2022 Ireland Photography Tour

Travel Plan

Accommodations

Helpful Information

Explorer Testimonials

• 2022 Ireland Photography Tour Travel Plans

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Monday, April 25

  Depart US for Shannon (SNN), County Clare, Ireland

  Tuesday, April 26

  Arrive in Shannon. Organized taxi transfers to Adare, Co. Limerick, known as one of “Ireland’s prettiest villages.” Spend the day at leisure and recover from jet lag or explore Adare’s rich heritage. Take a walk through the village to photograph its thatch cottages, the Maigue River, and Adare Manor Grounds. Overnight at the Dunraven Arms Hotel

  Wednesday, April 27 (B, L, D)

  Eat an early breakfast and then travel by private coach to the old port town of Dingle on the Dingle Peninsula.

  We’ll stop to eat a hearty lunch along the way, so when we arrive in Dingle, we can continue along the peninsula on one of Ireland’s most breathtaking drives, the Slea Head route. This circular route offers picturesque beaches and rugged coastline set against lush, rolling hills. Magnificent archaeological treasures, some dating back to the 7th century, have been well preserved by the locals. Slea Head will offer plenty of opportunities for our cameras to capture its dramatic panoramas.

  Tonight we’ll spend the night in the colorful, yet cozy, town of Dingle. Group Welcome Dinner. Overnight at Castlewood House

  Thursday, April 28 (B, L)

  Breakfast at the hotel. If weather allows today, we’ll board a local boat to photograph marine life of the Dingle Peninsula. The sea and surrounding Blasket islands are an important habitat for a variety of species including puffins, Manx shearwaters, and other seabirds, along with dolphins, minke whales, basking shark, grey seals, and occasionally even humpback whales!

  Explore and have dinner on your own tonight in Dingle. Don’t forget to stop by Murphy’s for dessert. Every ingredient in their homemade ice cream is natural, from the milk produced by the local Kerry cows to the sea salt derived from Dingle seawater! Overnight at Castlewood House

  Friday, April 29 (B, D)

  Breakfast at leisure this morning before we make our way to Doolin. This quaint town is considered “The Irish music and cultural capital of Ireland.” Optional evening shoot at the nearby Cliffs of Moher or enjoy an evening of live traditional Irish music in a local pub. Overnight at Fiddle + Bow

  Saturday, April 30 (B, D)

  Depart during early morning light for one last photo opportunity at the famous Cliffs of Moher. We’ll return to Doolin mid-morning for breakfast and to check out.

  Our next stop is Galway. In Galway, there will be time to have lunch on your own. Explore and photograph the rich culture and history around the city and Galway Bay. In the evening we’ll meet up for dinner at Cooke’s Restaurant & Wine Bar, followed by a visit to a local pub (or two :). Overnight at The House Hotel

  Sunday, May 1 (B, L)

  After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a morning stroll, and photograph swans at the nearby docks followed by a late lunch. We’ll meet up with a local guide for a Legends Tour of Galway, visit the Church of St. Nicholas, and learn about the myths and legends the city holds in its vivid history. Dinner on your own tonight. We’ll provide a list of suggested restaurants. There are a lot of options! Overnight at The House Hotel

  Monday, May 2 (B, D)

  This morning (TBD) we’ll visit a local Connemara hill village where we’ll be immersed in local Irish culture and experience live Irish music, Gaelic language, Irish soda bread-making, thatched cottage customs, and how the locals use their vast peat bogs—yes, peat bogs!

  We’ll have lunch at Kylemore Abbey and take some time to photograph their beautiful walled garden and gothic church.

  Leaving Kylemore Abbey, we’ll make our way to Ashford Castle in County Mayo. Built in 1228, this medieval castle has been transformed into a leading luxury hotel named “#1 Castle in Ireland.” Feel like royalty for two nights! Guests on past trips suggested we have two nights at the castle, so we have included an additional night here. Overnight at Ashford Castle

  Tuesday, May 3 (B, D)

  This morning after a scrumptious breakfast at Ashford Castle, we’ll meander the castle’s 350-acre property and the nearby town. In the afternoon, we’ll partake in the ancient Irish art of falconry. Photograph harris hawks and possibly eagles, owls, and falcons, all up close and personal. A formal dinner is planned for this evening in the castle’s George V Dining Room. This is a must for any castle stay! Jacket and tie are required for gentlemen. Overnight at Ashford Castle

  Wednesday, May 4 (B)

  Another scrumptious breakfast is on the menu at the castle. This morning is for you to enjoy all that Ashford Castle has to offer. Optional leisure activities include fishing, lake cruising, clay shooting, bicycling, golf, kayaking, horseback riding, or spa.

  Depart the castle late morning to have lunch at Foxford Mills, one of the last working mills left in Ireland. Shop the best deals on wool scarves, throws, rugs, and blankets. Perhaps you need to get a gift for a loved one at home, and this the place to do so!

  We’ll continue up the road to the small village of Lahardane, where we’ll meet with a local guide and learn of the heartwrenching account of 14 local villagers and their quest to seek a new life in America by way of the Titanic in April 1912. Visit the 100-year anniversary memorial that was built for them.

  In the late afternoon/evening there are a couple of options: Photograph surfers in Ireland’s surfing paradise, try the detox and healing properties of a seaweed bath, or simply enjoy some rest and relaxation in your room. Overnight The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel

  Thursday, May 5 (B, D)

  There is much to explore in County Donegal And did we mention it’s bluebell season in Ireland? Mid-April through the end of May is the prime growing season for these attractive, bell-shaped flowers. If we’re lucky, the surrounding ancient forest floors will be blanketed in brilliant purples and blues interspersed with the whites of wild garlic.

  County Sligo is full of surprises with its remarkable scenery, worldwide literary legacy, world-famous fiddlers, prestigious golf courses, and more, and we will explore all that time allows today!

  Overnight The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel, Donegal

  Friday, May 6 (B, D)

  After breakfast, we’ll make our way up the road to Drumcliffe Church. We’ll have opportunities to photograph early sculpted and decorated traditional Celtic high crosses. This monastery was founded in 574 and includes the headstone of the famous Irish poet and playwright W.B. Yeats.

  Next destination, Northern Ireland, yet another beautiful and scenic journey on the island. We’ll explore and photograph this stretch of iconic coastal landscape which includes a World Heritage Site, historic medieval castles, and let us not forget the world’s oldest whiskey distillery!

  We’ll be staying this evening at The Bushmills Inn. Explore the area’s scenery and other attractions including Bushmills Irish Whiskey Distillery. In the late afternoon we’ll visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and take in the stunning scenery and natural beauty of Rathlin Island and nearby Scotland, visible just across the sea. Dinner and whiskey tasting at our hotel. Optional evening shoot at Giant’s Causeway. Overnight Bushmills Inn

  Saturday, May 7 (B, D)

  Wake up early for a sunrise shoot at Giant’s Causeway. The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by volcanic eruptions and cooling lava, an unbelievable sight to behold! Its staggering 40,000 interlocking basalt stone columns lead into the Irish Sea, the result of millions of years of seismic activity. HOWEVER, legend tells a different story of how it came to be 🙂 Please bring a flashlight. The walk may be semi-dark, since we’ll head out before sunrise.

  Back to the hotel to eat breakfast and then board the coach and drive along the coastline to our next photographic destination, Dunluce Castle. We’ll also stop in the bustling city of Belfast for a lunch break and some photo opportunities.

  For our two final nights, we’ll stay in the heart of Dublin, and many attractions will be within walking distance of our hotel. Each guest will be given a map of the area to explore with Dan or on their own. This evening, we’ll head out to the Merry Ploughboy for dinner and live Irish entertainment, voted “best event/dinner entertainment in Ireland.” Overnight at Iveagh Garden Hotel

  Sunday, May 8 (B, D)

  Breakfast at the hotel. You’re free to explore the city today. Photograph Dublin’s colorful doors, many different bridges, historical sites, and churches, and city parks such as St. Stephen’s Green. There are endless attractions in this charming city. Lunch on your own today. Meet up for an optional evening walk and photo shoot around Temple Bar district, the lively hub of Dublin’s pubs and restaurants. We’ll have a group farewell dinner, pub-style, and a Guinness might be on the menu for a night cap. Overnight at Iveagh Garden Hotel

  Monday, May 9 (B)

  Depart Dublin any time of day.

  May the luck of the Irish be with you!

  • Trip Cost

    EXPLORER RATE: 7900 pp, DBL occupancy

    NON-EXPLORER RATE: ADD 300

    Single sup: 1650

    Pricing in US Dollars

  • Deposit

    $1500 Per person due at time of booking
    Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check accepted

    Deposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.

  • Installments

    October 15, 2021: $3000 per person first installment
    January 15, 2022: Final installment

    Check only for first and final payments. Please make check payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:

    Natural Exposures
    810 N. Wallace, Suite E
    Bozeman, MT 59715

  • Included

    • Private small group travel with professional photographer Daniel J. Cox
    • Airport transfers by shuttle or hired taxi in Shannon and Dublin on scheduled itinerary days
    • Entrance fees for various locations visited
    • Accommodations for 13 nights including two nights in a castle
    • Beverages! (wine, beer, soft drinks, water, tea, coffee) with meals
    • Private coach travel – bathroom onboard and extra room for comfort
    • Local guide/coach driver Con O’Leary
    • Meals where indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
    • Bottled water throughout tour

  • Not Included

    • International airfare
    • Airport transfers on non-scheduled itinerary days
    • Laundry, misc. expenses, Internet charges, some beverages
    • Any attractions/optional activities not listed in itinerary
    • Travel insurance
    • Gratuities for guide/driver (budget 120-150 USD per guest)

  • Flights to Book

    April 26, 2022
    Arrive Shannon (SNN) any time of day

    May 9, 2022
    Depart Dublin (DUB) any time of day

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:

    Global Rescue
    (use code natexp)

    Allianz Global Assistance 
    (use travel agency ID F203564)

    Insure My Trip

  • Terms & Conditions

    Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.

    By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY

• Accommodations for 2022 Ireland Photography Tour

  April 26, 1 Night
  Dunraven Arms Hotel, Adare, County Limerick – “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”
  Bedrooms at this country house are stylish and elegant with sumptuous fabrics and elegant, antique furnishings. Situated in the village of Adare in County Limerick, this ivy clad Manor House Hotel is surrounded by mellow thatch cottages and is an oasis of luxury and tranquility in the lively Adare village.

  April 27-28, 2 Nights
  Castlewood House, Dingle, County Kerry
  Picture waking up and looking out at one of the most beautiful sights in the world, Dingle Bay. Castlewood House makes this picture a reality.

  Four-star Castlewood House is just a five-minute walk from the lower center of Dingle town. They set the standards where others follow. Every care is taken and every need is anticipated to ensure comfort and relaxation during your stay.

  April 29, 1 Night
  Fiddle + Bow, Doolin, County Clare
  Fiddle + Bow is a unique hotel. Nestled in the heart of Doolin, their name is a celebration of the village’s superlative reputation as the home of traditional music in County Clare and one of the most musical spots on the Emerald Isle. Since opening in May 2019, they have focused on delivering high-quality bedrooms, cuisine, service, and atmosphere. 

  April 30 and May 1, 2 Nights
  The House Hotel, Galway, County Galway
  This 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of the Latin Quarter, where Galway comes alive. Here, you’ll be right around the corner from the ever bustling Quay Street and Shop Street and just five minutes from Eyre Square. Rooms are chic, quiet, intimate, and oozing in comfort. Enjoy the hotel’s feel and vibe, whether it’s in your room, their stylish lobby, or in the cocktail bar.
  

  May 2-3, 2 Nights
  Ashford Castle, Cong, County Mayo
  Built in 1228, this medieval castle has been transformed into a leading luxury hotel named “#1 Castle in Ireland.” Feel like a Queen or King for a night!

  Awards, Accolades, and Associations

  May 4 and 5, 2 Nights
  The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel, County Donegal
  The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel is a charming family run hotel located in the heart of County Donegal. The old world charm and quaintness of The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel will captivate you instantly upon arrival. The Hotel has been fully refurbished in the last year and boasts warm welcoming shades and beautiful tweeds and fabrics which offer guests the best of both worlds – traditional Irish warmth with a modern twist. The hotel is renowned for its excellent reputation for quality food, friendly service, and comfortable accommodation.

  May 6, 1 Night
  The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim (UK)
  One of Ireland’s most well-known, luxurious 4-star hotels, The Bushmills Inn is situated in an enviable location, a stone’s throw from a host of visitor attractions including Old Bushmills Distillery, The Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle. Roaring peat fires, nooks and crannies, and a secret library set the tone. In the bar, still lit by gas light, try a glass of malt from the hotel’s private cask. The accommodation comprises of sumptuous guest rooms, many with views extending over the River Bush.

  May 7-8, 2 Nights
  Iveagh Garden Hotel, Dublin, County Dublin
  A modern take on traditional luxury, the 4-star Iveagh Garden Hotel is an urban oasis just steps from Grafton Street. Retreat to your luxurious room, unwind with a stroll through the Iveagh Gardens, and enjoy delicious casual dining, craft cocktails, and the freshest local ingredients in Elle’s bar and bistro.

• Helpful Information for 2022 Ireland Photography Tour

  This will be our fourth photo tour in Ireland. This trip is great for anyone that wants to travel in a group atmosphere and has similar interests (photography!) but also wants to have time to explore on their own.

  The majority of trips to Ireland will visit the southern part of the country; we find this too touristy. We’ll be exploring areas starting in Shannon and westward, parts of the north, and then back down along the east coast—a combination of small/medieval villages, beautiful countryside landscapes, some with cliffs and beaches, and of course, the bustling city of Dublin. There is nothing more special than staying in a castle, for not one night but two on this trip! We love the people of Ireland. The food is top notch. The accommodations are boutique and comfortable. There is so much history and so many places to photograph!

  PASSPORT and VISA

  US citizens do not need a visa to enter Ireland or the UK. We recommend three blank pages in your passport for entry stamps.

  WEATHER

  Weather can change quickly in Ireland. It can be sunny and warm one minute and raining and chilly the next. We highly recommend bringing light layers that are easy to remove/put on if necessary.

  CAMERA GEAR

  Dan will phone each guest prior to trip time to discuss camera gear for the trip. A wide angle lens is highly recommended for shooting in towns/villages due to narrow streets.

  OTHER NOTES

  • The Irish drive on the left side of the road. There are a mixture of good paved roads and small country roads around the counties.
  • There are three times more sheep than there are people in Ireland!
  • Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, so the British Pound is used there and the Euro in the Republic of Ireland. We will give each guest a FeXco Tax Card. Have it swiped and keep your receipts from your purchases, and you can get your VAT (tax) back at the end of the trip (not applicable for food/services).

  Have a question?

  Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.

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• Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers

  • "Hi Tanya, Thanks for the best trip. Many new experiences and friends and lovely reunions with dear friends. Journey home was straight forward and without issues. Best wishes, Allan"

    Allan Coffey, Western Australia

  • "My first trip with D&T, eventhough I have met them prior on other workshops. This was the most fun and relaxed workshop, even with a few 4am sunrises, I have been on. With D's photography knowledge, and T keeping us on track each day, we all should produce beautiful images from the trip. Thanks, Dan & Tanya!!"

    An Vo, Texas

  • "Hats off to Daniel and Tanya for all the hard work and dedication it takes to put on such wonderful trips. You guys are the greatest."

    Fred Kurtz, Indiana

  • "Thanks again for everything......your organizing skills amaze me! The hotels were all great, the food was super, the people in the group were all very nice, and the scenery was outstanding!"

    Peggy Haslam, Manitoba

  • "Many thanks to you and Dan (Natural Exposures) for an amazing photo experience in Ireland. No one can surpass your organizational skills and Dan is an awesome instructor. Look forward to many more trips with Natural Exposures. Thanks again."

    Sandy Garrison, Louisiana

  • "Thank you so much for hosting the tour. I had great experiences and learned a lot. I don't want to get back to "real life". I have been on lots of group tours, both photography related and not, and yours are by far the best! Safe and fun travels."

    Lisa Heine, Texas

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