Ireland is a country full of charming and historic treasures. During this 10-day National Geographic Expedition explore the prehistoric monoliths in the Burren to the crumbling Rock of Cashel—and uncover mysteries from the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and medieval eras. Journey from Dublin to Kilkenny and Burren, taking in the spectacular scenery, traditional villages and medieval castle along the way.

Trip highlights

Wake up amid the regal splendour of Ashford Castle and take an exclusive tour of this medieval retreat with the on-site historian.

Visit ancient sacred sites known as holy wells with a medieval historian who worked on a National Geographic-sponsored project to preserve them.

Join an archaeologist at the Irish National Museum in Dublin to examine prehistoric artefacts and fascinating “bog bodies.”

Itinerary - 10 Days

1-3 Dublin, Ireland/ Kilkenny

Arrive in Dublin. Meet an archaeology expert for a tour of the National Museum of Ireland;
visit Sweny’s Pharmacy, featured in Ulysses; and examine the Book of Kells at Trinity College. Drive to Kilkenny and explore its Castle before lunch at a historic inn. Sip a pint at the Smithwick’s Experience and climb St. Canice’s Cathedral.
The Dylan Hotel; Pembroke Kilkenny (Day 1: D; Days 2 and 3: B/L)

4-5 Cashel/Blarney/Dingle Peninsula/Killarney

Climb the ramparts of the Rock of Cashel, then kiss the legendary stone at Blarney Castle. In Ballyvourney, hear from a medievalist about his work on a National Geographic-sponsored project to preserve Ireland’s holy wells. Discover the ancient sites of the Dingle Peninsula and explore Killarney
National Park. Killarney Park Hotel (Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/L)

6 Cliffs of Moher/The Burren National Park

Stroll the Cliffs of Moher, then visit The Burren National Park. Later, learn about conservation efforts that led the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark to win a 2016 National Geographic World Legacy Award.
Gregan’s Castle Hotel (B/D)

7-8 County Mayo/Connemara

Meet the chocolatiers at Hazel Mountain Chocolate factory before settling into majestic Ashford Castle. Experience traditional farm life during a private tour of the Dan O’Hara Homestead, and stop for a sheepherding demonstration.
Ashford Castle (Day 7: B/D; Day 8: B/L/D)

9-10 County Mayo/Dublin

Return to Dublin for a private tasting with a whiskey expert, followed by a farewell dinner. Depart the next day.
The Dylan Hotel (Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B)

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