Irish Joy Tour

On the way, we will stop at Sean’s Bar in Athlone, the oldest pub in Ireland and possibly the world, dating back to 900AD,. Learn about it’s history and how Irish Whiskey-making began a thousand years ago!. Afterward, we will have time for some lunch in downtown Athlone before making our way to Galway City and the 5-star G Hotel Resort, with time to freshen up before our first group dinner together in the hotel restaurant.  Slainte.  Welcome to Ireland!

The Castle, which has both a romantic and tragic history, is now home to the Benedictine nuns who run the estate and make the homemade soups, stews, salads, and famed scones served in the cafés.  After lunch and a photo stop on our scenic drive, we will have time for a walking tour of Galway to see the city walls, Spanish Arch, and The Claddagh Jewelers.  Tonight, we will enjoy dinner at Ard Bia in Galway city and then stroll downtown to listen to the traditional Irish music that Galway is so famous for.

Another special treat awaits us with a private luncheon and live Irish music session in Bofey’s pub in the village of Corofin with Lillie ‘s friend Beanie O’Dell and a group of Clare musicians. Afterward, we will then drive through picturesque Adare for a photo stop and make our way to the Gap of Dunloe.  When we arrive at our hotel, we will have some time to enjoy some of the facilities including the spa, complimentary horseback riding, or hiking on the fairy trail.  The hotel is on the outskirts of Killarney, making it accessible for those who want to enjoy free time to explore.

The circular route forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way, which begins and ends in Dingle. Grab your camera for hop-on and off stops with our destination O’Sullivan’s Irish pub.   We will be welcomed at the Courthouse Pub for some traditional Irish music session, and foot-stomping fun.  Afterward, you can enjoy strolling around the town of Dingle, and maybe enjoy a famous Murphy’s ice cream or get a photo with the statue of Fungie, the once famous Dingle dolphin. After which, we will drive back to The Dunloe to enjoy a group dinner in the wonderful fine dining restaurant.

Built in the twelfth century, Kilkenny Castle was the principal seat of the Butlers, earls, marquesses, and dukes of Ormond for almost 600 years.  After the luncheon in downtown Kilkenny, we will make our way to Dublin City Center where we will have some time for shopping and exploring before our final group dinner at the wonderful Fallon and Bryne restaurant.  The end of a week of Irish food, culture, and craic.