Discover Ancient Ireland Tour, June 20 – June 28

From Before Recorded History To The Evolution Of The Island Of Saints And Scholars

Travel back in time to the early eras of the Emerald Isle where mythical kings and monastic missionaries clash over competing visions of creation and salvation. Discover the history and struggles that helped define today’s Ireland. 

We will visit seaside Iron Age forts, druidic monuments and tombs, and early Christian settlements that weave a narrative of a culture deeply rooted to the land and connected to the spirits who inhabit it. 

Our journey brings this history to life. It fills in the lines and shapes of these bygone times with rich colors and vibrant hues. It also ties this story to the present so you can discover how we all still breathe the same air as our ancestors and how their myths and legends still influence us today.

Start Your Journey
$3,449 Per Person Double Occupancy
Requires Deposit of $250

Itinerary Includes:

Day 1: Arrive Dublin – The Book Of Kells Experience – We dive into the greatest artifact of the Saints And Sinners period in Irish history. Like the Mona Lisa and Statue Of David, it is an example of a monumental achievement of European art. We learn about the process of creating this world famous tome, the revolutionary communities that created it, and the landscape and legends that inspired it. 

Day 2: New Grange/Tara – New Grange, a neolithic monument older than the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge, is one of the oldest standing structures in the world. This impressive example of early human construction has a doorway that points to the Winter Solstice, a vital event in pagan mythology. We will also go to Tara, the seat of the High King Of Ireland and an important place in the beginning of St. Patrick’s mission to convert Ireland. 

Day 3: Kilkenny Castle – With its rolling parklands and long history, Kilkenny Castle is one Ireland’s favorite destinations. Both a defensive structure and a grand country house, the Castle boasts an impressive art collection along, beautiful gardens, and a rich story of occupation, rebellion, and restoration.

Day 4: Rock Of Cashel – No study of early Ireland would be complete without a stop at the Rock Of Cashel. The buildings atop this enormous rock span the duration of the Middle Ages, from the Romanesque period to the Gothic age and beyond. You will be awestruck by the ornate detail and impressive size of carvings in the stone sarcophagi, the grand windows, and the pointed roofs. The hillside affords beautiful views of the surrounding area and the Rock Of Cashel is a key location in both Irish legend and history. 

Day 5: Skellig Michael –  Skellig Michael is probably one of the most best-known Irish destinations in the world. This extremely remote offshore monastic colony is an enormous challenge to visit due to unpredictable weather and physical challenges, but the reward is worth it. THIS EXCURSION IS OPTIONAL. ALTERNATIVE PLANS WILL BE MADE IN THE EVENT OF WEATHER COMPLICATIONS. See below for more details. 

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher – The Cliffs are by far the most striking and memorable natural attraction in Ireland. The towering rock face stands like a great wall against the raging Atlantic Ocean. Visitors appreciate returning there again and again for the awesome beauty and intensity as the Atlantic collides against the unyielding resistance of the steep rocks.

Day 7:  Inis Mór Ring Fort – Dún Aonghasa is a fort dating from the Bronze Age. It stands on the cliffs of Inis Mór, one of the Aran Islands, a dramatic example of the Ring Forts that dot the landscape. These enchanted sites whisper the pre-Christian narrative of Eíre, a source of inspiration for poets, bards, and seanchaís.

Day 8: Return to Dublin via Athlone, Sean’s Bar – As we return to Dublin having dived into all that makes up the story of this beautiful Island, we cannot resist a visit to the oldest bar in the world, Sean’s Bar. The tales that these walls tell us are a part of the lore and culture of all Irish pubs. It had to start somewhere!

Day 9: Time To Depart – After hugs, toasts, and last good-byes, we will make our way to Dublin Airport. Some travelers may choose to continue traveling on their own. We wish you well in your continuing journeys.