Join beloved author Mary Kay Andrews on an unforgettable journey through Ireland — a land of storytelling, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Inspired by her upcoming novel Road Trip, this literary adventure brings readers along Ireland’s scenic coasts and charming towns.

Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy a blend of literary inspiration, cultural discovery, and classic Irish warmth — with exclusive gatherings and conversations with Mary Kay along the way.

Please contact Dilya at dilya@johnshorstravel.com. We'd love to have you join this fabulous tour!

Be greeted by a private driver, who will drive you to our elegant city-center hotel.

The beating literary heart of Ireland — home to James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Oscar Wilde — Dublin invites visitors into its book-filled streets, cozy pubs, and centuries-old charm.

Check into our charming four-star hotel located in the city center. Enjoy free time to rest. The hotel will either be The Leinster Hotel or a similar property in the same class and central location.

We will meet in the hotel lobby to walk to a nearby restaurant for our welcome dinner with Mary Kay Andrews and fellow travelers.

Meet in the lobby and begin your morning with a guided visit to Trinity College, one of Europe’s oldest universities and the heart of Dublin’s literary heritage. Step inside the Old Library, home to the magnificent Book of Kells — a 9th-century illuminated manuscript that is one of Ireland’s greatest treasures.

Continue walking to Merrion Square, a leafy Georgian park surrounded by colorful doors and elegant townhouses. Pause by the whimsical Oscar Wilde Memorial Sculpture and hear stories about Dublin’s most celebrated wit and playwright.

Enjoy lunch at a nearby café or pub - perhaps try traditional Irish fare like shepherd’s pie or seafood chowder.

After lunch, visit the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI), located inside a beautifully restored Georgian building near St. Stephen’s Green. Explore exhibits dedicated to Ireland’s greatest writers — from James Joyce to contemporary authors — and enjoy a coffee in the museum’s tranquil courtyard café.

Relax for the rest of the day, or continue exploring the area independently.

Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for dinner at a historic Dublin pub, filled with music and laughter.

Meet in the lobby with bags packed and depart the capital and travel south through the scenic countryside of County Wicklow.

Stop for a visit and coffee break at Rossborough House, an elegant 18th-century Georgian mansion surrounded by landscaped gardens and art collections. Once home to the Beit family, it offers a glimpse into Ireland’s aristocratic life and architectural grace.

Drive through the heart of Ireland’s midlands toward Kilkenny, known as the “Marble City.”

Lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.

Explore Kilkenny Castle, stroll along the Medieval Mile, and visit local craft studios and galleries.

Check into the four-star hotel and enjoy your free time. The hotel will either be Pembroke Hotel, Kilkenny River Court, or a similar property in the same class and central location.

Enjoy dinner with the group in one of Kilkenny’s charming restaurants.

After breakfast, we will gather in a private room at the hotel for a special talk with Mary Kay Andrews. Guests will enjoy a conversation about her writing and books, along with the opportunity to ask questions and connect with the author.

Meet in the hotel lobby with bags packed and depart Kilkenny. Travel south through Ireland’s scenic countryside toward the southern coast.

Reach the charming seaside town of Cobh, Ireland’s last port of call for the Titanic. Enjoy a guided visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre, where exhibits trace Ireland’s emigration history and maritime heritage.

Enjoy lunch with views of Cobh’s colorful houses and harbor.

Drive to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city. Check in at the hotel and take some time to relax.

Check into the four-star hotel and enjoy your free time. The hotel will either be the Imperial Hotel or Lancaster Lodge or a similar property in the same class and central location.

Meet in the hotel lobby and walk to a local restaurant for dinner.

Meet in the lobby and depart for the Crawford Art Gallery, one of Ireland’s most beloved cultural landmarks. Explore its collection of Irish and European masterpieces, from classical portraits to vibrant modern works, and learn how Cork’s artistic spirit has shaped its cultural identity.

Enjoy a guided Culinary Walking Tour to experience the city’s food scene like a local. Your expert guide will lead you through Cork’s English Market, an 18th-century treasure filled with local traders, artisan bakers, and fishmongers. Sample Irish delicacies such as fresh cheeses, breads, seafood, and handmade sweets, and enjoy a light pub lunch with your group. Along the way, meet local food producers and hear stories about Cork’s thriving culinary community.

Enjoy a guided walking tour through the heart of Cork. Hear stories about the traditions and history of this vibrant Irish city. Admire the architecture that reflects Cork's rich maritime past.

Free time to relax, shop, or return to the hotel.

Meet in the lobby and walk to a local restaurant for dinner.

Meet in the lobby with bags and depart for Kenmare. Travel west through County Kerry’s rolling hills and coastal landscapes.

Enjoy lunch in town. Browse local boutiques and enjoy coffee in this colorful town framed by mountains and sea.

Check into a charming four-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Kenmare, offering elegant accommodations and easy walking access to the town’s colorful streets, shops, and restaurants. The hotel will either be Lansdowne Kenmare or a similar property in the same class and central location.

Explore Kenmare’s colorful streets, boutiques, and seaside views. Guests may enjoy a leisurely walk through town, visit local craft shops, or explore the nearby Kenmare Heritage Centre.

Meet in the lobby and walk to a restaurant for dinner.

Meet in the lobby and depart with your private guide for a full-day excursion along the Beara Peninsula — one of Ireland’s most stunning and untouched coastal regions.

Journey through the dramatic , a winding mountain road offering breathtaking views over the valleys and Atlantic coastline. Stop for photos and enjoy the peaceful, untamed landscape.

Visit the traditional villages of Eyeries and Allihies, famous for their colorful cottages and vibrant arts community. Meet local craftspeople and learn about Beara’s unique Slow Food culture.

Stop for lunch in a pub, where you can savor delicious local cuisine.

Along the route, stop to see ancient stone circles, the Ogham Stone with Celtic inscriptions, and perhaps enjoy a cheese tasting at a small hill farm.

Relax on the scenic drive back to Kenmare, passing through lush valleys and picturesque coastal roads.

Enjoy dinner on your own in Kenmare — a charming town known for its gourmet dining and live traditional music.

After breakfast, travel north through Ireland’s heartland toward County Clare.

Lunch stop at a local café.

Step back in time at Bunratty Castle, a fully restored 15th-century fortress surrounded by a re-created Irish village. Explore the castle’s great hall, cottages, and shops that evoke life from centuries past.

Check in at a comfortable four-star hotel, such as the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Limerick or a similar property in the same class. Enjoy free time to relax at the hotel before dinner.

Meet in the lobby and walk to dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Meet in the hotel lobby. Drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, towering above the Atlantic Ocean with breathtaking views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.

Walk along the cliff paths and visit the interpretive centre to learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, and legends.

Stop in Doolin, famed for its live folk music and cozy pubs.

Relax on the return drive, passing rolling fields and small Irish villages.

Meet in the lobby and depart for dinner. Celebrate the journey’s finale with a warm Farewell Dinner with Mary Kay and fellow travelers.

Transportation is provided for all guests to Shannon Airport.

• $8,995 USD per person, based on double occupancy

• $11,095 USD per person, based on single occupancy

Price includes: 

• Accommodations at high-end hotels 

• All transportation

• Meals and non-alcoholic drinks

• Fees (tours, guides, etc.)

• Excursions 

• All tips

Price does not include: 

• International airfare to Dublin and returning from Shannon airport

• Alcoholic drinks and one dinner (Day 7)

• Activities during free times such as golf, spa, etc.

• Hotel incidentals such as room service, mini bar, phone charges, laundry, etc.

• Charges incurred if guests arrive a day early in Dublin or decide to remain in Bunratty after the tour ends

Before booking your slot, please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to travel fully unassisted. This includes being able to:

• Walk two or more miles per day, including on uneven surfaces

• Go up and down steps and inclines

• Stand for periods of time

• Carry personal bags and luggage independently 

Have a look at our full “Traveler Expectations and Disclaimer” page here.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. For your convenience, you can explore options from our trusted travel insurance partner here.