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Presents...
A 19 Day - All Ireland
"Meet the locals Signature Tour"
A Private Experience
Is Our Meet the Locals Private Ireland Tour Right for You?
- If you are a culturally curious traveller who prefers to avoid the tourists hotspots.
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- If you want a slower paced tour, spending a couple of hours with one person exploring one place in the depth and detail it deserves.
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- If you are happy not to see everything in favour of developing an understanding of Ireland as a country.
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- If you want a history, culture and folklore centric tour,
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- If you want to learn and enjoy new experiences each day of your trip. ​
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- If you want to spend with and meet local people who specialise in different facets of Irish life.​
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- If you want authentic experiences in real Ireland.
then this tour is the one for you...
The 19 Day Meet the Locals Irish Experience
Explore Ireland away from the crowds on our Meet the Locals Tour, an immersive 19-day journey designed to offer authentic Irish experiences. This tour takes you deep into the heart of the Emerald Isle, introducing you to local traditions, fascinating history, and breathtaking landscapes. Say goodbye to tourist traps and hello to real Ireland.
What Do Our Private Tours of Ireland Include?
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Your own professional driver guide
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Luxury Private Tour Transport
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Two Airport Transfers
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18 Nights Boutique & Luxury Style Accommodations
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Full breakfasts each morning
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A selection of activities and sightseeing each day
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Off the beaten path & away from the crowds.
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Our tours are 100% customisable — you can add or remove days, adjust the pace, and tailor the experience to suit your interests. It's your journey, your way.
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Explore Iconic Destinations: Visit Ireland’s top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher, Giants Causeway, Aran Islands and Dublin's historic sites. Our tour covers both well-known landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring a comprehensive experience of Ireland’s rich culture and history.
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Flexible Itineraries: Tailor your private tour to suit your interests. Whether you’re passionate about Irish history, natural wonders, or local cuisine, we can customize the itinerary to create your perfect adventure.​
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Scenic Drives: Experience breathtaking drives along the Wild Atlantic Way and through the Ancient East, with picturesque stops along the way. Capture the stunning Irish landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines.
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Authentic Experiences: Engage with local culture through culinary experiences, traditional music, small towns and folklore storytelling. Immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of the Irish people as you discover their traditions.​​​
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Comfort and Convenience: Travel in comfort with our private transportation, ensuring a stress-free journey throughout your Ireland tour. Enjoy the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, making this the perfect choice for families, couples, seniors and groups.
Tour Highlights
19 Day Private Tour of Ireland
The Tour Itinerary
Select the Day of the Itinerary You Want to View or Swipe to See the Full Schedule
Distance Travelled:
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Approx 2,800 km
Approximate Driving Time: 41 hours
Approximate Carbon Emissions: 0.6 tonne of COâ‚‚e
Highlights:
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Dublin City
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Kilkenny City
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Cork & Kinsale
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The Dingle Peninsula
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The Wild Atlantic Way
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Spanish Point, County Clare
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The Burren National Park
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Galway City
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Causeway Coastal Drive
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Antrim Coastal Drive
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​5 National Parks
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Tour Pace: Slow Pace
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Choose Your Style...
Remember you can always change this tour to suit your own pace, interests and requirements. Just contact us and tell us what you would like.
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Day 1
Airport Pick-Up & Dublin Orientation Tour including Howth
Pick up at Dublin airport and drive to Howth Peninsula for a stroll by the Irish sea and a walk in the quaint fishing village. A perfect fresh air introduction to Ireland after a long flight. After Howth your driver guide will provide an introduction to Dublin with an orientation tour. You will end the day being dropped at your overnight accommodation in the heart of Dublin City.
Approx 5hr Day from pick up.
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Overnight - Dublin City
Dublin City Day Tour
Meeting Julian Vignoles, Writer, Guide, Dublin history expert and true connoisseur of Irish heritage & culture.
Today we will greet you at your hotel and explore the fair city of Dublin with a complimentary guided walking tour of the wonderful capital of Ireland — led by our local expert Julian Vignoles. Julian worked for over thirty years as a radio and television producer in RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster. He began working in tourism in 2012, co-founding a successful bike tour company in Dublin. He’s also the author of three books, including a biography of Ireland’s great blues guitarist, Rory Gallagher, published in 2018. With a deep interest in Irish history, geography, music, and literature, Julian joined the Little Gem Tours team in 2019 and is our Dublin Expert and private walking tour guide.
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In addition to your walking tour, we will take a historical driving tour of the main points of interest in the city, including Trinity College, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, the River Liffey, the Phoenix Park, and much more.
On offer are also optional in-depth tours of some of Dublin’s most iconic attractions, including The Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, EPIC Ireland, or of course, the world-famous Guinness Storehouse.
After enjoying the best of Dublin, we’ll return you to your hotel in the city so you can settle in for the evening — before your rural Irish adventure begins.​
Meet the locals: Julian Vignoles, our Dublin expert and true connoisseur of Irish culture.
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Activity Options - Dublin City walking tour, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Temple Bar, Howth Fishing Village, Malahide Castle, Kilmainham Gaol, The Book of Kells, The Bog Bodies Exhibition.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​
Overnight - Dublin City
Day 2
Dublin to Kilkenny via The Wicklow Mountains National Park
Meeting Lorraine, an 8th generation Bean Feasa, or traditional Wise Woman to learn myths, legends & learn how our Celtic ancestors saw the magic in the trees, plants and wild animals of the forests.
We will start our adventure with a journey south, out of Dublin and into the dramatic Wicklow Mountains National Park. Rolling green mountainous scenery awaits, scattered with evidence of Ireland's deep history.
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Our first stop of the day will be at the tranquil and serene Glendalough otherwise known as ’The Valley of the two Lakes’. Here we will meet Lorraine, an 8th generation Bean Feasa, or traditional Wise Woman. On the grounds of one of Ireland's most iconic Christian Monuments, you will learn about Pre-Christian, Pagan Irish practices that continue to live on in the Irish psyche to this day.
You will hear tales of powerful female deities who once graced these sacred grounds and their myths which remain woven into the very fabric of the landscape.
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Along the way, you will visit an ancient holy well, believed to have healing properties. You'll learn about the "other world", and the "other crowd".
After this enlightening experience, you will continue your journey across the famous Wicklow gap before eventually arriving at the medieval heart of Ireland, Kilkenny City where you can enjoy one of Ireland's most loved towns.
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Activity Options - The Rock of Cashel, Cork, Ireland's Ancient East
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​
Overnight - Kilkenny City
Day 3
Kilkenny to Kinsale via Kats Country
Meeting James Kavanagh, local sports legend - Hurler of Kilkenny City.
This morning, you will make your way to Freshford, Kilkenny where you will meet a local legend, James Kavanagh. James will teach you about the greatest sport in the world, Hurling! This incredibly quick and skillful game has been played in Ireland for 3000 years.
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It is one of our National GAA sports, a collection of amateur games that consume players and fans alike, while also inspiring rivalries between counties that last generations.
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James will put you through your paces, teaching you the basic techniques necessary for the game, while also teaching you its history.
Training can be thirsty work! You'll return to James' family pub, where he will give you an insight into the importance of the Public house in Rural Ireland. You might even get the chance to pour your own pint to enjoy with your lunch!
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We will continue into the Rebel County of Cork and onward to our night’s destination in the port town of Kinsale.
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​
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Overnight - Kinsale, County Cork
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Day 4
West Cork Adventure
Meeting Tim Crowley, Farmer, Historian & Michael Collins Expert. Learn of Ireland's fights for independence from Michael in the Rebel County of Cork.
Today, you will travel to the excellent Michael Collins Center near Clonakilty, where you will learn about Ireland's fight for Independence from Britain.
Tim Crowley, an expert in the topic, will walk you through our the 1916 Rising, the War of Independence and the consequent Civil War. He will tell you the compelling life story of our revolutionary leader, Michael Collins.
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You will learn about Guerilla Warfare techniques, and how the landscape in rural Ireland played a key role in bringing the largest Empire in the world to negotiate Independence terms.
As you make your way out of the Rebel County, you will stop where Michael Collins was ambushed and tragically killed by a fellow Irishman.
This afternoon you will travel into County Kerry and onward to Dingle, where you will overnight.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Kinsale, County Cork
Day 5
Kinsale to Dingle Peninsula via The Killarney National Park
Today's journey will take us from The Rebel County of Cork into the magical Kingdom of Kerry. This day of exploring will bring us on an adventure through quaint towns and villages and across the Cork & Kerry Mountains. We will enjoy a spectacular stop at the Killarney National Park where you can walk the lakes or take a horse and cart trip around the park.
You will also enjoy some beautiful heritage sites such as Muckross House, Muckross Abbey and lots more. We will end the day with a drive across to the Dingle Peninsula where you will enjoy a fun-filled evening listening to live Irish music and enjoying the atmosphere of the ample pubs and bars in the vibrant town of Dingle.
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Activity Options: Gap of Dunloe Adventure, Torc Waterfall Walk, Muckross House and Abbey Walk, Cycling in Killarney National Park, Horse and Trap Jaunting Cars, Bicyle Rental
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Dingle, County Kerry
Day 6
The Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive
Meeting Sean Daly, Master Cutter of Dingle Crystal. Learn the skills from an apprentice of Waterford Crystal in his boutique family crystal factory in the heart of Dingle town.
Today we will continue our journey around the incredible Dingle Peninsula. We will explore the area on a stunning coastal drive around Slea Head, along the way encountering a number of archaeological sites such as beehive huts, ring forts, ogham stones and lots more.
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Todays's adventure will also take in a visit to Sean Daly, master crystallier in Dingle Crystal. ​Sean started as young apprentice in Waterford Crystal and studied for 15 years to become a master cutter. When Waterford Crystal decided to move their production overseas, Sean wanted to keep the tradition of crystal cutting alive in Ireland. Together with his wife Liz, Sean moved to Dingle, County Kerry, in 1998 and set up Dingle Crystal. Today, Dingle Crystal can be found in the homes of many families, celebrities and dignitaries all over the world.
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We will finally end our day back in the vibrant Dingle town.
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Dingle, County Kerry
Day 7
Dingle to Clare via The Loop Head Peninsula
Meet the locals: Roisin, local expert, amateur cook and guide with special "hidden" access to the Cliffs of Moher.
Today we will leave the beautiful Dingle Peninsula for a drive north across the stunning Connor’s Pass.
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We will make our way to Tarbert, where we will take a ferry boat trip across the mouth of the Shannon arriving in The Home of Irish Music - County Clare.
We will make our way to Liscannor, close to the famed Cliffs of Moher, where we will meet Roisin.
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In Roisin's own kitchen, you will learn to make beef and guinness stew, shepherd's pie or Irish soda bread with homemade soup.
As your lunch cooks, you will venture our onto the Cliffs of Moher through Roisin's private access point, enjoying a rarely seen vantage point.
You'll return to Roisin's to enjoy your home-cooked supper before heading to your accommodation for the evening, next to the crashing waves of the Atlantic.
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Note: Connors Pass Route Not Available to groups over 5 in coach. Alternative route taken for these groups.
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​​
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Overnight - County Clare
Day 8
Clare to Galway via The Burren National Park
Meeting Stephanie Healy, local horse farmer and Aran Knitwear Expert where you will learn the magic of Aran Knitwear.
Today we will continue our Wild Atlantic Way journey this time heading towards the Bohemian Heart of Ireland, Galway City.
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We will pass through one of the national parks of Ireland - The Burren as we take the beautiful Galway Bay Coastal Drive.
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Along this path, we will stop to meet Stephanie Healy a 4th Generation farmer breeding traditional Irish cob horses living in the world famous Burren lowlands. She is an Aran knitwear designer dedicated to maintaining Irelands unique cultural heritage where she weaves together history and modernity to create modern heirloom knitwear . She will also explain the history of Aran, the meaning behind the unique Aran stitch patterns and she will knit some cable samples. After you can enjoy some homemade brown bread, smoked salmon and porter cake.
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After this feast for the senses, we will continue towards Galway City arriving in the bohemian heart of Ireland in the evening.
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Note: Todays route can also end in the luxury 5* Castle Stay - Ashford Castle
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
Overnight - Galway City
Day 9
Irish Dance & Connemara Day Trip
Meeting Siobhán Manson, former professional Irish dancer who spent over ten years traveling the world with Riverdance. Learn to move those feet!
After enjoying another night of Irish music in Galway City, this morning you will learn about another aspect of Irish Culture, Irish Dance.
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Siobhán is a former professional Irish Dancer who spent over ten years travelling the world with Riverdancer. She will introduce you to sean-nós (Old style), Ceilí (group dancing) and the world famous Riverdance style.
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This afternoon, you will travel deep into the western frontiers of Ireland and into another National Park - Connemara. This remote and desolate environment showcases some of the most dramatic scenery on the island with its rolling hills, stone walls, rivers & lakes. You will return to Galway City, where you will have an opportunity to try out your new moves at the local pubs.
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Activity Options - Private Hawk Walk, Sheep Dog Demonstration, Heritage Farm Visit, Kylemore Abbey Tour, Cong Visit, Quiet Man Cottage
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Galway City
Day 10
Galway city to Mayo via The Connemara Region
Meeting Joe Joyce, local Connemara sheep farmer. Here you will learn the skills of the sheepdogs.
Our drive will take us to the floating village of Cong where you can enjoy the tranquil surrounds, lakes and rivers before continuing our journey across the beautiful Joyce Country Drive.
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Here you can take in a fascinating Sheepdog demonstration with local farmer Joe Joyce. After enjoying the best of Connemara we will continue our drive to the Killary Fjord where we will leave Galway and pass into Mayo. Finally we will arrive in the evening at your homely boutique family farm cottage in the remote village of Carracastle in rural Mayo for a nights stay off the beaten path and away from the crowds.
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Activity Options - Private Hawk Walk, Sheep Dog Demonstration, Heritage Farm Visit, Kylemore Abbey Tour, Cong Visit, Quiet Man Cottage
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Ireland West Farm Stay - Carracastle, Rural Mayo
Day 11
Rural & Folklore Ireland
Meeting Eddie Joe Dooney, Local Farmer, Bog Cutter and heritage expert. Learn about rural Mayo and cutting the turf on the wild Bogs of East Mayo.
This morning you will wake up early on the farm to enjoy a tour of the farm with Farmer and heritage expert - Eddie Joe Dooney. Eddie will take you on a short walk through his farm to the blanket bogs of Mayo. Along the way, you will learn of the old and new Irish farming traditions including working the bogs, cutting the peat and you will hear Irish folklore and rural history along the way.
Our next stop is at the cosy Barroe Rock Forge where Pat, the local blacksmith, will recreate for you the old Irish amulet of the Nine Irons, used by our ancestors for good health and good harvest. After a day in Carracastle village we will make our way back east eventually finishing back in Dublin City where we will end our adventure.​
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Ireland West Farm Stay - Carracastle, Rural Mayo
Day 12
Mayo to Donegal via Sligo
Meeting Oyster Farmers in Sligo. Learn about oyster farming in the wild west of Ireland.
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Today we will make our way north into wild Donegal via the tranquil Yeats County - Sligo. Here you will visit the grave of WB Yeats at the base of Ben Bulben before making our way east through the lakes and mountains of Sligo including Glencar Waterfall and the Gleniff Horseshoe drive. Our journey will then take us to visit oyster farmers where you will learn the art of oyster farming in the west of Ireland. We will then continue our dri ver eventually arriving into Donegal for your first night in the wild county.
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Activity Options: Sligo Town, Carrowmore, Carrowkeel, Kesh Caves, Enniskillen, Marble Arch Caves, Belcoo, Devenish
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Donegal
Day 13
Donegal Surrounds via Wild Slieve League
Meeting Eddie Doherty, Handweaver of Donegal Tweed in the wild west.
We will start the morning driving out to the wilds of Donegal where we will arrive at one of the wonders of Ireland—Slieve League Cliffs. Standing nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, these majestic cliffs are a highlight of the northwest coast. Here you will have time to walk the cliffs and take in the awesome coastal splendour of the west coast of Ireland. You will also have the option of taking a boat and getting a real perspective of the vastness of the rugged coastline.​
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Our journey then will continue around the peninsula with stops at the quaint villages along the way such as Killybegs, the fishing town, and Ardara.​
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While in Ardara, we'll visit the workshop of Eddie Doherty, one of Ireland's last traditional handweavers. Eddie began weaving at the age of 16 and, after decades working with major Irish fabric companies, returned to his roots in 1992. Using 100% Irish wool, he handweaves exquisite tweeds, capes, scarves, and throws on a traditional loom in his home studio. His craftsmanship has attracted admirers worldwide, including renowned fashion houses like Armani and Ralph Lauren. Visiting Eddie offers a unique glimpse into a centuries-old craft that continues to thrive in Ardara.​
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Our day will end arriving back into Donegal town where you will have time to take in some of the wonderful craft and clothes shops on the Diamond.
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Activity Options: Slieve League Walk, Slieve League Boat Trip, Knocknarea Climb, Carrowkeel, Carrowmore
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​​
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Overnight - Donegal
Day 14
Donegal to Derry via Glenveagh National Park
Today we will rise early and begin our journey north into a spectacular region of Donegal. This beautiful county hosts some of the most dramatic and spectacular scenery on all of the island and is host to the marvellous Glenveagh National Park. Here we can take scenic walks and visit the late 19th century Glenveagh Castle.
This beautiful national park provides some magnificent forest and lake panoramic views and is a higjlight of the province of Ulster. After Glenveagh we will continue our journey towards the border where we will find Grianan an Aileach, a magnificent stone fort which commands superb views across Lough Swilly and the surrounding mountainous countryside. Finally we will make our way east and cross the border into the Walled City of Derry. Here you will spend your first overnight in Northern Ireland.
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Activity Options: Grianan an Aileach Walk, Glenveagh Castle & National Park​​
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Donegal
Day 15
Day 16
Derry city
Meeting Dermot McCloskey, Expert Guide of the Maiden City. ​​
This morning, we will rise early to explore the vibrant and historic city of Derry — also known as Londonderry — one of the most culturally rich destinations in Northern Ireland. Our day will begin with a guided walking tour of the only fully walled city in Ireland, where you'll stroll along the iconic 17th-century city walls, offering panoramic views over the Bogside and its famous murals.
Joining us in Derry is Dermot McCloskey, a proud local of the Maiden City, who has been unveiling the incredible history of his beloved hometown for years. In his company, you’ll embark on an immersive exploration of the historic Walled City and its deep maritime roots. Dermot brings Derry’s layered story to life, guiding visitors through its complex past — from its medieval foundation, through the dark days of The Troubles, to the vibrant and resilient city it is today. This is a rare chance to discover a lesser-known Irish gem with a true historical expert. Your walk through Derry will include key landmarks such as Shipquay Gate, St. Columb’s Cathedral, and the Guildhall, where you’ll hear compelling tales of siege, resistance, and the civil rights movement that helped shape modern Ireland.
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Following the walking tour, we’ll enjoy a leisurely driving tour through the city’s cultural and political sites, including Free Derry Corner, the Bloody Sunday Memorial, and neighborhoods that hold deep significance in Northern Ireland's journey toward peace.
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To round out your visit, there will be time to explore the city’s creative spirit — from charming local craft shops and the iconic Peace Bridge to a relaxing stop at one of Derry’s lively cafés by the River Foyle.
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Day 17
Derry to Belfast via The Causeway Coast
Meeting Tom McNally, Local Black Cab Taxi Guide in Belfast City where you will learn about Belfast City and the history of 'The Troubles'.
Today we will continue our journey north-east. This drive offers spectacular views across to our neighbours Scotland on a clear day and through many quaint towns and villages along the way. Your journey will take you to the world famous UNESCO world heritage site - The Giant's Causeway, where geology meets mythology. Here you will have plenty of time to enjoy the stones and learn all the myths of Fionn MacCumhaill.
A short drive further will see us arrive at the old Bushmills Distillery that sits on the River Bush. You will have the option of touring the distillery where you will learn all about the process that makes this whiskey so special and get a chance to sample the local stock. To end the day we will drive along the coast, stopping at the crumbling ruins of the incredible Dunluce Castle before making our way south to Belfast City, the capital of Northern Ireland.
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Upon arrival in Belfast, you’ll have the chance to meet a local legend: Tom McNally, one of the city’s iconic Black Cab drivers. Tom grew up in Belfast during the height of 'The Troubles' and offers a deeply personal and insightful Black Cab Tour of the city. From political murals and peace walls to untold local stories, this is a unique opportunity to see Belfast through the eyes of someone who lived it.
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Activity Options: Giant's Causeway Exhibition Centre, The Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, Cliff Walks, Bushmills Whiskey, Games of Thrones Sites.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast City to the Boyne Valley via Mythical Ireland
Meeting Anthony Murphy, writer, journalist and photographer from the Boyne Valley who brings Neolithic Ireland alive at the hidden gem - Fourknocks.
Today we will drive south from Belfast stopping along the way at the tranquil and serene Boyne Valley. Here you will meet local expert Anthony Murphy at the enigmatic Fourknocks passage tomb. Feel the ancient landscape beneath your feet as Anthony unveils the secrets and stories held within this less-visited but equally captivating Neolithic site. Being the writer of the only book on Fourkocks, his passion for Irish mythology and archaeology will bring the stones to life, painting vivid pictures of the people who built this remarkable monument thousands of years ago. You'll explore the intricate carvings and learn about the celestial alignments that imbued this sacred place with profound significance, leaving you with a deep connection to Ireland's rich and mysterious past. Our day will end with a drive back towards Dublin City for your last night of your epic Irish adventure.
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Activity Options - Newgrange, Monasterboice, Fourknocks​​
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Overnight - Dublin City or close to Dublin Airport
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DAY 19 - DUBLIN AIRPORT TRANSFER
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Day 18
Accommodation Options
on the 19 Day Ireland Private Tour
Where would you like to stay in your tour?
We offer a varied portfolio of boutique and luxury options of accommodation from the exclusive to the less expensive. We believe variety is the spice of life and we encourage a mix style of accommodations to enhance your private tour experience. All of our partner accommodations are of the highest standard and offer a special, memorable, local experience.
Below you will find some examples of our partner accommodations.
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5 Star - Castles, luxury hotels & city hotels
4 Star - Manor houses, deluxe hotels and city hotels
3 Star - Country houses, gourmet hotels & retreats
Speciality Lodgings - B&B's, guesthouses & farmhouses
Others - Hostels, Private Rentals, Camping, Glamping & Quirky
We will tailor the tour using your accommodation option.
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