Arrive Dublin

Céad Míle Fáilte – A Hundred Thousand Welcomes!

On arrival at Dublin Airport, we will be met by our Irish tour guide and transferred into the city. We begin with a reflective visit to the Famine Memorial by the River Liffey, honouring those forced to leave their homeland during the Great Hunger.

Later, we explore the historic Dublin Castle, a symbol of resilience and transition in Irish history. We then transfer to our hotel for check-in and a welcome dinner.

Dublin overnight (D) 

This morning we enjoy a panoramic city tour, taking in O’Connell Street, Dublin’s elegant Georgian squares, and the River Liffey.

Highlights of our day include:

• Trinity College Library, home to the famed Book of Kells
• St Patrick’s Cathedral, associated with Jonathan Swift
• A visit to the historic General Post Office (GPO)
• Time for reflection at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral

Dublin overnight (BD) 

This morning we visit the Mercy International Centre on Baggot Street, the original house founded by Mother Catherine McAuley, which continues her mission today.

The afternoon is free for personal exploration, shopping, or quiet reflection.

Dublin overnight (BD) 

Dublin – Kildare – Wicklow – Glendalough

This morning we journey to Kildare, home of Ireland’s beloved St Brigid, co-patroness of the nation. Visit St Brigid’s Cathedral (subject to availability) and nearby St Brigid’s Healing Well, a place of peace and prayer.

We continue through Wicklow, birthplace of Bishop Murray, and arrive in Glendalough, set in a breathtaking valley of two lakes. Dinner at our local accommodation.

Glendalough overnight (BD)

Today we explore the sacred monastic valley of Glendalough, founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. Sites include:

• The Round Tower
• St Kevin’s Kitchen & Tomb
• The upper and lower lakes, with time for quiet reflection

We will gather to celebrate Mass at the local parish church (subject to confirmation).

Glendalough overnight (BD)

Today we travel to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. Enjoy free time to wander its charming medieval streets and perhaps visit one of the excellent local museums.

Optional: Visit the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre (at own expense).

We then continue to the picturesque coastal village of Ardmore, associated with St Declan, where we visit his monastic ruins and St Declan’s Well.

We arrive in Cork in time for dinner.

Cork overnight (BD)

This morning we visit the magnificent Rock of Cashel, a spectacular site associated with St Patrick and Brian Boru, including the early Romanesque Cormac’s Chapel.

Return to Cork and visit St Mary & St Anne’s Cathedral.

Suggested Optional Visit: Explore Elizabeth Fort or The Butter Museum, reflecting Cork’s unique history.

Cork overnight (B) 

Departing Cork, we visit Blarney Castle, one of Ireland’s most iconic sites. (Kissing the Blarney Stone is optional!)

We travel through the Derrynasaggart Mountains to the scenic town of Killarney and continue to the welcoming town of Tralee for check-in and dinner.

Tralee overnight (BD) 

Today we journey through the magical Ring of Kerry, offering breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and the sea.

Highlights include:

• Ladies View scenic lookout
• Visit to Muckross House & Gardens

Return to Tralee in time for dinner.

Tralee overnight (BD)

We travel along the Dingle Peninsula, a centre of early Christian spirituality. Visit:

• St Brendan’s Well, honouring the great navigator
• Slea Head, the westernmost point in Europe
• Kilmalkedar Church and the Gallarus Oratory
• Ancient Beehive Huts

Enjoy time in the colourful fishing village of Dingle before returning to Tralee. We will celebrate Mass locally this evening.

Tralee overnight (BD)

Today we journey north, stopping at:

• Adare, known for its thatched cottages
• Limerick, where we visit St Mary’s Cathedral
• Cliffs of Moher, soaring over the Atlantic
• The Burren, a region of striking limestone beauty
• Galway, the City of Tribes, including a visit to Galway Cathedral

Arrive in Knock, Ireland’s National Shrine.

Knock overnight (BD)

We celebrate Mass at the Church of the Apparition, where Our Lady appeared in 1879. A guided tour introduces us to the Basilica, Museum, and peaceful grounds.

Optional afternoon suggestions (if parish activities are unavailable):

• Personal prayer time
• Visit Knock Folk Museum
• Quiet walk to the Apparition Chapel

Knock overnight (BD)

Today we cross into Northern Ireland and travel to Fermanagh, where we board a boat to Devenish Island. Explore this 6th-century monastic site, home to the best-preserved Round Tower in Ireland.

Continue to Belfast for dinner and check-in.

Belfast overnight (BD)

We travel to Downpatrick, where St Patrick began his Irish mission. Visit:

• St Patrick’s Grave & Cathedral
• The Altar Stone
• Mass Rock (outdoor pilgrimage site)

Return to Belfast and enjoy free time for optional sightseeing.

Belfast overnight (BD)

This morning, enjoy a guided city tour of Belfast, including:

• City Hall
• Albert Clock
• Queen’s University

Afternoon Options:

• Visit Titanic Belfast (optional)
• OR explore at leisure: St Anne’s Cathedral, Botanical Gardens, or Ulster Museum

Tonight, we gather for our farewell celebration dinner.

Belfast overnight (BD) 

We begin our journey home, travelling to Dublin Airport.

Time permitting, we will visit St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, the seat of Ireland’s Catholic primate.

Board our return flights to Australia.  (B)