Star Collector: Irish Stout to Bordeaux Wine: A Tour of Ireland & France

Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic’s construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars.

Located on the River Foyle, Londonderry is known for its intact 17^th century Derry’s Walls with 7 gates that surrounds St. Columb’s Cathedral with artifacts dating from 1688. The landmark Peace Bridge spans the river and the Tower Museum has local history exhibits.

Friendly Killybegs is the largest fishing port in County Donegal located at the head of a scenic harbor with mountains as a backdrop. It is famous for its tapestries and carpets and sites to see here include Killybegs International Carpet Making, Cyndi Graham Handweaving, Glencolmcille Folk Village and expansive white-sand Fintragh Blue Flag Beach. Visit the nearby Slieve League Cliffs, which rise almost 2,000 feet from the Atlantic and are the highest cliffs in Europe.

Galway’s popularity is its food scene that boasts the very best local ingredients and innovative techniques even with traditional favorites like fish and chips. It has one of the liveliest pub scenes including Galway craft beer. Check out the weekend market set in the shadow of St. Nicholas’ Medieval Church. Galway is also gateway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, rising over 700 feet from the sea with views of the Aran Islands. These are one of Ireland's most famous tourist attractions.

SCENIC CRUISING CLIFFS OF MOHER

Located on Ireland's stunning west coast, Dingle enchants with its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and quiet sea shores. The town's colorful buildings frame bustling streets brimming with traditional pubs and artisanal shops. Surrounded by the wild beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, visitors can explore ancient ruins, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Located on an island in the middle of the River Lee, Cork is a compact, friendly, laidback city with unique museums, like the Butter Museum, eclectic pubs and aroma-filled coffee houses all easily accessible by walking.  The recognizable icon of Cork, St. Anne’s Church and Shandon Steeple offers visitors the unique opportunity to ring the church bells.

Explore Ireland’s oldest city from the Viking Triangle, surrounded by 10th century fortifications, to the sparkling House of Waterford Crystal, home to the largest collection of the landmark cut crystal in the world. Take time to raise a glass at T&H Doolans’ Pub, where visitors have been heartily welcomed for more than 300 years.

Located off the southwestern coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are a popular holiday destination in the United Kingdom. This stunning archipelago is usually only accessible by ferry or helicopter.  With pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, the Isles of Scilly offer a true escape into natural beauty and serenity. Depending on the weather conditions, you will be able to visit up to 3 different islands, each offering something unique.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

Sitting on the estuary where the Seine River meets the English Channel, the charming character of this harbor town has been the subject of artists like Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin. The 15^th century St. Catherine’s church is an interesting vaulted timber structure built by shipbuilders. And a walk along the edge of the Honfleur Estuary will pass town gardens, beaches, and a view of the Normandy Bridge. You can also find the intriguing local cider along the Route du Cidre.

Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city’s ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant.