Our Signature “Best of Ireland” tours cover ancient monastic settlements to majestic castles and breathtaking landscapes, our journeys are uniquely handcrafted experiences.
Optional: Travelling all that way, why not add on 5 days of the best of the UK (Northern Ireland) This will include the breathtaking sites of the north and cover sites not to be missed as well as offer opportunities for the tour group to participate in local events and initiatives where we have great connections.
Please understand the value and uniqueness of our tours is in the incredible locals that take part and because our tours are booked so far in advance sometimes schedules change and we need to re jig a few days.
Rest assured that all on the itinerary will get done although the order might change slightly tour to tour!
Duration: 10 Days
Hiking Grade: 3 – Moderate
Price: 5500 AUD per person (10 day Ireland); 3800 AUD per person (5 day add on to northern Ireland)
Minimum Tourist per Trip: 8
Time of Year: August - September 2025
Rooms: *single supplement available
Flights: We are able to help you organise flights at an additional cost
About Your Tour Guides:
Stephanie Woollard OAM
Our main tour guide, award-winning social entrepreneur Stephanie Woollard OAM, is a third-generation Irish descendant with fond memories of soul-stirring Celtic tunes, a well-documented family heritage - and a desire to share her love for Ireland with the world. Her connections and guidance open the door to new worlds, wonderful people - and a pretty good sense of humour.
Dr Mark Dunwoody
Dr Mark Dunwoody is a podcaster, author, and historian deeply passionate about Celtic Christianity. His over 30 years of international experience as an entrepreneur and consultant, working with non-profits and faith communities worldwide has given him a unique and broad global perspective. Originally from Belfast, Ireland, and having lived in five countries, he is widely recognized as a writer, speaker, strategist, and coach.
Mark's love for the story of Celtic Christianity is central to his work. He is fascinated by how this movement played a vital role in helping Western Europe emerge from the Dark Ages, preserving knowledge and faith, and laying the groundwork for cultural and spiritual renewal. His coaching and leadership, which draw on the wisdom of this ancient tradition, have inspired leaders to cultivate resilience and transformation in their own contexts.
Arrive in Dublin and check into your accommodation at the Waterloo House Hotel.
Optional: Visit the Guinness Storehouse or St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
The Guiness Storehouse is a popular tourist attraction in Dublin, Ireland, dedicated to the history and culture of Guinness, one of the world’s most famous beers. It’s located at the St. James's Gate Brewery, where Guinness has been brewed since 1759.
St. Patricks Cathedral is located in Dublin and is the largest cathedral in Ireland and one of its most iconic landmarks. Built in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, it has been a site of Christian worship for over 800 years. The cathedral is located near the site where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts to Christianity in the 5th century.
Explore Dublin's vibrant city center, visiting landmarks such as Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Temple Bar, and Dublin Castle.
Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious university, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Located in the heart of Dublin, its beautiful campus features cobblestone pathways, elegant Georgian architecture, and green courtyards.
The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript created by monks around the 9th century. It contains the four Gospels of the New Testament, written in Latin, and is famous for its stunning illustrations and intricate Celtic designs.
Temple Bar is a lively cultural and entertainment district in Dublin, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful pubs, and vibrant nightlife.
Dublin Castle is a historic fortress that has played a central role in Ireland’s history for over 800 years. Originally built as a medieval fortress in the 13th century under Norman rule, it later became the seat of British administration in Ireland.
Travel to Galway, a vibrant city on the west coast of Ireland (215km).
Galway is located on Ireland’s west coast, is a vibrant and picturesque city known for its rich history, lively arts scene, and traditional Irish culture. Often called the “Cultural Heart of Ireland,” Galway is famous for its festivals, including the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway Races, which attract visitors from around the world.
Explore Galway's charming streets, colorful shops, and lively atmosphere.
Rest and stay in your accomodation Harbour Hotel.
Morning:
Depart for Clifden (85km), known as the "Gateway to Connemara" and visit a famous craft village.
Spiddal Crafts Village is a charming artisan village located in Spiddal (An Spidéal), a coastal town in County Galway, Ireland. It showcases a variety of locally made crafts and offers visitors a chance to see artisans at work in their studios. The village features a range of traditional Irish crafts such as pottery, glass-blowing, weaving, jewelry-making, and painting.
Explore Clifden and then venture into Connemara National Park.
The Connemara National Park is a beautiful and rugged national park located in the west of Ireland, in County Galway. Covering around 2,957 hectares (7,300 acres), it is known for its diverse landscapes, which include scenic mountains, expansive bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands.
Return to Galway for the night and stay in the Harbour Hotel.
Morning:
Depart from Galway and travel to Kylemore Abbey (80km).
Visitors to Kylemore Abbey can explore the Victorian Walled Garden, the abbey’s impressive architecture, the church, and the picturesque surrounding landscape, making it one of Ireland’s most iconic and serene attractions.
The Gothic Church on the grounds is a beautiful, small-scale neo-Gothic structure, often referred to as a "cathedral in miniature." It was built by Mitchell Henry in memory of his wife, Margaret, after her untimely death. The church is designed in classic Gothic Revival style, with stunning features like stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. It offers a peaceful place for reflection amidst the scenic beauty of the Kylemore estate.
Afternoon:
Continue to Westport (64km).
Check into your hotel the Westport Plaza, and explore Westport’s charming town centre.
Westport's charming town centre, located in County Mayo, Ireland, is known for its picturesque layout, vibrant atmosphere, and traditional Irish charm. The town is one of Ireland’s few planned towns, designed in the 18th century by architect James Wyatt. Its unique layout includes tree-lined promenades, such as the beautiful Mall, which runs along the Carrowbeg River, creating a scenic and peaceful environment.
Morning:
Visit Croagh Patrick and participate in an optional hike or simply admire the view.
Croagh Patrick is a sacred mountain in County Mayo, Ireland, and one of the country's most important pilgrimage sites. Standing at 764 meters (2,507 feet), it offers breathtaking views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside. Known as Ireland’s "Holy Mountain," Croagh Patrick has been a place of religious significance for over 5,000 years, with strong associations with St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Spend the remainder of the day exploring Westport, visiting shops, cafes, and enjoying dinner with traditional Irish music.
Stay in the Westport Plaza Hotel.
Morning:
Depart for Killarney in County Kerry, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and lakes (210km).
Visit Muckross House and Gardens, a grand Victorian mansion located in Killarney National Park near Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland. Built in 1843, the house is known for its stunning architecture, historical significance, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Explore the gardens, take a boat trip on Muckross Lake, or enjoy a traditional jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park.
Muckross Lake is the second-largest and the deepest of the Killarney lakes, reaching depths of up to 75 meters (246 feet). Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including mountains, woodlands, and the Victorian Muckross House, Muckross Lake is a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
The Killarney National Park is a stunning natural reserve, known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history. Established in 1932, it was the first national park in Ireland and covers over 102 square kilometres (about 25,000 acres) of mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls.
Evening:
Stay in the accomodation The Oaks Hotel.
Embark on a scenic drive along the famous Ring of Kerry which is a famous scenic driving route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. Spanning approximately 179 kilometers (111 miles), the Ring offers breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, rolling green hills, mountains, and charming villages.
Stop at viewpoints, beaches, and picturesque villages along the way.
Visit historic sites such as Staigue Fort which is an ancient stone ring fort located on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. It dates back to the Iron Age (around 300-400 AD) and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved stone forts in Ireland.
Return to Killarney for the night and stay at The Oaks Hotel.
Morning:
Depart to Cashel (165km).
Visit the Rock of Cashel which is one of Ireland’s most iconic historical sites. Located in County Tipperary, it is a dramatic limestone hill topped with a collection of medieval buildings that served as a seat of power for Irish kings and church leaders for centuries. The site is famous for its impressive medieval architecture and religious significance.
After visiting the Rock of Cashel, visit the Holy Cross Abbey, a historic site offering panoramic views.
Afternoon:
Continue to Kilkenny (120km).
Explore Kilkenny Castle and the medieval city centre. The Kilkenny Castle is a historic castle located in the heart of Kilkenny City, Ireland. Originally built in the late 12th century by the Norman invader William Marshal, it has been extensively restored and is one of Ireland’s most iconic castles.
The medieval city centre is a well-preserved historic area in the heart of Kilkenny City, known for its narrow streets, medieval architecture, and cultural landmarks. It reflects Kilkenny's rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when the city was a major political and religious hub in Ireland.
Rest and stay at your accomodation the Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel.
Return to Dublin from Kilkenny (135km) via Kildare to visit St. Brigid’s Cathedral and sacred sites and Moon high cross.
St. Brigid’s Cathedral is located in Kildare, Ireland, and is dedicated to St. Brigid, one of Ireland’s patron saints. The cathedral, which stands on the site of an ancient monastery founded by St. Brigid in the 5th century, is a significant religious and historical site.
Kildare is home to several sacred sites linked to its early Christian heritage and its association with Celtic spirituality. St. Brigid’s monastery was one of the most important religious centres in early medieval Ireland. The area around the cathedral is believed to have been the site of St. Brigid’s fire temple, where an eternal flame was kept burning by her nuns in ancient times, symbolizing spiritual light and life.
St. Brigid’s Well, located outside of Kildare town, is another important pilgrimage site, where people come to pray, leave offerings, and seek healing.
The Moon High Cross is a remarkable stone cross located in the village of Moon (Maon), County Kildare. The cross is one of Ireland's finest high crosses, dating back to the 9th century.
Explore any remaining attractions in Dublin.
Rest and stay at your accomodation Waterloo House.
Return to Dublin for your departure flight, reflecting on the memories and experiences of your Irish culture and heritage tour and those who are travelling with us to the north get ready for Belfast!
Travelling all that way, why not add on 5 days of the best of the UK (Northern Ireland) This will include the breathtaking sites of the north and cover sites not to be missed as well as offer opportunities for the tour group to participate in local events and initiatives where we have great connections. If so add on (Northern Ireland) Cont.10 Days of Ireland Tour
Day 11: Arrival in Belfast
Morning:
Arrive in Belfast and check into your hotel, The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast (4-star) – Luxurious and centrally located.
Visit St. Anne’s Cathedral which was completed in 1981 and is built on the site of a previous church dating back to 1776. It features beautiful mosaics and stained glass and serves as a testament to Belfast's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Evening:
Explore the Cathedral Quarter, known for its vibrant arts scene and historical significance, and enjoy dinner at a local pub.
This Anglican cathedral, completed in 1981, is built on the site of a previous church dating back to 1776. It features beautiful mosaics and stained glass and serves as a testament to Belfast's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Day 12: Belfast to Armagh
Morning:
Drive or take a bus to Armagh (1.5 hours).
Check in to Armagh City Hotel (3-star) – Comfortable and centrally located.
Afternoon:
Visit the Cathedral of St. Patrick and St. Patrick's Catholic Cathedral. Armagh is known as the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. St. Patrick established his first church here in the 5th century, making it a pivotal site in the history of Irish Christianity.
Start your day at the St. Patrick's Centre, where you can learn about St. Patrick’s legacy. Then continue to Downpatrick and the gift shop.
Visit Saul Church, where St. Patrick established his first church. Follow on by paying respects at his nearby gravesite.
Head to Bangor Abbey, an ancient monastic site connected to early Christian Ireland.
Day 13: Armagh to Donegal
Depart for Donegal Town (2 hours) which is a charming town located in County Donegal, Ireland, situated at the mouth of the River Eske and surrounded by scenic hills and coastal landscapes.
Visit the famine museum which is dedicated to commemorating the Great Famine (1845-1852), a devastating period in Irish history that resulted in the deaths of approximately one million people and led to the emigration of many others.
Visit Donegal Castle- optional
History: Originally built by the O'Donnell family in the 15th century, the castle reflects the region's Gaelic heritage and its importance as a stronghold against English rule.
Stroll around Donegal Town and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Stay in The Abbey Hotel Donegal (3-star) – Centrally located and comfortable.
Day 14: Donegal to Derry to Coleraine
Morning:
Depart or Derry/Londonderry.
Visit St. Columb's Cathedral and St. Carmichael’s Cathedral.
St. Columb's Cathedral, built between 1628 and 1633, is the first cathedral built in Derry and serves as a symbol of the city's religious history. St. Carmichael’s Cathedral is known for its stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Afternoon:
Explore the Museum of Free Derry and walk the city walls.
The walls, completed in the 17th century, are among the best preserved in Europe and tell the story of the city’s defence and the struggles of its people.
Evening:
Head to Coleraine (about 1.5 hours).
Day 15: Coleraine to Belfast
Morning: Head to Coleraine (about 1 hour). Visit the
Coleraine Courthouse.
History: Opened in 1837, the courthouse is a fine example of Victorian architecture and played a key role in the judicial history of the area.
Afternoon: Explore the town and the River Bann.
Heritage: Coleraine is one of the oldest towns in Ireland, with roots dating back to the 17th century. Its rich history is reflected in the local architecture and cultural landmarks.
Hotel: The Lodge Hotel (3-star) – Comfortable and well-located.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant.
5500 AUD/each person
