9 DAY SHAMROCKS OF IRELAND

The symbol of Ireland is the emerald shamrock, and its color represents the luscious green landscapes that cover this picturesque island. This is a country brimming with lively pub life, vibrant urban cities and everlasting Celtic traditions - there's so much culture to take in!

DAY 1: Arrive Dublin

Welcome to Ireland! After check-in, there's time for you to go for a wander and feel the buzz of the city. This evening enjoy a glass of wine, or a pint of Guinness, as you share dinner with your fellow Gutsy Women travelers and Travel Director. (D)

DAY 2: Dublin

Join a local guide this morning and learn about the torrid history of Ireland as you see the city, visit the historic Dublin castle and see the 8th Century Book of Kells in Trinity College. Enjoy an afternoon free to shop or find a nice pub and get chatting to some locals. (B)

DAY 3: Dublin to Waterford

Today travel south to the coast where you'll join a local guide for a relaxed coastal walk taking in some spectacular scenery, and with a stop for some tasty local food on the way. Later, visit the Waterford Crystal factory before arriving at your hotel. (B,D)

DAY 4: Waterford to Killarney

This morning drive to the coastal town of Cobh, the final port of call of the ill-fated Titanic, where you'll visit the Cobh Heritage Centre. Continue to Blarney Castle, where you kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the 'gift of the gab'! Later arrive in Killarney, and this evening enjoy a delicious traditional Gutsy Encounters dinner at an Irish farmhouse where you meet the lady who owns the farm, learn a few things in the kitchen and enjoy great company and a delicious meal. (B,GI-D)

DAY 5: Killarney

Enjoy the scenic beauty for which this region is renowned and made famous by such movies as “Ryan's Daughter” and “Far & Away.” See the long, sandy stretches of Inch Strand and admire views across the bay to the Iveragh Peninsula before stopping for lunch in a traditional pub. Enjoy some free time in Dingle and drive up the Conor Pass for panoramic views before returning to Killarney. (B,L)

DAY 6: Killarney to Galway

Travel via Tralee to Tarbert and cross the Shannon River by ferry to County Clare. Continue north along the coastline via Liscannor, birthplace of John Holland, the inventor of the submarine. Continue onwards and view the majestic Cliffs of Moher before arriving in Galway. Tonight join your fellow travelers and experience the true 'craic' of Ireland as you visit a local "Singing Pub", the Tig Coili, where live music is guaranteed every night of the week - often it's the pub staff themselves who sing a few songs. (B)

DAY 7: Galway to Ashford Castle

Travel north into the lush surrounds of County Galway, to one of the Leading Hotels of the World, Ashford Castle. Spend the afternoon enjoying the picturesque grounds before joining your fellow Gutsy Women travelers for an elegant dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Ireland. (B,HD)

DAY 8: Ashford Castle to Dublin

Return to the Irish capital Dublin, and tonight celebrate the end of your Irish tour together at a Farewell Dinner, look back on the wonderful experiences of the last week, and plan your next Gutsy Women trip with your new friends. (B,FD)

DAY 9: Depart Dublin

This morning after breakfast it's time to bid farewell to Ireland as you return home with wonderful and enduring memories. Airport transfers are available to Dublin airport. Conditions apply. (B)

Maldron - Dublin

Dooley's Hotel - Waterford

Killarney Plaza Hotel - Killarney

Radisson - Galway

Ashford Castle - Cong