First-Class
It may come as a surprise that the beloved Irish tune "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" was written by a trio of American songwriters. That's the moving influence of this enchanting and captivating land.
Irish eyes are smiling at every moment on this undiscovered tour, as you stroll down the lively streets of Dublin, sip Guinness in a boisterous pub on the Dingle Peninsula, take a horse-drawn jaunting-car ride through the Killarney countryside, and even bake scones on a quaint Irish sheep farm near Galway.
"By way of the most dramatic coastal and pastoral scenery, this tour leads you to the lesser-known gems of the Emerald Isle as well as the cliffs, castles, and famous crystal you've long heard of."
This isn't a trip I'm selling from behind a desk. I'm Karla, your Whispering Willow Travel host, and I'll be right there with you every step of the way, from the moment we land in Dublin to our last evening together. I'm personally joining this journey so you always have a familiar face, a trusted guide, and someone who genuinely cares that your experience is extraordinary.
Stand at the edge of 668-foot sea cliffs rising majestically above the Atlantic Ocean, one of Ireland's most iconic natural wonders.
A horse-drawn jaunting-car ride through Killarney National Park, followed by a 100-mile panoramic drive along Ireland's most celebrated coastal route.
Ferry to Inishmore for a full-day excursion, including a visit to the prehistoric clifftop fort of Dún Aonghasa and a pub lunch with locals.
Visit this breathtaking Gothic abbey nestled between woodlands and a mirror-still lake, home to Benedictine nuns since 1920.
Explore the vibrant streets of this colorful seaside city, with its buzzing café culture, traditional music, and warm Irish hospitality.
Begin and end your journey in this storied city: Georgian squares, Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the warmest of welcomes.
Irish eyes will be smiling as you meet your Tour Director and travel companions for an afternoon orientation drive through statue-lined O'Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and past St. Patrick's Cathedral and Oscar Wilde's Trinity College. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Drive across the Curragh to visit the Irish National Stud at Kildare, Ireland's horse-racing heartland. Continue to Longford for a guided tour of Strokestown House, the 1740s Georgian mansion, and the moving National Famine Museum.
Begin the day with a visit to Kylemore Abbey, home to the order of Benedictine nuns since 1920, nestled between woodlands and a still mountain lake. Arrive in Galway, a vibrant seaside city of colorful shops, traditional music, and cafe culture, with free time to explore.
Your full-day excursion begins with a ferry crossing to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Stop for a pub lunch at Joe Watty's Bar and hear local stories. A minibus tour includes a visit to the prehistoric clifftop fort of Dun Aonghasa.
Visit Rathbaun Farm for a true Irish farm experience. Try your hand at scone baking and watch sheep herding demonstrations. Drive across the limestone Burren plateau with a photo stop at Poulnabrone Dolmen, then on to the magnificent 668-foot Cliffs of Moher.
Visit the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, home to the world's only full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, and enjoy an Irish coffee demonstration and tasting. Then experience the spectacular Slea Head drive on the Dingle Peninsula before arriving in Killarney.
Join the famous Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile panoramic drive around Ireland's southwestern tip. Sparkling seascapes, mountains, and brightly colored farmhouses line the way. Return to Killarney for a horse-drawn jaunting-car ride through the National Park with views of the Lakes of Killarney and ancient Ross Castle.
Drive through County Cork to Blarney, renowned for its legendary Kissing Stone. Continue to Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, where you choose your included excursion: a guided Viking Triangle walking tour, or a behind-the-scenes tour of the House of Waterford Crystal.
Head to the "Marble City" of Kilkenny, one of Ireland's most quaint medieval towns, with the opportunity to visit its 800-year-old castle and explore the Medieval Mile. Return to Dublin for a final evening in the capital.
Your journey ends with breakfast this morning. Depart with a heart full of memories, new friendships, and the unmistakable feeling that Ireland has left its mark on your soul.
× International airfare
× Airport transfers
× Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
× Optional activities not listed
× Personal expenses & gratuities
Every hotel on this journey is hand-selected for its central location, quality of service, and authentic Irish character, so you arrive rested and ready for each new day.
City
Nights
hotel
rating
about
Dublin
Night 1
Superior First-Class
The Gibson Hotel
Located in the heart of Castlebar, County Mayo, with Siar Restaurant & Bar featuring local produce.
Chic city hotel with pan-Asian restaurant, outdoor terrace, gym, and relaxation area with outdoor baths.
Castlebar
Night 2
Superior First-Class
The Elliston Hotel
Luxury 4-star hotel with scenic Galway Bay views, world-class spa, and excellent dining.
Galway
Nights 3-4
Galmont Hotel & Spa
Superior First-Class
Limerick
Night 5
Limerick Strand Hotel
Superior First-Class
Exceptional location on the River Shannon with award-winning restaurant, 20-meter pool, and hydrotherapy facilities.
Killarney
Night 6-7
The Brehon Hotel & Spa
Superior First-Class
Luxury 4-star hotel adjacent to Killarney National Park, with award-winning Danú restaurant and Anú Spa
Waterford
Night 8
Granville Hotel
Superior First-Class
Boutique hotel dating to the early 1700s in Waterford's historic district, with AA Rosette-awarded Bianconi Restaurant.
Dublin
Night 9
Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
Walking distance from Temple Bar, Trinity College, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.
First-Class
Land pricing is based on double occupancy. A single supplement is available for travelers who prefer their own room. Contact Karla for the current rate.
Ready to hold your spot? A $250 deposit is all it takes.
Reserve My SpotHave a question not answered here? Karla is always happy to help. Schedule a complimentary consultation anytime.
You will fly into and depart from Dublin Airport (DUB), Ireland's main international hub. Dublin is well-served by direct flights from major U.S. cities including New York (JFK, EWR), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), and Philadelphia (PHL), as well as connecting flights through London, Amsterdam, and other European hubs. Plan to arrive on September 24, 2027 and depart on October 3, 2027.
Airport transfers are not included in the tour package. However, Dublin Airport is very accessible. Taxis, rideshares, and the Airlink Express bus all connect the airport to the city center in 30 to 45 minutes. Your Whispering Willow Travel advisor can recommend the best option based on your hotel and arrival time.
We recommend arriving in Dublin by early afternoon on September 24 so you have time to check in, freshen up, and join the group for the orientation drive and welcome dinner that evening. If you're flying from the U.S., an overnight transatlantic flight arriving that morning works perfectly.
Absolutely, and we highly encourage it! Ireland and the surrounding region have so much to offer beyond the 10-day itinerary. Popular extension options include extra nights in Dublin before or after the tour (a wonderful city to explore at your own pace), a trip up to Belfast and the Causeway Coast, a ferry crossing to Scotland or Wales, or even a few days in London. All pre- and post-tour extensions can be fully arranged through Whispering Willow Travel, including flights, hotels, transfers, and any activities you'd like. Just let your advisor know your interests and we'll build a custom extension that fits seamlessly around your tour dates.
Travel insurance is not required, but it is very strongly recommended. A comprehensive travel insurance policy protects your investment in case of trip cancellation, interruption, medical emergencies abroad, lost luggage, or travel delays. Ireland is a safe destination, but unexpected events can happen to anyone, and international medical care without insurance can be costly.
We recommend a comprehensive policy that includes: trip cancellation and interruption coverage, emergency medical and evacuation coverage (at least $100,000), baggage loss and delay, and 24/7 travel assistance. "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) upgrades are also available for maximum flexibility. Your Whispering Willow Travel advisor can recommend trusted providers.
The sooner the better, ideally within 14 to 21 days of making your first trip deposit. Purchasing early often unlocks pre-existing condition waivers and time-sensitive benefits. Waiting until closer to departure limits your coverage options and may exclude certain protections.
Yes. Tour pricing is based on double occupancy (two people sharing a room). If you are traveling solo and would like your own room throughout the journey, a single supplement applies. Please contact Karla for the current single supplement amount for this departure.
Roommate matching is not guaranteed on this tour, but please reach out to Karla to discuss options. Many solo travelers find the group setting a wonderful way to meet like-minded people, and the tour experience is equally enjoyable whether you're traveling alone or with a companion.
Absolutely. Escorted group tours are one of the best ways to travel solo. You have the security and camaraderie of a group, a knowledgeable Tour Director handling all logistics, and built-in social opportunities at every meal and excursion. Many of our past solo travelers say it was the best travel decision they ever made.
This is a hosted, fully escorted group tour. Group size depends on how many travelers choose this specific departure, and as a Whispering Willow Travel hosted trip, I'm personally with you for all 10 days alongside a professional Tour Director handling the logistics.
This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, typically 1 to 3 miles per day on varied terrain, including cobblestone streets, castle grounds, and coastal paths. Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are essential. Most sightseeing is accessible, though some historic sites have uneven surfaces. If you have mobility concerns, please discuss them with your advisor before reserving your spot.
The pace is comfortable and well-balanced, never rushed. Each day has a mix of guided sightseeing and free time, and the motor coach handles all longer distances. You'll typically depart hotels mid-morning and have evenings free to explore, dine, or relax at your own pace.
Ireland in late September and early October is crisp, colorful, and beautiful. Temperatures typically range from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C). Pack layers, a waterproof jacket (rain is common and part of the charm!), comfortable walking shoes, and a light sweater. Smart-casual attire is appropriate for dinners. A small daypack or crossbody bag is handy for excursions. The autumn foliage makes the countryside even more beautiful.
The easiest first step is to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation with Karla using the scheduling link on this page. We'll walk through the details, answer all your questions, and guide you through the deposit process to secure your place on the September 24, 2027 departure.
Cancellation policies vary by departure date and are subject to the terms of the tour operator. Your Whispering Willow Travel advisor will provide the full cancellation schedule at the time of reservation. This is another reason travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is so important. It protects your deposit and payments if you need to cancel for a covered reason.
Fill out the short form and I'll personally reach out within 24 hours to answer your questions and walk you through next steps. No pressure, just a conversation.
A personal reply from Karla with answers to your questions.
Deposit info, payment schedule, what to expect, and everything you need to decide with confidence.
Ready to talk now? Schedule a complimentary 20-minute call and let's plan your Ireland adventure together. The link is below the form.
While you're deciding, come join the Whispering Willow VIP Facebook group, where I share travel tips, destination inspiration, and early trip updates.
Join the VIP GroupPrefer email? Write to karla@whisperingwillowtravel.com and I'll reply personally.
Thank you for your interest in the Emerald Isle journey. I'll personally be in touch within 24 hours. In the meantime, come join the community!
Join the Whispering Willow VIP GroupSpaces on this hosted journey are limited. Reach out to Whispering Willow Travel to secure your spot on the September 24, 2027 departure.
Express My InterestScroll up and submit your name and email. It takes 30 seconds and lets me know you're interested.
Within 24 hours, I'll contact you directly to answer your questions and walk you through everything. If you'd prefer, you can also schedule a call right away.
A deposit holds your place on the September 24, 2027 departure. Spaces on this hosted journey are limited.
Fill out the interest form above and I'll personally reach out within 24 hours. Prefer to talk right away? Schedule a complimentary call below.
Fill Out the Interest Form Or Schedule a Call DirectlyKarla spent nine nights driving clockwise around Ireland on a research trip, staying in the hotels, standing at the cliffs, sitting in the pubs. This guide is what she learned. Not from a brochure. The real thing.
A Travel Advisor's Honest Guide to Experiencing the Emerald Isle the Right Way
Check your inbox! Your free Ireland guide is headed there now. And if you decide you're ready to join us on the trip, I'd love to hear from you.
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