Sleep in Westport. Each was excellent with things that stand out. Trying to put the experience into words is like looking at your pictures when you get home - they just cannot capture the colors, smells, vistas - just unbelievably beautiful. Really appreciated the guide's knowledge and personability.". We wish we had more time at the cliffs of Moher and The Burren (not just a guided tour of the geology and the flora and fauna of the landscape). I knew nothing of Ireland or Northern Ireland, and was amazed by its rich history, beautiful geography, and friendly people. The scenery was enjoyable. Our tour guide and driver were exceptional, just like every Rick Steves tour we've been on. Our group of 5 friends decided that this tour would cover the most of the country for the best price so we signed up. This was our first RS tour, we have two more scheduled the next 2 months. Very enjoyable, memorable, and a lot of fun due to Dara. This was my first Rick Steves tour and it exceeded all of my expectations! An educational experience as well as a lot of fun! My husband and I are already talking about returning to Ireland. The entire trip was a wow. We mainly wanted to see the coastline and countryside, hear a lot of local music, and just soak up the atmosphere ... and that's just what we got, in abundance! We enjoyed the whole trip, bad weather and all. And for Irish music lovers who need to be in bed by 10pm, and couldn't go to one of the 50 bars and pubs in town, it was a mercy. It ran just like a well oiled machine. I had a wonderful tour experience. Friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. We had a wonderful experience touring Ireland, both the Republic and Northern Ireland. This reminded us of the actualities of Irish life and the fact that Ireland is not just about history. "Where do I begin: Give her a raise!! Jetzt online bestellen! On one hand I'd like to do this tour again in case I missed anything the first time. The personality and trip skills,along with the knowledge of the country by Dara and Pamella truly enhanced the experiencing of Ireland These two individuals gave us s Wow everyday??! I just loved it". Many, including myself, became quite ill. "The history and politics of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are both fascinating and complex. glad we did the 14 day tour. The majestic and stark landscape was totally unexpected, but mesmerizing. Everything was great. I need not have worried at all! Tour was great and missed outstanding due to buss seating appropriate for school children. A very unique and memorable experience.". Also, enjoyed learning about the Blasket Islands and their history.". We were able to experience it all. Susie is a superlative tour guide, and a native with many personal stories to share. I was quite apprehensive prior to the tour as: a: I had not ever been on an organized tour; b: I was travelling as a single. We became a tight community, spurred on by our dinners together and shared experiences. Cathie's singing!". Our fellow travelers were a great, fun group. Season 2 Episode 10. The tour members were great fun and Joe Darcy, our guide was great fun and knowledgeable about the history of Ireland. Slea Head Drive and Giants Causeway didn't disappoint either!". Such a beautiful and friendly country. Lynn Corken was excellent. "My wow moment was checking into the St James Hospital emergency room for an unexpected case of colitis and diverticulitis. We really enjoyed our stay in Dingle, his home town. The other decent "wow" moments were being in Dingle, Galway, and Belfast, experiencing the city life and the surrounding countrysides.". The historical significance (depicted by the Famine Cross, Croagh Patrick, and the Coffin Ship) associated with the valley and the strains of "Danny Boy" and "I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen" played on the bus speakers while driving through the Terms of Service | Privacy, Upcoming Holidays and Festivals in Ireland, Belfast and the Best of Northern Ireland (episode), South Ireland: Waterford to the Ring of Kerry (episode), The Best of West Ireland: Dingle, Galway, and the Aran Islands (episode), Go Left, Young Man: Driving in Great Britain and Ireland, South of Dublin Highlights: Gardens, Monastic Ruins, and Studs, The Tale of Michael Fagan: He Came in Through the Bedroom Window, Ireland’s Aran Islands: Bleak and Beautiful, Tidy and Tiny: Top Towns of Coastal Ireland, A Short Walk Through Ireland’s Long History, Booking It Through Europe: Top Literary Stops, Dublin: Big-City Sights and Small-Town Smiles, Europe’s Emigration Museums: Remembering the Long Goodbye, Europe’s Wide World of Traditional Sports, Pubs, Parades, and St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, The Ring of Kerry: From Tetrapods to Transatlantic Talks, A Day on the Antrim Coast, Ireland’s Scenic North, The Amazing Life of Waterford’s Favorite Son, Going to the Dogs (and Other Animals) in Europe, Dingle Peninsula: Pint-Size Beauty We had to skip one of the excursions and spend a 'free day' in bed. "Seeing the 'beehive" huts and ancient castles that house the Irish for centuries, their strong hearts and hard work ethic demonstrated why the Irish culture is so prominent in the world today. "Cliffs of Moher and the Giants Causeway. No bus. This morning we'll drive through County Clare to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where you'll find yourself leaning into the wind and teetering on the very edge of Europe more than 600 feet above the churning waters of the North Atlantic. "Tough to choose just one. Bus: 3 hours. We loved the people of Ireland, the history, culture, politics and sites. Excellent and fun taste of Ireland. Sleep in Kinsale. So many Wow moments make me want to do it all again.". I loved the efficiency offered by the tour of Ireland. "Great weather made the country amazing! Once again, a fabulous experience on our Rick Steves tour! The tour was just as we expected for a Rick Steve's tour. The scenery is just astonishing and we saw it under perfect weather conditions; I admit the latter cannot be guaranteed! Our bus driver Denise was amazing with his driving ability and he was so very polite. The physical beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant's Causeway took my breath away.". This was our second Rick Steves' tour and found it as enjoyable and well managed as the first tour! The coach from Belfast direct to Dublin Airport takes about two hours and departs hourly 24 hours a day. Or, you'll have plenty of time to set out on foot, hire a pony cart, or pedal a bike to explore this windswept island on your own. I loved my Ireland 14 day tour! I felt that I got a very comprehensive tour of primarily coastal areas of Ireland. We were wonderfully exhausted every night! I had been to Ireland before, so I knew what many of the country's highlights were. All the participants were cheerful and just a nice group of people. Olive was like a member of the family of travelers. On our Best of Ireland in 14 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily…, The Best of Ireland was, as we learned the Irish are likely to say: "perfect!" Today we'll explore Northern Ireland's spectacular Antrim Coast, marveling at the bizarre basalt columns and local legends of the Giant's Causeway. ©2020 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | I loved the places we visited, but the best part for me was learning about the history, culture and people. This was our 3rd Rick Steve's tour, and while we have really enjoyed all our tours I think this may be the best. He was very knowledgeable and shared many stories and facts along the way. Hit Ireland's can't-miss sights, bites, and history in two weeks or less with Rick Steves Best of Ireland!. He was a stand-up comedian and had us laughing all the time. This was my first Rick Steves tour and I thought we'd be roughing it. Our first Rick Steves Tour became our best trip ever. Left Ireland with love for the Country People foods music History Culture?????? Joyful evening listening to wonderful musicians, a world winning Irish dancer and a 10 year old dancer. "I find it hard to pick one moment there were so many. The guide, Joe Darcy, was so humorous and knowledgeable. For coronavirus (COVID-19) travel information, ▲▲ Kinsale and Cobh County Cork's two quaint harbor towns: Kinsale, beloved by foodies, fun for strolling, and guarded by squat Charles Fort; and the emigration hub of Cobh — the Titanic's last stop. We hiked up both sides and truly appreciated the views from the top.". Our group was very cohesive, no outliers. Ireland was a feast for my eyes. Love RS tours much because of the education for each country I visit. Not enough time for that.". "Our walk along the Giant Causeway was memorable. However, what I enjoyed the most was the several (it might have been as many as a dozen) different music events which were all tremendous. Great way to see Ireland! In addition to our Irish guide and Irish coach driver, we had local guides at each stop. Wonderful trip. Kinsale. We really loved the London experience and were hoping that a 2-week trip with lots of days on a bus would be just as good; 14 days in Ireland did not disappoint. I was a bit concerned about what it would be like for me as I was the only person who didn't know anyone on the trip. Very enjoyable tour! I think it is important to know these types of conflicts can happen and perhaps we can learn how to prevent these from reoccurring in the future. "Slea Head drive and the Dingle peninsula. This was my first Rick Steves tour and went by myself. We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. "Most moving - Doo Lough Valley Dara was an amazing guide, and I couldn't imagine a better way to see Ireland. As I travel with Rick Steves’ Europe Tours, research my guidebooks, and make new TV shows, I’m reporting on my experiences across Europe. She did everything right! Far exceeding our expectations, the food, music, and places we visited were wonderful! It was thrilling to walk around on this world-famous site.". When horrible weather (Hurricane Lorenzo) arrived, we had good options to replace places that proved unsafe for the group. Giant's Causeway, Dingle & Falconry were exceptional as well. Both were exceptional. We saw, tasted and heard Ireland at it's very best! We loved too that the tour included the sheep dog demonstration!!! We had a large tour group yet everyone was very nice and got along. Dingle. I knew it was going to be a wonderful trip but it far exceeded my expectations. Our tour guide Lisa is outstanding as a host and guide. Ireland was as beautiful as we dreamed it might be. The trip was significantly enhanced by Dara Herlihy who went way beyond "just showing us sights." Derry. "We did so many things in just 14 days, it is difficult to identify a favorite "wow" moment. "I really likes the sheep dog exhibition, the cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Portrush, and even gritting Belfast. Rick Steves's guides are great. The Brexit madness adds a looming darkness to the situation. The Giant's Causeway and surrounding area was quite spectacular. Each day, I was certain that we'd seen as much beauty as there could possibly be, and then the next day, more to behold. A little context, I had a heart attack 9 days before we flew from SFO to Dublin. The entire experience from beginning to end was totally Top Notch. Every tour stop was an added value to the tour; e.g., the working sheep dog and Accomadations were outstanding. "This is a most difficult task. Can't wait to take our next journey! for must see sights, for pretty great sites, for kinda great sites and naught but a mention for others. This was our 4th Rick Steves tour and we had high expectations from our previous tours. My past travels to Europe always included a Rick Steves guide book. "The sheep dog experience and bring on the sheep farm...the live music and dance....and the things I did on my own like Newgrange, Jenny Johnson Ship and Potato Famine Museum.". Hit Ireland's can't-miss sights, bites, and history in two weeks or less with Rick Steves Best of Ireland!. eBooks. This tour/Country is an all round winner! The group of 25 tour members got along very well and we didn't have any issues. County Clare & the Burren. * Visiting Ireland's tribute to 911. The overall tour experience was overshadowed by an extremely contagious chest cold and cough that circulated throughout the majority of the tour participants. Loved Dublin, Kinsale, Dingle. "Narrowing many great moments down to just one is difficult, but the views of the rugged coastlines in contrast to the lush green landscapes were amazing! Expert advice from Rick Steves on what's worth your time and money; Two-day itineraries covering Dublin, Kilkenny, Kinsale, Kenmare and the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Town and Peninsula, County Clare, Galway, Aran Islands, Belfast, Portrush, and the Antrim Coast I owned a Border Collie years ago and it was fascinating to see a working dog in action doing what she was bred to do.". Expert advice from Rick Steves on what's worth your time and money; Two-day itineraries covering Dublin, Kilkenny, Kinsale, Kenmare and the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Town and Peninsula, County Clare, Galway, Aran Islands, Belfast, Portrush and the Antrim Coast Good balance of structure and free time so the tour did not wear me down. The music in Dingle was phenomenal, but the sights at the Cliffs of Moher were breathtaking as well. The experience felt uniquely Irish, and the musicians projected such a love of their heritage, as well as exceptional talents!". Great music. Danielle was wonderful sharing her knowledge and expertise with Putog the Harris Hawk and it was very enjoyable and memorable.". Truly unique and truly special. Ireland is beautiful and the route we took on the bus was fantastic.i can't believe we went so far in the time allotted. Beautiful and exciting!". The live traditional music. Even in the rain. We had a fantastic adventure exploring the history, politics, culture, food and drink of this island. The combination of history, music, and unparralled beauty of the Island, tour buddies made for our Wow moment. Highly honed schedule, pacing with the right combination of travel, guided experiences and free time to discover. I had clearance from my cardiologist, and he said have fun and don't overdo anything. The Heart of Ireland in 8 Days — Rick's personal "best of" distillation of our two-week Best of Ireland tour — starts in Ennis (just down the road from Shannon Airport) and ends in Dublin. All in all, I'd have to say it was stress free. Cliffs of Moher, Giants' Causeway, local musicians playing for us in Dingle, falconry at Ashford Castle, Titanic Museum, everything was amazing.". Having a down day mid way through the tour was a good idea. I loved the personal touch that we all got to experience.". . It is difficult to imagine an experience better than this. Our guide was enthusiastic and well-prepared. Joe Darcy and Mark Whelan absolutely added to the overall experience. Very comprehensive (i.e. A+. I particularly enjoyed the musical experiences which were interactive and vivacious. Well paced, educational, and great group of fellow travelers. "Day 9 Aran Islands it was so much more beautiful than the Cliffs of Moher (far too crowded)". The people were so nice everywhere and our tour family was lots of fun. Rick Steves' Europe. For me all of the Beautiful Scenery.". I made what will probably be some of the best landscape photographs I have ever done.". I'd wanted to go there for years.". Dara made it come alive! For Debby her wow moment was the 10 year old Irish Dancing Girl in Dingle at the Record Store where Declan had arranged for our group to attended a concert. For me, my "wow" happened when we went with another couple to Matt Malloy's in Galway and listened to six individuals who played in a small, jam packed-room. "I would have to credit Dara with the biggest WOW! It was just lovely. It was a very Harry Potter experience - the Castle, the Owls and Falcons, walking back to town along the waterway via the woods and the weather cooperated by providing a warm sunny day, unforgettable experience.". Rick Steves' Best of Ireland tour kicks off with the best of Dublin, followed by Ireland's must-see historical sites, charming towns, music-filled pubs, and seaside getaways — including Kinsale, the Dingle Peninsula, the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, Galway, Connemara, Giant's Causeway, and the compelling city of Belfast. "The people of Ireland are so incredibly friendly. Our group had No Grumps and were a really fun bunch! Then I remembered the tour of Slea Head. I love having the pre-planning in place so that I can concentrate on the history, people and experiences Bus: 5 hours. One constructive comment - Slow down, Declan. We enjoyed learning about Ireland, its culture, history, and peoples. Also, loved all of the Irish music and dance!". They made a great team giving us a well rounded experience. "My favorite moment was the guided tour of the Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin. We had been to Ireland 4 years ago and knew we wanted to return. Sleep in Kinsale. Here's my list: I would highly recommend it to anyone. "My biggest surprise was Belfast. "I don't know if I can narrow it down to just one but the Giants Causeway stands out as well as the many ancient castles.". My room was above the kitchen and I could smell the scones baking in the morning. This was our 2nd RS tour, and our first 14 day tour! Our group had the nicest people. Our favorite thing about the Rick Steves Ireland Tour. This morning we'll take a walking tour through Dublin, learning about its rich history, from the days of Viking raids to the hard centuries of British occupation to the proud and progressive city of today. One regret: not spending time in Donegal. My 2004 Lonely Planet Ireland guidebook has twelve pages on the city. Our tours are physically active! So many!! Dingle was a great little town too.". The rich green countryside with grazing cows and sheep was mesmerizing!". This tour came pretty close. We'll enjoy the fine views and great seabird-watching before continuing on to Belfast. After leaving this momument, we continued on and saw the "Coffin Ship". Loved,loved, loved it. Local guides were for the most part excellent, with a couple of minor exceptions. The People, Castles, rocks, multi shades of green and music delighted our senses. There was no one "wow" moment.". Great Bus driver Pamella?? This is something I would not have experienced if I had traveled on my own. "Either the Giant's Causeway or Carrick-A-Rede. Today we'll take a scenic drive along the forests (Ireland's largest), mountains, and lakes of Killarney National Park. Bus: 1 hour. "Views of the countryside - the falconry - the sheep, cows.". The falconry school was an unexpected experience.". For more information about transportation options for getting to and from your tour, see your Rick Steves Ireland guidebook.