from $1,096
9 nights (can +/- days)
Ancient Ireland
Discover the Ancient World of Ireland...
Itinerary in Brief...
Arrive Dublin Dublin City Boyne Valley Kinsale West Cork Dingle Dingle Peninsula Ennis West Clare Depart ShannonTour Highlights
- Medieval Castles & Fortresses
- 2,000-year-old stone beehive huts
- Explore Medieval Towns & Villages
- 5,000-year-old megalithic tombs
- Ancient Stone Circles
- 6th Century Monastery perched on remote cliff
Your Tour Includes
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Your AccommodationAll nights are reserved in advance. Base price includes 9 nights of luxury accommodation in the following top-rated properties full of Irish character and charm:2 nights 4-star Georgian Pembroke Townhouse, Dublin *You may add or subtract days with this package | |
Explore Your Tour & Lodgings
See some of the highlights of your Ancient Ireland Tour through the videos below.
Places You Will Visit on Your Tour
Old world charm and elegance awaits you...
Each hotel has been chosen because of its unique combination of exquisite ambience, friendly service, and world-class cuisine. All nights are reserved in advance. Price includes 9 nights accommodation to include:
2 nights 4-star Georgian Pembroke Townhouse, Dublin
3 nights 4-star The Old Presbytery Guesthouse, Kinsale
2 nights 4-star Bed & Breakfast, Dingle
2 nights 4-star Old Ground Hotel, Ennis
Accomodations Map
Recommended sights for you to visit on your Ancient Ireland Tour
Newgrange Day 1 or 2
Newgrange, in County Meath, crouches on a rise just north of the River Boyne. It is the focal point for a ceremonial area and megalithic cemetery that is 5,000 years old. The tombs passage is perfectly aligned to mark the Winter Solstice. Read 20 intriguing facts about Newgrange here.Hill of Tara Day 1 or 2
Also in County Meath, important rituals were performed here from the Stone Age and through the Christian era. It was also the traditional seat of Ireland’s high kings. Slowly ascend Tara. From its top you can see all of Ireland’s four Celtic provinces.Loughcrew Day 1 or 2
Again, this is in County Meath. This site is somewhat of a secret. On the east side it is possible to enter the domed tomb. Be still. Experience time as it stops and then reels you backward into a world then can only be known by your senses.Blarney Castle Day 4 or 5
This magnificent castle was built in 1200 A.D. near the present town of Blarney. Positioned near the River Martin, it was a medieval stronghold. When the castle was destroyed in 1446, the present castle was built on the same site by one of Ireland’s great chieftains, Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster and Lord of Blarney.It is built on solid limestone, but beneath the castle and rocks, slick caves wind through the layers of stone. Part of McCarthy’s castle is in ruins, but some rooms and battlements are still intact. Built into one of the walls on the third story is the Stone of Eloquence—the Blarney Stone. Over the years thousands of visitors have flocked to Blarney, making it one of Ireland’s greatest treasures.
If you stand in line to kiss the Stone, finish up, and you’re ready to rush off to your next destination, consider this alternative: Walk the grounds of this magical place where it is said that, long ago, ancient kings were crowned and then blessed by the kisses of faeries.
Cork City Day 4 or 5
In the bustling city of Cork, stroll the river walk at the University and pop into the Glucksman Gallery. Relax in a café, and hit Shandon Street, just a short walk from the main shopping district. Climb the 120 foot steeple, and ring the bells of Shandon. Soak up the city views as they fade into the countryside. Award-winning restaurants line the streets, and nightlife choices include Irish Traditional, classy nightclubs, theater, opera, plays, and dance. (Take the haunted night tour of the city jail—it’s a great way to start your evening with a bang.) Of course, there’s the Jameson Old Middleton Distillery in east Cork. Learn how Irish whiskey is made, and finish with a tasting. As for Ennis, her beautiful medieval streets, narrow and meandering past small colorful shops, are enchanting.Drombeg Stone Circle Day 4 or 5
In County Cork. This lovely recumbent stone circle is locally knownasthe Druid's Altar, and is located on the edge of a rocky terrace withfine views to the sea about a mile away. The word Drombeg means 'the small ridge'. The circle stones have been shaped to slope upwards to the recumbent itself. The midpoint of this stone was set in line with the winter soltice sunset viewed in a conspicuous notch in the distant hills.Blasket Islands Day 6 or 7
The Blasket Islands lie just a few miles off Slea Head on the Dingle Peninsula. The islands don’t look very inviting from the mainland and yet the largest, Great Blasket Island, was inhabited for almost 300 years up to 1953 when the final 200 hardy souls were forced to abandon the island due to lack of basic services – there was no school, shop, priest or doctor. Many moved to Springfield (no Simpson’s jokes please!), Massachusetts where to this day a copy of the weekly Kerryman newspaper is delivered to their door. The Great Blasket heritage centre located in Dunquin tells the island’s fascinating and moving story and is well worth checking out.Ancient Sites in Dingle Day 6 or 7
The Dingle Peninsula is like an open air museum. No where else in Ireland is so cram-packed with national monuments and historical sites. Its no wonder, people like to live in beautiful places - I am sure this was as true 500 or 5,000 years ago as it is today. Highlights include the Gallarus Oratory (this 1200 year old dry stone oratory is in perfect condition and is a great example of the ingenious building methods used at the time. How many of our houses will be still standing in 1200 years?) and the Beehive Huts scattered along the Slea Head drive between Slea Head and Dunquin.Lough Gur Day 8
This site is in County Limerick. It is on a lake (lough) that was inhabited by Neolithic farmers for over 4,000 years. There are prehistoric remains and the largest surviving stone circle in Ireland.The Burren Day 8 or 9
The Burren, or Boireann, meaning Great Rock, is in County Clare. It is, without dispute, one of the most unique and strangest landscapes in Europe. The Burren is about 250 square kilometers. Bounded by the Atlantic on the west and rocked by Galway Bay to the north, it is a multi-layered landscape where delicate plants have adapted in order to thrive and flourish between harsh crevices. Stroll the meadows, be astonished by the boulders, and read the trail marks and footprints that the ice age and volcanoes left behind.
Interested in sacred sites or ancient Ireland? This area is not only a miracle of biodoverstiy, it is rich in a history that stretches back through the mists of time and forward to its preservation. The Burren abounds in Celtic Spirituality—the Irish legends and the people of this area cannot be separated. Those who live here reflect this land, and they are its guardians as firmly as they ever were.
A walking tour with Authentic Ireland’s local guide is the only way to truly explore this extraordinary place. Smell the air as the sea dampens the limestone, watch the weather color the sky differently in a matter of hours, listen to the sounds of ancient Ireland ripple through time, stone, and story. Put one foot in front of the other and revel in this untamed landscape.
Doolin & The Cliffs of Moher Day 8 or 9
The small coastal village of Doolin is located on County Clare's wild Atlantic coast. The surrounding area has much of interest including the barren yet strikingly beautiful Burren region with, among other things, the 5,000 year-old Poulnabrone Dolmen. Also worth a visit is Doonagore Castle and of course the spectacular 650-foot high Cliffs of Moher, which are only a few miles from Doolin. But the real reason people flock to Doolin from all over the world is the traditional music in the local pubs. Until recently Doolin had only three pubs. There are now some new establishments on the scene but we recommend sticking to the old reliables: McGanns, McDermots and O'Connors. Even at that you will be spoilt for choice. Each pub is full most nights with musicians and music lovers alike. Be sure to check out all threeBunratty Day 8 or 9
Enjoy the medieval grandeur that awaits in Bunratty Castle and the lively Folk Park. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea and sample freshly baked scones in the quaint thatched cottage cafe. Within a few minutes’ drive you’ll also find the historic Durty Nelly’s, Knappogue Castle, Craggaunowen, King John’s Castle, and the Hunt Museum. We suggest you spend your day enjoying the Folk Park and wandering the Bunratty Castle grounds. When evening rolls around, head to Bunratty Castle for a medieval Banquet of food, song, and jesters. It’s an absolutely unforgettable evening for all!Dun Aengus, Aran Islands Day 8 or 9
In County Galway, this is an enormous stone fort with a mystery—no oneknows who built it or when. It was called by several renowned archaeologists, “the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe.” It faces the wild sea, and three stone rings meet above 300 foot sheer cliffs. It seems to keep a watchful eye on our traditional Aran Islands.2011 - 2012 Prices
The prices listed below are per person based on 2 people traveling for 9 nights staying in 4-star luxury accommodations. You can add or subtract days or upgrade your accommodations. Please complete the form below to receive a personal quote.
- From August 15, 2011 To August 28, 2011 $1,246
- From August 29, 2011 To September 30, 2011 $1,197
- From October 1, 2011 To October 31, 2011 $1,159
- From November 1, 2011 To March 31, 2012 $1,096
- From April 1, 2012 To April 27, 2012 $1,110
- From April 28, 2012 To April 30, 2012 $1,159
- From May 1, 2012 To May 31, 2012 $1,183
- From June 1, 2012 To July 9, 2012 $1,197
- From July 10, 2012 To July 14, 2012 $1,246
- From July 15, 2012 To August 14, 2012 $1,327
Flights to Ireland
We are happy to offer you the lowest price on airfare when traveling to Ireland. Simply search for flights from your preferred departure city, and book instantly online. You are under no obligation to purchase your flight through us, and the Land Cost portion of your tour is always separate.
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Flying to Ireland: What you Need to Know
- All flights to Ireland from the U.S. are overnight. E.g. If you depart the U.S. on March 15th, you will arrive in Ireland on the morning of March 16th.
- There are 4 major airports in Ireland: Dublin, Shannon, Cork & Belfast
- For citizens of any EU country, US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand no visas are required, you only need a valid passport.
- It is recommended that you arrive at the airport a minimum of 3 hours prior to your departure time due to strict security measures.
Client Reviews & Testimonials
We will never forget this trip!
I keep thanking my co-worker for referring us to Authentic Ireland. I will refer you all as well to people thinking of doing Ireland like we did. It was worry free and Sarah, you did the best itinerary and arranging this trip for us on such short notice. I am an amateur photographer and my pictures are great.Driving through the countryside was an experience. There is so much to tell. Our favorite place was Killarney. We experienced the wildlife, the red deer that we heard about. I actually had a photo shoot with a huge 9 point buck. We rode up to the Ladies View and enjoyed the best chocolate cake ever! The waterfall was breathtaking and the scenery around Killarney was magical. The gardens at the Muckrose House were beautiful. The music in Doolin and the people at the Pubs were fun. The Burren was like walking on the moon and I shot some great pictures of a wild rose in a crevice and actually found some shamrocks growing in a crevice as well. We put 2,500 miles on the rental car! Riding through to the many many fishing villages was so much fun and I had the best fish and chips at the wharf out of a food trailer in a little village named Baltimore. The fish was just caught and the young man made me the best fish and chips ever. The castles were unbelievable. Just to see something that was 15th century and still standing was priceless as was the tomb at Newgrange. The Sky Road in Connemara was an outstanding ride. We had lunch at roadside, just the two of us. On the way we stopped at the bridge where John Wayne walked in the film, The Quiet Man. My favorite picture is Gary walking over it like John Wayne did. We went off the beaten path and enjoyed Ireland at its best.
Again thank you so much for a trip we will never forget!
Linda & Gary Doyle, Laurel MD – Ancient Ireland – June 2011
We loved our experience with Authentic Ireland!
Furthermore, we inquired about the company to all of the hotels we stayed at on our Ancient Ireland Tour, and they had wonderful things to say about Authentic Ireland. They love working with you, find you very professional, and are pleased that any problems are dealt with quickly. Our experience with Authentic Ireland was great, but hearing how our hotels/townhouses/B&B's felt about you certainly made us feel better about the company. We like supporting good companies, and think that yours qualifies as such.- Lisa Gorski, San Leandro CA
Everything Was Perfect!
Ireland is a beautiful country! As an anthropologist, I have a professional interest in ancient sites and peoples, and my trip was geared around such sites in the southern third of the country. What struck me the most was the way that the Irish people seem to really embody the land and the history of the land. I would wake up most mornings with plans to see some stone circle or monastic ruins, and by the end of the day would be sitting in a pub, drinking a pint and listening to local musicians. The west coast was by far my favorite region - from the Ring of Kerry to the Burren - but really every place I was able to visit left an impression on me, especially Newgrange.I especially enjoyed staying at the Lundavin House B&B in Dingle. The owner (Denise, I think her name was) was very nice, and the breakfast she made was amazing! The Dingle Peninsula is such an amazing place, too, and staying at her B&B was convenient for driving around the peninsula or just walking down to town. I also really like the Blue Haven Hotel in Kinsale. The rooms were comfortable, the staff was especially friendly and helpful, the food was great, and the bar had wonderful live music! - Jamie Lynn Edwards, May 2010
Thank you so very much for making our trip one to cherish and remember.
We wanted to let you know that our trip was everything and more than we expected. The accomodations were all wonderful and definitely first rate. Since we have returned home we have spoke of our trip and hope that others will use your services. We know that there is much more for us to see in your lovely country and hope we will be able to return again. - Connie & Tom Moran, May 2010I want to thank Authentic Ireland for putting together our dream vacation.
It was wonderful to work with you in creating our itinerary and all your suggestions were invaluable. All the hotels and B&Bs were in great locations. The breakfasts were fantastic and the hosts were very welcoming. We hope to return to Ireland in the next few years and would definitely book again with Authentic Ireland. Thank you for everything. - Kathy & John Fleming, May 2010We have and will again recommend Authentic Ireland to everyone!
The planning and preparation before our trip was faultless. Our entire experience was even better than expected. We made the most of our trip of a lifetime. Ireland proved to be even more magical than we could have hoped for. - Kelly Malone, April 2010I loved the whole trip!
This was my first time to Ireland and I have to say that it was everything I thought it would be and more!! I loved the whole trip and am so happy that I finally made it to Ireland to see 'my people'. It was a dream come true and I get a smile on my face every time I think of my time there with my parents and sister. Thank goodness my sister and I took a lot of pictures! - Anne Heyneker, April 2010It was wonderful!
Authentic Ireland made my first trip to Ireland a very memorable experience and I would definitely go back. When I do these are the people I will be using. Thank you! - Debra Boyle, February 2010Book Your Vacation in 5 Easy Steps!
We make traveling to Ireland easy. Our team of experts are here to help you get the most out of your Ireland vacation from the very start of your vacation planning. We also offer you unrivaled support while you are in Ireland. If you’re lost, give us a call and we’ll direct you to your accommodations. If you need to make a change, call us. We believe all our clients deserve an extraordinary experience!
- Fill Out the Form Below.
You decide your travel dates, number of people and type of transportation. You can also add/ subtract days to this package, just let us know how many nights in Ireland you would like. - Online Account Created.
Your details will be reviewed by our team of Ireland experts, and a custom itinerary will be created for you, based on your exact dates of travel & number of nights. Your online account is created and you will receive your username & password via email. - Itinerary Emailed & Posted To Your Online Account.
Your itinerary will be posted to your online account and emailed for you to review. You are assigned a dedicated travel advisor (your own Ireland travel expert!), who will be available to you at any stage of your vacation planning & while you are in Ireland. You may request changes/ modifications to your vacation via your online account, or by emailing or calling your agent. - Reserve & Pay Online.
Pay for your Ireland vacation package securely through your online account. Click on the Orange “Reserve Vacation” button. We require a 20% deposit to secure your vacation with the balance due 60 days prior to departure. - Print Your Vouchers & Go!
Once your balance has been received, you will be able to print your travel vouchers from your online account. You will need to present these pre-paid vouchers upon arrival in Ireland. You will also receive a travel package delivered by FedEx containing your map, guidebooks & discount cards.
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