If ever a country was built on the bedrock of family, this is it. When your family vacations in Ireland, you will feel welcome whether you’re returning to your historic roots or just seeking a faraway-feeling but easy-to-manage destination. There's plenty to seize everyone's imagination—sheep-herding dogs and castles and story-telling boatmen and kayaking and eerie stone circles. For the adults, there are magnificent estates and local pubs, fine dining and optional golf on spectacular links. Irish footpaths are nothing short of amazing. We plot walks on a variety that reveal wild seashore, quiet valleys and classic villages. And every day ends at tranquil lodgings with activities for the whole family. You'll all have a grand time!

DAYS 1-2 - KILLARNEY
We meet in Killarney (2 nights), where we introduce your family to Ireland travel with a chance to clamber on the walls of a 15th century castle and a dip in the pool before dinner. During our time here, we'll hear the local tales as we cruise the waters of Killarney Lakes and get in a lunch at Lord Brandon's cottage in the mountains known as McGillycuddy's Reeks.

DAYS 3-6 - KENMARE / KILLARNEY
Nearby, our friends herd a thousand mountain sheep…and they'll show us how it's done. One afternoon, the kids throw pots with a local artisan while the adults wander and shop in lovely Kenmare (3 nights). There are waterfalls, estates, peat farms and ancient stone circles for exploring. (And if you like, you can sneak away for an optional afternoon of golf on acclaimed courses.) Of course, we'll visit the Ring of Kerry, then offer the options of a beachside walk…a guided visit to stately Derrynane House…or maybe a bit of fishing with our guides. On our final day, we visit the woolen market before parting company in Killarney.