Apr 4 - Apr 14, 2025
Starting at
3,799
Ireland
Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country
Program No. 21258RJ
From the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher to the vibrant city of Dublin, discover myths, history, traditions and local life on this comprehensive exploration of the Emerald Isle.
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11 days
10 nights
19 meals
9B 3L 7D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Galway, Coole Park
Ennistymon.
4
The Burren, The Cliffs of Moher
Ennistymon.
11
Program Concludes
Dublin.
At a Glance
The spirit of Ireland is as stirring as a fiddle reel, as hearty as a pub breakfast and as complex as “Finnegans Wake.” Experience it as you explore Ireland’s cities, villages, farms and natural environments and interact with her people on this journey from the rural West to cosmopolitan Dublin in the East. Along the way, enjoy plenty of free time to make your own discoveries.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven, hilly, rocky terrain.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Absorb the beauty of Ireland’s West at the soaring Cliffs of Moher and the otherworldly Burren.
- Learn about the life of an Irish farmer as one welcomes you to his land and discusses the meeting of tradition and technology in agriculture.
- Get a look at the Book of Kells in Dublin, attend a show at a historic theater and enjoy free time to discover the city.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials. You may be interested in a more leisurely version of this program, "Ireland at a Slower Pace: Countryside & Culture, Galway to Dublin" (#22586).
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Shane Connolly
A native of the Burren, Shane Connolly has a diploma in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a diploma in local and regional studies from University College Cork. He is also qualified with a certificate in agribusiness , a degree in business studies and currently runs a cattle and sheep farm in Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan. An experienced educational excursion leader in the Burren, Shane enjoys good conversation and a laugh. His interests include place names, stone wall construction and folklore.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Shane Connolly
View biography
A native of the Burren, Shane Connolly has a diploma in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a diploma in local and regional studies from University College Cork. He is also qualified with a certificate in agribusiness , a degree in business studies and currently runs a cattle and sheep farm in Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan. An experienced educational excursion leader in the Burren, Shane enjoys good conversation and a laugh. His interests include place names, stone wall construction and folklore.
Ned Relihan
View biography
Just outside of the picturesque village of Adare, Ned Relihan works on the family-run Adare Farm. Since 1963, the Relihan’s farm has produced milk year-round from a pedigree Friesian dairy herd as well as raising welfare friendly beef and pork. Starting with these raw materials, the farm has developed a wide range of100% natural dairy product including ice cream and sorbet. Ned is very proud of his farm's heritage and will explain to visitors the everyday challenges faced by dairy farmers in Ireland.
Liam Silke
View biography
Liam Silke is a native of Galway City and is a member of one of Galway's oldest families. Galway-born and bred, he is one of Galway's best-loved characters in his role as the registered Town Crier of Galway. Together with his degree and numerous qualifications in travel, Liam's effervescent personality and wealth of local knowledge makes each walking exploration he leads a unique experience. He specializes in bringing history to life, and the twinkle in his eyes shows how much he enjoys the revival of his city's past.
Suggested Reading List
(16 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country
Program Number: 21258
EXploring Rural Ireland
A Concise History of Ireland
See Dublin on foot, an architectural walking guide
The Secrets of Ireland
A breathtaking land of wildly varied landscapes, Ireland is shown here in all its awe-inspiring glory. From familiar tourist spots to seldom-seen vistas, this stunning new illustrated book captures the country as you've never seen it before. It covers the whole of the Emerald Isle from Ulster North to Munster South, from Giant's Causeway to the Cliffs of Moher.
After the Famine: Irish Agriculture 1850-1914
After the Famine examines the recovery in Irish agriculture in the wake of the disastrous potato famine of the 1840s, and presents an annual agricultural output series for Ireland from 1850 to 1914. Michael Turner’s detailed study is in three parts: he analyses the changing structure of agriculture in terms of land use and peasant occupancy; he presents estimates of the annual value of Irish output between 1850 and 1914; and he assesses Irish agricultural performance in terms of several measures of productivity. These analyses are placed in the context of British and European agricultural development, and suggest that, contrary to prevailing orthodoxies, landlords rather than tenants were the main beneficiaries in the period leading up to the land reforms. After the Famine is an important contribution to an extremely controversial area of Irish social and economic history.
Ireland : The Emerald Isle and Its People
Ireland (Landscapes Countryside Guides)
This guide covers the Republic and Northern Ireland and includes: 13 car tours, 22 walks, 30 picnic suggestions; walking maps; timetables for public transport; pull-out touring maps; many short walks and picnic suggestions.
Ireland and the Irish
impressionistic portrait of the two Irelands, based on interviews with leaders and ordinary people from every walk of life, includes their insights and the author's own observations and analysis. Anatomy of the country, this book is a most useful guide for the visitor wanting a complete picture of modern Irish life and the prevailing social and economic trends.
Luck and the Irish: A Brief History of Change, 1970-2000
From 1970, things were changing in Ireland; the Celtic Tiger had finally woken, and the rules for everything from gender roles and religion to international relations were being entirely rewritten. Luck and the Irish examines how the country has weathered these last thirty years of change, and what these changes may mean in the long run. R. F. Foster also looks at how characters as diverse as Gerry Adams, Mary Robinson, Charles Haughey and Bob Geldof have contributed to Ireland's altered psyche, and uncovers some of the scandals, corruption and marketing masterminds that have transformed Ireland and its luck.
For the Love of Ireland: A Literary Companion
A rich anthology of writing about Ireland by such Irish luminaries as James Joyce, William Butler Yeats, Seamus Heaney, William, Trevor, Frank McCourt, Edna O'Brien, and Samuel Beckett. The well-chosen excerpts, organized by province, evoke in wonderful literary detail the geography of Ireland. Highly recommended for any traveler, the anthology is also a fine introduction to Irish literature.
Ireland: The Emerald Isle and its People
A Traveller's History of Ireland
From the Celts to the Norman invasions and modern-day Ireland, this short history is highly recommended for those who would like a brief overview of the Emerald Isle through the centuries
Ireland, a Bicycle and a Tin Whistle
7 Days in Dublin: Everything to See and Do
Walking Dublin
Ireland in the 20th Century
Ireland entered the twentieth century savaged by poverty and memories of the famine but inspired by the Celtic Dawn, a remarkable cultural renaissance led by Yeats, Synge and Lady Gregory. She left it in the era of the Celtic Tiger, with unparalleled prosperity and a new, confident, outward-looking view of herself and the world - although this prosperity and self-confidence is now giving way to uncertainty. In the intervening hundred years, Ireland has experienced more 'history' than almost any other country: beginning under the British crown, she was racked by revolution, the Anglo-Irish war, partition and civil conflict. Led by towering figures such as Michael Collins and De Valera, she has suffered terrible hardships and disputes but has nevertheless provided brilliant cultural and literary examples and is now a country of importance in the wider international community, providing leadership in a variety of moral and development issues. In this readable and authoritative study, Ireland's bestselling popular historian tells the extraordinary story of how contemporary Ireland came into existence. Covering both South and North and dealing with social and cultural history as well as political, this will surely become a definitive single-volume account of the making of modern Ireland.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
11 days
Program Begins
Ennistymon.
Program Concludes
Dublin.
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
19
| 9B |
3L |
7D |
Activity Level
The spirit of Ireland is as stirring as a fiddle reel, as hearty as a pub breakfast and as complex as “Finnegans Wake.” Experience it as you explore Ireland’s cities, villages, farms and natural environments and interact with her people on this journey from the rural West to cosmopolitan Dublin in the East. Along the way, enjoy plenty of free time to make your own discoveries.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Absorb the beauty of Ireland’s West at the soaring Cliffs of Moher and the otherworldly Burren.
- Learn about the life of an Irish farmer as one welcomes you to his land and discusses the meeting of tradition and technology in agriculture.
- Get a look at the Book of Kells in Dublin, attend a show at a historic theater and enjoy free time to discover the city.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials. You may be interested in a more leisurely version of this program, "Ireland at a Slower Pace: Countryside & Culture, Galway to Dublin" (#22586).
Featured Expert
Shane Connolly
A native of the Burren, Shane Connolly has a diploma in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a diploma in local and regional studies from University College Cork. He is also qualified with a certificate in agribusiness , a degree in business studies and currently runs a cattle and sheep farm in Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan. An experienced educational excursion leader in the Burren, Shane enjoys good conversation and a laugh. His interests include place names, stone wall construction and folklore.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Ned Relihan
Just outside of the picturesque village of Adare, Ned Relihan works on the family-run Adare Farm. Since 1963, the Relihan’s farm has produced milk year-round from a pedigree Friesian dairy herd as well as raising welfare friendly beef and pork. Starting with these raw materials, the farm has developed a wide range of100% natural dairy product including ice cream and sorbet. Ned is very proud of his farm's heritage and will explain to visitors the everyday challenges faced by dairy farmers in Ireland.
Liam Silke
Liam Silke is a native of Galway City and is a member of one of Galway's oldest families. Galway-born and bred, he is one of Galway's best-loved characters in his role as the registered Town Crier of Galway. Together with his degree and numerous qualifications in travel, Liam's effervescent personality and wealth of local knowledge makes each walking exploration he leads a unique experience. He specializes in bringing history to life, and the twinkle in his eyes shows how much he enjoys the revival of his city's past.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven, hilly, rocky terrain.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(16 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
11 days
10 nights
What's Included
19 meals | 9B | 3L | 7D |
11 expert-led field trips
3 performances
An experienced Group Leader
9 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Shannon, To County Clare, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Ennistymon.
Meals:
L,D
Stay:
Falls Hotel
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Lunch:
At the hotel. Coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with a Group Leader who will accompany us throughout the program and deal with logistics, deliver informal talks, conduct some field trips, and serve as an information resource on program-related topics. At various points during the program, we will be joined by local experts, who will lecture and conduct field trips. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Galway, Coole Park
Location:
Ennistymon.
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Falls Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 3 hours. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobbled areas, gravel and grass paths, some uneven terrain at Coole Park.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room, we’ll have a full Irish breakfast buffet. Choices vary but will include a variety of eggs, breakfast meats, tomato, potatoes, cereals, fruit, toast, pastries and jams, plus juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We’ll board the motorcoach for a field trip to the port city of Galway, the cradle of Gaelic culture in the West. Galway is often referred to as the “city of tribes,” as it was once home to 14 famous merchant families. We’ll enjoy an expert-led walk around the city with a local historian, concluding at the Galway City Museum for some time to explore independently. Should you wish to explore the museum, entrance is free of charge and it houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions dealing with archaeology, local history, arts and crafts.
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:
We’ll board the motorcoach for a field trip of Coole Park. In the company of a local expert enjoy a guided walk around Coole Park, it was once the home of Lady Augusta Gregory, dramatist, folklorist and co-founder of the Abbey Theatre with Edward Martyn of Tullira Castle and Nobel prize-winning poet William Butler Yeats. Coole Park, in the early 20th century, was the centre of the Irish Literary Revival. Coole Park together with the adjoining Garryland, is also a Nature Reserve of breeding Deer at Coole Park and Gardens, Gort, Co. Galway, Ireland approximately 405 hectares.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
We’ll be joined at the hotel by members of a local family of musicians, who will regale us with a performance of traditional Irish music. Ennis is widely considered one of the most important heartlands of Irish folk music, and as we enjoy informal conversation with the performers, we’ll gain an understanding of its importance to community life.
Day
4
The Burren, The Cliffs of Moher
Location:
Ennistymon.
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Falls Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 65 miles, approximately 3 hours. Walking about 2.5 miles; periods of standing; tarmac and gravel paths, grassy areas, natural limestone pavement; uneven terrain at the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Today we will take field trips to two of Ireland’s most incredible natural phenomena. We will begin by traveling by motorcoach to the Burren, where we’ll meet a local expert who will lead us through one of the largest karst limestone landscapes in Europe. The Burren — meaning “rocky place” — is what remains of a tropical sea from 350 million years ago. The starkly beautiful karst limestone surface is almost moonlike in appearance. Geologists, botanists, and zoologists flock to this region to learn about its rare flora and fauna. We will take a gentle hike on this rugged terrain, which together with the Cliffs of Moher forms a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Our next field trip will take us to the spectacular and world-famous Cliffs of Moher, a few miles along the coast from Lahinch. The cliffs rise like a cathedral into the sky some 700 feet over the wild Atlantic Ocean, with views stretching as far as Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. Human activity here dates back at least 2,000 years. They are home to one of Ireland’s major colonies of cliff-nesting seabirds and lend their name to a popular fiddle jig performed at least as early as 1850. After an introduction by our Group Leader, we’ll have some time for self-directed exploration at the visitor center. We will then return by motorcoach to the hotel.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Transfer to Adare, Bunratty Castle, Folk Park
Location:
Adare
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Dunraven Arms Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 50 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Walking about 3 miles; periods of standing; varied terrain including paved streets, grass with uneven rocky areas, gravel paths, wooden boardwalks; steps to some areas at Bunratty Castle, including stone spiral staircases.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board a motorcoach to begin our transfer to the charming village of Adare. En route, we'll stop for a field trip to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in County Clare, now a designated National Monument and the most complete and authentically restored castle in Ireland. Originally built in 1425, Bunratty Castle was restored in the 1950s to reflect how it would have looked in the 15th and 16th centuries, now complete with period furnishings. We'll have some time for self-directed exploration to see what interests each of us most and look through the window to the past in Bunratty Folk Park, a “living history” village vividly recreated through actors, volunteers, and painstaking attention to detail. Its buildings and streets represent what would have been seen in the 19th century. We'll meet costumed “villagers” who will be happy to answer questions and discuss their ways of life.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Bunratty.
Afternoon:
We’ll then continue onwards to Adare, regarded as one of Ireland’s most picturesque villages. It is steeped in history and has been the site of many rebellions, wars, and conquests, a legacy that has shaped the village up to today. On an expert-led walk around the village, before checking into the hotel, we’ll find a fascinating story around every corner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
The Dingle Peninsula: 6,000 Years of History
Location:
Adare
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Dunraven Arms Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 190 miles, approximately 6 hours. Walking about 2 miles; periods of standing; varied terrain including gravel paths, paved streets, uneven grassy areas; low doorways and steps down to enter beehive huts, uneven stone and gravel floors.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will take a motorcoach to the Dingle Peninsula to explore the area’s rich archaeological heritage and unique culture. Once cited as “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic magazine, much of the peninsula is a Gaeltacht – an area where the Irish language is widely spoken at home, in the workplace, and at school. As we ride along narrow country roads, enjoying spectacular sea views, our Group Leader will explain the ways in which governments and communities have made efforts to preserve the Irish Gaelic language since the establishment of the Irish Free State in the 1920s. Along the way, we’ll make a stop in Dingle Town, where you’ll have the opportunity for independent exploration.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in the colorful fishing port of Dingle.
Afternoon:
We’ll be joined by a local expert to continue our exploration of the Dingle Peninsula, whose Slea Head is the westerly part of Ireland. The sandstone of the rugged peninsula has been a rich resource for builders through the ages, and ancient stone structures abound in the landscape. Our local expert will explain the significance of these prehistoric and medieval constructions. Some of the most distinctive, which we’ll explore during our field trip, are the beehive huts (clocháns) and the mysterious Gallarus Oratory. Our local expert will also give us a history and a firsthand account of life on the peninsula, including changes that have taken place here in recent decades. After our field trips, we’ll begin our journey back to Adare by motorcoach.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant .
Evening:
After returning to the hotel by motorcoach, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
7
An Irish Farm, Free Time
Location:
Adare
Meals:
B
Stay:
Dunraven Arms Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. Walking about 2 miles; periods of standing; varied terrain including gravel and earth paths, uneven grassy areas, concrete floors. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll board the motorcoach for a field trip to a local farm. The farmer will welcome us to his land, where we will learn about rural traditions and the challenges of farming in modern Ireland as we walk with him around the fields and yards. We'll then return to Adare by motorcoach.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time. This block of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Transfer to Dublin: The National Stud & Japanese Gardens
Location:
Dublin.
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Grand Canal Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 145 miles, approximately 3.5 hours. Walking about 2 miles; periods of standing; varied terrain including grass and gravel paths, uneven rocky areas, tarmac yards.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we’ll board a motorcoach to begin our transfer to Dublin, Ireland’s bustling capital city. Along the way, we’ll pay a visit to the Irish National Stud, a 1,000-acre holding where some of Ireland’s best racehorses are conceived and cared for. After an introduction to the farm by a local expert, we’ll have some time to explore its grounds independently. The site is also, somewhat surprisingly, the home to what is often considered the finest Japanese garden in Europe – a perfect place for quiet contemplation as we wander through its tranquil surrounds.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
We’ll then complete our transfer to Dublin and check into the hotel upon arrival.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Book of Kells, Free Time
Location:
Dublin.
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grand Canal Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 3 miles; approximately 1/2 hour. Walking approximately 2 miles; periods of standing; paved streets, some cobbled areas, gravel paths. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We’ll board a motorcoach and ride to Dublin Castle for a guided field trip, during which we’ll gain an understanding of the history and importance of this iconic landmark. It has been in continuous occupation for over 800 years and, until 1922, it was the seat of British government in Ireland. Today the castle is used by the Irish government for state functions, including the inauguration of the president every seven years. We then continue with an exploration of Trinity College, sometimes referred to as the University of Dublin, which dates back to 1592 and is one of the seven ancient Universities of Britain and Ireland. While here, we will learn about the history and art of this monumental institution. It is also home to the Book of Kells, one of the finest examples of illuminated manuscript in the world. The artistry and attention to detail in its spellbinding calligraphy and illuminations truly is a sight to behold. The book, dating back to 800 CE, is considered Ireland’s finest national treasure. We’ll have some time to explore the Book of Kells exhibition independently at the end of our field trip.
Lunch:
Today our Group Leader will provide us with lunch vouchers.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
This evening we'll enjoy a Theater performance. The Theater's schedule will not be published for this date until much closer to the program. Your Group Leader will confirm your performance at your welcome meeting at the beginning of the program.
Day
10
Free Time, Traditional Irish Dancers
Location:
Dublin.
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Grand Canal Hotel
Activity Note
Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Free time to continue exploration of Dublin. You may choose to explore one of Dublin’s many museums, do a walking tour of the center, hop on the sightseeing bus, or simply get lost in its charming streets as you discover its endless hidden gems. Your Group Leader will be happy to help you decide how to maximize your time in this vibrant city
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We’ll spend our last evening enjoying a performance by traditional Irish dancers during dinner as we bid farewell to Ireland and our newfound friends. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
11
Program Concludes
Location:
Dublin.
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet. Some participants may depart prior to breakfast, whereupon a boxed breakfast will be provided. This concludes our program.
Morning:
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. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
19 Meals
9 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
7 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
- Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 02, 2025 - May 12, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 09, 2025 - May 19, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 16, 2025 - May 26, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 16, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 21, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 28, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 01, 2026 - May 11, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 08, 2026 - May 18, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 15, 2026 - May 25, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- May 22, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 12, 2026 - Jun 22, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jun 19, 2026 - Jun 29, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jul 10, 2026 - Jul 20, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Jul 17, 2026 - Jul 27, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 07, 2026 - Aug 17, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 14, 2026 - Aug 24, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 21, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Aug 28, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 14, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
- Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026 (Ennistymon. to Dublin.)
Participant Reviews
Based on 55 Reviews
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Enchanting Ireland: Town and country was well-paced and varied. Our leader Stephen, and the local guides were knowledgeable about Irish history and their fields. We had visits to the Burren, cliffs of Moher, small towns, local farm and a stud farm. We enjoyed local music, Irish dancers, buskers, and a play. Our time was optimized. The Irish people were curious and knowledgeable about American politics and the coming elections. Many engaged us in conversations. We were immersed in the Irish culture the entire time.
— Review left September 22, 2024
This was an excellent experience all around. I will definitely consider other Road Scholar tours for myself, and recommend it most heartily to others.
— Review left September 17, 2024
Stephen, the Group Leader, was both smart and accessible. He definitely added to group cohesion with his wonderful sense of humor. There was too much bus time for me, but I guess that's inevitable when you're covering rurual territory. Stephen helped with that with a running commentary on Ireland's history - without notes!The Irish people were as friendly as their reputation claims. The Irish dancers were terrific.
— Review left September 17, 2024
A great introduction to Ireland. Brendan is an outstanding tour leader and many of the local expert speakers were excellent.
— Review left September 11, 2024
Fantastic trip...especially if your guide is Brendon!!!!
— Review left September 5, 2024
This was the trip of a lifetime! Our guide was just delightful (Cora M) and I never had to fret about transportation, meals, or what to see and learn about. This was my first trip with Road Scholar, but it won't be my last!
— Review left September 3, 2024
My husband and I just returned from our Road Scholar trip to Ireland:
"Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country." We were enthralled by the beauty and culture of Ireland, and loved the trip of a lifetime for us. We met lovely people from all over the US and enjoyed every minute with them. Our tour guide Fionuella was outstanding. I highly recommend this trip to people who have a desire to learn about the history, art, culture, and people of Ireland, and wish to experience the expansive beauty of this gorgeous country.
— Review left August 29, 2024
I don’t go out much or deal with other people much , so don’t take my comments to heart . Going with 23 people I don’t know was something for a learning curve for me.
— Review left July 9, 2024
The highlights of the trip were the unusual excursions, such as the morning at a working farm and the visit to the Irish National Stud. Frank, our tour manager, was competent and friendly. The expert lecturer who traveled with us to the Dingle Peninsula was extremely knowledgeable (her field was archaeology) and kind. Shane, who walked us through the Burren, was also knowledgeable but quite unkind. Many of us grew fearful about participating since we were scolded for "wrong" answers.
The downsides included an excessive amount of free time in places where there was little to do, such as the full afternoon in Adare, and the tedium of waiting for fellow participants on arrival day so we could all travel in one bus to Ennistymon. Perhaps making two round trips would be better? Some of us also waited a very long time to get a room at The Falls hotel (nearly 5 p.m.) which was frustrating given how exhausted we all were. Perhaps a different approach to scheduling arrival times or a planned excursion on the first day would make it less tedious and disheartening.
In terms of pre-travel information, a list of participants would have been nice, as well as some guidance in terms of what clothes to pack. I was also taken aback at the way our flights were booked; none of us had nonstop direct flights, even on the return from Dublin. Presumably that saved Road Scholar money, but it did not contribute toward good will. The discomforts of the trip outweigh the discoveries, making me reluctant to book another Road Scholar tour.
— Review left July 5, 2024
Great trip! Highly recommend it.
— Review left July 2, 2024
This program was well thought out, interesting historical sites and modern day sites. I.e Farm and Stud Farm.
— Review left July 2, 2024
What a wonderful trip! Fantastic variety of excursions and day trips. Every detail was well planned and our guides were fabulous. Would highly recommend.
— Review left June 22, 2024
We had an overall great experience on this trip. Our group leader, our fellow participants and our local guides added so much to our experience. We highly recommend this trip to others.
Mark & Karen
— Review left May 26, 2024
Loved this trip, my first with Road Scholar. Antonette was very knowledgeable of the history of Ireland and told it in an engaging and entertaining way. The trip was well-coordinated as far as transportation, lodging, meals, etc. I enjoyed all the places we visited. It certainly won’t be my last trip with Road Scholar!
— Review left May 22, 2024
I heartily recommend Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country. Our tour guide, Conor McCarthy, was exceptional and a master story teller. This trip brought the history, legends and magic of Ireland alive.
— Review left May 22, 2024
Our group leader, Antoinette O'Sullivan, was the reason this trip was outstanding, bringing to life Ireland history with her knowledge, adding delightful humor, plus her caring nature to everyone in our group. She has set a new high bar for any future leaders...once you've had the best...
— Review left May 2, 2024
Enchanted Ireland was a five star experience. It was the best of visiting the Irish countryside, small towns to city life in Dublin. The small group experience with a fabulous tour director, Antoinette O’ Sullivan, enhanced the experience. Learned a lot and had many wonderful experiences with memories made forever!
— Review left April 30, 2024
This was a wonderful trip! I had never been to Ireland and its beauty and the friendliness of the people exceeded my expectations. Our leader, Cora, was fabulous and shared so much with us about life in Ireland that went beyond the planned tours and experiences. Our group of 24 could not have been a nicer or more collegial group. Road Scholar plans such a variety of tours that each day provides a truly new experience. All the tour guides were great as were the performances (Irish music, dance, and a play at the Abbey Theatre). There was sufficient free time as well. Even the mid-October weather was good--the only rainy day was one with considerable bus time, so no problem. I had never heard of the Dingle Peninsula and it may be the most beautiful place I've seen. I highly recommend this trip!
— Review left October 20, 2023
Thank you for an incredible experience in Ireland.
— Review left September 12, 2023
I found this trip most enjoyable, loved the daily educational activities and the scenic Irish countryside. The hotels and meals were great, our guide, Brendan was delightful, offered great tips for free time and enjoyable commentary along with Irish banter throughout the day. Each of the docents gave us wonderful Irish history lessons along with Irish legends and lore. I’m currently trying to choose my next trip with Road Scholar. Enjoyed a very diverse group of people on this trip, great travel companions!
— Review left August 28, 2023
I loved this trip! The itinerary highlighted many fascinating places and I enjoyed being with a friendly, interesting group of people. Our group leader Brendan was knowledgeable, helpful, and entertaining. His stories and sense of humor made the trip all the more enjoyable. The area experts were very good, especially Shane, another knowledgeable Irishman with a great sense of humor. This trip is absolutely enchanting!
— Review left August 23, 2023
This program was terrific and exceeded my expectations. The activities, the instructors, hotels, meals and airline arrangements were outstanding. The group leader Antoinette was a true professional and an absolute delight to be with.
— Review left August 22, 2023
Outstanding trip and life changing experience!
— Review left August 15, 2023
At the end of the tour it was hard to believe that it had lasted only a little more than a week. I was transported into a beautiful place, and well taken cared of. Every day was filled with a variety of experiences that I would never have been able to arrange on my own. Everyone was kind, interested and interesting. I’m still reminiscing about it, with a smile on my face.
— Review left July 21, 2023
This program was first class all the way. Great accommodations, food, and guide to lead the group. We learned a lot on our daily excursions from experts in the area. We look forward to taking other trips with Road Scholar in the future.
— Review left June 28, 2023
Our leader, Katie Vaughn was the best! She made Ireland come alive for us!
— Review left June 24, 2023
WONDERFUL-COUNTRY-WONDERFUL-PEOPLE.
— Review left June 22, 2023
Great Program with a knowledgeable leader. I advise for anyone that can only be away for a limited time.
— Review left June 22, 2023
Katie Vaughn should be the Director of your Irish tourism department. Her personal knowledge of Ireland is shared from her heart on a level we could all relate to. Charlene Spaulding
— Review left June 20, 2023
Our trip to Ireland with Road Scholar was an amazing experience. We learned about history, culture and folklore, all the while enjoying excellent food and accommodations. The Irish people we met were wonderful. Combine that with a great trip leader (Brian McCarthy) and other interesting and friendly travelers, and the result is an outstanding, memorable trip to a fascinating country!
— Review left October 25, 2022
We greatly enjoyed this trip (our first Road Scholar trip) - the leader, the other participants, the accommodations and itinerary. We learned a lot, had fun (cultural experiences - music, dance, theater in addition to sites visited ). It was great to have some one else do the planning and logistics , plus the insider knowledge, of course...We already booked another trip for next year.
— Review left October 24, 2022
Enchanting Ireland:Town and Country-The trip was amazing! Beautiful country and beautiful people. Our group leader, Brendan, also amazing, knowledgeable, a treasure
— Review left October 21, 2022
Loved seeing the Irish countryside and meeting locals. It was a very enjoyable trip.
— Review left October 11, 2022
We have discovered a gem in Road Scholar. We feel like participants in the culture rather than observers when we are on their tours.
— Review left September 13, 2022
My spouse and I enjoyed our recent Road Scholar tour of Ireland, and every aspect of the trip exceeded our expectations. The subject matter ws informational, the leadership exceptional and flexible, the lodgings and meals were excellent. We would recommend a Road Scholar tour to all who plan to travel.
— Review left September 2, 2022
If you're considering a trip to Ireland, I wholeheartedly endorse this one. You get a taste of city, village, and rural all in one trip. Our hotels were great and the food was quite good. Our guide Fionnuala was so knowledgeable on every facet of history, culture, literature, nightlife, music, and current events.
— Review left August 13, 2022
Wonderful guides and glorious beauty. I learned so much and had a fantastic time.
Thank you for the change to see River Dance as I had not had the opportunity to catch it in the states.
— Review left July 22, 2022
a delightful, leisurely and informative trip through the beautiful countryside of Ireland.
— Review left June 25, 2022
Ireland was beautiful, and we were lucky to have wonderful weather.
Our group leader was knowledgeable and accommodating, I just wish the tour would have included an Irish dancing show and some of the meals that were supposed to have been included were not. Overall, another great RS tour.
— Review left June 24, 2022
Wonderful experience.
EIL coordinated and created our marvelous in country itinerary for Road Scholar and we were fortunately (as many of the 17 of us noted) an especially congenial and well guided group.
Several members had taken multiple RA trips (think 9 was top #) - and confirmed our events , visits, and experiences were exceptional.
Several of us added excursions during free-time, one to Foyles, to visit the Pan Am Clipper Sea Plane Museum down the Shannon River from Limerick, and another to Newgrange, the significant Neolithic site and Visitors Center, located 54 Km North of Dublin.
Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country, May 2022 earns my A+ recommendation!
— Review left June 3, 2022
I had the best time! Our leader Brendan was amazing, and very knowledgeable about all things Irish. The pace was active, and we were tired by the end of each day, but we saw and did so much. I was traveling with my father, and it was a special shared adventure for us both. Road Scholar took care of all the details, and we could enjoy our travels with that assurance. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
— Review left May 24, 2022
The trip itself and its leader, Dick Daly, were very, very nice and we are happy that we made the trip. Ireland does not disappoint in any way. The accommodations were among the best I've had on any road scholar trip. Our group size was small, 9 people. That may have been just as well because 3 people tested positive for Covid before leaving Ireland and at least one after returning home. So, be careful. Use an N95 mask when inside or riding a bus. We did and it worked for us.
— Review left April 24, 2022
An amazing taste of both western Ireland and Dublin city, with stunning vistas, interaction with local animal farmers, and lots of information about Ireland's extensive geological and social history.
— Review left August 26, 2021
We were the first RS group in Ireland post Covid. Everywhere we went the people were thrilled to see us!! Very friendly! Lots to see and do! Well planned by RS.
— Review left August 18, 2021
excellent journey through ireland with a great guide and group
even the weather cooperated!
— Review left February 1, 2020
A very pleasant introduction to Ireland. Meet local people and learn what their life is like.
— Review left November 18, 2019
As with past Road Scholar trips, we experienced a great leader (Jill), a great group of fellow travelers, and many expected and unexpected sights. Altogether, we had a fine time with a nice mix of both small town Ireland and the big city of Dublin. We were able to get a nice feeling of life in small town Ireland as well as the hustle and bustle of the big city. I was very happy not be the driver along the narrow country roads of western Ireland. This was our first time in Ireland and we realize that there is still much to be seen in the Northern Ireland trip. Maybe a return visit?
— Review left October 19, 2019
Before our trip, one friend said the key to a good trip is having a great trip leader. Another friend said the key is the other people on the trip. Our trip to Ireland was a 5 out of 5 on both counts. Our trip leader, Sheila, was organized, friendly and fun, and we'd happily have her as our tour guide again. And we had an inspiring group of travel-mates who we thoroughly enjoyed traveling with. Based on this trip (our first with Road Scholar), we will make Road Scholar our first choice for future trips.
— Review left September 24, 2019
This view of Ireland was wonderful. From the open countryside to the crowded streets of Dublin, I saw a people friendly, diverse and interested. This was not my first Road Scholar trip and it hopefully will not be my last.
Gwen
— Review left September 18, 2019
Ireland was much different from my expectations. The Irish people are so open and friendly. I learned so much from our guide, 'young Brian Mc
Carthy' as the presenters called him. The food was excellent and abundant. There were some similarities in economic problems between Ireland and Michigan. Michigan could do so much more with its tourist industry to emulate Ireland.
— Review left August 21, 2019
When I am looking at your on-line catalog and choose a trip that I want to read about when I go back I have to start at the beginning of the list again which is frustrating.
— Review left June 8, 2019
Ireland is a welcoming place, and this trip explored the countryside as well as the cities. It was relaxing, and I didn't want to leave to come home.
— Review left June 3, 2019
Great program, great fellow travelers, great weather---what is not to like?
— Review left May 31, 2019
Road Scholar Fulfilled every desire I had concerning my trip to Ireland. I was afraid when I first made the reservations because I had discovered Road Scholar via an add on Facebook and did not know how legitimate they were. I worried until the day we left, concerned with the type of experience I would receive. I was blown away with how accurate the description fit the adventure. I will use Road Scholar on all my adventures in the future. It was delightful not having to make my own reservations, look up activities, worry about car rental, etc. Road Scholar did it all and did it so much better than I could.
— Review left May 28, 2019
We experienced the tour, Enchanting Ireland: Town and Country on May 17-27, 2019. The tour greatly exceeded our every expectation! The comfort level, activities, accommodations, food and staff were exceptional! The program description was fine but did not do the entirely positive experience justice! The trip was amazing and the tour guide, Cora, a rare jewel!
— Review left May 28, 2019
