Travel Program: Shades of Ireland

Embarking on a journey to Ireland is like stepping into a world where ancient legends and vibrant culture come alive amid stunning landscapes. From the rugged Cliffs of Moher-Galway to the serene beauty of the lush, green countryside, Ireland offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Explore the rich history filled Dublin to the rolling green hills and dramatic coast, experience Ireland’s charms on a journey through the Emerald Isle. Kiss the Blarney Stone at historic Blarney Castle. See Killarney from an Irish jaunting car and pick from a selection of the best restaurants in town with our Diner’s Choice program. Experience the world-famous beauty of the Ring of Kerry. See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration. Stand in awe at the top of the stunning 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Feel like royalty during an overnight stay on the grounds of a castle. A vibrant blend of captivating culture and stunning scenery, these are the shades of Ireland you’ve always imagined. Click here for a travel brochure.

Envision Greater Fond du Lac has partnered again with Collette for a trip of a lifetime. Guests will depart November 2, 2025 for a 10 day trip to see the extraordinary places in Ireland. Deposit deadline  is June 20, 2025.

Click here for an informational video.

The itinerary is below.

Day 1: Sunday, November 2, 2025 Overnight Flight
Anticipation mounts as you make your way toward the Emerald Isle and its many wonders. Rich history, rolling hills and warm smiles lie ahead in Dublin, Waterford,  Killarney and Limerick. With tomorrow comes quintessential Ireland.

Day 2: Monday, November 3, 2025 Dublin, Ireland
Get a taste of old Dublin. Tonight, you and your fellow travelers revel in a traditional Irish evening, including regional cuisine. (D)

Day 3: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 Dublin
Today, ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, the National Gallery, and the historic Phoenix Park. What follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin’s charms on your own. Later, you may join an optional tour to the Guinness Storehouse, followed by dinner at a contemporary restaurant showcasing Irish cuisine. (B)

Day 4: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 Dublin – Kilkenny – Waterford
Step back in time and begin the day in the medieval splendor of 12th-century Kilkenny on the River Nore. Then, in Waterford, embark on a leisurely paced walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city. It’s your choice! Tour the Waterford Crystal factory and learn how exquisite crystal has been made for centuries -ORvisit the Medieval Museum for a guided tour and a glass of wine in
the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault. (B, D)

Day 5: Thursday, November 6, 2025 Waterford – Blarney Stone – Killarney
The legend goes that those who kiss the Blarney Stone gain the gift of eloquence – give it a try if you wish at historic Blarney Castle, by navigating the 128 narrow steps to the top. Cross into County Kerry and continue on to charming Killarney. Enjoy a traditional jaunting car ride* through Killarney National Park. Tonight, it’s Diner’s Choice… choose your included dinner
from a “menu” of Killarney’s great restaurants. (B, D)

Day 6: Friday, November 7, 2025 Killarney – Ring of Kerry – Killarney
Take in the rugged coastline as you loop your way around the picturesque Ring of Kerry, past pristine beaches, quaint villages and majestic landscapes. At the Gap of Dunloe, shop for local artisan-made crafts. The night is free for reminiscing about the day as you find your own authentic taste of Irish culture. (B)

Day 7: Saturday, November 8, 2025 Killarney – Cliffs of Moher – Limerick
Today brings you to the dramatic, 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher for cinematic views of the mighty Atlantic. Continue to Limerick, where a panoramic city tour showcases King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone. Delve into the fascinating history of the “city of the violated treaty.” This evening you may join an optional medieval banquet dinner, hosted in a castle. (B)

Day 8: Sunday, November 9, 2025 Limerick – Galway – Limerick
Pass through the windswept, limestone landscape of the Burren, known for its stark beauty and Neolithic tombs. See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration. Continue on to Galway for a brief tour that showcases “The City of Tribes.” Return to Limerick to relax over dinner. (B, D)

Day 9: Monday, November 10, 2025 Limerick – Kilbeggan – Kingscourt
You don’t have to be a connoisseur to appreciate the old-world heritage of Ireland’s whiskey territory. Your journey brings you to Kilbeggan in the heart of Ireland, where a superb distillery brings whiskey craftsmanship to life and gives you a taste of the final product. Top your day off with an overnight stay on the stately grounds of Cabra Castle, where you toast the end of
a memorable trip during an elegant dinner. (B, D)

Day 10: Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Kingscourt – Tour Ends
Your journey ends in Kingscourt. (B)

HIGHLIGHTS… Dublin, Irish Evening, Kilkenny, Waterford, Choice on Tour: Waterford Crystal Factory or Waterford Medieval Museum and Wine Vault, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Jaunting Car Ride, Ring of Kerry, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Sheepdog Demonstration, Galway, Castle Stay

INCLUSIONS

• Roundtrip Airfare – Chicago
• Roundtrip Transfers
• Int’l Air Departure Taxes/Fuel
• 8 Nights First Class Hotel Accommodations
• 13 Meals: 8-Breakfasts & 5-Dinners
• Professional Tour Director
• Hotel Transfers
• Motorcoach Transportation
• Sightseeing per Itinerary
• Baggage Handling at Hotels

ACCOMMODATIONS

2 Nights – Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, Dublin
1 Night – Granville Hotel, Waterford
2 Nights – The Heights Hotel Killarney, Killarney
2 Nights – Absolute Hotel, Limerick
1 Night – Cabra Castle, Kingscourt
On some dates alternative hotels may be used

Questions regarding this trip can be directed to Tracy Qualmann at [email protected]