Ireland: Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life NEW

Ireland: Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life

8 days from $6,860 Stay in historic country manors across southern Ireland and experience Irish traditions from falconry to whiskey distilling on a journey that begins in the lively streets of Dublin and ends among the geological wonders of County Clare.

HIGHLIGHTS � Step behind the scenes on a private tour

of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin.

• Enjoy a tasting tour at Ballykeefe Distillery— an intimate distillery set on a working farm. • Stay in renowned country manors and castles rich in history and tradition. • Glide beneath the iconic Cliffs of Moher on a private boat tour, on the lookout for seabirds.

The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Dublin, Ireland

Fly to Dublin and meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel. After time to settle in, head out to discover the city on an electric bicycle tour, cycling through historic neighborhoods and past Dublin Castle and the Christchurch Cathedral.

Day 2 – Dublin

Delve into Ireland’s tumultuous history on a guided visit to Kilmainham Gaol. Continue to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral for a “secrets” tour that includes areas not usually accessible to the public.

Days 3 & 4 – Kilkenny

Travel south to Kilkenny and take a walking tour along the city’s Medieval Mile. Then sample local spirits at Ballykeefe Distillery, set on a working farm. Your home in County Kilkenny is a stunning 18th-century manor house. The next day, watch a sheepdog demonstration, and explore the intriguing 12th-century ruins of Newtown Jerpoint. The rest of the afternoon is yours to take advantage of the many amenities at your hotel. Go fishing on the River Nore, play a round of golf, visit the state-of-the-art Equestrian Centre, or go on a private walk with falconers.

Day 5 – County Wexford

Spend today discovering the historic sites of County Wexford. Tour the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a fullscale reproduction of a tall ship that transported Irish families fleeing the potato famine. Visit the humble ancestral home of John F. Kennedy, and see the evocative ruins of two Cistercian abbeys. Stroll through the lovely Colclough Walled Garden before continuing to your country manor.

Day 6 – Adare

Follow the beaches and cliffs of the Copper Coast on the way to Lismore Castle. Visit its stunning gardens, set within the castle walls. Then travel inland to Adare Manor, a neo-Gothic castle that is one of Ireland’s most prestigious hotels.

Days 7 & 8 – Cliffs of Moher and Shannon

Head for the coast of County Clare with a knowledgeable guide. Explore the otherworldly landscape of the Burren, where glaciers have left the countryside covered in an unusual limestone karst pavement. Then get an astonishing view of the Cliffs of Moher—and the seabirds they harbor—on a private boat tour. Return to Adare Manor for your final evening. Transfer to the airport in Shannon the following morning.

WHERE TO STAY The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin

A boutique luxury hotel overlooking Dublin’s St. Stephen’s Green, featuring stylish rooms.

Mount Juliet

A time capsule of Georgian decor, with elegant rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and extensive walking trails.

Dunbrody Country

House – A Georgian manor house owned by a famous chef and known for its restaurant and cooking school.

Adare Manor

A castle with exuberant style and architectural detail, lovely grounds, and plenty of activities.