The Celtic Roots travel experience, a cornerstone the Shepherd University Appalachian Studies program, has been designed to expose students to the Celtic heritage associated with the region of Appalachia—specifically in 2017 through travel to Ireland, Wales, and those parts of England that bear the Celtic influence. An array of Appalachian and Irish writers who have been influenced by Gaelic traditions will be explored through literature and through travel to those places that haunt their habits and hearts. The Cliffs of Moher, the Burren Center, the streets of Sligo and Dublin will take travelers into the world of Beckett, James Joyce, W. B. Yeats, and Lady Gregory. Parke Castle will reveal life in an Irish castle as it truly was, and a boat ride on the Lake of Innisfree and trekking the craggy hills of Ben Bulben will bring the world of Yeats to life and make ours the Wild Irish Way. Mount Snowdon is the centerpiece of Welsh Snowdonia, and our hotel rests in the shadow of Castle Criccieth, while an adventure on the Festinog Railroad will take us into the mining district and the heart of the Welsh mountains, the land of the Mabinogion, and the poetry of Ron Rash. The road from Wales leads to the Cumberland Lakes, as we explore the countryside of Grasmere, Windermere, and Helm Crag, walking in the footprints of Dorothy and William Wordsworth. The last leg of our journey takes us to London’s literary places, as we explore the world of Shakespeare, Shaw, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Oscar Wilde. The quest for our Celtic Roots takes us into a land rich in the love of language and storytelling that is inspiration to modern-day Appalachians and us all.

Per Person Ground Costs
$2,627 Twin Accommodation based on 15 travelers
$2,448 Twin accommodation based on 20 travelers
$551 Supplement for single accommodations
________________________________________
September 1, 2016—Deadline for $300 deposit to hold a place at the exclusive rate above.
October 15, 2016—Final deadline for $300 deposit and travel insurance protection.
December 1, 2016—Balance due
January 10, 2017—Celtic Roots course begins
May 8-18, 2017—Celtic Roots Tour