2012-2014
WISBOOM
Associate Design Director
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2014-2016
HOP!
Creative Design Lead
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Email: Ray@Gatherdmc.com Tel: +353 85 8069903
Bridgestone
Ireland Trip 2021
10th- 17th October
SEEK OUT YOUR
INNER EXPLORER
EXPERIENCE THE VERY BEST OF IRELAND
Day one
Belfast
Cliffs of Moher
Galway
Dublin
Royal County Down
Golf Club
Wicklow
Limerick
Adare Manor
Bunratty
Castle
Lahinch Golf Club
Ballybunion Golf Club
Welcome to Ireland
Activity
Walking Tour
Welcome to Dublin.
As most flights for your will arrive in the early morning we recommend a walking tour to acclimate the Bridgestone attendees with Dublin and to allow time for the hotel to prepare your rooms. The tour will take the from Dublin Airport on a panoramic drive through the city, stopping at the Irish emigration Museum for an introduction to Ireland.
They will then be taken in small groups on a walking tour of the city center (approx 1-1.5 hours) where they will discover the cities Viking heritage, Dublin’s Creative Quarter, the famed cobbled streets and the wonderful architecture.
Evening Welcome Reception
This evening, guests will be formally welcomed to the city with a private street party hosted adjacent to the Westbury Hotel. The event will be themed like an Irish Street Party.
A selection of locally inspired heavy h'orderves, mini entrees and desserts will be accompanied by local IPA's, whiskeys and wine. An Irish whiskey expert will be offering tastings and insight into the distillation traditions which make the whiskeys unique.
A warm Irish welcome awaits
Welcome Reception Entertainment
Musicians, will play a mix of Classic U2 Songs, traditional Irish music and Famous Irish Songs from around the world.
James, Sean, Peadar and band will keep the attendees entertained.
The former lead dancer from the world wide phenomena Riverdance will showcase the finest Irish Dance for the group.
A local whiskey expert will provide tastings for those who want to learn more about Irish whiskey.
Day Two
Today guests will have a range of activities to choose from, allowing them to explore their interests and get to know the city in more detail.
This evening, guests will experience the cities famed food scene with a dine around.
Activities
Original Dublin
Departing from the city center, your tour will take you by private transfer to Kilmainham Jail - one of the most popular attractions in Dublin. The jail was a central location for the Irish Revolution of 1916.
It is a fantastic location to discover the beginning of Ireland's history as a Republic. From Kilmainham you travel along the river to O’Connell St discovering key battlegrounds in the fight for freedom. After a well deserved pint of Guinness, you will walk across O’Connell Bridge to Grafton St. where you will learn about Dublin's rich textile history.
You will enjoy lunch in a local pub before continuing to Merrion square which shows parts of 18th century Dublin, with its gracious Georgian terraced houses, parks and the impressive Irish Government Buildings at Leinster House.
Belfast
A Titanic Location
After an early breakfast, guests will depart for Belfast, through the beautiful Cooley Peninsula.
Arriving in Belfast mid morning, you will take a historical tour of the city in the company of an expert local guide learning about the city's rich heritage. Guests will explore the areas where the city's bloody civil war - "The Troubles" impacted most, they will see the famous political murals and the peace-wall which separates the Catholic & Protestant Communities and the vibrant city centre
After lunch, guests will visit the iconic Titanic Centre.
Spread over 9 interactive galleries, guests will about life in Belfast in the early 1900's, how the ship was built, what the accommodation on board was like, they will also learn about some of the passengers, and see letters written to loved ones. It is an amazing and thought provoking experience.
Irish design & Afternoon Tea
Today you will discover the best of creative Dublin. You will begin with a trip through the creative quarter, where you will meet one of Ireland best Linen producers, one of only four female glove makers left in the world, who's beautiful handmade leather gloves have featured in Madonna's music videos as well as Vogue Magazine.
Guests will also learn about a fantastic cologne created for JFK that can be found in Dublin as well as a range of perfumes created by boutique perfumers across the world.
The second part of your day will involve a decedent Afternoon tea at the cities iconic locations, The afternoon teas will all vary with little twist which guest can discuss later. A symphony of gentle indulgence, this is a time-honoured tradition which has been savoured by generations of guests.
A Links Golf Masterpiece
Departing Dublin after an early breakfast, you will travel north to Newcastle County Down, home of the Worlds best Golf Course - as voted by Golf Digest.
The course is located in one of the world’s most naturally beautiful links settings in the Murlough Nature Reserve, against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne. The links zigzag along the shores of Dundrum Bay providing a different vista from virtually every hole.
Butch Harmon (Hall of Fame Instructor) recently said it was his favorite course in the world.
It is an immense test of skill and patience in an amazingly beautiful location.
Wicklow Wonders
After breakfast we will set out for a full day of touring the stunning County Wicklow.
Their first stop will be at Powerscourt House and Garden's named the 3rd best garden in the world.
Explore 47 acres of gardens or meander through the charismatic stores in Powerscourt House, which was completed in 1741. The 68 bedroom mansion was originally the family seat of the Viscounts Powerscourt. The estate has been owned by the Slazenger family, founders and former owners of the Slazenger sporting goods business.
From Powerscourt House & Gardens, guests will travel through the beautiful Wicklow Mountains to Lough Tay "The Guinness Lake". Guests will enjoy lunch in a local pub before ending their tour at the monastic settlement - Glendalough which dates back to the 6th century.
We'll show you around this beautiful country
Flavours of Ireland
Ireland is recognised as on of the top food destinations in Europe. The Farmers, the fishermen, producers, and butcher are never far away, because the country is small.
Everything gets from producer to consumer quicker, ensuring freshness. It's not unusual for butchers know exactly the field where the beef and lamb are grazing on. This hands on approach gives Ireland world class produce.
On a gentle 3 hour stroll you will visit independently owned cafes, stores and restaurants, tasting in each place and meeting the purveyors or makers.
The tastings will reflect the current food scene, bringing new international and contemporary tastes to the table. As you explore the city through food, you'll also learn a little about the culture and history of our lively and charming city.
Evening Dining
Dublin Dine Around
One of the things that visitors find most surprising when the visit Ireland, is the food. It's so much better than people think.
To us, it's no great surprise. We have lots of fresh ingredients along our shoreline, the cows are all grass fed and there are 1000's small producers right through the country producing incredible ingredients.
The food experience in Dublin is superb. The dine around takes in some of the best restaurants in the city, where chefs have their own network of local producer who assist them in creating every meal.
Experience really great food in the heart of the city.
Day Three
Today, guests can take part in a tour to some of the cities most iconic locations or they may choose to take some time to themselves.
Activities
Discover Dublin
Today, you will take a tour of some of Dublin's most iconic locations. You will learn about the 1916 Rebellion, which brought about freedom from the British Empire, you will discover the cities rich Viking History and modern day culture.
You will also discover Ireland most famous brands, Jameson & Guinness. You will see the factories where this famous drinks are produced and you will sample them. They both taste better in Ireland than anywhere else in the world.
After lunch you will travel to the famous Long Room Library at Trinity College, which is home to over 200,000 books and a the book of Kells which is over 1,200 years old.
After the tour, guests will have time to relax before you depart for dinner at 7pm.
Evening Dining
Cathedral Sounds
Dinner this evening will be an amazing experience in the nave of a ancient Cathedral.
Guest will arrive by luxury coach from their hotel. The Cathedral Bells will welcome guests to a night of amazement.
Dinner will be a feast for the taste buds with a delightful 3-course meal served along the cathedral aisle.
The arrangement of musician will perform during dinner. The spectacular acoustic sounds of the cathedral will offer the perfect space for the amazing singers to impress their audience with modern songs sung in classical form.
Guest will be returned to their hotel by luxury coach after dinner.
Day Four
Moving day
Today, the group will leave Dublin behind and travel west to the majestic Adare Manor. After breakfast, guest will transfer to a private train which will take them to Limerick the county where Adare is located.
They will experience the Irish countryside in the comfort of a relaxing train journey. As the train makes its way from Dublin city centre, through the centre of the country they will see some of the best parts of Ireland. The onboard team will serve refreshments & a light lunch while musicians and storytellers regale guests with fun and laughter.
On arrival at Limerick station, they will take a short coach ride to Adare Manor where a Horse & Hound welcome will greet guests as they arrive.
Welcome to Adare Manor
Evening Welcome Reception
This evening a relaxing welcome reception will be the fitting introduction to the west of Ireland.
Welcome Reception Entertainment
This evenings arrival at Adare will characterize a change in direction. The hustle and bustle of the city will be replaced with the relaxed way of life of the countryside.
The stunning surrounding of Adare Manor will proved a perfect backdrop for guests as they settle into the local area.
We have chosen a folk/jazz band for this evenings reception. the mellow tones will fit well with the relaxed feeling of the event. Mick and Susan are both seasoned recording artist who will choose the tempo and set list depending on the vibe of the audience.
If weather permits, we will host some of the music outside on the lawn.
Day Five
With Adare as their luxury base, guests will have two wonderful days to experience the west coast of Ireland and the amazing culture of the destination.
Guests will have exciting activity options to choose from for the next two days. Guest can choose a chopper ride to the Cliffs of Moher, Links Golf or Super Car Experience.
They can also choose from a range of on-site activities and they can participate in a local area tour. Each guest will experience three activities.
In the evening, guests will experience the local village with a
dine-around.
We have outlined the dine-around experience in greater detail after the activities below.
Activities
Onsite Activities
Guest can choose from a range of on-site activities at Adare. Horseback riding, Fishing on the River Maigue, Clay Shooting, Falconry, Archery, Historical Tours of the Estate and local monastery and Carriage around the Estate.
Each of the activities will be available across both days for guests to choose from.
Each of the activities has max numbers, so spaces will be available on a first come basis.
Super Car Experience
The ultimate driving experience. Nothing beats the exhilarating feeling of the open road in a super car.
Your guests will take a super car along the Irish coastline, discovering unique towns and villages along the way.
Before departing the hotel, each car will be given a luxury picnic for their day of exploration.
They will also be given an list of local sights to visits, photo opportunities and interesting stops along the way.
An Epic Coastline
After an early breakfast, guests spend the day exploring the coastline in small groups of (no more than 36 per group). The best experiences along the coast suit small groups and we want you to experience the best.
Guests will travel north along the coast to the spectacular Burren. which is an area of glacial-era limestone. Their first stop will be the iconic Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs rise over 400 ft above the Atlantic Ocean. If the weather permits, they will hike along the cliff face. Its a totally majestic experience. Guest will also experience locals caves with the largest stalactite in Europe.
Each group will meet a local oyster producer who will tell them about the creatures that live along the shoreline and how a Tsunami in Lisbon impacted the shoreline, they will also meet a local perfumer who produces a range of Organic scents, soaps and balms in a very unique setting.
Galway - City Of The Tribes
Departing Adare Manor after breakfast, guests will travel north to the arty, bohemian city of Galway - one of Ireland's most engaging locations. Brightly painted pubs heave with live music, while restaurants and cafes offer front-row seats for observing buskers and street theatre.
When guests arrive in Galway, they will take a walking tour of the city, discovering it's rich Spanish heritage and the 14 Tribes who once ruled there.
It was once a walled city, which served as a major trading hub. The first Claddagh ring was also created in the city.
After lunch, guests will have time to roam around shop street, middle street and quay street exploring the tiny stores, and soaking up the vibrant culture and great atmosphere.
High Above
The majestic Cliffs of Moher are jaw droppingly beautiful, stretching for 13km along the Atlantic Coastline they are one of the most visited locations in Ireland. There are many ways to see the cliffs, the most impressive is without doubt, from the sky.
Guests will travel north along the local pasture lands, to the beautiful Burren and onward to the epic Cliffs. As the marauding Atlantic lash against the cliff face below, guests will be high above, taking in the wonder of nature.
Limerick And Beyond
The area surrounding Adare Manor has a very rich and interesting history.
The local tour will take in Limerick city, learning about the epic battles which raged through the centuries, its literary greats and local music legends, The Cranberries.
Guests will travel onward to the 15th century Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, which will give guests an insight into how Irish life has evolved over the centuries. They will learn about many Irish traditions. Lunch will be at a local pub.
Links Golf At It's Finest
The courses along the Irish coastline are revered the world over:. Along the west coast the epic links courses of Ballybunion,
Lahinch,and Trump Doonbeg are all names that roll off the tongue. These stunning courses, combined with the 2026 Ryder Cup venue at Adare make Ireland a golfers paradise.
Guests will have the opportunity to play one of the famed course during their time in Ireland. Transportation, Caddies, Packed lunch and club rental will be provided to ensure the experience is as stress free as possible.
Take to the links and feel the impact of the Atlantic wind on your game.
Evening Dining
LOCAL
DINE-AROUND
Adare Village has a really vibrant food scene which we love guests to experience when they are staying at the property. Local chefs like Wade Murphy at 1826 are recognised as some of the best in Ireland.
There are a range of restaurants and really great gastro pubs which we will coordinate with to create a great dine around experience. We will also arrange some traditional Irish music in the local pubs as post dinner entertainment, allowing revelers to get a real sense of the village
Day six
Today guests will have a second day of activities to choose from. They can select from activities that the didn't participate in yesterday.
Evening Dining
This evenings gala will be styled in autumnal colors, with floral arrangement, table decor and room decoration. Rich brown velvet's, gold table settings and greenery will create a beautiful venues for guests final night in Ireland.
Evening Event Entertainment
The final night should be a memorable end to a wonderful Irish trip. We have recommended a number of entertainment options.
For the drinks reception we felt an Sting Quartet with a little twist might work well. They would work best if paired with the live band.
The folk group are also a great option. Zoe, the violinist and her husband John, on guitar are both classically trained so they can alternate between folk and classical music.
The Celtic Choir are amazing, the could work really well as an act during dinner or as a grand finale. They enter the room cloaked and holding candles. Its a really amazing act.
The Irish dance troop are also a great finale. The synchronicity and sound they produce is beyond words.
Day Seven
Guests will depart Adare Manor for their journey home. This may be at Shannon Airport which is 30 mins away or at Dublin Airport.
We will co ordinate departure times depending on the guests departure airport.