Pot of Gold
Riches of Ireland
July 3 – 11, 2004
THE LUCK O’ THE IRISH
Blarney! Like the story about a Leprechaun who hid
a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, and covered it with dross so
that humans could never find it. Utter nonsense? Perhaps not, if the
tale is viewed as a parable about Ireland itself—a priceless tourist
destination that often has been obscured by inclement weather and political
strife.
It is said that Ireland, once visited, is never
forgotten, and for once the blarney rings true. The Irish landscape
has a mythic resonance, due as much to the country’s almost tangible
history as its claim to being the home of the fairies and the “little
people.” Sure, the weather may not always be sunny, but the dampness
ensures there are fifty shades of green to compensate—just one
of the reasons Ireland is called the Emerald Isle. It is also home to
one of the most gregarious and welcoming people in Europe. With their
curious tales, captivating conversation and unique way with a phrase—before
you know it, they’ll be having you in for a cup of tea and a chat.
Walking is one of Ireland’s biggest attractions,
and we’ll take many beautiful walks—along the banks of Lough
Corrib, on the Cliffs of Moher, in Killarney National Park and the Ring
of Kerry. Jigging an evening away to Irish folk music is one of the
joys of a trip to Ireland. Most traditional music is performed on fiddle,
tin whistle, goatskin drum and pipes. Almost every village seems to
have a pub renowned for its music where you can show up and find a session
in progress, even join in if you feel so inclined.
In Ireland, the past is a living spirit.
You’ll see it everywhere, and encounter it in the people you meet.
Ancient relics remind you of a thrilling Celtic age of warriors and
myth. Stately homes and mediaeval monasteries tell of times gone by.
Modern architectural wonders offer a glimpse of the new, thriving society.
But to appreciate the astonishing diversity of this island, all you
really have to do is to look around you. Everywhere you go, you’ll
find spectacular scenery that will stay with you long after you’ve
returned home.
All the don’t-miss spots of Ireland are
delivered by this in-depth package. You’ll sightsee in Dublin,
walk the Cliffs of Moher, drive around the spectacular Ring of Kerry,
kiss the Blarney Stone, see how crystal is created in Waterford, wander
the narrow medieval streets of Galway, and much more! Join Toto Tours
in Ireland to discover the gay nightlife, the magnificent scenery and
sweeping views, the fascinating history, the friendly people, and the
whole “Pot of Gold” that is Ireland.
ITINERARY
Saturday, July 3, 2004
Departure
Take an overnight flight from your home city that is scheduled to
arrive in Dublin, Ireland early tomorrow morning.
Sunday, July 4, 2004
Independent “Independence” Day
We provide one group transfer from the airport to the hotel this morning.
Today is free to rest from the long flight, and to do independent sightseeing.
This evening we get acquainted during a Welcome Dinner at our hotel,
Chief O’Neill’s. (Welcome
Dinner)
Monday, July 5, 2004
Touring Dublin
Enjoy an Irish Breakfast at our hotel this morning, followed by a half-day
guided tour of some of the city’s most important sights. The tour
includes entrance to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and while touring
Trinity College we will be able to enter the Library to view The Book
of Kells. Our afternoon and evening are free for independent adventures. (Breakfast)
Tuesday, July 6, 2004
By the Banks of Lough Corrib / Galway
After breakfast we cross the country (which can be done with amazing
ease) to the small town of Cong on the edge of Lough Corrib. In 1951
director John Ford came here with John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara
to film The Quiet Man, which we recommend viewing before the
tour. Take a cruise on Lough Corrib and enjoy time to walk on its banks.
We proceed to Galway for free time and overnight at the Connemara Coast
Hotel. (Breakfast)
Wednesday, July 7, 2004
Cliffs of Moher / Killarney National Park
After breakfast we travel further south to Clare County and Liscannor
Bay, where the tiny village of Lahinich sits on a beautiful beach. Close
by are the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most spectacular
sights. We take time to hike along the cliffs with the booming sound
of waves crashing far below. Then we’re off to Killarney, situated
at the edge of beautiful Killarney National Park in Kerry County. En
route we enjoy a ferry crossing from Killimer to Tarbert, and a stop
in Tralee for lunch. Continuing to Killarney National Park we have time
to enjoy an optional 2-hour bicycle or horseback riding experience in
the Park prior to hotel check-in and dinner. The evening is free. Overnight
at the International Hotel. (Breakfast)
Thursday, July 8, 2004
The Ring of Kerry
Beginning and ending in Killarney, the 110-mile circuit road around
the Iveragh Peninsula, known as the Ring of Kerry, is one of Ireland’s
premier excursions. We devote a full day to exploration of this circuit
in a leisurely fashion, stopping frequently to enjoy the views and walking
paths. In the spirit of Adventure Travel, the interests of the group
and the suggestions of our guide will determine our course. Enjoy dinner
together at our hotel this evening. Overnight at the Killarney International
Hotel. (Breakfast / Dinner)
Friday, July 9, 2004
Blarney Stone / Waterford Crystal
After breakfast this morning we transfer to Cork City to tour the
famous Blarney Castle and have a look at the Blarney Stone (kissing
it is optional). The legend that anyone who kisses the Stone will be
blessed with the gift of gab originates from Queen Elizabeth I, who
became exasperated with Lord Blarney’s ability to talk endlessly
without ever actually agreeing to her demands. After lunch we proceed
to Waterford where we enjoy a guided tour of the famous Waterford Crystal
Factory. Overnight in Waterford at the Tower Hotel. (Breakfast)
Saturday, July 10, 2004
Powerscourt Waterfall / Farewell Dinner
We return to Dublin today, skirting the Wicklow Mountains and stopping
at Enniskerry, an elegant, picturesque village built to adorn the Powerscourt
Estate. We enjoy viewing the Powerscourt Waterfall (entrance to the
estate gardens is optional) before continuing on to Dublin. Check in
at the Plaza Hotel and enjoy time for last-minute souvenir shopping
before our Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast
/ Dinner)
Sunday, July 11, 2004
Departure
The tour officially concludes after breakfast at the hotel this morning.
We will provide one group transfer to the airport this morning for those
who are departing today. (Breakfast)
We will be happy to arrange additional nights at our Dublin hotels
for anyone who wishes to arrive early or stay longer after the tour
concludes.
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