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Poulnabrone Dolmen
Christ Church Cathedral
Cliffs of Moher
Whiskey Distillery
Dublin
Starting at $7,195 per person
Step into the heart of Ireland’s storied past with a renowned Great Courses expert on a journey that blends breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and fascinating cultural heritage. From the haunting beauty of the Cliffs of Moher to the mystical Dún Aonghasa ringfort on Inishmore, the Emerald Isle becomes a living classroom where history, myth, and memory converge. With astute commentary and compelling storytelling from your expert, you’ll explore medieval friaries, megalithic tombs, and monastic sites; marvel at the 9th-century Book of Kells; and reflect on Ireland’s resilient spirit at famine memorials and independence tributes. Whether savoring smoked salmon in the Burren or raising a glass of whiskey in Dublin, you’ll experience traditional Irish hospitality and deepen your understanding of the country’s history and enduring legacy.
with Ed Lengel
Timeless Ireland
DEPATURE DATES AND PRICING
Highlights
Stand in the ruins of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and imagine the excitement of ancient athletes competing in honor of Zeus, king of the gods.
Discover the stunning mosaics of Hosios Loukas, a hidden Byzantine monastery, where centuries of devotion are etched in golden tiles, revealing Greece’s transition from antiquity to medieval splendor.
Immerse yourself in the myth and majesty of the Acropolis and explore the Parthenon and its surrounding temples with Professor Cyrino, uncovering the divine power of Athena and the artistic mastery that shaped classical Greece.
Travel in the footsteps of Agamemnon as you walk through the Lion Gate of Mycenae and visit the Tomb of Agamemnon, learning how Homer’s epics immortalized the kings and warriors of this ancient civilization.
Explore the sacred center of Delphi as you ascend the slopes of Mount Parnassus to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once delivered cryptic prophecies that shaped the course of Greek and Mediterranean history.
Highlights
Stand in the ruins of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and imagine the excitement of ancient athletes competing in honor of Zeus, king of the gods.
Discover the stunning mosaics of Hosios Loukas, a hidden Byzantine monastery, where centuries of devotion are etched in golden tiles, revealing Greece’s transition from antiquity to medieval splendor.
Immerse yourself in the myth and majesty of the Acropolis and explore the Parthenon and its surrounding temples with Professor Cyrino, uncovering the divine power of Athena and the artistic mastery that shaped classical Greece.
Travel in the footsteps of Agamemnon as you walk through the Lion Gate of Mycenae and visit the Tomb of Agamemnon, learning how Homer’s epics immortalized the kings and warriors of this ancient civilization.
Explore the sacred center of Delphi as you ascend the slopes of Mount Parnassus to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once delivered cryptic prophecies that shaped the course of Greek and Mediterranean history.
Highlights
Travel to Dublin for a look at the brilliantly illuminated Book of Kells at Trinity College, then explore the “Fair City’s” cathedrals, museums, and monuments with scholarly interpretation.
Celebrate Ireland’s local flavors and culinary traditions with artisan salmon tastings, hearty pub lunches, and a whiskey tour at a renowned distillery.
Gain deeper insight into Ireland’s history, mythology, and culture through engaging commentary and discussions with your Great Courses expert throughout the journey.
Uncover Ireland’s spiritual and archaeological heritage with visits to ancient wonders like the 6th-century monastic site of Clonmacnoise and the prehistoric Poulnabrone Dolmen.
Experience life in the Aran Island of Inishmore, where Irish remains the primary language and ancient customs still shape daily life.
Travel to Dublin for a look at the brilliantly illuminated Book of Kells at Trinity College, then explore the “Fair City’s” cathedrals, museums, and monuments with scholarly interpretation.
Celebrate Ireland’s local flavors and culinary traditions with artisan salmon tastings, hearty pub lunches, and a whiskey tour at a renowned distillery.
Gain deeper insight into Ireland’s history, mythology, and culture through engaging commentary and discussions with your Great Courses expert throughout the journey.
Uncover Ireland’s spiritual and archaeological heritage with visits to ancient wonders like the 6th-century monastic site of Clonmacnoise and the prehistoric Poulnabrone Dolmen.
Experience life in the Aran Island of Inishmore, where Irish remains the primary language and ancient customs still shape daily life.
Highlights
Ed Lengel
Dr. Edward G. Lengel is an award-winning historian and educator. He received his PhD in Irish and British history from the University of Virginia, and wrote his first book about the Irish Famine, which was the focus of his dissertation. He has conducted archaeology in Ireland, and traveled and studied there over the past 35 years, including learning about Irish architect, James Hoban, who designed the White House. Professor Lengel previously directed the Washington Papers Project for many years. Also a professional author, speaker and battlefield tour guide, he has written 15 books on Irish, European, and American history. Professor Lengel is a co-recipient of the National Humanities Medal and has won two writing awards from the Army Historical Foundation. With The Great Courses he produced the Audible Original Ireland in the 1990s: The Path to Peace.
Journey Expert
Ed Lengel
Ennis Friary
Arrive on individual flights into Ireland’s Shannon Airport and begin your journey into the country’s storied past with a visit to the ruins of Ennis Friary, a Franciscan school dating back to 1375. Continue to Leamenah Castle, a 15th-century fortified tower-house once ruled by the legendary “Red Mary,” whose fiery spirit still lingers in local lore. Join your Great Courses Journeys expert and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Included Meal: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Woodstock
Cliffs of Moher
Begin the day at the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, where sheer rock faces rise 700 feet above the wild Atlantic and offer some of Ireland’s most spectacular views. Continue to Burren National Park for a guided walk through its otherworldly limestone landscape, rich with rare flora and ancient beauty. Savor a tasting of locally smoked salmon at the Burren Smokehouse, followed by lunch at the cozy Roadside Tavern. This afternoon, journey deep into Ireland’s past with visits to Caherconnell Fort, a remarkably preserved 1,000-year-old stone ringfort, and Poulnabrone Dolmen, the country’s oldest dated megalithic tomb. Return to Ennis for an evening and dinner at your leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Hotel Woodstock
Inishmore
Take the ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Isolated from the mainland and encrusted with fossil-rich limestone, these islands are part of the Gaeltacht, where Irish is the principal language and age-old traditions hold strong. Acquaint yourself with a timeless way of life as you explore the island and walk up to the mystical Celtic ring fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched at the edge of a 300-foot cliff. Throughout the day, your professor will provide additional insights that illuminate the island’s ancient history and culture. Dinner this evening will be at a local restaurant.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Hotel Woodstock
Kylemore Abbey
Cross into County Mayo for a day steeped in Irish history and lush natural backdrops. See the poignant Doolough Famine Memorial, honoring those who perished during the devastating famine years of 1845-1849. Continue into the wilds of Connemara to visit Kylemore Abbey, a stunning lakeside monastery established by Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I. As the day draws to a close, settle into the historic Renvyle House Hotel and share a group dinner, reflecting with your expert and fellow travelers on the day’s encounters.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Renvyle House Hotel
Clonmacnoise
Journey east across the countryside towards Dublin, stopping along the way to explore Clonmacnoise, founded on the banks of the River Shannon in the 6th century and one of Ireland’s most important early monastic sites. Pause in the lively town of Athlone for an independent lunch before continuing to the capital. Arrive in Dublin and check in to your hotel before dining as a group in a local restaurant.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Iveagh Garden Hotel
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Likan Antay Viewpoint
Spend today exploring the “Fair City,” Dublin’s affectionate nickname derived from the opening line of the traditional song “Molly Malone.” Admire the ornate details of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, visit the medieval Christchurch Cathedral, and stroll through the elegant Georgian expanse of St. Stephen’s Green. Continue to Trinity College and view the exquisite Book of Kells, a 9th century illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels that stands as one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures. Finally, enjoy a guided tour of Pearse Lyons Distillery and learn about the craftsmanship and passion that define the art of Irish whiskey-making. The evening is yours to enjoy Dublin at your own pace.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Iveagh Garden Hotel
Kilmainham Gaol
Travel back in time as you learn about 1916 Easter Rising Rebellion, one of the most dramatic events in the history of Ireland’s struggle for independence from the British Empire. See the bullet holes marking the exterior of the General Post Office, hear stories about revolutionary figures such as James Connolly and Michael Collins, and pay your respects at the Garden of Remembrance, where your expert will offer thoughtful commentary on the nation’s path to freedom. Then visit Kilmainham Gaol, whose somber walls tell the story of Ireland’s struggle for self-determination. In the evening, say sláinte as you raise a toast to your travels through Ireland during a festive farewell dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Iveagh Garden Hotel
Temple of Poseidon
The morning begins with a ferry to Aegina, a maritime power and home to the Temple of Aphaea, a local goddess linked to Athena and Artemis. Admire this well-preserved Doric temple, part of the “sacred triangle” with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon. Savor lunch in a private farmhouse on the island, overlooking pistachio and olive trees. Then, return by ferry to Athens and freshen up before a final celebratory dinner. Toast your journey with a final reception and dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the Acropolis.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fresh Hotel
Iveagh Garden Hotel
Dublin, Ireland
Located in Dublin’s vibrant Portobello neighborhood, the 145 warmly decorated rooms of the Iveagh Garden Hotel feature flat-screen TVs, a writing desk, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Relax in the cozy Ellie’s Bar & Bistro, serving delicious casual dining and craft cocktails. From sourcing energy from the nearby River Swan to smart-control, low-power lighting systems, the Iveagh Garden Hotel is widely considered to be Europe’s first sustainable hotel.
(3 nights)
Hotel Woodstock
Ennis, Ireland
Nestled in the heart of Enis, the family-run Hotel Woodstock combines modern comfort with a warm Irish welcome. Spacious rooms offer flat screen televisions, tea and coffee facilities, and a writing desk, while the Leisure Club is equipped with a gym, indoor pool, and steam room. The onsite Shanaway Bistro serves classic Irish fare and overlooks the nearby golf course. (3 nights)
Renvyle House Hotel
County Galway, Ireland
Set amidst the wild beauty of Connemara and a favorite of W.B. Yeats, Renvyle House Hotel offers historic charm alongside breathtaking views. Bright rooms are simply designed in traditional Arts & Crafts style and outfitted with locally-made furniture. Rusheeduff Restaurant sources much of its ingredients from the hotel’s own gardens and orchards, while other facilities found on the 150-acre estate include a putting green, pebble beach, and outdoor heated swimming pool. (1 night)
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Highlights
Uncover the dynastic ambitions and historical significance of monuments like Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat.
Experience the stony landscape of the Agafay Desert on a camel trek, culminating in a breathtaking sunset over the High Atlas Mountains.
Admire the Islamic architecture in Marrakesh, from the grand Koutoubia Mosque and intricate Bahia Palace to the serene beauty of the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
Discover the University of al-Qarawiyyin, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, and engage in a discussion on its profound influence on global scholarship.
Wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of the UNESCO-listed Medina in Fes, where vibrant stalls overflow with textiles, spices, and artisanal crafts.