Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
September 2 - 10
Call 800.486.4816 or email one of our travel consultants at ireland@questtraveladventures.com for more information
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$250 HOLDS YOUR PLACE
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- $250 HOLDS YOUR PLACE -
Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, September 2 - 10
Travel to Ireland with Michael! To make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation, who better to meet you in the Emerald Isle than top PBS travel show host, and internationally acclaimed Irish tenor, Michael Londra. You'll discover wonderful Irish scenery and learn the history of this magical place on a 9-day tour. Let Michael bring you to his favorite places and retrace his steps from his hit travel and music show Ireland with Michael on Public Television. Enjoy some local insight as you explore wonders of the majestic Irish countryside, hear some great music, and meet surprise guests along the way!
Price is land only. Airfare is booked separately. Price includes luxury coach, services of driver / guide, entrance to all tourist sites, hotels, all breakfasts and most dinners, see details below.
· Trad on the Prom Show: Experience an evening filled with Irish music, dance, and culture at the highly acclaimed Trad on the Prom show in Galway.
· Gin Tour & Tasting: Visit The Shed Distillery for a tour and tasting of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin, a popular spirit produced using locally sourced botanicals.
· VIP Concert: Enjoy an exclusive concert at Lough Erne Golf & Resort featuring top-notch traditional Irish musicians.
Travel in style and comfort aboard our private, air-conditioned coaches, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable journey between destinations.
Cost : $4199.00
Single Supplement : $1199.00
AT A GLANCE
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After landing in Dublin, we head right to Ireland’s Hidden Heartland, spectacular Clonmacnoise, a monastic settlement from 545AD on the banks of the River Shannon. From there we go west to the vibrant fun city of Galway, home of the Claddagh!
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Travel to the heart of Connemara to visit the romance of Kylemore Abbey, take a cruise on a fjord and join Michael at the best Irish music show on the island, Trad on the Prom.
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Head north to the stunning island of Achill to see the abandoned village and the home of a pirate queen before heading to beautiful Westport House, located in historic Westport.
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Drive to Achill Island to see the site of The Banshees of Inisherin move, the home of a Pirate Queen and a deserted village.
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Visit Westport House and enjoy the great pubs and lively music of Westport town.
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Visit the highest cliffs in Europe. Donegal is famous for its tweed, so onto world famous Hanna Hats and some Donegal town for shopping. A musical night is in store when you return to your hotel.
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Drive back to Dublin. We have a stop in Trim village to see the wonderful Anglo Norman castle on the way before checking into one of Michael’s favorite hotels in Ireland, the elegant Davenport . Then to top it off there is a night of song and dance.
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A day at your leisure in Dublin City, with a pass to visit one of its top attractions. You choose from a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, Teeling Whiskey Distillery, EPIC Immigration Museum, or the General Post Office (GPO).
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We bring you to Dublin Airport for your flight home. Don’t forget that there is incredible duty free shopping.
September 01
DEPART THE UNITED STATES
Depart your hometown and take an overnight flight across the Atlantic. Enjoy in-flight entertainment and meal service as you travel to start your vacation. Some people come a few days earlier and we can advise you on hotels or places to visit. Just let us know.
September 02
DUBLIN ARRIVAL, CLONMACNOISE, GALWAY CITY
After landing at Dublin Airport, complete customs, and immigration formalities. Your driver/guide will welcome you to Ireland and escort you and your luggage to the coach. You will also get a warm welcome from the man himself, Michael Londra. The PBS host will get to know you as you cross country with a stop for you very first Irish breakfast. We are headed to center of Ireland, it’s Hidden Heartland to the spectacular site of Clonmacnoise. The ancient monastic settlement was founded in 545 and is beautifully set on the banks of the River Shannon. We’ll tour Clonmacnoise and learn the history of what was once the center for learning in Europe. Visit the ruins which include a Cathedral, two round towers, three high crosses, nine churches and over 700 early Christian grave slabs. The original high crosses include the magnificent Cross of the Scripture are on display in a purpose-built visitor center adjacent to the monastic enclosure.
We move on to the medieval city of Galway. There’s so much to see in the city that was chosen as European Capital of Culture for 2020. We’ll start our Galway adventure with a gentle walking tour with Brian Nolan who you may have seen with Michael back in Season 3 of our show.. See the medieval city walls, Lynch’s Castle, the narrow streets, and age-old alleys, and learn about the history of this truly unique place. Let Galway get under your skin, and it will never leave you, as Michael discovered on his walking tour of Galway.
Next stop is our hotel, the 4-Star luxury Salthill Hotel, where you’ll check in and settle into your room. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome drink, followed by an early dinner in the hotel restaurant.
September 03
CONNEMARA, KYLEMORE ABBEY, THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Salthill Promenade over breakfast, before setting off to travel along the storied WILD ATLANTIC WAY to see some of the most spectacular scenery Ireland has to offer. The route takes you TO Kylemore a stunning estate built as an act of love where it offers stunning panoramic images from all angles, There are very few places in the world which can rival the rugged beauty seen in Connemara. We’ll continue our trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way as we head for a relaxing cruise along the Killary fjord before heading back to our lovely hotel. You can dine on your own at nearby restaurants in Salthill or at the hotel.
September 04
ACHILL ISLAND, A DESERTED VILLAGE & A PIRATE QUEEN
After breakfast and a fond farewell to Michael, our bus will head north to County Mayo. Our first stop is the stunning island of Achill sight of the filming for the huge 2023 movie, The Banshees of Inisherin. This incredible island linked by bridge to the mainland highlights the life of the islanders tied to the sea. Witness the abandoned village on the southside of Mount Slievemore giving you a glimpse of the tough life of its people. Head to see the house of a Pirate Queen. We will have lunch before heading back to our base in Mayo, the gorgeous town of Westport. The story of Westport House, its rise, fall and rise again will inspire you before we head into the town itself. With its charming stores, craft fare and most importantly pubs, this town has so much to offer. There is live music nightly so there is every chance to get out and get into to some harmless trouble.
The luxury 4-star Hotel in the center of Westport town, where you will check in and settle into your room. Spend some time exploring Westport before joining everyone in the award-winning hotel restaurant for a delicious meal.
September 05
WESTPORT WITH A CHIEFTAIN
Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast (they’re so good) at the Castlecourt Hotel.
Embark on a guided walking tour of Westport, a picturesque town designed by James Wyatt in 1780. Stroll along the charming promenade (the Mall) and admire the quaint stone bridges over the River Carrow Beg.
Visit Westport House, an 18th-century mansion featured in Season 2 of Michael's TV show. Marvel at its magnificent views of Clew Bay and the Atlantic Ocean and explore the stunning rooms filled with priceless furnishings, paintings, books, and silver. Enjoy free time to explore Westport independently. Consider stopping by Matt Molloy's pub for a pint, where you might catch a performance by Matt, a member of the Grammy-winning band, The Chieftains.
September 06
SHED DISTILLERY, DEVENISH ISLAND
On our way to Enniskillen we will stop at the Shed Distillery, home of Ireland’s famous Gunpowder gin. See how this renowned drink is made and better still, sample a little of it.
arrive to the island town of Enniskillen, nestled on a small island separating Upper and Lower Lough Erne, Enniskillen’s beautiful waterside setting, bustling with cruisers in the summer, makes it the perfect base to explore the charms of County Fermanagh. Enniskillen offers wonderful scenic landscapes on its doorstep, making it the perfect location for embracing Fermanagh’s giant spirit.
We’ll pay a visit to the small monastic settlement on Devenish Island by boat set in the heart of Lower Lough Erne. The short cruise is relaxing, taking in the lough wildlife and pleasant pastoral scenes. Dating back to the 6th Century, the island holds the best-preserved round tower in Ireland and an Augustinian Abbey, ancient graveyards and a high cross.
See Michael’s visit to Devenish Island in Season #1 of Ireland with Michael:
We arrive at our hotel, the luxurious 5-star Lough Erne Resort located just outside of Enniskillen town and check in for your stay. Truly one of the most luxurious resorts in Ireland, you will have dinner with your fellow travelers in the hotel restaurant.
September 07
DONEGAL CASTLE, HANNAH HATS & STUDIO DONEGAL, ENNISKILLEN TOWN, LIVE MUSIC
Our first stop after breakfast is the unbelievable Sliabh Liag cliffs, the highest in Europe. The view will leave you breathless. We will then head to Donegal town to thereat of the O Donnell clan, imposing Donegal Castle, standing tall in the very heart of Donegal Town, towering over the River Eske. The castle was built in the 15th Century by Red Hugh O’Donnell as his personal fortress and the home of one of the most powerful Gaelic Clans in Ireland. Brought back to its former glory in the 1990s, the castle reflects a long and turbulent history which Michael learned when he visited Donegal Castle in Season #3 of Ireland with Michael on PBS
Next, we pay a visit to the nearby Hanna Hats, world famous for its tweed hats, woven wool, and other fine apparel. Truly Michael is never out of them. He has quite the collection. Check out what Michael learned about tweed hat and cap making in Season #3 of Ireland with Michael.
We will give you time to shop in this lovely market town. There are plenty of stores stocking everything from tweed fashions to locally made jewelry.
We return to our hotel in Enniskillen and spend some time at your leisure before dining in the hotel restaurant. After dinner enjoy a very special musical night with your fellow travelers as arranged by Michael. He knows musicians in every corner of the island.
September 08
FERMANAGH TO DUBLIN
Depart from Enniskillen and venture into the historic town of Trim. Explore one of Ireland’s largest and most impressive Anglo-Norman castles, constructed in the 12th century by Hugh de Lacy and his son, Walter. Set on the picturesque River Boyne, Trim Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past. Continue to the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Walk among the historic passage tombs dating back to the late Stone Age and feel the echoes of Ireland’s early centuries. Arrive in Dublin and check-in at the Davenport Hotel.
Our hotel for the night is the 4-Star Davenport Hotel, Located in the heart of Georgian Dublin steps away from Merrion Square, The Davenport is one of Dublin’s most iconic luxury hotels, offering guests an old-world experience of the Irish capital with every modern convenience needed for a comfortable stay. Enjoy free time to relax before a special evening at Taylors Three Rock, where you’ll indulge in delicious Irish cuisine accompanied by really fun lively music and dance.
September 09
ENJOY A DAY AT YOUR LEISURE
After breakfast at your hotel, we invite you to spend a day at your leisure in vibrant Dublin, where you can choose from a wide variety of pursuits. With a hop on hop off bus pass, you can decide where to go next!
Plus, you will have a voucher to admit you to one of Dublin’s top attractions. Choose between The Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story attraction telling the story of Dublin’s iconic beverage, complete with a pint at the Gravity Bar on the top floor, with its stunning views of the city before you; the Teeling Distillery for a tour and sample of the finished product, or the EPIC Ireland Immigration museum which celebrates the dramatic story of the spread of Irish culture around the globe, and how Ireland has changed throughout the years. Discover Ireland from the outside in and find out why saying “I’m Irish” is one of the biggest conversation starters no matter where you are! EPIC is the winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction Award in 2019, 2020 and 2021. Here’s what Michael saw when he visited EPIC in Season #2 of Ireland with Michael.
Or you may choose instead to visit the General Post Office (GPO) on O’Connell Street and learn about its role in the 1916 Easter Rising and how it was left in ruins.
In the evening, enjoy and independent dinner of your choice; you may like to dine in one of the many restaurants and pubs that Dublin has to offer. We are happy to make recommendations.
September 10
RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES
All too soon, your vacation has come to its final day. Transfer to Dublin Airport in good time to check in for your flight. You may do some last-minute shopping at the duty-free stores before boarding your aircraft and flying back to the United States.
Salthill Hotel, Galway
The 4-star Salthill Hotel in Galway is situated on the spectacular Salthill promenade with panoramic views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills. This award-winning hotel is just steps from the beach and is one of the only hotels in Galway with a leisure centre and gym. Michael loves the elegant rooms, the choice of food at breakfast and just how close it is to the water for a brisk evening stroll to work up an appetite.
Castle Court Hotel, Westport
The family owned 4-star Castlecourt Hotel is located in the heart of Westport. It offers live music and dancing every night, a 20-yard indoor pool, gym and spa and beautifully decorated rooms. The spacious rooms at The Castlecourt Hotel, Spa & Leisure all feature TVs and free WiFi. Some rooms have 4-poster beds. With an outdoor rock pool hot tub, the luxurious Spa Sula offers a range of massages, body wraps and beauty treatments. There is also a sauna, steam room and a fully equipped gym.
Michael loves that you can stroll downtown Westport in minutes with its fun stores, restaurants and pubs with nightly music. He also recommends the art hanging all round the hotel.
Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen
Escape to the countryside to the luxurious 5-star Lough Erne Resort, located minutes from the island town of Enniskillen.
Nestled on a 600 acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, it has spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course.
Lough Erne Resort provides the ultimate 36-hole golf experience. Home to two Championship Golf Courses; the awarding winning Faldo Course and Castle Hume Golf Course.
Guests can enjoy a unique Thai inspired experience from the luxury spa treatment menu. The Thermal Suite and Infinity pool at the Thai Spa are complimentary for all hotel guests.
Davenport Hotel, Dublin
Located in the heart of Georgian Dublin, The Davenport is one of Dublin’s most iconic hotels. Seamlessly blending heritage and history with the modern needs of today’s hotel guest, Michael loves the elegant décor and the premium comfy beds. The hotel’s premium dining options include the 1863 Lounge, offering a wide variety of dishes to suit any taste and a full bar, including numerous whiskey choices. While The Davenport exudes an old-world feel throughout, the needs of the modern traveller have not been forgotten. Smart TVs with Chromecast connectivity and complimentary access to Dublin’s fastest hotel WiFi, while every guest also has access to our 24-hour gym.
Interested in booking your vacation?
Call 1.800.486.4816 or email one of our travel consultants at ireland@questtraveladventures.com or fill in the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.