Compare Ireland’s Coasts from North to South by Road Scholar vs Northern & Southern Ireland by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: In Transit to Program

In Flight

Day 2: Arrival Day, Belfast

Meals: Dinner

Jury's Inn Belfast

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Afternoon: Arrivals continue, with free time for those who have already arrived. Before dinner we will have an Orientation in the hotel. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities and answer any questions you may have. We have set aside some free time in the schedule for your personal independent exploration. Please note that program activities, schedules and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: A seated three course dinner will be taken in the hotel dining room with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages are available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure to unpack, relax and prepare for the program ahead.

Day 3: Belfast Murals, Stormont, Belfast

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Jury's Inn Belfast

Breakfast: A full Irish breakfast in the hotel dining room. Choices vary but will include a variety of eggs, bacon, sausages, tomato, potatoes, cereals, fruit, toast, pastries and jams served with water, juices, tea and coffee.

Morning: Enjoy an illustrated talk on the colourful and evocative murals of Belfast, followed by an expert-led field trip to the Northern Ireland Assembly at Stormont.

Lunch: Lunch will be served at a local restaurant such as Molly's Yard in the city centre.

Afternoon: This afternoon, enjoy an expert-led motor coach ride around this endlessly fascinating city.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions should you wish to further explore Belfast.

Day 4: Amargh & St. Patrick’s Cathedrals, Belfast

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Jury's Inn Belfast

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We begin this morning with a lecture on "The Legend of St Patrick: Ireland's Revered Saint". We depart by motor coach for Armagh where we will experience an expert-led visit of Armagh Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Lunch: Lunch will be served at a local restaurant such as 4 Vicars in the centre of Armagh.

Afternoon: Following our excursion in Armagh, we will return to Belfast by motor coach for free time.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5: Transfer to Derry, Giant’s Causeway

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: City Hotel Derry.

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We board the motor coach to transfer to Derry, stopping en route to enjoy a field trip to Bushmills Whiskey distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery having first been operational from 1608.

Lunch: Lunch will be served in the village of Bushmills.

Afternoon: This afternoon we visit the Giant’s Causeway, a natural amphitheatre made up of hexagonal shaped basalt rocks, and a UNESCO world heritage site. We will begin in the capable hands of a National Trust expert as we explore the site, before some free time to allow you to make the most of this breathtaking natural phenomenon. The transfer to Derry then continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6: Derry’s City Walls, The Inishowen Peninsula, Derry

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: City Hotel Derry.

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Discover why Derry is regarded as one of the best examples of a walled city in Europe as we set out on foot with a local expert. Following the walk, we depart by motor coach for a field trip to the Inishowen Peninsula to take in the spectacular coastal scenery.

Lunch: Served in a traditional Irish pub in the seaside town of Culdaff.

Afternoon: Our field trip around the Inishowen Peninsula continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 7: Transfer to Galway, Yeats at Drumcliff, Galway

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Salthill Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We depart by motor coach for Galway – the cradle of Gaelic culture in the West and often referred to as the “city of tribes”, as it was home to 14 famous merchant families. We’ll make a stop at Drumcliffe, the final resting place of famed Irish poet W.B Yeats. Yeats is remembered as an important cultural leader, as a major playwright and as one of the very greatest poets of the century. The epitaph on his gravestone is well known: “Cast a cold eye / On life / On death / Horseman, pass by!”

Lunch: Lunch will be served in a restaurant en route.

Afternoon: The transfer to Galway continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8: Connemara, Galway

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Salthill Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Today we travel by motor coach for a full day exploring Connemara. A broad peninsula between Killary Harbour and Kilkieran Bay in the west of County Galway, Connemara has long been regarded as the real emerald of Ireland. Expect to see Cong, the Quiet Man and Kylemore Abbey – the oldest Benedictine abbey in Ireland.

Lunch: Served in Kylemore Abbey.

Afternoon: We continue on to explore the sleepy seaside villages of Connemara, stopping at Lough Inagh Lodge in the village of Recess. Enjoy the opportunity to try an Irish Coffee in this beautiful old hunting lodge, nestling on the shores of Lake Inagh. Our day continues with a visit to the award winning Cnoc Suain Heritage Centre for an insight into the rural folklore, traditions and way of life in the west of Ireland.

Dinner: Served at a restaurant in the village of Spiddal.

Evening: Return to Galway by motor coach after dinner, followed by free time.

Day 9: Galway City

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Salthill Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Take in an informative lecture on “The Celts and the West of Ireland”, followed by an expert-led walking orientation of Galway City in the company of a local historian.

Lunch: Served in a traditional Irish restaurant, Ard Bia on the river at Spanish Arch.

Afternoon: Free time.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 10: Transfer to Cork, Cliffs of Moher & the Burren

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Imperial Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We board the motor coach to transfer to the city of Cork. En route will we stop to take in the natural wonders of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, with time to linger by the cliffs which rise like a cathedral into the sky some 700 feet above the wild Atlantic Ocean. We’ll then continue onwards towards the Burren to meet a local expert, who will lead us through one of the largest karst limestone landscapes in Europe, stopping for a short hike on its moon-like terrain.

Lunch: Taken in a pub in the village of Kilfenora.

Afternoon: We continue on to Cork City. Ireland’s second largest city, Cork was founded in the 7th Century and is today a bustling, lively little city.

Dinner: Three course served and plated dinner In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 11: Cobh, The Queenstown Centre, Cork.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Imperial Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We travel to Cobh by motor coach, where we will be treated to an expert-led walk of this attractive port town, followed by a visit to the Queenstown Story exhibition. Here we retrace the steps of 2.5 million adults and children who emigrated from Ireland on coffin ships, early steamers and finally on the great liners.

Lunch: Taken out at the Queenstown Centre.

Afternoon: Free time in Cork after returning to the hotel.

Dinner: Dinner will be taken with local host families in Carrigaline.

Evening: Spend some time this evening getting an insight into life in a modern Irish home as you enjoy dinner with your host family.

Day 12: Transfer to Killarney, Blarney Castle

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We depart Cork by motor coach for Killarney, via Blarney Castle – home of the famous Blarney Stone. Tradition dictates that the gift of eloquence is conferred on all those who kiss the stone!

Lunch: Served in Blarney.

Afternoon: We continue on to Killarney. We’ll have a short orientation walk around the local area before enjoying an Irish coffee demonstration.

Dinner: Three course served and plated dinner In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 13: Ring of Kerry, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Earls Court House Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We begin with a talk and slide show, “A Ramble Down the Ol’ Bothrain”, before we depart by motor coach with a local expert to explore the Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry is made up of spectacular coastal and mountain scenery, enveloping the towns of Glenbeigh, Cahersiven, Waterville and Sneem. We’ll enjoy a visit to Muckross House en route, a magnificent Victorian mansion spectacularly situated close to the eastern shore of Muckross Lake

Lunch: Served in Cahersiveen.

Afternoon: The field trip continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 14: Transfer to Dublin, Waterford, Tramore

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Ashling Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Depart by motor coach for Dublin, Ireland’s capital city and your final destination. On the way we’ll visit the world-famous Waterford Crystal visitors centre.

Lunch: Enjoy a community hosted lunch in the seaside town of Tramore, County Waterford.

Afternoon: The transfer to Dublin continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 15: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Ashling Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Orientate yourself to Dublin with an expert-led field trip of the city, including visits to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Enjoy an evening on one of Dublin’s many renowned theatres.

Day 16: Brú na Bóinne, Dublin

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Ashling Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Board the motor coach for an expert led visit of Brú na Bóinne in nearby County Meath. Brú na Bóinne comprises the Neolithic burial chambers of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. Their survival through more than 5,500 years reflects the sophistication of their design and ingenuity of the Stone Age men who constructed them.

Lunch: Served at Causey Farm.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Causey Farm, a family run cattle and sheep farm. Meet the family, stroll through the farm and discover the traditional practices of Irish farming.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 17: Glendalough, Dublin

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Ashling Hotel

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: We begin with a lecture on “Christian & Monastic Ireland”, before boarding the motor coach and departing for Glendalough. First established in the 6th Century, Glendalough is a Christian Monastic site magnificently situated in a glacial valley between two lakes.

Lunch: Served in Wicklow.

Afternoon: The field trip continues.

Dinner: A farewell dinner at the hotel with an evening of traditional Irish music and song.

Evening: Your farewell continues.

Day: 18: Program Concludes, In Flight

Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast: In the hotel. Some participants may depart prior to breakfast.

Morning: Transfer to Dublin Airport (DUB) for onward flights. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future.

Day 1 Belfast

Welcome to Belfast and the Emerald Isle! Your Irish adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. As you don't spend much time in Belfast as part of the trip, we recommend you arrive a few days early to make the most of it. If you happen to do so, spend some time wandering the streets of the bohemian Cathedral Quarter, or perhaps visit the leafy suburbs of South Belfast or the stately City Hall in Donegal Square. Make sure you also visit the revitalised waterfront area where you will find the Titanic Belfast monument on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the legendary RMS Titanic was built. The monument tells the story of the ship's ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.

Day 2 Giant's Causeway / Belfast

Take a private transfer to the renowned natural wonder known as The Giant's Causeway (approximately 2.5 hours), travelling along the scenic and rugged wild coast north of Belfast. Giant's Causeway is home to roughly 40,000 basalt columns. The landmark has inspired artists and storytellers for centuries. Depending on the school of thought you wish to believe, they are either the result of an ancient volcanic eruption or a rather big argument between rival giants! Upon return to Belfast in the evening, why not visit the areas that have a connection to the Troubles, such as Shankill Road, the unionist Protestant area, the nationalist and Catholic area, as well as the 'Peace Wall'. Explore the local neighbourhoods to get more of a feel of this regenerated city, perhaps with a visit to a local pub for a meal with your travel crew.

Day 3 Galway

This morning, travel by public bus to the harbour city of Galway – capital of the county of the same name. You will be crossing the border from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland, so you may need to switch your Pounds for some Euros at this point. While you're in Galway, you could visit the impressive Galway Cathedral. Its full name, the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, is far more elaborate than the simplicity of its building.

Day 4 Aran Islands / Galway

Enjoy a day trip by ferry to the Aran islands, which have been crafted by centuries of wild winds and smashing waves. The islands are one of the few places where the Irish language is still spoken on an everyday basis. You’ll travel by minibus and on foot to explore the native flora and fauna, with visits to the ruins of a church and a lighthouse. There are also some remains from Bronze and Iron Age fortresses to be found. If you're lucky you may even spot a seal lounging on the rocky shore! Return to Galway for a free evening and time for more exploration. The best way to take in the spirit of this city is by attending a live performance in one of the many pubs, accompanied by a pint of Guinness, of course.

Day 5 Cliffs of Moher / Adare / Killarney

The magnificent Cliffs of Moher will leave you in awe with their striking look over the Irish coastline. The daring can walk to the edge and watch puffins nesting along the cliff face (from April to late July). Learn about the history of the famous site and its feathered inhabitants at the Cliffs Exhibition. Next stop is the quaint village of Adare. Arrival into Killarney is in the late afternoon. You'll learn quickly that pubs are the heartbeat of Ireland, whether you're interested in guzzling beer or simply getting to know more about Irish culture, pubs are definitely an important part of any Irish adventure – the place for infectiously cheerful music, tall tales and making friends over a pint or two. The Irish take their beer seriously, so this is a great chance to taste a variety of rich 'real ales'. Get to know classic pub fare such as Irish stew, chowders and fish and chips, while also sampling less familiar dishes such as coddle, boxty and champ.

Day 6 Ring of Kerry / Killarney

Prepare for picturesque rolling green hills and breathe in the salty coastal air as you travel along the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry – a mystical and unspoilt region of Ireland. You'll pass through bucolic villages and enjoy views across some of Ireland's greatest beaches, beautiful lakes and rivers as well as a bit of dramatic coastal scenery. It's the perfect place for a small town crime drama to be set. Travelling by private vehicle will allow you to stop frequently at any of the numerous outlooks along the way for photos. You’ll visit a sheep farm and will see a demonstration of sheep herding – with skilled border collie dogs at work rounding up the sheep, and following commands from the shepherd, they’re no doubt full of practice. Arrive back into Killarney in the early afternoon. If there is enough time perhaps head out to Ross Castle, picturesquely sitting on the shores of Lough Leane.

Day 7 Dublin / Cork

Travel by train to Cork and take a city tour led by your leader. Cork is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, so grab a bite before boarding another train this time bound for the real, proud capital of the Republic of Ireland - Dublin. Spend the evening exploring the cobbled streets of this humming city or drop into the pub for a pint and a yarn. Dublin has much to offer, so make sure you go out and maximise your time here. In the evening, perhaps get your group together and cosy up at a local pub or head into town to find a cool restaurant or bar in Dublin’s Creative Quarter, also known as the city’s 'hipster triangle'.

Day 8 Dublin

As there are no activities planned for today, you are free to head on your way at any time, providing you comply with the accommodation’s internal check-out policy. You might want to return to Belfast by train or further explore Dublin and surrounding area. Your leader can be of assistance in organising train tickets back to Belfast. If you’d like, additional accommodation can be booked in both locations (subject to availability).