July 31, 2012
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Our last day together as a group. We then have two days to explore anywhere we want on our own. We will meet back up the last night on Friday as a group to fly out from Dublin to the States.
Our last day together as a group. We then have two days to explore anywhere we want on our own. We will meet back up the last night on Friday as a group to fly out from Dublin to the States.
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Today visit the Aran Islands, which are located in Galway Bay 30 miles west of Galway city. Irish is still the vernacular in this isolated setting and the islanders retain many traditional ways of farming and fishing. The land is extremely stony and the islanders have formed dry stone walls to protect the windswept fields. The popular hand-knit Aran sweaters evolved from unique patterns used by each family and the oiled wool repelled the rain. Take a ferry from Rossaveal on the mainland to Aran Mor, the largest of the three islands. Travel around the island by minibus with a local driver who will explain many of the island traditions to you. This excursion is included, but option for those who do not wish to attend. At the western end of Inis Mor visit Dun Aengus. This vast fortification is perched on the side of a cliff that falls to the Atlantic ocean 300 feet below. The side consists of three concentric enclosures and dates back to 1,000 BC or earlier. After your tour journey back through Galway and south to the village of Bunratty in Country Claire to check in to your hotel.
This evening join in the fun and feasting at Bunratty or Knappogue Castle. Your medieval-style banquet is served in the Great Hall of the 15th century castle during which the lords and ladies of the castle transport you in spirit to the Middle Ages with their songs and stories. |