Ireland

7 Days / 6 Nights — Waterford, "Ring of Kerry," Connemara

Visit an emerald isle as sparkling as Waterford crystal. Ancient castles, linens, Belleek, and more captivating extras all packaged into this four-leaf clover itinerary.

DAY 1 — Dublin, Waterford

Leave Dublin in the morning for the beautiful Glendalough, Ireland's most important early monastery community. Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, there is a haunting sense of timelessness in this valley. Continue through the peaceful Irish countryside to your destination, the splendid Waterford Castle, located on a small island fashioned by nature and set on 300 enchanting acres. Lodging: Waterford Castle

DAY 2 — Kenmare

The next morning's drive takes you to Tipperary, over scenic country roads, before reaching Fermoy and Cork. Then it's on to Blarney Castle and its famous "Stone." Continue via Glengarriff to Kenmare. Here you will be welcomed to Sheen Falls Lodge, a magical, timeless haven of peace, located at the foot of heather- covered hills overlooking the cascading Sheen River. Lodging: Sheen Falls Lodge

DAY 3 — Kenmare

Pack up a picnic lunch and head off for a full day around the fabled Ring of Kerry. Here the warm air of the Gulf Stream gives this unique area a different feel as you meander along the coast past ancient, moss-covered abbeys and church ruins. Return to the Lodge via Killarney, where you can relax after a long day in a cozy lounge in front of a blazing log fire. Lodging: Sheen Falls Lodge

It was like our chauffeur knew everyone in the country. At every town, at every pub, someone recognized him and treated us like we were his friends.

DAY 4 — County Clare

Continue along the back roads via Tralee to Limerick. Similar to other Irish seaports, Limerick was settled in the ninth century by Vikings who came to plunder, but liked the neighborhood and settled down to trade. Limerick has a rich and important history with plenty to see. You remain that evening horse-breeding country and the majestic Dromoland Castle for a royal experience you'll never forget. Lodging: Dromoland Castle

DAY 5 — Connemara

Breathe in the brisk morning air as you set out for the dramatic Cliffs of Moher: a five-mile, unbroken, giant wall, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic surf. Continue deep into rural Connemara, soon you come to a mid-19th century house set in a 50-acre, award-winning garden of flowering shrubs and woodland walks. Here luxury and tranquility are offered in a cozy atmosphere as you relax before a homey peat fire. Lodging: Ballynahinch Castle Hotel

DAY 6 — Connemara

It's a lazy day for exploring a spectacular marine setting between Lough Corrib and the Atlantic Ocean. Hidden coves and little islands dot the coastline, perfect for wandering and discovering. Neat, whitewashed cottages, amid tiny rock-strewn fields with blue turf smoke rise skyward. It's a way of life to be seen and treasured in your memory for years to come. Drift back to your Irish hideaway for a beautiful last evening. Lodging: Ballynahinch Castle Hotel

DAY 7 — Dublin or Shannon

Your final day's route offers you a choice of traveling back to Dublin or ending the Shamrock Road in Shannon. Either way, you've completed your adventure through a unique land combining antiquity, charming villages, beautiful rugged landscapes and a people full of wit and kindness.

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