Overview
NEW - Discovering Ireland: Literature, Legend & Myth
Europe
9 days
8 nights
12 people
Easy
History & Culture
Walk in the footsteps of WB Yeats, Ireland’s most celebrated poet, as you explore the spectacular scenery and history of County Sligo and County Donegal. In a region Yeats famously dubbed "the land of heart's desire," we'll go off the beaten path and visit places few others do. With its dreamy landscapes, spellbinding legends, cozy pubs, and friendly local culture, the region is sure to captivate. So grab your shillelagh and get ready for an epic journey through the shimmering vistas of the Emerald Isle!
Special Access: Enjoy a private storytelling experience over afternoon tea at the iconic Biddys O'Barnes pub with a famed local author.
Travel with Purpose: Visit with a master weaver preserving the tradition of artisan textiles.
Global Community: Spend the afternoon with local oyster farmers, learning the art of oyster farming and indulging in a fresh harvest.
Spirits, Saints, and Souls: The Secret History of Halloween With Lisa Morton
Learn even more about Celtic traditions and get into the Halloween spirit by exploring the history behind this eerie holiday in our upcoming online course. Discover the ancient origins, traditions, and folklore that shaped Halloween into the celebration we know today. (Begins October 14th!)
Highlights
- Sip afternoon tea during a private storytelling experience at the iconic Biddys O'Barnes pub.
- Taste "Old Ireland" through a historical feast in Dublin.
- Meet a master weaver in renowned textile hub County Donegal.
- Spend an afternoon with local oyster farmers (and slurp a fresh harvest with some craft beer or bubbly).
Cozy pubs, dreamy landscapes, and friendly locals in Ireland.
Day 1
Welcome to Ireland
Welcome to the Emerald Isle! After arriving at Dublin Airport, take a private transfer to your city center hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore Dublin. Check out Dublinia Museum for a taste of Viking and medieval history, the Francis Bacon’s Preserved Art Studio for a shot of culture, or the Leprechaun Museum for a bit of fun. For a quintessentially Irish experience, grab a drink at the legendary Gravediggers pub. In the evening, join us for a group welcome dinner where you’ll meet your fellow travelers.
Welcome to Ireland
Welcome to the Emerald Isle! After arriving at Dublin Airport, take a private transfer to your city center hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore Dublin. Check out Dublinia Museum for a taste of Viking and medieval history, the Francis Bacon’s Preserved Art Studio for a shot of culture, or the Leprechaun Museum for a bit of fun. For a quintessentially Irish experience, grab a drink at the legendary Gravediggers pub. In the evening, join us for a group welcome dinner where you’ll meet your fellow travelers.
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Brooks Hotel or similar, Dublin
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Welcome Dinner
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Brooks Hotel or similar, Dublin
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Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Donegal: Caves, Cuisine & Coastal Charm
After breakfast, a private coach will whisk you away to County Donegal, known for its extraordinary natural beauty and recently included in Lonely Planet’s list of the top regions in the world to visit in 2024. Along the way, we’ll stop for a light lunch and visit the world-famous Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh. Explore the labyrinth of caves and subterranean rivers with an enthusiastic guide who will share the stories of this wondrous underground world with you. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure before meeting up with the group for a delicious dinner.
Donegal: Caves, Cuisine & Coastal Charm
After breakfast, a private coach will whisk you away to County Donegal, known for its extraordinary natural beauty and recently included in Lonely Planet’s list of the top regions in the world to visit in 2024. Along the way, we’ll stop for a light lunch and visit the world-famous Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh. Explore the labyrinth of caves and subterranean rivers with an enthusiastic guide who will share the stories of this wondrous underground world with you. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure before meeting up with the group for a delicious dinner.
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Irish Country Life: Folklore & Farming
Head to the picturesque village of Glencolmcille today for a taste of traditional Irish country life at the Glencolmcille Folk Village. After lunch, head to the scenic Barnesmore Gap in the Bluestack Mountains to meet a friendly local farmer, watch a sheepdog demonstration, and chat about rural farming. Next, enjoy coffee and scones at the famous Biddys O Barnes pub, followed by a private storytelling experience with local author and guide Keith Corcoran, who’ll take you on a journey through Ireland's enthralling myths and legends. Back in Donegal Town in the early evening, you have a free evening to dine and raise a glass or two - as the locals say, “sláinte!”
Irish Country Life: Folklore & Farming
Head to the picturesque village of Glencolmcille today for a taste of traditional Irish country life at the Glencolmcille Folk Village. After lunch, head to the scenic Barnesmore Gap in the Bluestack Mountains to meet a friendly local farmer, watch a sheepdog demonstration, and chat about rural farming. Next, enjoy coffee and scones at the famous Biddys O Barnes pub, followed by a private storytelling experience with local author and guide Keith Corcoran, who’ll take you on a journey through Ireland's enthralling myths and legends. Back in Donegal Town in the early evening, you have a free evening to dine and raise a glass or two - as the locals say, “sláinte!”
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
Coastal Heights & Textile Delights
Kick off your day with a spectacular boat tour around the base of Europe's tallest accessible sea cliffs at Sliabh Liag. You can even take a dip in the Atlantic if you're feeling bold! Then take a gentle hike up to the cliff tops for breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic coastline. Afterward, we'll explore the quaint little market town of Ardara, where you’ll meet master weaver Eddie Doherty and learn why Donegal has been a renowned textile hub for centuries. Enjoy some free time to wander the village or sample a dram at Sliabh Liag Whiskey Distillery. Finally, we'll wrap up the day with a delicious meal and toe-tapping Irish music at a cozy pub.
Coastal Heights & Textile Delights
Kick off your day with a spectacular boat tour around the base of Europe's tallest accessible sea cliffs at Sliabh Liag. You can even take a dip in the Atlantic if you're feeling bold! Then take a gentle hike up to the cliff tops for breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic coastline. Afterward, we'll explore the quaint little market town of Ardara, where you’ll meet master weaver Eddie Doherty and learn why Donegal has been a renowned textile hub for centuries. Enjoy some free time to wander the village or sample a dram at Sliabh Liag Whiskey Distillery. Finally, we'll wrap up the day with a delicious meal and toe-tapping Irish music at a cozy pub.
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Mill Park Hotel or similar, County Donegal
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Seaside Serenity & Literary Legacies
After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll set off for County Sligo, our home for the next three days. En route, we'll stop at some scenic spots and enjoy a light lunch with a view. In the afternoon, why not take a refreshing stroll (or a dip!) at one of many breathtaking beaches? By late afternoon, we'll arrive in Sligo Town. Nestled between the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way and lush lakelands, Sligo boasts a rich literary heritage and stunning countryside. Don't miss the chance to explore the ruins of Sligo Abbey with its carved tombs and ancient altar. After checking in and freshening up at your hotel, sit down for a delicious dinner before hitting the local pubs for a taste of Sligo's lively nightlife.
Seaside Serenity & Literary Legacies
After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll set off for County Sligo, our home for the next three days. En route, we'll stop at some scenic spots and enjoy a light lunch with a view. In the afternoon, why not take a refreshing stroll (or a dip!) at one of many breathtaking beaches? By late afternoon, we'll arrive in Sligo Town. Nestled between the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way and lush lakelands, Sligo boasts a rich literary heritage and stunning countryside. Don't miss the chance to explore the ruins of Sligo Abbey with its carved tombs and ancient altar. After checking in and freshening up at your hotel, sit down for a delicious dinner before hitting the local pubs for a taste of Sligo's lively nightlife.
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sligo's Charm (According to Yeats)
After breakfast, get ready to dive into the enchanting world of Sligo, better known as Yeats Country. We'll explore spots dear to the heart of the legendary poet, from Drumcliffe Church to the majestic Benbulben and the serene Glencar Waterfall. After lunch, you'll have some free time to soak in the stunning scenery, stretch your legs, and maybe spot a Fairy Fort. But don't wander too far, because we've got more tales to tell! Gather 'round for local legends and storytelling over a late afternoon coffee or pint in a cozy pub. Cap off the day with a hearty dinner at a local Sligo restaurant.
Sligo's Charm (According to Yeats)
After breakfast, get ready to dive into the enchanting world of Sligo, better known as Yeats Country. We'll explore spots dear to the heart of the legendary poet, from Drumcliffe Church to the majestic Benbulben and the serene Glencar Waterfall. After lunch, you'll have some free time to soak in the stunning scenery, stretch your legs, and maybe spot a Fairy Fort. But don't wander too far, because we've got more tales to tell! Gather 'round for local legends and storytelling over a late afternoon coffee or pint in a cozy pub. Cap off the day with a hearty dinner at a local Sligo restaurant.
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Megaliths & Mollusks
Your first stop today is Carrowkeel Megalithical Cemetery, where you'll explore ancient burial chambers and uncover tales of epic battles between the ancient Irish races of Tuatha de Danann and the Firbolgs. After lunch, prepare your taste buds for a salty treat during a private Oyster Farm Tour. Learn the secrets of oyster farming and indulge in freshly harvested oysters perfectly paired with local craft beer or bubbles. Then your evening is yours for a spot of solo exploration of the town. Sligo has gained a reputation as a foodie hub, so you’ll be spoilt for choice for dinner. Then it would be rude not to go for a pint in the pub afterward and have a good craic with the locals.
Megaliths & Mollusks
Your first stop today is Carrowkeel Megalithical Cemetery, where you'll explore ancient burial chambers and uncover tales of epic battles between the ancient Irish races of Tuatha de Danann and the Firbolgs. After lunch, prepare your taste buds for a salty treat during a private Oyster Farm Tour. Learn the secrets of oyster farming and indulge in freshly harvested oysters perfectly paired with local craft beer or bubbles. Then your evening is yours for a spot of solo exploration of the town. Sligo has gained a reputation as a foodie hub, so you’ll be spoilt for choice for dinner. Then it would be rude not to go for a pint in the pub afterward and have a good craic with the locals.
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch
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The Glasshouse or similar, Sligo Town
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
Historic Reflections & Dinner in Dublin
After breakfast, it's time to hit the road back to Dublin. En route, delve into Irish history at the National Famine Museum on the Strokestown Park Estate, where you’ll learn about the profound impact of the Great Famine on Ireland. Back in Dublin, get ready for an unforgettable farewell dinner. Indulge in a 10-item tasting menu of Old Ireland, meticulously researched and served up accompanied by historic tales told by a skilled storyteller. It's the perfect finale to your Irish adventure, a chance to share memories and strengthen new friendships forged along the way.
Historic Reflections & Dinner in Dublin
After breakfast, it's time to hit the road back to Dublin. En route, delve into Irish history at the National Famine Museum on the Strokestown Park Estate, where you’ll learn about the profound impact of the Great Famine on Ireland. Back in Dublin, get ready for an unforgettable farewell dinner. Indulge in a 10-item tasting menu of Old Ireland, meticulously researched and served up accompanied by historic tales told by a skilled storyteller. It's the perfect finale to your Irish adventure, a chance to share memories and strengthen new friendships forged along the way.
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Brooks Hotel or similar, Dublin City Centre
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Brooks Hotel or similar, Dublin City Centre
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Farewell
Your great Irish adventure comes to an end today. Take a private transfer back to Dublin Airport to begin your journey home. Alternatively, if you're not quite ready to say goodbye, consider extending your stay for a little while longer, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Ireland for further itinerary inspiration. Slán leat, until next time!
Farewell
Your great Irish adventure comes to an end today. Take a private transfer back to Dublin Airport to begin your journey home. Alternatively, if you're not quite ready to say goodbye, consider extending your stay for a little while longer, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Ireland for further itinerary inspiration. Slán leat, until next time!
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Breakfast
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre-/Post-trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $1,080 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $1,080 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
This tour has an easy activity level. Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to three miles over the course of each day in warm weather, and occasionally going up and down stairs.
Activity Level
This tour has an easy activity level. Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to three miles over the course of each day in warm weather, and occasionally going up and down stairs.
Arrival & Departure
Dublin International Airport (DUB) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe. The best flight connections to Dublin are offered by Aer Lingus and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
Dublin International Airport (DUB) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe. The best flight connections to Dublin are offered by Aer Lingus and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Send us a
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Have a question for us about NEW - Discovering Ireland: Literature, Legend & Myth? We're here to help!
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about NEW - Discovering Ireland: Literature, Legend & Myth? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.