Itinerary

Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION (PEX): Depart U.S and fly overnight to Cork, Ireland

Depart from the U.S. for Ireland. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 2 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Arrive in Cork

Upon arrival at Cork's Airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. If your luggage is lost, fill in a PIR form before leaving the customs area: VBT representatives are not allowed into the customs area. (Please note: Make certain that your VBT luggage tags are affixed to your bag so your VBT representative can identify you.) After exiting customs, enter the arrival hall and look for your VBT representative who will be holding a VBT sign and will make arrangements for your transfer via taxi or van to your Cork hotel (transfer time is approximately 20 minutes depending on traffic).

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Cork. You have the rest of the day to relax or to begin exploring the city.

Day 1 of AIR PACKAGE Depart U.S./Fly overnight to Cork Airport (via London)

Depart from the U.S. for Ireland. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 3 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Cork

Enjoy your first day of independent exploration in Ireland's third largest city. The bustle of the Victorian English Market is probably the best place to experience its essence. It's an indoor covered market owned by the Cork City Council and situated on the Grand Parade, a very short walk from the hotel. After exploring the rest of the downtown area you may wish to take short walk (just over a mile) from the city center up to the restored and atmospheric City Gaol, complete with furnished cells. Both the exhibition and multimedia display trace the lives of individual inmates imprisoned here during the 19th and 20th centuries. At the same location is the Cork Heritage Center depicting life in Cork during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Day 2 of AIR PACKAGE Arrive in Cork/Transfer to downtown Cork

Upon arrival at the Cork airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. (Please note: Make certain your VBT luggage tags are affixed to your bag so your VBT representative can identify you.) As you enter the arrival hall, look for your VBT representative holding a VBT sign. Please wait here while your representative helps make arrangements for your transfer to your hotel in Cork (transfer time is approximately 20 minutes).

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Cork. Take the rest of the day to explore the city and have dinner on your own.

Day 4 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Cork/Join VBT Air Package guests

This morning you may wish to head farther afield and visit one of the several tourist attractions in the close vicinity. Blarney Castle, about 5 miles from Cork city center, was built nearly 600 years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, including a host of American Presidents, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures. Here you will find the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of our Tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be at a loss for words.

About 14 miles away is Cobh, the last port of call for the Titanic on her maiden voyage. Here you can visit the Queenstown Story Heritage Center that tells the story of emigration from Cobh during the famine in 1845 up to the era of the great Liners in the 1950s. You can also learn the historic role Cobh harbor has played as a port.

The day is yours to enjoy.

Day 1 of WALKING TOUR Guests meet in Cork/Transfer to Killarney

VBT No-Air Package guests: After breakfast on your own, meet one of your VBT Trip Leaders at the Imperial Hotel, Cork at 9 a.m. (Address: South Mall, Cork, Republic of Ireland; telephone +353 [0] 21 427 4040). To reach the hotel, you can take a taxi from Cork airport to Cork (approximately 15 euros/$22.50 USD) or travel on Bus Eireann, which provides frequent and direct coach service between Cork Airport, Cork City Center and Cork Bus Station (this costs approximately 5 euros/$7 USD and takes approximately 25 minutes; for more details go to www.buseireann.ie). If your arrival in Cork is scheduled later than 9 a.m. or if you are delayed, you must transfer at your own expense (approximately 170 euros/$255.00 USD for a taxi, travel time approximately 90 minutes) to the first hotel in Killarney. Please contact the Cork hotel to advise them of any travel delays or changes so the hotel staff can pass the message on to your VBT Trip Leaders.

VBT Air Package and Pre-Trip Extension guests: Meet one of your VBT Trip Leaders in the hotel lobby at 9 a.m.

Once we have gathered, there will be a short introductory meeting followed by a transfer by private bus from Cork to Killarney, approximately 90 minutes. Our first destination is Muckross, within Killarney's National Park. Ensure you are prepared for a day of walking as the bus will continue with our luggage to the hotel after leaving us at the lodge entrance. Here we meet our second VBT Trip Leader and see stunning vistas of the Killarney Lakes and their impressive mountain backdrop. We walk through a lush meadow, along the river and through the woodland onto the lakeshore. Across the waters, we'll admire the tree-smothered slopes of Tomies Wood stretching upwards towards the peaks of Shehy and Tomies mountains. We continue along the shoreline through a delightful woodland glade until we come across the magnificent manor house of Muckross House. Enjoy lunch in the Muckross Garden restaurant.

This afternoon, we have the choice of enjoying a stroll through magnificent displays of ornamental shrubs, flower beds, and wide expanses of manicured lawns, or continuing with a walk around Muckross Lake.

Our afternoon walk takes us through ancient woodland, over Brickeen Bridge, and across Dinish Island to the Meeting of the Waters and the Old Weir Bridge. All the while, we are surrounded by wonderful views, small lakeside beaches and rocky coves. We meet our bus and drive to our home for the next three nights, collecting non-walkers at Muckross House on the way.

After settling in, get to know your fellow travelers and Trip Leaders at a welcome reception and dinner.

Day 2 of WALKING TOUR Discover the Gap of Dunloe

After breakfast we transfer to legendary Kate Kearney's cottage, where the 19th-century beauty sold a brew “very fierce and wild, requiring not less than seven times its own quantity of water to tame and subdue it.” It's now a popular shop and pub, and the start of our walk up a steady paved incline through a spectacular glacial valley, the Gap of Dunloe. Our trail parallels a mountain stream over rugged terrain lined with massive boulders, till we reach the pass between Macgillycuddy's Reeks (Ireland's tallest mountain range at 3,414 feet) and the Purple Mountains. Then we descend into the Black Valley. All the way we'll have a horse-drawn jaunting cart at the ready for those who want a break.

A lakeside picnic awaits us at Lord Brandon's Cottage. From here, we board open boats and cruise to Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house, as our boatmen regale us with local tales. This evening, we shuttle into Killarney for dinner on your own and the opportunity to mingle with the locals over a Guinness in one of Killarney's thriving pubs.

Day 3 of WALKING TOUR Glenbeigh and the Kerry Way

Today, our walk helps us explore the northern part of the Kerry Peninsula. After a short drive, our bus will leave us at the trailhead, a paved quiet country road circling Seefin Mountain. As we walk, enjoy the spectacular views over Lough Caragh. At the end of the road, you have the option of rejoining the minibus and meeting the group in Glenbeigh or walking to Glenbeigh up the mountain on a footpath through Windy Gap. This path is part of the Kerry Way, a 135-mile walking route over old droving paths and coach roads created more than 20 years ago.

Upon reaching Glenbeigh, enjoy some free time and lunch in this quaint town.

After lunch, you have two options. Shuttle two miles to Rossbehy Creek and take a short walk along White Strand, a beautiful sandy beach on a small peninsula stretching into Dingle Bay. Or walk along the banks of River Behy and back on the Kerry Way through the sloped woods of Curra hill, then shuttle down to Rossbehy Beach.

Tonight before dinner, we meet Denis Kissane, a local friend who will give a nostalgic presentation on his childhood in “The Old Bohareen.”

Day 4 of WALKING TOUR Walk through the Killarney National Park into Killarney and Ross Castle/Visit the home of Denis Kissane

After breakfast, pack your luggage. Today we leave Loch Lein Country House for Kenmare. First we take a very short drive to Castle Ross Hotel where we start our walk into Killarney through the beautiful parkland. You can stop at Killarney Cathedral and venture into town for shopping or join our Trip Leaders for a walk around Ross Island. More a peninsula than an island, Ross Island is heavily wooded with a network of paths leading to attractive viewpoints overlooking Lough Leane. Also visible are remains of former copper mines, some dating back 4,000 years to the prehistoric Bronze Age and others from the 19th century.

After free time for lunch in Killarney, we visit our newfound friend, Denis Kissane, who has invited us to see both his childhood home (featured in his talk yesterday evening), and his current home, where he will entertain you with tea or coffee and freshly made scones. We then continue to our new home for the next three nights, Brook Lane Hotel, Kenmare

Tonight is free for you to explore the town, a 4-minute walk away along a footpath directly opposite the hotel.

Day 5 of WALKING TOUR Gleninchaquin Park/Home-cooked lunch

This morning we can have a later start and walk down to Kenmare market square to sample the local market. Afterwards shuttle 15 miles to Lough Inchiquin and into Gleninchaquin Park, located at the end of a beautiful valley. Here we meet Peggy and Donan Corkery whose ancestors have lived in the valley for over 130 years. Then choose from a variety of walks, from gentle farm or river strolls to a more challenging walk over the 448-foot waterfall (well worth the effort just for the views!). Make sure you visit the Heritage Site to see the reconstructed 19th-century cottage that was typical in this area.

When you return from your walk we enjoy a home cooked lunch of homemade soup and scones.

This afternoon continue your exploration of the park on another trail. Later, we shuttle back to Kenmare. This evening is free for you to experience one of the pubs or restaurants in Kenmare.

Day 6 of WALKING TOUR Kerry Way to Caherdaniel and Derrynane Bay

Today the scenery is spectacular as we walk along the southwestern section of the Kerry coast, with views of tiny islands, towering cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and some of the finest beaches in Europe.

For people wanting a slightly more challenging option, our morning trailhead starts along a single-track road. We follow this path along another section of the Kerry Way known to the locals as the Old Butter Road. This leads us along farm tracks and then into open moorland. There is a slight incline before you drop down into Caherdaniel with one of the best views in Ireland over the bay.

Once in Caherdaniel, a pretty coastal village on the shore of Derrynane Bay, we transfer by our bus to Derrynane House. The ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, Derrynane House is a public museum commemorating one of Ireland's leading historical figures, known by the nation as the Great Liberator.

For people wanting an easier option you may shuttle directly to Derrynane Bay and enjoy a lovely walk with the second Trip Leader across to Abbey Island and the remains of a tenth-century abbey and the local cemetery.

We all meet for an included lunch in the café at Derrynane House, followed by a tour of the museum. Derrynane House is furnished with family portraits, writings and a great many items belonging to Daniel O'Connell: the dueling pistols he used to kill rival John D'Esterre in 1815, the black glove he wore in remembrance of that day, and the fabulous gold chariot he rode through Dublin amidst jubilant crowds on his release from prison. A video presentation outlines the life and times of the great man.

There'll be time to explore the gardens behind the house, walk around the Derrynane Dunes nature trail, or just relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with over a mile of golden sand. Meet our Trip Leaders in the local Keatings Bar, just a small room in a private house turned into a pub for the locals. After an included drink we will meet the bus and drive back to Kenmare.

This evening we have a farewell dinner in the hotel and then say goodbye to your VBT Leaders.

Day 7 of WALKING TOUR Walking Tour Ends/Transfer to Kinsale

VBT No-Air Package guests: Our tour finishes at the hotel after breakfast. The hotel will help you book a taxi at your own expense to either Killarney railway station (approximately 60 euros/$90 USD, travel time approximately 50 minutes ), Cork Airport (approximately 150 euros/$225 USD, travel time approximately 2 hours) or Shannon Airport (approximately 250 euros/$375 USD, travel time approximately 3 hours).

VBT Air Package and Post-Trip Extension guests: Transfer by private motor coach to the medieval town of Kinsale, known as a gourmet capital. It has an abundance of traditional bars and restaurants, beautiful buildings, narrow streets, shops and galleries, and a pretty harbor area.

Once you arrive in Kinsale, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore this quaint town. VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Kinsale.

Kinsale has been seasoned liberally by Norman, Spanish, and English influences since medieval times, but nowadays most of the seasoning takes place in the numerous fine restaurants that make this Ireland's gourmet capital. Kinsale is also a yachting center (hence the great seafood!).

Day 8 of AIR PACKAGE Depart for U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the Cork airport for your return flight.

Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, full breakfast at the hotel may not be available but a cold tray is possible to be delivered to your room. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served and to arrange your cold tray if necessary.

VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport is at your own expense.

Day 1 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent Exploration of Dublin

If you have chosen the optional, independent post-trip extension, transfer to the Cork train station for your train ride (approximately 3 hours) to Dublin. There is no VBT representative on the train ride; but a VBT representative will meet you upon arrival in Dublin and help you transfer to your hotel (approximately 25 minutes). Important: Upon arrival at the hotel, please reconfirm with the hotel receptionist the time of your transfer to the Dublin airport for your return flight to the U.S. You have the remainder of the day free to take in the atmosphere of Dublin and to seek out an interesting pub or restaurant for dinner on your own.

You remain in Dublin for an additional night on your own. VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Dublin.

Day 2 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent Exploration of Dublin

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Dublin provides visitors with a multitude of cultural riches, from the ancient to the avant-garde: history, architecture, literature, art, archaeology and the performing arts. Monuments in literature and in stone commemorate the writers, poets, statesmen, soldiers and ordinary people who make Dublin a place like no other. Medieval, Georgian, and modern architecture provide a backdrop to a friendly, bustling port that claims literary giants such as Wilde, Shaw, Joyce, Yeats, Beckett and O'Casey as native sons. Spawned by the need to ford the River Liffey, fortified by the Danes, developed by the Normans and adorned with Anglo-Irish architecture, the city has grown in stature and elegance over the centuries.

On your own, you may want to explore Trinity College, the Dublin Writers' Museum or Christ Church Cathedral. Take in a show at the Abbey Theatre or at one of the city's many other venues. Hoist a pint with Dubliners at a traditional Irish pub, or stop in at a trendy wine bar in the Temple Bar area. Walk along the River Liffey or through one of the many shopping squares.

Day 3 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Dublin Extension Concludes/Depart for the U.S.

After breakfast*, transfer to the Dublin airport for your flight home.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport is at your own expense.

Ireland: Walking the West Country 2012

Pre and Post Trip Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension

Cork 2012 (Ireland Walking) - 2 nights for only $245

Everywhere in Cork there is evidence of the city’s history as a great mercantile center, with grey stone quaysides, old warehouses and elegant, quirky bridges spanning the River Lee. But the city’s lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere and vibrant social and cultural scene are equally powerful draws. You will have the time to explore it all, including some of the surrounding sights such as Blarney Castle and its famous stone, or Cobh (formerly Queenstown) the last port visited on the Titanic’s maiden voyage and its interesting Heritage Center.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $145.

Post-Trip Extension

Dublin 2012 (Ireland Walking) - 2 nights for only $445

Charming Dublin is among Europe’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, from literature and art to history and architecture. During your two nights here, follow your own curiosities, which may lead you to Trinity College, where you can see the Book of Kells, and Merrion Square. Visit the Dublin Writers’ Museum, which pays tribute to Irish literary figures including Wilde, Shaw, Joyce, Yeats and Beckett. See a show at the Abbey Theatre, or shop on Grafton Street. In the evening stop in for a pint at one of the many pubs and chic restaurants in the historic Temple Bar area.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $295.

Accommodations

The Imperial Hotel

This is one of Cork’s most exclusive properties. Historic architecture merges with contemporary design to create a magical environment.
The Imperial Hotel has been serving Cork since 1813, when the Cork Committee of Merchants commissioned architect Sir Thomas Deane to design and build The Commercial Rooms. In 1816 the merchants requested that Deane extend the original building along Pembroke Street to serve as a hotel and coach yard. The Imperial Hotel, originally the place where merchants met to discuss business, remains the most popular business and social center in the city today.

Loch Lein Country House

Our gateway to the Ring of Kerry is the charming Loch Lein Country House, a 4-star lodging in the village of Fossa with views of the Macgillicuddy Reeks and Killarney’s Lower Lake (Lough Lein). Our hosts, Paul and Annette Corridan, go out of their way to make us feel welcome with superb food and a true family atmosphere. Enjoy the view from your spacious room with private bath and fine furnishings, or relax in the lounge or beautiful gardens. Golfers can avail themselves of four nearby golf courses. Fishing and horse riding are available, too.

Brook Lane Hotel

The Brook Lane Hotel is a very friendly boutique hotel, just a four-minute walk outside the pretty town of Kenmare. It has a bar and bistro in addition to a restaurant.

The Trident Hotel

The Trident Hotel is a 4-star hotel perched on the harbor front and just a very short walk from the center of pretty Kinsale.

The Schoolhouse Hotel

Unique, intimate and ideally located within a 10-minute walk of Dublin city center, Grafton Street and the city’s main tourist attractions, this four-star hotel exudes a warm friendly atmosphere.

Rating Level

Easy/Moderate

This tour features a combination of paved roads and easy terrain, mixed with moderate hills, moorland and uneven footpaths, ideal for enthusiastic beginners to experienced walkers. Due to Ireland’s climate, the footpaths can often be wet and muddy. Our VBT minibus support is available at specified meeting points for those who need assistance. Both morning and afternoon walk options are available most days.