On the Deluxe Irish Castles tour, you are invited to live like royalty. You won't simply be visiting the stunning heritage sites of the Emerald Isle. On this tour of Ireland, you will actually be staying in Ireland's historic luxury castles and romantic country manor houses.
This Small-Group Tour of Ireland is carefully designed to offer you the perfect balance of luxury properties and unique experiences, comfort and culture. The finest accommodation, the best food, the most luxurious tour transportation.
Stay in real Irish castles and romantic manor houses on this 10-day luxury tour of Ireland, encompassing the very best of Ireland. From Dublin to Donegal, Cork to Connemara, you will experience an authentic and close-up look into Ireland's history and culture. Don't forget your camera as you visit the lakes and loughs, the seashores and summits that distinguish Ireland as one of the most stunning and photogenic landscapes on earth. This luxury and leisurely journey will guide you through Ireland's most treasured attractions and most memorable destinations. Welcome to Ireland.
Arrival | Departure | Price Per Person | Availability |
---|---|---|---|
Sun 05 May 2019 | Tue 14 May 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 19 May 2019 | Tue 28 May 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 02 Jun 2019 | Tue 11 Jun 2019 | € 2390 | 3 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 16 Jun 2019 | Tue 25 Jun 2019 | € 2390 | 2 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 07 Jul 2019 | Tue 16 Jul 2019 | € 2390 | 1 Space Left - Book Now! |
Sun 21 Jul 2019 | Tue 30 Jul 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 04 Aug 2019 | Tue 13 Aug 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 18 Aug 2019 | Tue 27 Aug 2019 | € 2390 | 8 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 08 Sep 2019 | Tue 17 Sep 2019 | € 2390 | 2 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 22 Sep 2019 | Tue 01 Oct 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 06 Oct 2019 | Tue 15 Oct 2019 | € 2190 | 3 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 20 Oct 2019 | Tue 29 Oct 2019 | € 1990 | Spaces Available - Book Now! |
The Deposit for the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour 2019 is €400 per person
The Single Occupancy Supplement is €500
By booking with My Ireland Tour, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions
Welcome - you've arrived on your Irish castle tour. On arrival in Dublin Airport reclaim your baggage and enter the Arrivals Hall. Here in the Arrivals Hall you will meet your professional Irish driver-guide (one person). There will be three Group transfers this morning between 0700 am and 1200 noon. Board your luxury air-conditioned coach and make the short transfer to Dunboyne Castle Hotel where you can relax and unwind after your flight.
15:00 Check in time. Hotel reception will store your luggage prior to check in.
At 1900 this evening all participants will gather for dinner in hotel restaurant where you will become acquainted with your fellow-travellers and the coming days can be discussed at leisure with your Professional Driver-Guide.
After some much needed sleep and a hearty full Irish breakfast we will depart for the 5 star Lough Eske Castle majestically set on the shores of Lough Eske in Donegal. Travelling west your route today will take through Meath, the Royal County due to its history as the seat of the High King of Ireland.
Our first stop today will be at Trim Castle. Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30 year period, finished in 1206.
Continue on through the lake region of Cavan and briefly cross the border into Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower to visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world dating from 1857.
Cross the border back into Donegal in the Republic of Ireland and travel on to Lough Eske. Leisurely afternoon on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle. Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa. After dinner you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.
Leisurely morning on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa. Depart for the historic fortified walled city of Derry / Londonderry in Northern Ireland. The city fortifications are among the best - preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.
Afternoon guided walking tour of the historic walls with a local guide. The city walls are up to 8 metres (26 feet) in height and in places are 9 metres (29 feet) wide. They were completed in 1618 and were never breached.
Take some free time in Derry / Londonderry to visit the shops and cafes of Derry / Londonderry to get a flavour of Northern Ireland before returning to Lough Eske Castle Hotel. Again this evening dine in Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa
This morning after breakfast will depart for the Ballynahinch Castle for an unrivalled experience of true Irish hospitality. Formerly the home of “Humanity Dick” Martin and The Maharajah Ranjitsinhji, Ballynahinch Castle has been welcoming visitors to Connemara for over 250 years. This unique castle is spectacularly located on a private 450 acre estate of woodlands, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara.
Your route south to Ballynahinch castle will take you to Drumcliffe in Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of WB. Yeats.
Travel on to the beautiful Mayo town of Westport on the shores of Clew Bay. Take time to explore this unique and charming heritage town nestled in the shadow of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days. I would suggest a stroll down the elegant tree lined Mall of Westport and wander along Bridge Street with its colourful and friendly mix of traditional shops and pubs.
Continue on via Leenane and along the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord on the Mayo - Galway border.
Travel on to Kylemore where you will visit Kylemore Abbey & Gardens, which is nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shores of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.
Journey down the spectacular Inagh valley with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your right and the Maumturks Mountains on your left as you travel to Ballynahinch.
Tonight you will overnight and dine in Ballynahinch Castle. After dinner you might like to retire to the friendly Fisherman's Pub for a nightcap before bed.
This morning after breakfast take time to explore at your leisure the extensive grounds of Ballynahinch Castle. Take time to stroll the estate's forest trails or simply sit in the tranquillity of the grounds listening to the song of the river as it makes its interminable journey to the sea.
Later this morning if the lure of the castle grounds are not too strong you will travel along the shores of the famous Galway Bay into Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes".
You will have the afternoon free in Galway city, a small but vibrant city easy to explore on foot at your leisure with plenty of opportunities for shopping, seeing its historic sites or perhaps enjoying a leisurely afternoon drink in one of Galway's many legendary pubs.
Return to Ballynahinch Castle Inagh Valley.
Tonight you will overnight and dine in Ballynahinch Castle.
This morning after breakfast you will depart for the Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney, located on the lake shore of Killarney's famous Lough Lein with magnificent mountain and woodland views. Your journey to Killarney will take you down the Atlantic seaboard on the west coast of Clare via Galway.
You will see The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land – an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640’s, Cromwell’s surveyor described it as “a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury”.
On the coast you will stand on the dramatic 650ft high and 8 kilometre long Cliffs of Moher to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. Further south in County Limerick take time to stroll the main street of the beautiful thatched village of Adare before travelling on to Killarney.
Tonight you will overnight and dine in Cahernane House Hotel After dinner you might like to retire to the Cellar Bar for a nightcap before bed.
This morning after breakfast you will set off on the world famous Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula) via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with it magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O’ Connell, known as “The Liberator”, to Caherdaniel.
Today you will have a traditional Irish pub lunch in The Blind Piper Pub in the village of Caherdaniel. Locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.
Continue on via the pretty village of Sneem, Moll’s Gap, Ladies View and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney town. Tonight you will overnight and dine in Cahernane House Hotel.
This morning after breakfast you will depart for Killashee House Hotel set amidst over 280 acres of historic and intriguing gardens, walkways and parkland with magnificent views of the Kildare country side. Your route today will take you over the famous Cork/Kerry Mountains via the Irish speaking villages of Ballymakeery & Ballyvourney to the old market town of Macroom, where you will see Macroom Castle, once home of Sir William Penn, whose son was later to found the state of Pennsylvania.
Travel on to the village of Blarney via the valley of the river Lee. Visit Blarney Castle built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy and here you will have the opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone.
You will have an opportunity for shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills where one of the largest selections of Irish arts, crafts and produce can be seen on display.
Rising out dramatically from the plains of Tipperary you will visit the Rock of Cashel. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977 and he became High King of Ireland in 1002.
Tonight you will overnight & dine in Killashee House Hotel. After dinner you might like to retire to the contemporary Jack's Bar for a nightcap before bed.
Trinity College founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I on the site of an Augustinian monastery. Trinity College is also home to the Book of Kells, which is the most richly decorated of Ireland’s medieval illuminated manuscripts. The book contains the four gospels in Latin. Some of the dyes used were imported from as far as the Middle East.
Christ Church Cathedral founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta. You will also have a unique opportunity to visit the Belfry and ring the Cathedral bells
Please note: Getting to the Belfry in Christ Church Cathedral involves climbing 86 stone steps in a medieval building and crossing the roof at the South transept – quite the experience.
Guinness Storehouse at St. James's Gate for a tour of the world famous brewery and afterwards enjoy a perfect pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which is located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City and County in every direction.
You will have some free time this afternoon to explore and shop in Dublin and we would also suggest you take a stroll up Grafton Street. Tonight you will overnight and dine in Killashee House Hotel.
After a final great Irish breakfast this morning there will be three group transfers between 0500 and 1100 for you to choose from to get you to Dublin Airport for your return flight home.
The Deluxe Irish Castles Tour welcomes you to a different class of accommodation. On this Ireland tour, you will be staying in some of Ireland's finest castles and manor houses. We are very proud of the range of luxury accommodation we have put together for this exclusive journey. Many of these castle hotels and manors are family-owned, just like ourselves, and we have a long standing relationship with them all.
We know and trust the accommodation providers we use for our tours of Ireland, and we choose them carefully based not only on their star rating, but also on their location, service, value and character. With 30 years of experience offering tours of Ireland, we have the knowledge, the experience and the local contacts to design the perfect accommodation package for your vacation.
On a tour vacation, the journey can be just as important as the destination. That's why our vehicles are all of the highest standards both in terms of luxury and reliability. For our tour vehicles we use 34-seater coaches, but limit the number of participants to 26. This gives you more space to spread out, relax and enjoy the wonderous scenery. This Smaller Group Size is a core principle in our tours.
Please note: The Coach shown here is one of four 34 Seater Coaches we use on our Max. 26 Guest Tours. For any reason, should one of these become unavailable for your tour we will endeavour to provide you with an equally luxurious and comfortable touring vehicle.
Click here to view summaries of all our 2019 tours
Tour Name | Duration | Price per person | Group Size | |
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6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019 | 6 days / 5 nights | €995 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019 | 10 days / 9 nights | €1,190 to €1,690 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
15-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019 | 15 days / 14 nights | €1,985 to €2,485 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
7-Day Castles and Backroads Tour | 7 days / 6 nights | €1,395 to €1,595 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 2019 | 10 days / 9 nights | €1,990 to €2,390 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
8-Day Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019 | 8 days / 7 nights | €2290 | Max. 8 ppl | Details |
8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Dingle Version | 8 days / 7 nights | €2,490 to €2,690 | Max. 8 ppl | Details |
8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Ring of Kerry Version | 8 days / 7 nights | €2,390 to €2,690 | Max. 8 ppl | Details |
6-Day Discover Northern Ireland 2019 | 6 days / 5 nights | €895 to €995 | Max. 26 ppl | Details |
Customized Private Tour | Any duration | Any budget | 2 - 100 ppl | Details |
With My Ireland Tour, you will be touring in a group that can be half the size of our rivals. We only run Small-Group Tours. The maximum guests size on any our tours is 26. That means more space, more comfort, and a much more personal experience.
Less time waiting in queues to see attractions, checking in and getting on and off the coach.
As well as designing and building all of our own tours we also sell our tours directly. This keeps our costs down & allows us to offer you the best value tours of Ireland.
We encourage you to compare our tours and see how we offer the best value tours in the market.
Our past guests say it better than we ever could. Collectively, they have rated our Tours of Ireland as 4.9★ out of 5★.
With a rating of 4.9★ out of 5★ on Facebook
...and a rating 4.9★ out of 5★ on Google.
See all of our Reviews.
Established by the O'Gorman Family, My Ireland Tour is an independent and family-run business based right here in Cork, Ireland. If you have any questions, we would love for you to get in touch.
Eric O'Gorman and the rest of the team look forward to chatting to you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.
Your driver-guide (one person) is your chauffeur and your expert tour guide for the duration of your tour of Ireland. Experienced specialists in their fields, our driver-guides are expertly knowledgeable in all aspects of Irish life, history and culture.
The only way to choose an authentic, expertly designed tour of Ireland is to know that it has been created by an Irish Company that live and breathe Irish life and culture.
As we are an Irish, family run business, you can be assured that your Ireland tour has been planned and thought out by experts. Knowing not only the popular attractions and favourite destinations but also the best farm to drop into for lunch in County Kilkenny or where to find the best pint of Guinness in County Kerry.
With My Ireland Tour, there is no up-selling, no arm-twisting, no sales-pitches. We have included all the extras in your tour. So your driver-guide (one person) is there to look after you, not to sell you add-ons or hidden extras.
Once you've booked your space, the Tour is Guaranteed to run. That is not something most of our rivals can say. We never cancel tours or change dates. There are no minimum numbers to make the tour run and no caveats for changing dates. With My Ireland Tour you can relax - your tour vacation to Ireland is guaranteed.
This tour company is absolutely amazing and I would give it more than 5 stars if I could! We booked the Deluxe Castle Tour for our honeymoon and we could not have asked for a better experience!
Maggie Chris, July 2018
See more reviewsEven our largest tours take just 26 guests. But many other companies accept up to 50 people per tour. So, why did we take this big step to limit our tours to such small group?
With a smaller group, our driver-guides have time to get to know you, explore your questions in detail and share their experiences with you.
Space to spread out on the coach. Our small group tours use 34 seater coaches but only sell 26 spaces, giving spare seats for you to spread out.
Checking in and out at each hotel is much faster and more enjoyable in a smaller party. Breeze through check-in in no time.
Experience each attraction up-close and personal. In a small group, there is more time to ask questions and see what interests you personally.
Experience Ireland at your own pace. After all, nobody enjoys being part of a herd, especially on vacation. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.
Relax and enojoy the moment. Savour each meal. Capture every photo opportunity. Cherish every memory with a small group of people you can really get to know.
Just look at our amazing reviews to see for yourself. Our guests consistently list smaller group sizes among the top reasons why they would book My Ireland Tour again. The smaller numbers mean we can really deliver the best in service and attention throughout your whole experience.
All of these tours are adults only. Click here to compare all of our Adult Only Tours.
You will be staying and dining in some of Ireland's very best castles and manor houses. Live like royalty as you make yourself at home in these historic buildings. Your accommodation includes Ballynahinch Castle, overlooking its stunning lake and grounds (pictured above).
The Deluxe Irish Castles Tour offers a first-class experience in comfort, luxury and inclusivity. Travel in total comfort. Stay in uncomproimising luxury. And enjoy one of the most inclusive Ireland tour packages you will find anywhere on this fair isle.
We Irish are famous for our friendly, welcoming outlook and our love of the 'craic' - cheerful and genial banter. The Deluxe Irish Castles Tour invites you to meet the people and join in with the local culture as you get a unique look at the authentic face of Ireland, past and present.
This is one of the most inclusive Ireland tour packages available anywhere in Ireland. Click below to find out just how much is included in the price.
See What's IncludedYes. Our Castle Tours of Ireland are guaranteed. Unlike many rivals there are no minimum numbers for the tours of Ireland to go ahead. Rest assured: we do not cancel tours or change dates.
Yes. You can extend this tour simply by letting us know what else you would like to do in Ireland and we can arrange it for you.
Arrival | Departure | Price Per Person | Availability |
---|---|---|---|
Sun 05 May 2019 | Tue 14 May 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 19 May 2019 | Tue 28 May 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 02 Jun 2019 | Tue 11 Jun 2019 | € 2390 | 3 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 16 Jun 2019 | Tue 25 Jun 2019 | € 2390 | 2 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 07 Jul 2019 | Tue 16 Jul 2019 | € 2390 | 1 Space Left - Book Now! |
Sun 21 Jul 2019 | Tue 30 Jul 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 04 Aug 2019 | Tue 13 Aug 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 18 Aug 2019 | Tue 27 Aug 2019 | € 2390 | 8 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 08 Sep 2019 | Tue 17 Sep 2019 | € 2390 | 2 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 22 Sep 2019 | Tue 01 Oct 2019 | - | fully booked |
Sun 06 Oct 2019 | Tue 15 Oct 2019 | € 2190 | 3 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Sun 20 Oct 2019 | Tue 29 Oct 2019 | € 1990 | Spaces Available - Book Now! |
The Deposit for the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour 2019 is €400 per person
The Single Occupancy Supplement is €500
Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
En route to The Giant's Causeway you will travel along the legendary Antrim Coast, a route whose views are so stunning that it is considered a destination in its own right. Prepare to be amazed: here you will find some of the greatest coastal views any travel photographer could hope to capture.
The Aran Islands are made up of 3 islands dotted in front of Galway Bay. The largest of the 3 is Inishmore, home to Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric fort. There are many ancient relics and monuments spread across the 3 islands.
The people of the islands are some of the last remaining people in Ireland to speak the naive Irish language of Gaelic.
You will be joined by a local specialist guide on a city tour of Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland. You will see and hear all about the history of this once troubled city including the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road and Nationalist Falls Road.
After two decades of peace, Belfast lives up to its reputation as a welcoming, outward-looking city.
Travelling along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower, you will reach Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world dating from 1857. Today, the visitor centre still displays pieces which date from those early samples over 150 years ago. Touring the pottery, meet and chat with the craftspeople as they produce ceramics which will be exported across the globe.
Situated five miles north-west of Cork city, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour of Ireland. It is best known for the famous "Blarney Stone" which visitors are encouraged to kiss, in accordance with a tradition which spans the centuries.
Built 600 years ago by Cormac MacCarthy, one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Blarney Castle has attracted millions of visitors who continue to flock here in the hope that they will be gifted with the power of persuasive and elegant speech - or, as we call it in Ireland ... Blarney.
A limestone plateau covering 250 square kilometres, The Burren takes its name quite aptly from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". While in one sense very fitting, the name does not do justice to what experts have more justly termed "one of the world's most stunningly unique natural heritage regions
".
In another missed opportunity to describe the outstanding beauty of The Burren, and not without a certain relish, Oliver Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".
In the village of Bushmills, you will visit the old distillery, which was first permitted to distil whisky in 1608 by King James I. Enjoy a whisky tasting in what is thought to be the oldest licensed distillery in the world. Although its grant to distil was given in 1608, it is believed that spirit was probably made here 200 years before that!
You will visit and can choose to cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge which spans an eighty-foot-deep chasm connecting Rock Island to the mainland. Suspended almost 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago.
At the southern-most tip of Summer Cove, on Kinsale Harbour in Co. Cork, awaits the unyielding presence of Charles Fort, a star-shaped stronghold protecting the harbour from sea invaders since its completion in 1682. In recent decades, Irish heritage organizations have restored the fort to the impressive standards it now displays.
Heritage Ireland notes: As one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. The most significant of these are the Williamite War 1689-91 and the Civil War 1922-23. Charles Fort was declared a National Monument in 1973. Across the estuary is James Fort designed by Paul Ive in 1602.
Christ Church Cathedral, founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.
You will also have a unique opportunity to visit the Belfry and ring the Cathedral bells. Please note: Getting to the Belfry in Christ Church Cathedral involves climbing 86 stone steps in a medieval building and crossing the roof at the South transept – quite the experience!
Perched on the banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is perhaps the foremost of Ireland's monastic cities. For those interested in early Christianity, it is a must-see destination. Enclosed within the ancient city walls are various ecclesiastical ruins including a cathedral, seven ancient churches, three high crosses, round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian graveslabs in Western Europe - all remarkably well preserved and fascinating to anyone, not just those with a special interest in Ireland's religious history.
More commonly known today as The Kings Road, the road from the North to King's Landing in the massively successful television show Game of Thrones. The Dark Hedges is a road of old, curvy beech trees, planted in the 18th Century.
Covering the road from sunlight the trees create an eerie atmosphere, ideal for the sometimes dark plots present in Game of Thrones. The road has become a very popular tourist attraction over the past number of years and are now seen by many as an integral part of their Northern Ireland Tours.
You will be joined by a local specialist guide on a city tour of Derry and the famous city walls. The city fortifications are among the best-preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal. Standing at up to 25 feet tall and thirty feet wide, it is little wonder that these fortifications were never breached.
Your time here in Derry will cover the full richness of local history and culture, from throughout the centuries and more recently.
Travelling by boast across Lough Erne, you will reach Devenish Island and the ancient monastic settlement which was founded there some 1500 years ago.
Devenish Monastic Site was founded in the 6th century by Saint Molaise on one of Lough Erne’s many islands. During its history it has been raided by Vikings (837 AD), burned (1157 AD) and flourished (Middle Ages) as a parish church site and St Mary’s Augustine Priory.
Producing whiskey on a modest scale to keep their production at a specialist level. Having manufactured whiskey, gin & vodka since 2012 and bringing hundreds of years of tradition to their methods. Their single malt whiskey has a deliciously unique finish which comes from being matured on the moist, mild south-west coast of Ireland.
Visit Drumcliffe Cemetery in County Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of WB. Yeats. Found nestled between Ben Bulben mountain and Drumcliffe bay.
The General Post Office of Ireland had many homes before finally settling on its current location of O'Connell Street, on January 6th 1818. It is most famous for housing the Irish Rebels during the Easter Rising of 1916.
The building was destroyed by fire during the uprising and was left unattended until the Irish Free State government set about restoring it. The General Post Office now acts as a visitor centre and sheds an amazing light on some of Ireland's darkest days and the country it was to become.
Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, known in Gaelic as Clochán na bhFomhórach or Clochán an Aifir, The Giant's Causeway is an area of 40,000 basalt columns, formed into a regular interlocking pattern by an ancient volcanic lava flow.
However, given the scale, the geometric regularity, and the sheer natural beauty of this feature, it is easy to understand why the ancients believed its origins to be more mystical than geologists would now have us believe.
According to Gaelic mythology, the causeway was built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool) so that he could reach Scotland and fight with his Scottish rival, Benandonner. As with all great rivalries, the outcome varies depending on whose version is being recounted.
An ancient monastic settlement, Glendalough (meaning: Valley of the Two Lakes) presents today's visitors with a chance to walk not only through the idyllic hills of Ireland's East, but also through the rough-hewn landscapes of ancient Irish history. Founded in the Fifth Century by St. Kevin, the settlement would grow to be very powerful at its zenith some four hundred years later. By the start of the Fifteenth Century, this stronghold was in decline but the stone monuments and buildings remain as evocative and powerful today as they surely must have been then.
Nestled in the Derryveagh Mountains of County Donegal, the Glenveagh National Park is a sprawling landscape of rugged Irish beauty. Covering nearly 25,000 acres, the park has some dramatic mountain scenery and protects the largest herd of red deer in Ireland.
Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse which you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.
Situated close to the River Boyne. The Hill of Tara is an archaeological site located between the towns of Navan and Dunshaughlin in County Meath. According to legend it was the seat of the High King of Ireland. The Hill of Tara was in use as far back as the Neolithic era, from then until the 12th century it was used as a sacred and political centre.
Farms and rural life have always been at the heart of Irish cultural life. And they have remained largely unspoiled by the ravages of time. Compared the to the modern, size-farming of North America, this visit will feel like a step back in time! We invite you to enjoy a homecooked lunch on a traditional Irish farm, meeting the local people whose families have worked this land for generations.
The Old Midleton Distillery is home to Ireland's other globally-recognizable tipple, Jameson's Whiskey. While Jameson's is enjoyed by millions worldwide, you don't need to be a whiskey-drinker to enjoy this fascinating visitor experience. There is much to discover here for everyone.
The Old Midleton Distillery has the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons! You won't get through it all but, after the tour you might like to enjoy a complimentary drop of the sweet nectar yourself. Well, since you've come all this way...
The location of the castle has been historically significant since Strongbow constructed the first building a wooden tower in 1195 to control a fording-point of the River Nore and the junction of several routeways.
Construction was completed in 1213 only to be recommenced in 1260, when the site's first stone structure was erected by William the Earl Marshall.
At Nancy's Point just outside Leenane Village you will board the "Connemara Lady" for a spectacular 90 minute cruise on Ireland's only fjord. Cruising the sheltered Killary Harbour fjord is the ideal way to take in the dramatic sweep of the landscape, as you pass between the Twelve Bens and the Maam Turk mountains to the South, in County Galway, and the Mweelrea mountains to the North in County Mayo. Not to mention the views out to the Atlantic at the mouth of the fjord.
The fjord's sheltered waters are perfect for mussel farming and you will see the ropes at several points on the fjord. You will also see some circular salmon farms, closer to the shore. Sheep dot the hills and now ramble freely over the remnants of potato ridges which stand testimony to The Great Famine of the 1840's. Return to Abbeyglen Castle via the rugged and lonely Inagh Valley.
Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcoming visitors from across the globe.
Among Kylemore's many notable attractions are the unmistakable Victorian Walled Gardens, restored in 2000 and now open to the public visitors. As a heritage garden, this beautiful space is worked using only Victorian gardening methods. Only seeds and strains from the 1800s are ever planted here.
The building of Kylmore Castle was inspired by Margaret Henry, to whom the Gothic Church still stands in tribute, serenely secluded in Kylemore's woods. It was Margaret's husband Mitchell Henry who produced, from little more than desolate bog land, the beautiful attraction we now know as Kylemore. Following Margaret's death in 1874, Henry returned to Kylemore to live, and he remained here until his passing in 1903.
Kylemore has something for everyone, no matter what your age - visitors can enjoy the restored rooms of the Abbey, The Gothic Church and the Gardens. Many make use of the shuttle bus service between the Abbey and Gardens, but it is a very pleasant walk along the tree-lined avenues, too. For our little visitors there is a play trail, colouring in the restaurant - and don't forget to make a wish at the Giant's wishing stone.
Lissadell House was built in 1833 by Sir Robert Gore Booth and WB Yeats was a frequent visitor to the house in the 1890's. Today Lissadell House is the home of the Cassidy Family who have lovingly restored the house and gardens to their former glory. The Cassidy's will welcome you with a guided tour of their house & gardens.
In County Meath visit the Loughcrew Gardens for a breathtaking spectacle from 17th and 19th century and pleasure gardens for a relaxing afternoon.
The main gardens are approximately six acres in area and include a lime avenue, extensive lawns and terraces, plus magnificent herbaceous and physic gardens. The gardens play host to wall routes of various lengths, a medieval moote and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House.
Loughcrew Gardens WebsiteTo reach the Devenish Island monastic site, we will be travelling by boat across the beautiful Lough Erne, a journey taken by all visitors to this sacred place across the centuries, from faithful pilgrims to marauding invaders.
The lough comprises two great lakes to make up the second largest lake system in Northern Ireland. A beautiful, tranquil place - don't forget your camera!
Witness and experience for yourself how Ireland's world famous, high quality pottery is created at one of the counties most loved potteries.
Once described as 'the Godfather of Irish craft' by The Craft Council of Ireland, Louis Mulcahy along with his wife Lisbeth have, worked to develop an aesthetically and technically advanced pottery studio/workshop that is a joy to behold.
Situated in the old market town of the same name, Macroom Castle was once the home of Sir William Penn, whose son was later to found the state of Pennsylvania.
Understood to have been constructed in the reign of King John (1199-1209), the castle was built on the site of an earlier stronghold. During the 1960s, large sections of the structure was deconstructed for safety reasons. What remains gives a unique insight into a long-passed ancient world, constructed almost three hundred years before Columbus set sail for the New World.
They are one of the most popular and frequently most eagerly anticipated attractions on any of our Ireland Tours, and the views will not disappoint. Rising to a height of 203 metres, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun you will not find.
Another thing you will not find is the visitor centre; at least, until you get close, you won't find it. Designed very cleverly to blend into the local landscape, this extensive attraction is all but invisible as you approach the cliffs themselves. Inside, it is large, modern and informative. An immensely popular tourist attraction, and with good reason.
Just over a mile south of Kildare town, The Irish National stud is perhaps the biggest tourist attraction in this part of Ireland. In her historic 2011 visit to Ireland, Queen Elizabeth II fed her passion for all things equestrian by visiting the stud which is home to some of the world's finest horses. Owned by the Irish government, the stud breeds competition-quality stallions for breeding programs the world-over.
Hourly guided tours of the stud bring you face-to-face with renowned stallions and feature a visit to the intensive-care unit for newly-born foals and visitors between February and June can even see foals being delivered.
The Japanese Gardens provide opportunity to meditate on your time in Ireland so far, and add a very pleasant side note to the main attraction, the stud itself.
Located just outside the town of Newry in the royal County of Meath, Newgrange is a 5,200 year old passage tomb. An archaeological wonder, its chamber and passage perfectly align with the Winter Solstice.
Ireland has more than its fair share of outstanding archeological sites, but the Rock of Cashel is arguably the most impressive. The 'rock' from which it takes its name is in fact a limestone hill, covered in luscious green, rising from the plain which characterises the surrounding area. The word 'cashel', by contrast, is derived from the Irish gaelic word caiseal, meaning stone fortress.
In both respects, the Rock of Cashel lives up to its title. The rock itself is vast and imposing, and one can only imagine the difficulties it would have posed for attackers throughout the ages who had designs on the stone fortress above. The masonry of the fort itself is no less spectacular and is remarkably well preserved almost a full millennium after its original construction.
Slieve League Cliffs are found on the South-West coast of County Donegal. Known to be one of the highest Sea-facing cliffs in Europe. Take in the stunning view, depending on the clarity of the day of course, of Donegal Bay and the Sligo Mountains.
A place of Christian pilgrimage for hundreds of years and a port for Monks journeying back and fourth to Iceland, Slieve League is a wonder to behold.
St Patrick's Cathedral was founded in 1911 and is the Church of Ireland's National Cathedral. It is home to many ancient artefacts and memorials charting its history.
Today visitors to the Cathedral can enjoy different concerts and events as well as a traditional Eucharist. Many visiting choirs, from around the world, can also be seen preforming here.
An extensive multimedia tribute to the world's most famous ocean liner, The Titanic Experience is located at the top of the slipway from which the ship made its first and only descent into the Belfast Lough and the waters of the Irish Sea beyond. Opened in 2012 for the centenary of the ship's launch and tragic demise, the museum has rapidly become Ulster's most visited tourist destination, outstripping even The Giant's Causeway.
Cleverly put together, the attraction encapsulates more than simply the scale of the ship, more even than the scale of the disaster which befell it; drawing on all the sights, sounds and smells of the age, the museum recreates all facets of this most fascinating period of history, bringing to life the experiences not only of the passengers, but also of the ship workers who realized this vision of early twentieth-century engineering.
Pubs (public houses) play a huge part in the culture of Ireland, and have done throughout the ages. Sometimes busy, often noisy, but always friendly and welcoming places to meet the locals. In a pub, you will see a full cross section of Irish society - its a place where people from all classes, ages, interests and backgrounds can mix.
Irish pubs are known for their music, and you will see on this a lot on your own visit to Ireland. A trad session (or traditional music session) is an informal gathering of musicians (almost always in a pub) who play traditional folk music together, not as a formal performance, but more in the style of what jazz, funk and rock musicians would call a 'jam' session; structured and based around a familiar tune, but relatively free-flowing and with a small degree of improvisation (mainly in harmony).
Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30 year period, finished in 1206.
Ireland's most prestigious university is arguably its most attractive, too. Covering no less than 16 hectares, the college buildings and grounds are a poetic tribute to the best of Victorian architecture. Receiving its charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, Trinity remained exclusively protestant until 1793. Today, such prejudices and exclusions are long gone, and Trinity enjoys a global reputation as a leading institution for learning, teaching and research.
Visitors to Trinity College will generally have to queue to see The Book of Kells, but it is a wait which few regret: if you are interested in artefacts of this kind, then this ancient document will really breathe life into the history you will discover during your tour of Ireland. This, the world's best-known illuminated book, was produced by monks in 800 A.D. and was moved to Kells in Meath from its original location on the Island of Iona. It is now located in the Old Library of Trinity College where it draws half a million visitors annually, making it Trinity's most popular attraction.
Visiting Tullamore D.E.W whiskey distillery, you can learn about the art of Irish whiskey-making and discover the secret that gives Tullamore D.E.W. its unique complexity with a tour of Triple whiskey tasting.
Your route will take you via Strabane and Omagh in County Tyrone to the Ulster American Folk Park to an open-air museum located on the restored boyhood home of Judge Thomas Mellon, founder of the Pittsburgh banking dynasty. The Park's permanent exhibition, called 'Emigrants', examines why two million people left Ulster for America during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries.
Ulster American Folk Park WebsiteYour route will take you via Strabane and Omagh in County Tyrone to the Ulster American Folk Park to an open-air museum located on the restored boyhood home of Judge Thomas Mellon, founder of the Pittsburgh banking dynasty. The Park's permanent exhibition, called 'Emigrants', examines why two million people left Ulster for America during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries.
Ulster American Folk Park WebsiteWaterford crystal is known the world over for its quality and, throughout a history which dates back to its establishment in the South-East of Ireland in 1783, it has been a landmark of its own in this part of Ireland. Today, Waterford Crystal is no less recognisable than its sister-brands, Wedgewood and Royal Doulton.
The visitor centre is a modern building on The Mall, a tour of which teaches visitors how crystal is made. Undoubtedly the most popular part of the tour is the blowing room, where the crystal glasses, vases etc. are 'blown' into shape.
Even our largest tours take just 26 guests. But many other companies accept up to 50 people per tour. So, why did we take this big step to limit our tours to such small group?
With a smaller group, our driver-guides have time to get to know you, explore your questions in detail and share their experiences with you.
Space to spread out on the coach. Our small group tours use 34 seater coaches but only sell 26 spaces, giving spare seats for you to spread out.
Checking in and out at each hotel is much faster and more enjoyable in a smaller party. Breeze through check-in in no time.
Experience each attraction up-close and personal. In a small group, there is more time to ask questions and see what interests you personally.
Experience Ireland at your own pace. After all, nobody enjoys being part of a herd, especially on vacation. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.
Relax and enojoy the moment. Savour each meal. Capture every photo opportunity. Cherish every memory with a small group of people you can really get to know.
Just look at our amazing reviews to see for yourself. Our guests consistently list smaller group sizes among the top reasons why they would book My Ireland Tour again. The smaller numbers mean we can really deliver the best in service and attention throughout your whole experience.
All of these tours are adults only. Click here to compare all of our Adult Only Tours.
We offer two types of tour sizes: Small Group Tours (limited to 26 passengers) and Mini Group Tours (limited to 8 passengers and adults only).
Our Mini Group tours offer a stark contrast to some comparable tours with other companies, which can have have around 50 people per tour. So we thought we should take a minute to explain why we've designed tours limit to such small groups.
Our Mini Group Tours offer the ultimate in a personal experience of Ireland. For those who want to really get up close and personal with all the experiences Ireland has to offer. From local culture to hidden vistas, to experience everything first hand in your own bespoke experience of every place you stop.
With such a small party your driver-guide gets the chance to really know you and understand your interests, allow you to really experience the bits of Ireland that interest you most.
We all love children. But sometimes it's nice to enjoy a little quiet time without them. That's why our Mini Group tours are for people 18 years old and above. The hotels, attractions and other visits will, of course, have an abundance of children but on the coach, at least, you can expect your down time to be that little bit more relaxing.
In such a small party each attraction can offer you a personalised experience, where the guides can focus on the aspects that really appeal to you. Time to delve deeper, time to tailor the experience to you.
Space to spread out on the coach. Our mini group tours use 9-seater Mercedes-Benz coaches but only sell 8 spaces, giving room for you to spread out.
From farm stays to remote locations, the small numbers allow us to go to places a large coach cannot. From hidden locations to unique accommodations, you'll see a side of Ireland only accessible in such a small party.
Such a small tour group makes an incredibly easy and enjoyable tour experience. Photo stops just take a minute, meals are personal and relaxing, hotel check-ins are a breeze. Enjoy a personalised experience with such a small select group.
Just look at our amazing reviews to see for yourself. Our guests consistently list smaller group sizes among the top reasons why they would book My Ireland Tour again. The smaller numbers mean we can really deliver the best in service and attention throughout your whole experience.
All of these tours are adults only. Click here to compare all of our Adult Only Tours.
Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour
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Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 15-day tour. Spend five magical days in Ulster, and then 10 more in Eire. Read more...
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Stay in Ireland's historic castles and romantic country manors on the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer. Live like royalty for 10 days. Read more...
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An exclusive mini-group tour for 8 Guests. Discover Ireland's hidden secrets and stay in a luxury castle on this unique journey through ancient Ireland. Read more...
Show Tour Description Mini-Group Tour
An exclusive mini-group tour for 8 Guests. Discover Ireland's hidden secrets and stay in a luxury castle on this unique journey through ancient Ireland. Read more...
Show Tour Description Mini-Group Tour
Visit Ireland's historic landscape and delve into its tranquilly on this mini group tour. Read more...
Show Tour Options Small-Group Tour
My Ireland Tour welcomes many solo travellers on all of our tour packages. Experience this friendly and welcoming culture. Read more...
Set your own budget, set your own pace. Let us create a bespoke tour package for you and your group. Read more...
Reviewed in November 2018
Our 10 day trip to Ireland was a special memory for our group of seven. We were able to experience the beauty of Ireland, its historic sites and peaceful green-quilted country-sides far better than if we were on our own.
My Ireland Tour staff were very professional and extremely helpful in planning our itinerary. The comfort of a small coach bus as well as the accommodations they selected made our trip thoroughly enjoyable.
George, our driver, was fantastic! Each day he shared with us his extensive knowledge of Irish history. With his great sense of humour and superb driving skills, we were unquestionably in good hands! We would very highly recommend My Ireland Tour! Thank you for a truly memorable experience!
Reviewed in October 2018
In looking for and planning an Ireland trip for our entire family travelling from multiple areas, I came across My Ireland Tours. I'm glad I did! Working with Kristel, we worked out a 10 day private tour across most of Ireland. Everything was first class, from the selected sights to the different lodging locations and the perfect size tour vehicle. Our driver Brian was wonderful and provided a wealth of knowledge along the way. He made for a very wonderful travel companion and we are pleased to now include him as family! If you are looking for a first class experience, I would highly recommend My Ireland Tours as your first choice in planning a trip of your lifetime!
Reviewed in October 2018
Ireland has been a dream of mine for 100 years. Well, it seems like that long! But the trip, land, castles, cliffs, rock fences, coach and of course our tour guide, Alan, and our new coach friends was breathtaking and absolutely wonderful!
Reviewed in October 2018
Recently returned from a wonderful 6 day tour. Our driver/guide, Kieran, was outstanding in every way. I learned so much about Ireland and its history. The group was really fun together - it somehow blended seamlessly. Martina arranged everything perfectly, including our stay after the tour in Dublin. Thanks so much for a truly exhilarating time. I hope to return!
Reviewed in October 2018
We loved everything about this tour! Dublin was great, people so friendly, so much to do. The tour covered all we wanted to see on our first visit. Beautiful country. We were lucky to have mild weather. Pleased with accommodations, especially in Dublin.
The Limerick hotel was ok, not as accessible to see much of Limerick. Tony our tour guide is the best guide, must request Tony on any visit!!! My Ireland Tour was great to work with and has been recommended to many friends since our vacation. Thank you to Martina & Tony & team!
Reviewed in September 2018
I traveled Ireland with tour/bus guide Tom Levin on the 10 day iconic Ireland Tour! It was magical from beginning to end! Tom made sure we were comfortable both on the coach bus as well as in our four star accommodations! This tour company made traveling so easy! We had no worries but to sit back and relax and see the beautiful country.
1 night in a superior quality hotel and 8 nights luxury accommodation in Castles & Country Manors
For every morning of your tour you can enjoy a delicious Full Irish Breakfast
Irish pub lunch in The Blind Piper Pub in the village of Caherdaniel
All Three Courses with Choices on Each Course + Tea or Coffee
3 Group transfers to your hotel on the day you arrive and depart
All local Irish taxes are included within your tour prices
Professional, Experienced and Knowledgeable Irish Driver-Guide (one person) for 10 days
Porterage of one large suitcase per person
35 seater coach limited to a maximum of 26 passengers for additional space and comfort. See our Tour Vehicles
There are no hidden extra charges such as fuel surcharges or credit card fees. There are no daily sales pitches or unexpected additional costs waiting for you once you arrive in Ireland. You pay the listed tour price and your Driver-Guide (one person) focuses entirely on your vacation enjoyment.
You are on holiday, after all.
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