Countryside of the Emerald Isle

Fáilte and welcome to Dublin, Ireland's cosmopolitan capital. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception in the crypt of Christ Church Cathedral.* Within the medieval walls of the city's oldest structure, surrounded by nearly 1,000 years of Irish myths and legends, toast the start of an incredible adventure. Stay: Hampton Hotel (2 Nights)

A local expert escorts you through Dublin's magnificent sights. Exalt in the culture and color of Ireland's world-famous shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street. Get lost inside the gardens of St. Stephen's Green, and marvel at the electric green expanse of the largest enclosed city park in all of Europe, Phoenix Park. This evening, enjoy some good craic - Gaelic for fun - as we put a modern twist on Irish cuisine during a cooking class at one of Dublin's premier culinary institutions. (B/D)

Take to Ireland's country roads. Tour the Irish National Stud, an area of incredible natural beauty that's home to regal thoroughbreds and opulent gardens. Continue south to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Be amazed by its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. (B/D) Stay: Garryvoe Hotel, East Cork (2 Nights)

After a relaxing morning head to the coastal village of Kinsale. Enjoy time to peruse the charming shops, galleries and cafes before joining a local expert for a leisurely walking tour. Later this afternoon, visit the Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Give it a go with a tasting of the distillery's production. (B)

Travel through forty shades of green before arriving in the charming town of Glengarrif. Board a ferry and sail to a place that must be seen to be believed, Garnish Island. Sheltered in the Glengarrif harbor of Bantry Bay, this hidden island is home to one of Ireland's most beautiful gardens. Continue over the Cork and Kerry mountains to Killarney via the breathtaking Caha Pass. (B/D) Stay: Muckross Park Hotel & Spa (2 Nights)

Not far from the spirited pubs of Killarney await the enchanting hills and weather-worn bluffs of Dingle. Travel through a maze of green to Ireland's most westerly point, Slea Head, where the locals will remind you that, "the next parish over is Boston." Then, it's your choice! Explore Dingle's country lanes on foot -OR- enjoy time at leisure in Dingle Town, a place where pubs double as hardware stores and the Guinness is always freshly tapped. Upon your return to Killarney, stop by a tea house for some scrumptious homemade treats at a café that employs individuals with intellectual disabilities.** (B)

Leave the rugged southern coast behind and embark on an adventure, the likes of which you've never seen. Board a ferry bound for Inisheer, the smallest of the three Aran Islands.*** Take in unrivalled views while sailing beneath the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Upon arriving in Inisheer's ethereal landscape, take a private tour through the labyrinth of stone walls blanketing the island. Learn about the island's 250 inhabitants, their livelihoods and devotion to traditional culture and customs. As the last ferry leaves for mainland Ireland, settle into your island abode*** amid desolate yet striking beauty for an experience that's totally unparalleled. (B/D) Stay: Tigh Ruairí, Inisheer

Enjoy a morning to sleep in, or wake early for a sunrise hike**** to O'Brien Castle. Greet the sun as it rises over the Irish mainland and illuminates Inisheer's picturesque stone walls. Later, dive into local culture during a knitting workshop and learn traditional methods and stitches used to make the famous Aran sweaters. Don't worry if you're not a knitter, you'll be a pro before you know it! Next, experience the traditional craft of making the St. Brigid's Cross. Throughout Ireland you will see these crosses affixed to homes to ward off evil and danger. This evening, after ferrying back to the mainland, toast the end of an incredible adventure! (B/D) Stay: Old Ground Hotel

Your journey comes to a close today, leaving you with the spirit of Ireland in your heart forever. (B)