Please note: details of the post congress tour are below. The tour is now fully booked.
- Leave Dublin in the morning and drive to Galway city
- Visit – Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Visit this early Christian site founded by Saint Ciaran in the 6th century on the banks of the River Shannon. Clonmacnoise is a holy place, one of many pilgrimages and Irish folklore. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, eight churches (10th-13th century), two round towers, three high crosses and a large collection of early Christian grave slabs. The original high crosses and grave slabs are on display in the Visitor Centre. Hundreds of people have once lived here, and Clonmacnoise prospered as a town – with many scholars, teachers, and religious leaders.
- Lunch – at Pádraicíns Seafood Bar & Restaurant
- Dinner and overnight – Glenlo Abbey 5 Star Hotel
Glenlo Abbey Hotel is situated overlooking the River Corrib some four kilometres upstream of Galway City. It is the ancestral home of the Ffrench family, one of Galway’s famous ‘tribes’, followed by the Blake family and finally the Palmer family. It remained a country residence for over 240 years. The grand house and estate were home to the families along with their servants, coach men and farm labourers. The Glenlo estate was built in 1740 in the style typical of families of social standing and wealth. It included farming land, a walled orchard, kitchen garden and flower garden, ownership of part of the river Corrib and natural wetlands. The name “Glenlo” or “Glenlough” comes from the Irish “Glean Lacha” meaning “Glen of the Lake”. It describes the gently sloping lands north and south of Lough Corrib, and Glenlo was the original name of the house sited on the 140-acre estate in the townland of Kentfield. Each family, merchants of commercial importance in Galway city, provided jobs for local people on the estate as well as Galwegians employed in their businesses in the city. The location was coveted – with Connemara to the west, it sits a comfortable distance from Galway city yet close enough for easy access to this day. We look forward, to your group, being part of our history….
- Enjoy Dinner – The Pullman Restaurant at Glenlo Abbey
Ireland’s most unique dining experience. Step back in time and dine aboard the Pullman Restaurant. Comprising of two original carriages from the Orient Express, beautifully restored and set on the grounds of the hotel. Enjoy the luxury and splendour of dining in true style and sit by the window seat and take in the spectacular views overlooking Glenlo Abbey Estate and Lough Corrib.
Day 2 Friday 11 October 2024
Connemara / Galway / Dublin
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit – Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Visit Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful manor built in 1857 by Henry Mitchell for his wife, Margaret Mitchell, while they were on their honeymoon in Connemara. It is known as one of the most romantic places in Ireland. The house was transformed into an abbey in the 1930’s when the Irish nuns of the Benedictine Order arrived from Ypres in Belgium after the First World War. They abbey then became a prestigious female boarding school, but now it hosts nuns on retreat as well as welcoming tourists visiting from around the world
- Lunch – Galway Food Tours
Galway Food Tours offer a delectable adventure through Ireland’s culinary gem. Led by passionate guides, these tours showcase the city’s vibrant food scene, celebrating local flavours and artisanal delights. Wander through bustling markets, quaint cafes, and traditional pubs while savouring regional delicacies. Engaging with local producers and chefs, participants gain insights into Galway’s rich culinary heritage and its fusion of global influences. From farm-to-table experiences to mouthwatering desserts, Galway Food Tours promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey that captures the heart and soul of this captivating city.
Please Note:
The tour will return to Dublin on Friday 11th October at approximately 7pm.
Anyone wishing to book flights on that day, we recommend the EARLIEST departure time to be 9.00 pm.
The drop off point will be in Dublin city centre close to the Westbury Hotel.
Travel to the airport and any additional accommodation requirements for the night of Friday 11th is not included in the tour. Individuals should have organised their own arrangements for this in advance.
All prices in EUR
€925 per person in shared twin/double room
Supplements: Single room €190 per room
The schedule is provisional and subject to change depending on availability and final numbers.
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