Ireland Forever

Tour begins: 1:00 PM, The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection. A transfer is included from Dublin Airport to one of Ireland's premier hotels, the The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection, centrally located in the heart of the Irish capital on St. Stephen's Green. Your family will have the perfect introduction to the city – and a lot of fun – on a treasure hunt within the fascinating Little Museum. The Little Museum of Dublin is a charming and unique cultural gem nestled in the heart of the Irish capital, also located on St. Stephen's Green just a few doors down from your hotel.

Enjoy a captivating journey through the history and culture of Dublin in the 20th century. Despite its modest size, the museum's collection is expansive and eclectic, featuring a diverse array of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that vividly illustrate the city's rich and colorful past. Join us tonight for a welcome dinner at your elegant hotel. Stay: The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection (D)

Horses, racing and Ireland, are a rich part of history and legends. Depart Dublin today for a visit to the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Kildare for the immersive Irish Racehorse Experience.

Continue on to Cobh, where the Titanic picked up 123 passengers on April 11, 1912 on its ill-fated maiden voyage across the sea. Learn more at Titanic Experience Cobh, located in the historic White Star Line ticket office, telling the story of the ship and Irish emigration. End the day at a five-star resort hotel set on an island in Cork. Stay Three Nights: Fota Island Resort (B/L/D)

Visit Kinsale, whose Irish name means "head of the brine"; where freshwater River Bandon meets the saltwater of the sea. A charming fishing village, the town enjoys a reputation for fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, the arts, and as a summer retreat for Irish families. Return to the resort late afternoon, and join us tonight for a barbecue dinner. (B/D)

This morning, your family enjoys a variety of outdoor activities at the resort. After lunch, head out to Fota Wildlife Park; the breathtaking conservation park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a natural and spacious environment. Spanning over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Fota is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world, including endangered species such as cheetahs, giraffes, and Sumatran tigers.

Unlike traditional zoos, Fota operates on a free-roaming concept, allowing many of its inhabitants to roam freely within large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. This approach not only provides a more enriching experience for visitors but also promotes the well-being and conservation of the animals – it's a memorable and inspiring experience for nature lovers of all ages.

Next, a visit to Fota House and Gardens – a stunning example of Georgian architecture and horticultural ingenuity. The grand mansion, dating back to the 18th century, exudes elegance and charm, with its graceful facade, intricate detailing, and beautifully manicured gardens. You'll be transported back in time exploring the opulent interiors; beyond the grandeur of the house, the surrounding gardens offer a tranquil oasis of natural beauty, featuring winding pathways, serene water features, and an impressive collection of rare and exotic plants.

Dinner this evening is at your hotel. (B/L/D)

En route to picturesque Killarney, your family will learn all about sheep dogs at a demonstration at a sheep farm. Continue to Killarney, where the magical landscapes and rich stories intertwine on a tour by "jaunting car" (horse & carriage). The day ends with a falconry experience – the "sport of kings" is an ancient art, thought to be 4,000 years old – and is both educational and entertaining. You'll see several varieties of birds of prey including hawks, falcons and owls, with many species of each. Return to your hotel late afternoon and spend the remainder of the day as you please. Stay Two Nights: Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (B/L/D)

A morning cruise along Lough Leane, the picturesque lower lake of the Lakes of Killarney, reveals panoramic landscapes that are the inspiration behind many Irish arts. The remainder of the day is free to explore Killarney as your family pleases. (B)

Keep your camera at the ready today as you travel to the County Clare coast to visit one of the world's most photographed natural wonders. Some five miles long, the Cliffs of Moher soar 659 feet over the crashing Atlantic Ocean waves below, providing you with amazing bird's-eye views of the craggy Irish coast... can't wait to see the pictures! Visit the town of Ennis for lunch, then head back east to County Kildare and the fabulous Carton House; join us for a farewell reception and dinner. Stay: Carton House (B/L/D)

Tour ends: Maynooth / Dublin. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included to Dublin Airport from Carton House; allow 3 1/2 hours for flight check-in at the airport. Please note: Airline schedules and arrival departure details may fluctuate; ask at time of booking. (B)