Just before the midterm break, 29 second-year students set off on a four-day tour of Italy—an adventure filled with history, culture, and plenty of fun.
🌅 Day 1 – Venice
Our journey began with a very early 3am departure from Clara. By the time we landed in Venice, the weather felt more Irish than Italian, but spirits remained high. With our cheerful bus driver, Walter, we made our way into the city by vaporetto (water taxi). Despite puddles and umbrellas everywhere, students explored Venice’s winding streets and canals. The day ended with a fascinating visit to a glass factory, where we watched artisans craft their famous pieces, before heading to our accommodation in the mountains overlooking Lake Garda.
🏛️ Day 2 – Verona & Sirmione
Day two brought us to Verona, the city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Students visited Juliet’s house and posed on the famous balcony, though no Romeos appeared! We also toured Verona’s impressive Roman arena, now used for concerts and events. Later, in the lakeside town of Sirmione, students enjoyed a thrilling speedboat ride across Lake Garda—complete with music blasting from the speakers. This was a highlight for many, followed by time to wander the charming streets and indulge in some well-earned (if pricey) Italian gelato.
🎢 Day 3 – Gardaland
Thursday was dedicated to pure fun at Gardaland, the local theme park. Rollercoasters and rides kept both students and teachers entertained, and although the rain returned, Gardaland ponchos proved a worthy investment.
🏰 Day 4 – Milan
On our final day, we visited Milan. We explored the Castello Sforzesco and its museum, admired artefacts, and strolled along the city’s main shopping street. Some students picked up AC Milan jerseys before we reached the magnificent Gothic cathedral, Il Duomo.
✈️ Home Again That evening, we flew home from Milan airport, arriving back in Clara at 2am—tired but thrilled with the memories we had made.
💐 Grazie Mille! A huge thank you goes to Ms. Earner for organising the trip, to Ms. Hickey, Ms. Cronin, and Mr. Kiernan for accompanying the group and Ms Earner, to the parents for their support, and most of all to the students, whose enthusiasm, positivity, and excellent behaviour made the trip such a success.
