The Castles of Clare and the mid-West
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Shannon Airport Arrival & Departure - 3 Nights/4 Days

Day 1/Limerick
From Shannon transfer to the historic city of Limerick to King John's Castle where the history of Ireland can be told through stories of political upheaval, war and famine. Also visit the nearby Hunt Museum which houses a fascinating and eclectic private Art Collection. A relaxing afternoon can also include the pretty village of Adare located south of Limerick. Adare Heritage Centre reveals the unique story of this spectacular area spanning centuries from 1233 to the present day.
Overnight Limerick.

Day 2/Clare & the Burren
Tour of County Clare "Land of Castles" including visits to Craggaunowen, the Living Past which is a reconstruction of the lives and living conditions of the Bronze Age inhabitants of Ireland and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park - a recreated 19th century village where old crafts and traditions are carried out in natural settings and all set in the grounds of Bunratty Castle - the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland. Drive on to the coastal village of Lahinch, famous for its golf, to see the majestic Cliffs of Moher, rising sheer above the Atlantic. Then experience the unique lunar landscape of the Burren Country and enjoy a visit to the Aillwee Cave, Ireland's premier showcave, deep within the Burren itself. Continue the coastal route and Burren tour via Ballyvaughan and Kinvara into south Galway for a really rural taste of bygone times at Rathbaun Farm, owned and farmed by the Connollly family for over 200 years. Complete the circle tour of Clare for overnight in the cathedral town of Ennis.

Day 3/Lough Derg, Offaly & Galway
First visit to-day to the Clare Museum with its fascinating exhibition on "The Riches of Clare". Then head inland for a trip around Lough Derg and its region. Lough Derg is the largest lake on the Shannon, a very popular boating and fishing area. Drive via Scariff and the twin Heritage Towns of Killaloe and Ballina joined by a majestically arched bridge over the River Shannon. On to another Heritage Town - Roscrea, with its fine 13th Century Castle. Continue to visit Birr Castle Demesne & Ireland's Historic Science Centre for a fascinating discovery of Ireland's scientific heritage through the history of the great Irish scientists, the Earls of Rosse and see the Great Telescope, once the largest telescope in the world, constructed at Birr over 150 years ago. The Heritage Town of Birr itself is a fine example of the elegant Georgian era. Then on to Tullamore also in Offaly to visit Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre, and perhaps enjoy a taste of their famous brew! On to Loughrea to visit Dartfield - Ireland's Horseworld, Museum and Equestrian Park, a unique new centre interpreting the history of the horse in Ireland. On to Galway 'City of the Tribes' for overnight.

Day 4/Shannon
Two contrasting visits this morning firstly to the Galway Atlantaquaria fittingly situated on the shores of Galway Bay, it is home to 170 species of fresh water and marine life. Then a final visit to the Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre, which provides a memorable backdrop to the history and culture of the West of Ireland. Transfer to Shannon Airport for your departure flight.