Itinerary for 2019 Ireland Trip Announced

Blarney Castle Landscape

Ten days away in Ireland with expert guides and friends–what could be better? We hope you’ve heard about the new Saint Joseph’s College of Maine Travel program for alumni, parents, staff, faculty, and friends of the College. Come fly away with us in 2019 for several days of exploration.

Have you seen the itinerary for the 2019 Ireland trip in June? Deadline for the trip deposit is February 1st so don’t delay!  

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Ireland – June 21-30, 2019

City scape in Ireland
View of St. Finn Barre Cathedral from Elizabeth Fort, Cork.

Includes a custom-made itinerary with all activities, on-ground transportation, meals, lodging in four-star accommodations, and entrance fees to all tours and activities.

Trip Deposit Deadline :  February 1, 2019.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Friday 21st June. Fly from USA to Ireland.

Day 2 –Saturday 22nd June
Touchdown in Ireland is at Dublin airport where your experienced tour leader is waiting to meet you. It’s straight into the action as the transfer into town passes by Phoenix Park and the capital’s elegant Georgian Squares. After checking in to your centrally located hotel there is a gentle orientation stroll with the tour leader before a welcome meal of hearty Irish fare. Hotel in Dublin

Day 3Sunday 23rd June

church interior
Christ Church

This morning there is time for those who wish to attend mass. Afterwards a local specialist leads a walking tour that passes by some of Dublin’s best-known sights as well as those off the beaten path, following in the footsteps of Catherine McAuley. Later on there is an opportunity to visit the National Museum, which holds the greatest treasures from around the island. An expert historian will enlighten you and whet the appetite for some of the sights coming up later in your tour. Hotel in Dublin

Day 4– Monday 24th June
A visit to Catherine McAuley’s House and Chapel kicks off your day and a chance to focus on Saint Joseph’s connection to the Sisters of Mercy in Ireland. Your time here is rounded off with a good chat over a nice cup of tea and a scone. This afternoon is free for some personal exploration of Dublin. Culture vultures will perhaps head to the National Gallery or take a peek at the famous Book of Kells, while those of a more epicurean disposition might choose to call in at the home of the ‘black stuff’, the Guinness brewery.Hotel in Dublin

Day 5 –Tuesday 25th June
This morning you leave Dublin. Getting to grips with the many contrasting aspects of Ireland’s history and culture, today’s journey first calls in to the Powerscourt estate. This opulent aristocratic residence is blessed with an extraordinary garden to which even the botanically disinclined will thrill. Then it’s off for something a bit different as the beautiful Wicklow hills lead on to Glendalough, a mystical early Christian site to ‘inspire your heart and fill your soul.’ Dinner is included tonight. Hotel in Kilkenny

Day 6 – Wednesday 26th June

Blarney Castle
This is where you kiss the Blarney Stone

There is time this morning to enjoy the medieval city of Kilkenny before moving on to the mysterious ruins of Kells Priory. The journey moves from the sublime to the garrulous as you visit Blarney Castle where you may choose to kiss the Stone and acquire the ‘gift of the gab’! Tonight’s hotel destination is in the culinary capital of Ireland, Kinsale. Dinner is included.Hotel in Cork

Day 7 – Thursday 27th June
Your odyssey around the Emerald Isle travels away from the course of most touristic trails to the wilds of West Cork, as well enjoying the dramatic views from lesser known villages along the Wild Atlantic Way. In recent times Ireland has become a leader in all things comestible and this afternoon’s highlight is a foodie farm experience. This is an area at the forefront of growing and rearing high quality ingredients in order to produce gastronomic delights. You will get the chance to learn, participate and take home a few great ideas. Dinner included. Hotel in Cork

Day 8 – Friday 28th June
A stunning drive this morning offers delightful views of Moll’s Gap then skirts the lower parts of the Ring of Kerry before heading off in the direction of Dingle. This peninsula is a curious place where the locals still speak Gaelic. You may sense a shift in time and culture as the beauty of the landscape dotted with standing stones connects you to an ancient past. Board small boats and travel to one of the furthest flung spots in Europe, the Blasket Islands, where together with a local guide you will learn about its compelling history. A startlingly different aspect to this mythical region is its use as a location in the latest Star Wars movies. After a satisfying day, dinner and a pint in the pub with musicians awaits. Hotel Tralee

Day 9 Saturday 29th June
A touch of glamour is painted on to this morning’s activities at Foynes Museum where the transatlantic flying boat arrived from the USA bringing over Hollywood stars of the 30’s and 40’s. This is also the particular place where Irish coffee was invented! A warming nip is offered before continuing to Limerick, a stunning city full of compelling history. You will have a chance to follow in the footsteps of Frank McCourt, author of Angela’s Ashes with a local guide. A traditional Irish farewell dinner is included tonight.Hotel Limerick

Day 10 –Sunday 30th June
Your tour leader who has been with you throughout the trip escorts you to the airport and waves goodbye after you have safely checked in.

Learn More About The Trip to Ireland