelers can return to their B&B to rest and rejuvenate. For dinner, try a traditional Irish stew or boxty, a fried potato pancake.

The Bunratty Medieval Banquet has been hosted to entertain guests for over 60 years. The Bunratty Castle was built in the 15th century by the Earl of Thomond, who was famous for his lavish parties and hospitality. Following this tradition, the world-renowned Bunratty Medieval Banquet is held twice nightly throughout the year. The two-and-a-half-hour experience will feature a four-course meal featuring classic local dishes and mead. There will also be a lively reception, and entertainment including music, song and dance throughout the evening.

After breakfast, travelers will check out of their hotel and drive to Shannon Airport where they'll return their rental car. They'll no doubt be planning their next trip to the Emerald Isle before their plane even lifts off the ground.