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Mon – Sat 8.00 – 18.00

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Ancient East

16 - 32 guests

8 Days / 7 Nights

from $2,489

Itinerary

Arrive at Shannon Airport and travel through scenic areas of the Ireland midlands on the way to Kilkenny.

  • Visit and explore Cashel Town and The Rock of Cashel

Cashel sits in the “Golden Vale” a lush area that is one of most prized that is prized for agriculture and race horses. With rolling farm lands, impressive ruins, and the charming store facades, Cashel is popular with visitors. The Rock of Cashel commands attention here, a recently restored fortress sitting atop a high limestone outcropping with cathedral and buildings dating to the 12th and 13th centuries, round tower, Celtic crosses, and the oldest Romanesque wall paintings in the country. Brian Boru was crowned High King of Ireland here in 990. For ruins to kick around without the crowds, head to Hore Abbey, founded in 1266. The Cashel Town Trail takes in 20 historical sites around town, including a thatched peasant’s cottage, fortified tower house, and Cashel Folk Village. Just south of town is Athassel Abbey, the largest medieval priory in Ireland stretching over four acres along the River Suir.

  • Arrive at a Kilkenny hotel and check in
  • Jet Lag Recovery Day
  • Relax at the hotel and explore the medieval town of Kilkenny 

Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary

Rock of Cashel

Cashel Town

 

Evening

  • Welcome orientation before group dinner and Irish Traditional Music and Dance Entertainment

  • Tour Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile and Kilkenny Castle

Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city is bookended by the magnificent 12th-century Kilkenny Castle with long portrait gallery to the south, and St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower to the north. Get a bird’s eye view from the top of the ninth-century round tower, one of just two in the world you can still climb. Within the once-walled town is the Medieval Mile, packed with historical sites. Unearth 800 years of history at the new Medieval Mile Museum, or hear it firsthand on a Kilkenny Walking Tour. Visit Rothe House, a 17th-century merchant’s home with artifacts and costumes. 

Medieval Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle

  • Visit and tour the Irish National Heritage Park

National Heritage Park

  • Visit and tour John F. Kennedy’s Ancestral Homestead

The Kennedy Homestead, birthplace of President John F. Kennedy’s great-grandfather Patrick Kennedy, celebrates the story of five generations of the Kennedy dynasty and is still today farmed by his descendants.

The Kennedy Homestead, a unique cultural museum is dedicated to “the Kennedys who went away and the Kennedys who stayed behind” and plays a vital part in the continued preservation of the Kennedy legacy in Ireland.

The curators of the Kennedy Homestead Visitor Centre, using the Kennedy Library archival collection in Boston, have created a state of the art interpretative exhibit which explores the circumstances of Patrick Kennedy’s departure from Ireland in1848 and pieces together the story of the most famous Irish–American family through the 20th century to the present day.

  • Visit and tour Tintern Abbey

This Cistercian monastery was founded c. 1200 by William, Earl Marshal on lands held through his marriage to the Irish heiress, Isabella de Clare. This abbey, founded as a daughter-house of Tintern Major in Wales is often referred to as Tintern de Voto.

The nave, chancel, tower, chapel and cloister still stand. In the 16th century the old abbey was granted to the Colclough family and soon after the church was partly converted into living quarters and further adapted over the centuries. The Colcloughs occupied the abbey from the sixteenth century until the mid-twentieth.

 

A free day to do your own thing in town or the surrounding area. Choose from a variety of attractions and activities beyond the tour package itinerary.

  • Optional golf or fishing
  • Optional day train trip to Dublin
  • Optional day trip to Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone
  • Visit, tour, and explore Waterford’s Viking Triangle 
  • Visit the House of Waterford Crystal Factory and Store

Waterford is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, with archaeological evidence of Viking settlement in the 10th century. The Waterford Treasures, three museums covering 1,100 years of history, are the highlight of the Viking Triangle. First is Reginald’s Tower exhibiting Viking artifacts, including a warrior’s sword and a replica Viking longboat at the entrance. Next is the Medieval Museum – don’t miss the ornate vestments of spun gold dating to 1460. The Bishop’s Palace, a grand 18th-century residence, chronicles Waterford history from 1700 to 1970. Across the street is the House of Waterford Crystal founded in 1783 with history and craftsmanship featured on the guided tour. The Epic Tour of the Viking Triangle provides historical perspective and access to six national monuments.

Viking Triangle

Waterford’s Viking Triangle

Viking Triangle Sword Sculpture

House of Waterford Factory

House of Waterford Store

  • Visit and explore the Glendalough 6th Century monastic settlement ~

    Glendalough, which means “Valley of the Two Lakes” in Irish (Gaelic), is one of Ireland’s most prominent monastic sites. Nestled in the scenic Wicklow Mountains, it boasts a rich history and stunning landscapes, making it both a significant historical site and a popular tourist attraction. Here’s a brief description of its features and history:

    Historical Significance: Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough flourished as a monastic city for over 600 years. It wasn’t just a place of religious activity but also a center of learning, attracting students from abroad.

    Round Tower: One of the most iconic features of Glendalough, the Round Tower stands at roughly 30 meters high. Round towers were typical of early medieval Irish Christian monastic settlements. They served as a place of refuge for monks during raids and as bell towers.

    The Gateway: A unique feature of Glendalough is its double-arched gateway, which is one of the few remaining in Ireland. It once functioned as the main entrance to the monastic site.

    Churches and Buildings: The site has several churches, including St. Kevin’s Church, also known as “St. Kevin’s Kitchen” because of its distinctive round tower which looks like a chimney. There’s also the Cathedral, which is the largest church on the site. Other remnants include the Priest’s House, the Church of the Rock (St. Kevin’s Cell), and the Trinity Church.

    Crosses: Throughout Glendalough, one can find various high crosses. These stone crosses are decorated with intricate carvings and often depict biblical scenes.

    St. Kevin’s Bed: A cave situated high up on the rock face on the north side of the upper lake, it is believed St. Kevin retreated here for meditation and solitude.

    Natural Beauty: Beyond the historical and architectural significance, Glendalough is renowned for its natural beauty. The two lakes, from which the valley gets its name, and the surrounding forested hills and walking trails offer visitors a serene environment to explore.

    Visitor Centre: For those keen on understanding the history and archaeology of the site, the Glendalough Visitor Centre provides detailed exhibitions and informative displays.

    For centuries, the beauty and tranquility of Glendalough have been a source of inspiration for pilgrims, visitors, and poets alike. Today, it’s not only an essential stop for those interested in early Christian Ireland but also for nature enthusiasts eager to experience the splendor of the Wicklow Mountains.

  • Visit and tour the Avoca Woolen Mills ~

    Avoca Mill, situated in the village of Avoca in County Wicklow, Ireland, holds the distinction of being the oldest working woolen mill in Ireland and one of the world’s oldest manufacturing companies. It has a rich history intertwined with the textile industry of Ireland and has been operational since 1723. Here’s a description of its features and history:

    Historical Significance: Established in 1723, Avoca Mill started its journey with the weaving of tweeds and blankets. Over the years, it grew in prominence and started producing a broader range of products, like throws, rugs, and scarves.

    Craftsmanship: Avoca Mill is renowned for its craftsmanship, with a blend of traditional and contemporary designs. Many of the processes are still carried out by hand, ensuring each product retains a unique touch.

    Natural Materials: The mill has always emphasized the use of natural fibers, especially pure wool. This commitment to natural materials ensures the quality and durability of its products.

    Tourism: The mill has become a significant tourist attraction in County Wicklow. Visitors can take guided tours of the working mill to witness the weaving process and learn about its rich history. Seeing the old looms in operation and the skilled craftspeople at work is a unique experience.

    Avoca Store: Adjacent to the mill is the Avoca store, where visitors can purchase a range of products made at the mill, from clothing to throws and blankets. These are often sought-after items, appreciated for their quality and the story behind their creation.

    Café and Other Amenities: Beyond shopping and touring the mill, visitors can also enjoy meals or snacks at the Avoca Café. The location also often has other amenities and events that offer a fuller experience to those visiting.

    Scenic Location: The mill’s location in the village of Avoca, amidst the verdant Irish countryside, adds to its charm. The River Avoca runs nearby, and the surrounding landscapes make the visit even more memorable.

    Over the years, while Avoca Mill has retained its traditional methods and commitment to quality, it has also adapted to the changing times, introducing modern designs and expanding its product range. The blend of tradition and modernity, combined with its historical significance, makes it a noteworthy destination in Ireland.

Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Glendalough

    • Travel to Bunratty, County Clare for last night in Ireland
    • Tour Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
    • Visit the Cliffs of Moher

Check-in to Shannon Airport hotel for overnight stay and rest before returning home the next day

Tour ends after breakfast 7 – 10 a.m. at the Shannon Airport hotel

Departure for most to return home.