Though it is known to many as the land of leprechauns, Ireland is home to far more than legends. Where in one place you'll find verdant patchwork farms flowing into the tranquil ocean, another coastline may be home to ancient ruins crumbling into raging, white-capped waters. Ireland has a rich history, and a flair for producing great literature - plus it is home to the legendary dry stout, Guinness. Diverse, hospitable, and full of great music and beer, the Emerald Isle is sure to impress.

Itinerary:
Day 1 - Canada to Ireland
Day 2 - Dublin
Day 3 - Ireland's Midlands - Blarney Castle - Kerry
Day 4 - Ring of Kerry
Day 5 - Burren - Cliffs of Moher - Limerick
Day 6 - Galway
Day 7 - Connemara
Day 8 - Galway - Dublin
Day 9 - Depart for Canada

Town and Country
Ireland is a place whose magic lies in the contrast between rolling green pastures and lively towns - between foot-stomping kitchen parties and tranquil harbourfronts. You'll enjoy the natural wonders of the Ring of Kerry and its spectacular mountains and lakes, but bookend your trip with two nights in Dublin where rowdy pubs and landmark historic sites make for a true city experience.

Traditions
Ireland is a country of tradition, and the greatest of these is to kiss the Blarney Stone. While visiting this 15th Century castle you'll have the chance to awkwardly contort yourself in order to access the “Stone of Eloquence”, a landmark said to bring eloquence of speech to those who kiss it. Another tradition, one that has been committed to song, is to watch the sun go down on Galway Bay. You'll spend a day delighting in the narrow streets, old stone store fronts and busy pubs of this town, before watching night envelop the nearby Cliffs of Moher.

Other Sights and Attractions
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most popular attractions. These 700-foot cliffs are home to nesting seabirds and provide stunning views of the surrounding County Clare. You'll also view the unique "large stones", castles and monastic ruins of Burren, the famous Cathedral dome of Galway, and the fjords of Killary Harbour, plus embark on a ferry ride across the river Shannon. While in Dublin view the brightly painted doors at Georgian, pass through St. Stephen's Green to the historic Post Office, and wonder at the intricacies of the Book of Kells that is housed in the library at Trinity College.

Accommodations and Dining
During your stay you'll enjoy accommodations in several first class hotels. The Killarney Court Hotel is only ten minutes from the town centre and features the award-winning McGillicuddy's Pub, Jury's Inn, your accommodations in Dublin, is at the centre of historic O'Connell Street, and the Carlton Hotel in Galway is close to great shopping, food and nightlife. An important part of any trip to Ireland is a true Irish breakfast, which you'll enjoy on several occasions (depending on where you are this could consist of soda bread, blood pudding and all the trappings of your typical bacon and eggs breakfast). You'll also be treated to a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle in Limerick, and you'll have plenty of time to indulge in the country's famous pub food and drink.