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Highlights of Ireland - 2003

We returned from our latest ten day tour of Ireland in late July, 2003, and would like to share some special memories of the trip with you.

After flying into Shannon airport, we drove up to Galway city, where we spent the next 3 nights in a four-star hotel in the town center. We had some free time on arrival day to rest and refresh after the flight over, and then met for a Welcome Dinner at our hotel.

The next day, we drove through the magnificent Connemara, with photo stops along the way. We spent time at Kylemore Abbey and had a chance to take pictures of the famous "Quiet Man Bridge" from the film of the same name.

The next day, we visited the medieval town of Athenry, where we had a private tour of the Heritage Center. We then stopped at Galway Crystal for an excellent lunch and visited Royal Tara China for a tour and shopping opportunity.

We also had time for a tour of Galway City itself, known as "The City of Tribes", and a night out at a local pub, listening to traditional Irish music and meeting the locals.

Driving South, we stopped at The Burren Center and then visited the famous Cliffs of Moher, before taking the ferry across the River Shannon, finishing up our journey in Tralee, home of the famous "Rose of Tralee" festival.

From Tralee, we took a day tour around the Dingle Peninsula, enjoying the spectacular scenery at Slea Head, and then we drove to the top of the Connor Pass, the highest pass in all of Ireland. We had time to explore Dingle town, stopping in its colorful shops and restaurants, before heading back to the hotel.

The next morning, we drove through one of the most beautiful parts of the Ring of Kerry, and then had lunch at Muckross House and Gardens, sitting outside enjoying our meal in the sunshine and taking in the view.

That night, we had a wonderful evening of song and dance at a traditional Irish venue, while enjoying a delicious dinner.

After leaving our base in Tralee for three days, we traveled to Bunratty, where we spent the afternoon at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, before heading to Kilkenny for overnight. The next morning, we had a tour of Kilkenny before heading to Dublin for our last two days.

We had an excellent panoramic Dublin city tour, and then visited the Jameson's Distillery for a private tour to see how this excellent Irish whiskey is produced. We also had some free time for independent sightseeing of Trinity College and some shopping on the famous Nassau and Grafton Streets.

Our Farewell Dinner and Irish Cabaret Show at a top Dublin hotel was enjoyed by all, and a wonderful way to end our special time in Ireland.

Our trip came to an end, but not the wonderful memories of this magical country nor the friendships that will endure.
We are currently planning more tours of Ireland for 2004, and would love to have you join us.
~Ann

Ireland 2004 Tour Information