EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 118 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Lori Cardoza 
 
 
 
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Magical, enchanting, spiritual, educational, life-insipiring.  . .I could simply go on and on about the amazing experience my sister and I had with Elaine and Phil and Celtic Ways. At every turn, there were surprises, planned and unplanned. A butler appeared at Lismore Castle to give us a surprise, intimate glance inside;  a local happened upon us looking for Dervla Murphy's home and asked if we would like a peek; a cat joined us in an impromptu song at a local cathedral; on September 11, we found a piece of the twin towers, given to the people of Ireland, and we had a prayer there; we had tea and scones with the most delightful sisters at Glencairn Abbey; we met friends for walks and songs by lakes and rivers; we found a local historian able to help me with some facts about a book I'm writing; we wrote our names in Medieval ink in the ancient Ogham alphabet; we learned folklore and history; prayed and laughed, all while riding like queens in Nancy, the beautiful, huge van aptly named after the horse that gave us a ride to awe-inspiring Dunloe Gap. This is not your typical rushed tour of Ireland. It is thoughful, open for surprises, nuanced, balanced between everything from the paths of saints to the joy of pub music and drink.  And there were rainbows. Like signs from the ancestors and loved ones and the actual true stereotype of Ireland's breathtaking beauty, rainbows followed us at every turn. And perhaps the best part, in the end, we quickly found an amazing kinship with Elaine and Phil. We started strangers but found that we shared so much in common and had so much to learn from each other, in ways completely unexpected. Their kindness, humor, ability to listen to our hopes for this trip, and openness to their own life, made this time extraordinary. They shared their friends, their voices, their stories, both personal and professional, their favorite spots---we started with a tour, but it quickly changed into two fun, warm friends showing us their amazing country. I have been forever changed for the better because of Elaine and Phil and the beauty, lore and story of Ireland.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Jeanne Nelson 
 
 
 
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This tour is amazing, awe inspiring, magical and fun!  The best way to see Ireland with the two most wonderful and caring hosts.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Terry Quinn 
 
 
 
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Celtic Ways Ireland did a fantastic job of organizing and managing a unique experience which included seeing historically significant sites in Ireland with on site experts to describe the various sites.  They provided a glimpse into Ireland's history as well as it's modern day people and towns which would not be available through other means.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Vivianne Henríquez 
 
 
 
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Just a great and deep experience going through nature, walking and sharing this days with people looking for being connected to our souls and real self.
Elaine and Phil made it possible, caring and loving us being in touch with the real Ireland.
Thank you so so much
💕💕
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Emily Traub 
 
 
 
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Where do I even BEGIN! Our walk on St Declan’s Way with Phil and Elaine was, no exaggeration, life changing in some of the best ways possible. The walk itself was stunning and profound and meditative, but more than anything, it was the people and the relationships we built over the week that touched me most deeply. In only five days, we formed such a close bond with our small group of ‘strangers’, that by the time we finished our walk it was a very sad, reluctant, and teary goodbye. I believe this was, in large part, thanks to Phil and Elaine’s beautiful guidance over the week, through the history of the land and culture, to the people who have carried the most sacred values into the present day. These deep moments continued when the walking ended for the day through music, vulnerability, shared meals, personal stories, and humor that we think back on daily, now that we’re home. My only regret is that we hadn’t discovered Phil and Elaine earlier! Let this be your sign to take a leap of faith and give yourself the gift of walking the Irish Camino with these two genuine, insightful, generous, vibrant human beings.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Charles Welch 
 
 
 
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Phil and Elaine designed a bespoke trip meeting our needs that was incredible.  They were great hosts.  What an experience.  I highly recommend them!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Clare Traub 
 
 
 
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Finding words to capture and communicate the experience of traveling with Phil and Elaine is almost impossible.
My daughter and I walked St. Declan’s Way with them a week ago and our hearts are still so full that even the life we have returned to feels brighter, clearer, and more meaningful as a result.
The walk itself was gloriously beautiful. Phil and Elaine worked together with so much care and harmony to ensure that every detail was in place that we felt genuinely held and looked after in every way possible. The group (who hadn’t known one another before the tour began) became extended family by midweek. The warmth, vivid peace, and hospitality of the sisters at Glencairn Abbey was like being absorbed in living prayer. And the humor, quick-witted repartee, and profound knowledge of each place and local culture from both Phil and the guides and characters he asked to join us at various turns, was spectacular!
Sharing photos and stories with family and friends afterwards, the most frequent question was “how did you FIND this??“
Well, that was all part of the magic I suppose … If you’ve come as far as reading this review, and it rings a “true note“ in any way, my one recommendation would be:  DON’T hesitate. Email Phil immediately :)
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Wasyl C 
 
 
 
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Walking St Declan's Way with Phil and Elaine was probably one of the most inspiring experiences we have ever had. We stayed in Glencairn Abbey, a haven of peace and tranquillity.
We prefer not to list in detail what Phil and Elaine offered in order to avoid 'spoilers' as the camino was full of unexpected surprises and treats. However, some highlights must be mentioned, for example Elaine's organisation and support for all five pilgrims; he kindness throughout the week was ever reliable and often accompanied by warm infectious laughter. Nothing was left to chance. She helped to create the generous and continual camaderie in the group. Friendships were forged as a result.

Phil's inspirational leadership of the reflections at key points in the pilgrimage was another highlight. These rich moments were usually accompanied by music (portable Bose system) to match the theme and the location. His encouragement, patience and understanding of the group were a key ingredient in building an atmosphere of trust, support and regular hilarity. It was uncanny how he matched the way to the needs of the each indvidual in the group.

Each key location along the way saw the arrival of local guides with intimate knowledge of the history, geography and culture of each from the Rock of Cashel, through Ardfinnan, Cahir, the Knockmealdowns, Cappoquin, Lismore, Villierstown and Ardmore, over hills, through valleys and along the area's delightful rivers. It is impossible to capture the richness of the experience in a few words but stories told and confidences shared along the way contributed to the success of the pilgrimage and to lasting friendships.

Finally, the nuns of Glencairn Cistercian Abbey, Lismore, provided the most gracious and thoughtful welcome that we have experienced on many Camino routes. We were made to feel at home from the moment we arrived. We enjoyed several lovely conversations in the Abbey, filled with humour and kindly thoughtfulness.
Thank you Phil and Elaine. Míle buíochas. You are a great team.
Go raibh míle maith agat.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 MC Rice 
 
 
 
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I recently completed St Declan’s Way arranged by The Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and organised by Celtic Ways Ireland. Phil and Elaine are dedicated and attentive, they offer a high standard with a personal touch. I thoroughly enjoyed the walking, education and sheer fun of the experience. They introduced us to locals with knowledge and a love for their area.  I would highly recommend Celtic Ways Ireland.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Gay Dering 
 
 
 
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Phil and Elaine are truly the best! When I started planning our Ireland adventure, none of the other tours offered what we were after. We were looking to spend more time in fewer and more local places, which allowed us to see important sites, and also immerse ourselves in the Irish culture of today. Wow, did they deliver!
We spent a total of 5 weeks in Ireland, and saw the most meaningful and gorgeous places, but more importantly, we met Irish people where they really live. The stories, hospitality, and genuine care that the people we were intentionally connected with served as second hosts when we landed in their areas. We made lifelong friends and felt like honorary Irish people!
Even if you can't spend as much time as we did, I would recommend you avoid the "tour machine" and try this way of travel. Put your trust in the Celtic ways, as they will not disappoint you. Thank you, Phil and Elaine, for the most lovely vacation we have ever experienced.
Gay Dering