From Before Recorded History To The Evolution Of The Island Of Saints And Scholars with Rising Road Journeys, a uniquely curated travel company
Travel back in time to the early eras of the Emerald Isle where mythical druids 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.
RESERVE NOW
Requires Deposit of $150
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. Check in at the Iveagh Garden Hotel.
Dat 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. Return to Iveagh Garden Hotel.
Day 3: Glendalough – This monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the early 6th century, nestled in a beautiful, glaciated valley in County Wicklow. It is a stunning example of Early Medieval architecture and natural beauty. The well-preserved structures paint a vivid picture of the early Christian monks. Surrounded by the Wicklow Mountains, scenic trails allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Check into Fitzwilton Hotel in Waterford.
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. Check into the White House in Kinsale.
Day 5: Killarney – This is a day of short travel and relaxation. We will have small activities and other recommendations to make your stay in charming Killarney enjoyable and delightful. Check into The Abbey Lodge Bed & Breakfast in Killarney.
Day 6: 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. One more night at The Abbey Lodge Bed & Breakfast.
Day 7: 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. Check into The Hotel Doolin.
Day 8: 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. Stay one more night at The Hotel Doolin.
Day 9: 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! Check back into the Iveagh Garden Hotel.
Day 10: 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.
Optional Trip to Skellig Michael ($160 per traveler) – Only travelers with strong stamina, good physical health, and possessing the ability to climb stairs up dangerous heights should attempt this journey. The climb is over 600 feet. If you do not posses these attributes, do NOT go. There will be beautiful alternative options for you to see the Kerry Cliffs. The trip to Skellig Michael is not guaranteed. If weather forces a cancelation, you will receive a cash refund.
About Rising Road Journeys – We are a bespoke tour company with an emphasis on exclusive, small-group trips that will immerse you in the culture, history, and landscape of Ireland. We prefer boutique accommodations, unique excursions, and informed guides to connect you to the local community, to your fellow travelers, and ultimately, to yourself. Our goal is to fill you with the wonder and knowledge through a deep dive into a chapter of the Irish story so you go away seeking more through your own journey. If you are willing to tread upon the rising road, our adventures are just be the beginning.
About Your Host – John Barron has been hosting trips to Ireland and Scotland since 2019. He is in his element at the front of a bus talking to and leading a group of explorers around the Celtic world. A member of the Irish Speed Folk trio Clover’s Revenge, John is likely to sing a song or two while en route encouraging you to sing along.
Accommodations– We prefer smaller, boutique hotels and guest houses over large hotels as we feel this compliments the charm and intimacy that you encounter in Ireland. When we choose larger hotels when it is appropriate, we seek three star and above accommodations. Our accommodations will be confirmed in November.
Total Cost:
$4,195
per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $995
Optional Skellig Michael Fee $160
RESERVE NOW
Requires Deposit of $150
Your Land Tour Includes:
- Deluxe motorcoach vehicle throughout your tour, including all transfers and sightseeing
- Services of professional Irish Driver Guide
- Nine (9 Nights) Accommodations
- Full Irish breakfast daily
- Fully escorted sightseeing as per itinerary
- Admissions to: Book Of Kells Experience, New Grange/Tara, Glendalough, Rock Of Cashel, Cliffs Of Moher, Dún Aonghasa
- Porterage of one suitcase per person,
- Hotel tips and taxes throughout (Except tips to your personal Driver/Guide)
- Accommodations List:
- Wed 26th August – Dublin – https://www.iveaghgardenhotel.ie/
- Thu 27th August – Dublin – https://www.iveaghgardenhotel.ie/
- Fri 28th August – Waterford – https://www.fitzwiltonhotel.ie/
- Sat 29th August – Kinsale – https://www.whitehouse-kinsale.ie/
- Sun 30th August – Killarney – https://www.abbey-lodge.com/
- Mon 31st August – Killarney – https://www.abbey-lodge.com/
- Tue 1st September – Doolin – https://www.hoteldoolin.ie/
- Wed 2nd September – Doolin – https://www.hoteldoolin.ie/
- Thu 3rd September – Dublin – https://www.iveaghgardenhotel.ie/
Not Included:
- Any Items of a personal nature
- Dinners and items not mentioned as included
- Sightseeing not indicated as included
- Tip to Driver Guide
The non-refundable deposit is $150.00 per person is required to place a deposit.
If you want a single room, there is an additional single supplement charge of $995.00. Your second payment of $550.00 per person is due 05/01/2026 and yourfinal payment is due 07/10/2026. Reminders will be sent.
If you have questions, you can email info@risingroadsjourneys.com, call (941) 313-7493, or fill out our question form.
Cancellation Penalties:
Cancellation (must be in writing) is received by Rising Road Journeys more than 95 days prior to departure: a processing fee of $150 per person will apply. From 95 days or less prior to departure: 100% cancellation penalty fee applies. We strongly recommend Travel Cancellation and Interruption Insurance. Please contact www.travelguard.com to purchase insurance. This insurance will cover you in the event of death to the said traveler, someone in their immediate family, (mother, father, sister, brother, children etc.) Additionally, any serious illness or other ailments (with a doctor’s note) saying that traveler cannot attend trip, would also be covered. Any circumstances of a personal nature other than the aforementioned are not covered. Please note, Rising Road Journeys are not responsible for any loss, damages or injuries that may happen while on the tour.
