Rose Tour 2011

Every year the International Roses begin their Rose of Tralee International Festival experience with a five-day tour through Ireland from Dublin to Tralee. This year they will travel from Dublin, via Athy, through Co Galway, Co Clare, Co Limerick and into Co Kerry to arrive in Tralee for the International Gala Rose Ball.

On Monday 15th August, the Roses prepare for the Tour with a visit to Newbridge Silverware in Co Kildare where they will enjoy a cocktail reception and dinner followed by entertainment in the form of a Newbridge Style Evening.

On Tuesday the Roses begin the day with an official photo and press call with the Rose of Tralee TV Selection Host, Dáithí Ó Sé at the RTÉ Television Centre in Dublin. They remain in Dublin for the day and overnight during which time they will visit historic and iconic Irish landmarks such as the Guinness Storehouse. That evening they attend a champagne reception and gala dinner at the Carlton Blanchardstown Hotel before returning to their Dublin base, the Carlton Dublin Airport Hotel, for their last night in the capital.

On Wednesday morning they leave Dublin for Athy and the Carlton Abbey Hotel where they will be greeted by Rose of Tralee and Athy native Clare Kambamettu. They will visit attractions in Birr, including the Dartfield Horse Museum & Heritage Centre, from which a succession of vintage cars will collect them and take them to the Carlton Shearwater Hotel & C Spa. That evening the Carlton will host a drinks reception for the Roses and dinner, followed by an 'Evening of the Arts' which includes live performances from theatre and musical groups.

Thursday morning sees the lucky Roses receive relaxing and indulgent spa treatments at Carlton Shearwater's C Spa with Signature Spa Treatments. After lunch at the hotel, the Roses continue their journey to Co Clare and the Cliffs of Moher, for a tour of this historic and breathtaking national monument. They then proceed to the Carlton Castleroy Hotel where they will spend the night. That evening the Carlton will treat the Roses to a drinks reception and dinner followed by a fashion show.

On Friday the Roses begin the final day of the Tour and the last leg of their journey to Tralee. After leaving the Carlton Castleroy Hotel they will stop at Zip Yard in Newcastle West before arriving at Muckross House & Gardens in Killarney for lunch in the Garden Restaurant.

They then make their way to the outskirts of Tralee, stopping at the Ballyseedy Garden Centre before arriving at the Carlton Hotel Tralee, their home for the week of the Festival. Here they will be met by family and friends, their Rosebuds and the International Escorts as they are serenaded by live music and entertainment, and the Festival journey of a lifetime continues.