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 Embark on a luxurious 9-day gay group journey through Ireland with Brand g Vacations' "Enchanting Ireland" experience, featuring exclusive stays in Dublin, Killarney, and Clare. From Dublin’s lively streets to the serene green countryside, experience Ireland’s rich history, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy elegant accommodations at top-tier hotels hotels, including The Davenport, Great Southern, and Gregan’s Castle. Each destination offers curated culinary experiences, including private dinners and locally inspired menus.
This 10 day gay group tour of Ireland brings you on a journey of discovery and will highlight the sights which are renowned, but also we go off the beaten track. The itinerary blends cultural immersion with comfort, from scenic countryside retreats to vibrant city life. With limited availability for just 30 – 36 guests, this unforgettable adventure promises indulgence, authenticity, and Irish charm at every turn.
Day 1 - Monday, July 12, 2027
Our professional local team will meet you on arrival to Dublin International Airport and transfer you to the centrally located Davenport Hotel.
Today, enjoy a welcome lunch in The Abbey Tavern, renowned far and wide for its hospitality. Following lunch, enjoy a walk around Howth, where you’ll encounter scenic views of the harbor and Ireland’s Eye, the historic ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey perched above the village, lively street musicians, and charming coastal paths that lead to the iconic Howth Cliff Walk and nearby beaches. This evening enjoy a festive welcome dinner at the hotel.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The Davenport Hotel, Dublin, 4*
Day 2 - Tuesday, July 13, 2027
Wake up to a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a full-day tour of Dublin. Explore the charming streets and iconic landmarks of this enchanting Irish capital. A walking tour will take you through the heart of Dublin, where you’ll encounter grand architecture, legendary pubs, literary landmarks, and the warm hospitality that makes this city truly special.
Explore Trinity’s Old Library and view the world-famous Book of Kells. Learn about the symbolism and artistry of the 1,200 year old manuscript and get a close-up look at the current pages on display. Experience Gaia, the spectacular illuminated artwork by Luke Jerram now on display in the Old Library. Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface, showcasing the planet floating in three dimensions as it might be viewed from space. Embark on an immersive journey in the Pavilion, filled with stories, sights and sounds.
Visit Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, which has been part of Ireland’s history for over 800 years. Built between 1220 and 1260 in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral offers visitors a rich and compelling cultural experience and is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin. St Patrick baptized Christian converts on this site 1500 years ago.
Following a traditional pub lunch, we bring you to the Old Jameson Distillery a historical and cultural landmark in Dublin city to learn about the history of Irish whiskey and the process of whiskey making. Our Ambassador will show you around, take you back in time, and serve up an award-winning tour that includes stories, laughs, and a Jameson comparative whiskey tasting.
Tonight, you’re in for a highly entertaining dinner experience at the Merry Ploughboy Pub just outside Dublin. Enjoy exceptional food along with Irish music and dance performances.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The Davenport Hotel, Dublin, 4*
Day 3 - Wednesday, July 14, 2027
This morning after breakfast at the hotel, we venture 45 minutes south of Dublin city center to the Ballyknocken House and Cookery School, home to celebrity TV chef, Catherine (Byrne) Fulvio. The farm boasts a charming Victorian farmhouse (Catherine’s home and one of Irelands first B&B’s); The internationally recognized Ballyknocken Cookery School is located in the former milking parlor. Today you’ll be taking part in “Guinness is Good For You”, where you’ll get to know the secrets of how Irish people keep health by making your own 3 course lunch using one key ingredient “Guinness”, Learn how to make recipes such as Beef & Guinness Stew and Chocolate Guinness Cake.
Tonight, after returning to Dublin and some time to refresh, we’ll enjoy dinner together at one of Dublin’s best restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The Davenport Hotel, Dublin, 4*
Day 4 - Thursday, July 15, 2027
Today we bid a fond farewell to Dublin and head off to County Kerry in the scenic southwest corner of Ireland. The drive is approximately 4 hours but we’ll make a stop for lunch along the way. This afternoon experience some of the most iconic and beautiful sights of Killarney. Go back in time and experience Ireland’s most traditional mode of transport with horse drawn carts (jaunting carts) through the beautiful parks of Killarney.
Along the way we visit Muckross House and Gardens. This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney’s three lakes, famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty.
Tonight, we enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, 4*
Day 5 - Friday, July 16, 2027
Wake up with an included breakfast at the hotel before we set out for a full day tour to the Gap of Dunloe.
The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow pass between Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountains near Killarney. It begins at Kate Kearney’s Cottage and ends with a descent into The Black Valley, a distance of approximately 11 km (7 miles). As one travels through the Gap from Kate Kearney’s, five small lakes are passed: Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough; in turn, these lakes are connected by the River Loe from which the gap gets its name. Between the first two lakes is an old arch bridge called the ‘Wishing Bridge’ so named because it is said that wishes made while upon it are destined to come true.
This is more of an adventure than tour. First we take a bus to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, then a journey of 7 miles by jaunting car (horse cart) through the famous gap, a glaciated valley to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where we have a BBQ lunch before the traditional style boat takes us through the three Lakes of Killarney to Ross Castle where a bus will return us to Killarney.
Tonight, enjoy a night of leisure and dinner on your own in Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, 4*
Day 6 - Saturday, July 17, 2027
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic coach tour along Ireland’s iconic Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer route showcasing the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Travel through charming towns like Killorglin, Waterville, and Sneem, each offering unique cultural and historical insights. Enjoy panoramic stops at Ladies View and Moll’s Gap, perfect for capturing the beauty of the Lakes of Killarney and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The tour includes commentary from expert guides, enriching your journey with stories of local legends and heritage. This experience offers a relaxed yet immersive exploration of County Kerry.
This evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, 4*
Day 7 - Sunday, July 18, 2027
Today brings a journey from Killarney to Clare for the final leg of our Ireland exploration. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at Foynes Flyingboat Museum including an Irish coffee masterclass.
Foyne’s Flying boat Museum captures perfectly the romantic era of the first transatlantic passenger flights by flyingboat. Pan-Am Airlines commissioned Charles Lindbergh who had made the first solo flight to Europe in 1927, to find a suitable base for their flyingboat service from New York to Ireland. Foynes on the Shannon estuary was chosen as the nearest European landfall, which turned out to be of strategic importance as a back door into Europe during WW2.
Half the pleasure of an Irish coffee is sipping the hot coffee/whiskey through a layer of cold cream. It was invented by chef Joe Sheridan in the bar of the Foynes Flyingboat Terminal in the 1940’s to warm up damp cold passengers en route to the USA, it still does the trick on a wet miserable afternoon or as an after-dinner soother.
At Foynes you can also explore the life and legacy of legendary Irish-American actress Maureen O’Hara. The exhibit is dedicated to this Hollywood icon, who starred in several classic films from the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Following a lunch stop in Adare, we visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Bunratty Folk Park, a recreated 19th century village complete with houses, for both the poor and the rich from a small laborer’s cottage to the grand manor house, streets, shops, a pub, a doctor’s, a school, and much more to explore.
After checking in at Gregan’s Castle Hotel, take some time refresh before we gather for dinner at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Gregans Castle Hotel, Burren, 4*
Day 8 - Monday, July 19, 2027
Following breakfast at our castle hotel, we set of for an exploration of Inis Oírr the smallest of the world-renowned Aran Islands on our privately guided and curated cultural experience.
Inis Oírr is home to a year-round population of 320 people and the only island of the Irish coast where the population is increasing. Measuring a mere 3 miles by 1.5miles, the island is easily travelled and is known for its crystal clear waters and sandy beach by the harbour. The islanders speak Irish (Gaelic) as their first language resulting in an island rich in culture, history and heritage. Our emphasis today will be on meeting local islanders from Eoin the local publican who will host you our guests to Alissa, a native of Wisconsin but happily settled on the island for more than 20 years. Alissa will offer a feast of local seafood, meats, salads and scrumptious desserts. Entertainment at the pub will be provided by Irish Young Traditional Musicians of the Year Conor Connolly 2019, Padraic Keane 2011, Sorcha Costello 2021 and champion All Ireland seanós dancer Becky Ní Eallaithe. Vehicle tours visiting the shipwreck and underground church. We will also have a chance to meet a local Aran Sweater Knitting family and a handmade fudge maker also from the island.
This evening we’ll enjoy dinner at Monks Ballyvaughan. Nothing compares to enjoying local seafood and Irish cuisine while overlooking stunning vistas of Galway Bay. This restaurant is renowned for fresh, local produce, great service and a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Gregans Castle Hotel, Burren, 4*
Day 9 - Tuesday, July 20, 2027
This morning we experience the spectacle of the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with a magical vista. They stretch for 8km (5miles), as the crow flies, along the Atlantic coast of County Clare in the west of Ireland and reach 214m (702 feet) at their highest point at Knockardakin just north of O’Brien’s Tower.
Following our visit we’ll have lunch at a local pub before returning to our castle hotel. Enjoy and evening at leisure before we gather for a festive farewell dinner at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Gregans Castle Hotel, Burren, 4*
Day 10 - Wednesday, July 21, 2027
They say all good things come to an end, and this morning your wonderful Ireland experience comes to an end. After another delicious breakfast you will be transferred to Shannon Airport (SNN). After you check your bags all the way into your home city, and clearing US customs in Shannon, you can sit back and relive the magical memories of your trip to the Emerald Isle.
Meals: Breakfast
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• Enjoy a luxurious 9-day journey through Ireland’s most iconic regions - Dublin, Killarney, and Clare.
• Stay in handpicked hotels including The Davenport, Great Southern, and Gregan’s Castle.
• Savor gourmet dinners featuring locally inspired menus in private dining settings.
• Travel with a small group for a personalized and relaxed experience.
• Delight in scenic landscapes, historic charm, and authentic Irish hospitality.
• Enjoy a full-day tour of Dublin including the Book of Kells and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
• Indulge in a full-day Cookery Experience at Ballyknocken in the Garden of Ireland.
• Revel in the beauty of the Gap of Dunloe on a full-day excursion.
• Spend a full day in the iconic Ring of Kerry.
• Enjoy an exclusive visit to the Aran Islands.
• Wonder at the Cliffs of Moher.
• FROM THE TIME YOU LAND UNTIL YOU LEAVE, NEARLY EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED
• Brand g and local hosts throughout your trip
• Arrival transfers in Dublin
• Daily breakfast included at each hotel, 9 lunches, 8 dinners
• 2 drinks of Soda, Wine or Beer with every included meal
• All tours, excursions and entrance fees as described in the itinerary
• Pre-paid gratuities for all included services
• 3 nights at the 4* Davenport Hotel in Dublin
• 3 nights at the 4* Great Southern Hotel in Killarney
• 3-night exclusive Brand g stay at the 4* Gregan’s Castle Hotel in Clare
• Departure transfers from Shannon Airport.
• And much, much more…
The Davenport Hotel, Dublin
The Davenport is a newly redesigned 4-star hotel that sits beside Merrion Square park, steps away from the National Gallery and Trinity College. It boasts 115 bedrooms with en-suite marble bathrooms, 24-hour gym access, a stylish restaurant and a bar.
The stylish rooms feature a sitting area which includes a work desk, uniquely designed furniture, air-conditioning, smart TVs with Chromecast, free WiFi and international electrical outlets.
The marble table restaurant offers a selection of Irish and international dishes and is specialised in afternoon tea and homemade desserts. The hotel also provides an intimate bar area with a gastropub menu and a wide selection of whiskey.
Guest can also enjoy 24-hour room service, access to a gym with the state-of-the-art equipment and buffet breakfast. The hotel is less than 700 m from the luxury shops of Grafton Street, and Dublin Airport is 10 km away.
The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney
Located approximately 20 minutes' walk from a popular entertainment attraction like BikeFest Village Festival, the comfortable Great Southern Killarney hotel offers modern comforts like a currency exchange and a lift. During your stay at this gay-friendly hotel in the heart of Killarney, a treatment room, a Jacuzzi, and sauna facilities plus a heated swimming pool are available. The 177 rooms at the property include a balcony and a dressing room. Some of the rooms feature comfortable decor furnished with a writing desk. Guests can make use of coffee/tea making equipment, and relax with a satellite television. For more comfort, a hairdryer and towels, along with a sauna and a hot tub, are provided.
A sumptuous breakfast is available in the restaurant between 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM on weekends. There is a wine bar, which offers an open fireplace in its interior design. Lord Kenmare's Restaurant is about a 5-minute walk away and serves Irish cuisine.
The Great Southern Killarney offers options for sports and relaxation in a wellness centre or in a gym area and a fitness room. Horse riding, lawn tennis, and cycling are available from the Great Southern.
Gregans Castle Hotel, Burren
Welcome to Gregans Castle Hotel. Please take a look around our luxury, eco and gourmet retreat, nestled in the heart of the beautiful Burren on Ireland's west coast. We are the nearest luxury hotel to The Cliffs of Moher. The house has been welcoming guests since the 1940s and our family have been running it since 1976.
Stunning 18th century manor house is set in its own established and lovingly-attended gardens on the Wild Atlantic Way, and has spectacular views that stretch across the Burren hills to Galway Bay.
Inside, you'll find welcoming open fires, candlelight and striking decoration ranging from modern art, to antique furniture, to pretty garden flowers adorning the rooms. Gregans Castle has long been a source of inspiration for its visitors.
With warm Irish hospitality, stylish accommodation, outstanding service and exceptional fine dining in our award-winning restaurant, we truly are a country house of the 21st century. You can do nothing or everything here.
When should I schedule my flights?
Arrival: You should schedule your flights into Dublin, Ireland (DUB) on July 12, 2027. The first scheduled activity will be a welcome welcome lunch, starting at approximately Noon.
Departure: You should schedule to fly home from Shannon, Ireland (SNN) on July 21, 2027. Hotel check-out time is 11:00am and drive time to the Shannon airport is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
What arrival and departure transfers are included?
Arrival Transfers: are provided from the Dublin International Airport (DUB) to the Davenport Hotel in Dublin.
Departure Transfers: are provided from Gregan’s Castle Hotel in Clare to the Shannon International Airport (SNN).
Contact our team to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.
What are the passport and visa requirements?
While some countries in Europe only require 3 months’ validity on your passport, others require 6 months even if you are only transiting through that country. Therefore, we advise all guests to ensure their passports are valid for a minimum of 6 months after your last date of travel.
For U.S. citizens traveling to Southern Ireland (Republic of Ireland), no visa is required for short stays of up to 90 days for tourism. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so ETIAS authorization is not needed. Citizens of other countries should verify entry requirements with the nearest Irish consulate or embassy.
What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.
What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. While we have collected pre-paid gratuities with your reservation, at your own discretion you may choose to provide additional tips.
What should I expect on the included excursions?
Excursions during your travel program are led by expert English speaking local guides. The excursions are rated in difficulty based on the type and condition of the terrain, possible ascent/decent height as well as the total distance walked.
Is there a dress code ?
You are on vacation as the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you are comfortable and dress appropriately for changeable weather. Keep in mind the hotel properties throughout the trip are somewhat posh, so you may wish to gussy up just a bit.
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