The Galway Races

A Local Taste of Ireland

It’s off to the races! The Galway Races, that is. Join Ker & Downey on a 12-day jam-packed discovery of Ireland’s heritage, from the country’s longest and most prestigious race in Galway to the local folklore and ancient recipes within its medieval hamlets.

Suggested Itinerary-at-a-glance:

• Day 1:

  Arrive Dublin / Merrion Hotel (L,D)

• Day 2:

  Arrive Dublin / Merrion Hotel (B,D)

• Day 3:

  Arrive Dublin / Merrion Hotel (B,D)

• Day 4:

  Galway / Glenlo Abbey Hotel (B,D)

• Day 5:

  Galway / Glenlo Abbey Hotel (B,L,D)

• Day 6:

  Galway / Glenlo Abbey Hotel (B,L,D)

• Day 7:

  Clare County / Dromoland Castle (B,D)

• Day 8:

  Killarney / Killarney Park Hotel (B,L)

• Day 9:

  Killarney / Killarney Park Hotel (B)

• Day 10:

  Limerick / Adare Manor (B,D)

• Day 11:

  Dublin / Merrion Hotel (B)

• Day 12:

  Dublin / Departure (B)

Itinerary Description:

Before donning your hat for the Galway Races, spend some time in its capital and cultural heart of Dublin. Upon arrival in Dublin, immediately set off for a no-stone-left-unturned exploration, visiting Trinity College, lunching at Brasserie 66, experiencing a private pint pulling demonstration at the Guinness Storehouse, and enjoying a guided panoramic tour of the River Liffey and south Dublin neighborhoods. For an authentic taste of Ireland, take part in some Irish dancing lessons and venture along the Irish Food Trail, a culinary journey of Ireland's rich culture and traditional cuisine. After a day trip to Glendalough, along with a bit of dabbling in falconry and clay pigeon shooting and a self-guided walk through town, return for one final evening in Dublin at Ireland's oldest pub, the Brazen Head.

With a taste of Ireland officially on your tongue, it is now time to travel onward to Galway for the opening festivities of The Galway Races, a seven-day festival known for its vibrant, bustling atmosphere. Your accommodation during your time in Galway is Glenlo Abbey Hotel, an 18th century home turned luxury hotel on a sprawling 138-acre Irish countryside estate. While here, embark on private helicopter ride over Ireland's West Coast and enjoy exclusive admission, served seating, lunch, and a race card for The Galway Races.

After experiencing the excitement of The Galway Races, continue on your luxury Ireland discovery, first stopping in Clare County for a taste of medieval castle life. Enjoy falconry lessons at Dromoland Castle's School of Falconry, countryside horseback riding at Ballyhannon Castle's Castlefergus Riding Stables, and an entertaining medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle before retreating to Killarney for a couple of days along the exquisite Irish coast. Witness Ladies View on your cruise through the Killarney Lakes and drive along the Ring of Kerry coastal highway for panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean.

Conclude your time in Ireland within the lush heartlands of County Limerick at the stunning Adare Manor, formerly the family seat of the Earls of Dunraven. Take flight on an exclusive sunset hot air balloon ride over the 840-acre estate, floating peacefully over the expansive landscape of gardens, woodlands, and the River Maigue for one final breathtaking moment with Ireland's inescapable beauty. On your way back to Dublin, you will have a chance to stop at Kilkenny Castle and Smithwick Brewery for a lingering taste of Ireland to accompany you on your flight home.

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