Celtic Adventure Tour in Ireland’s Ancient East
Celtic Adventure Tour
in Ireland’s Ancient East
Iconic pilgrim trails in South East Ireland
Staying in 4 Star Ashdown Park Hotel
Celtic story and song
Breakfast, lunch & dinner each day
Glendalough and Valley of the Monks Experience
Sea kayaking off the Wexford coastline
Bespoke tour of Baileys Irish Cream Farm
Local guides and coach transfers daily
Traditional Irish music and so much more …
Stepping stones to the real Ireland
Iconic pilgrim trails in South East Ireland
Staying in 4 Star Ashdown Park Hotel
Celtic story and song
Breakfast, lunch & dinner each day
Glendalough and Valley of the Monks Experience
Sea kayaking off the Wexford coastline
Bespoke tour of Baileys Irish Cream Farm
Local guides and coach transfers daily
Traditional Irish music and so much more …
Stepping stones to the real Ireland
Our 6 Day Celtic Adventure Tour in Ireland’s Ancient East
Discover Ireland’s Celtic past on this guided trip through the unique perspective of tour designers Phil and Elaine Brennan.
Every day you can expect something totally different to what has gone before; the Raven’s Head looped woodland trail one day that leads onto the stunningly beautiful Curracloe Beach, kayaking the next along the southern coastline of Wexford, walking through the valley of the monks in Carlow, a visit to the monastic ruins of St Kevin at Glendalough to soak in the amazing panorama that opens up as we walk the Derrybawn Loop and even a bespoke tour of a Bailey’s Irish Farm… before returning to the comfort of the 4-star Ashdown Park Hotel and Leisure Club to unwind and sample the finest, locally-sourced food.
Our tours are tailored to suit our visitor. Some may want a little more adventure, others more time for those iconic cultural experiences in Ireland. We offer both within the one tour. This is a very special break away to sample the wonderful hidden gems in this South East corner of Ireland. Adventure the gentle way with local guides and experts to make the experience all the more memorable.
We invite the traveller to go deeper into the stories of the places we pass, into the beauty of the landscape and find peace along the way.
Time to experience the fun, the adventure, the music, the cuisine that this magical stretch of South East Ireland offers in abundance. Time to go deeper into the story of our people and re-discover our shared Celtic past. Time to leave our footprints in the land of our ancestors. Let the journey begin!
Celtic Adventure Tour 2025
Our Celtic Adventure Tour in Ireland’s Ancient East is for groups of 12 to 24 persons (group bookings taken only).
Reach out to us early at info@celticwaysireland.com to book your spot!
Day 1: The Irish National Heritage Park – where our Celtic story begins
- Check in to Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey at 10am.
- Homemade refreshments served on arrival.
- Coach transfer to The Irish National Heritage Park, Wexford.
The Irish National Heritage Park invites you on a journey back in time to where the story of Ireland begins. Your visit here becomes an odyssey of sorts where you come face to face with all that has shaped the Ireland of today. Once you know the story, you’re ready for all that is to come during your time with us. The perfect start to your holiday in Ireland. Lunch served in the Heritage Park.
- Afternoon – Visit to Curracloe beach.
The Raven Head Loop in Curracloe is pretty spectacular. The trail combines a picturesque forest walk with an amazing return along a glorious sandy beach. ‘The Raven’ has a little bit of everything… teasing you into paddling your feet in the water or taking a swim before dinner. Time to soak in the beauty, feel the energy, to embrace the power of the great outdoors in this southern corner of Ireland.
- Welcoming Dinner in The Ashdown Park Hotel at 7pm
Day 2: Glendalough – in the steps of St Kevin
- Our coach transfer leaves at 8.30am to Glendalough.
Glendalough, a name that echoes around the world as a place of profound beauty and tranquility, is located within a valley of two lakes in Co. Wicklow. This place is a sacred space, captivating in its beauty and in its serenity. In the 6th Century on the lake shore, a Christian hermit named Kevin established a small monastic settlement. This early Christian community became one of the cradles of Celtic spirituality and Irish monasticism.
We will lead you on a wonderful ramble along the lower slopes of Derrybawn Mountain. The view of the old monastic setting and Round Tower below will live long in the memory. As we descend, we enter the shaded enclave of the woods before passing Poulanass Waterfall leading to the lower lake. Lunch served in Glendalough.
- Our coach transfer leaves at 8.30am to Glendalough.
Glendalough, a name that echoes around the world as a place of profound beauty and tranquility, is located within a valley of two lakes in Co. Wicklow. This place is a sacred space, captivating in its beauty and in its serenity. In the 6th Century on the lake shore, a Christian hermit named Kevin established a small monastic settlement. This early Christian community became one of the cradles of Celtic spirituality and Irish monasticism.
We will lead you on a wonderful ramble along the lower slopes of Derrybawn Mountain. The view of the old monastic setting and Round Tower below will live long in the memory. As we descend, we enter the shaded enclave of the woods before passing Poulanass Waterfall leading to the lower lake. Lunch served in Glendalough.
- Afternoon – Visit to Bailey’s Irish Farm in Co. Wicklow.
On arrival you will be welcomed by a member of the Hayden family and invited to enjoy an intimate lunch hosted by Joe and his team in their ‘Orchard Centre’. Hear the amazing story of generations of this family from those who continue the proud tradition of dairy production.
Take a stroll around this magnificent farm and experience how the greatest and tastiest cream in the world is produced. Meet with the real stars of the show who are our 200 Baileys Ladies. See at first-hand how the richness of farming tradition has been blended with the science of modern food production. No visit is complete without explaining the special relationship that this farm has with Baileys Irish Cream.
- Gaelic hurling skills workshop on the farm – fun and games.
- Farmhouse barbeque followed by Bailey’s Tasting Experience.
Day 3: The wonders of the Hook Peninsula
- We take our 8.30am coach transfer to Tintern Abbey in South Wexford.
The ruins of Tintern Abbey can be found on the edge of Bannow Bay in South Wexford. This old Cistercian Abbey has strong links with the past and there is much to engage the interest of the walker. The Normans first landed in Ireland at Bannow in 1169 and dominated the region for many years. Their influence can still be seen in the wealth of castles and other remains which dot the landscape.
The Bannow Bay Trail meanders out to Saltmills, along the edge of Bannow Bay and back to the trailhead at the Abbey covering just over 7km offering panoramic views of Bannow Bay and the Saltee Islands. For those who would like a little longer, we can follow the looped Caesar Colclough Trail that extends on another 4km. Or you might just want to walk less and a gentle stroll around the walled garden and monastic ruins of the Abbey.
- We take our 8.30am coach transfer to Tintern Abbey in South Wexford.
The ruins of Tintern Abbey can be found on the edge of Bannow Bay in South Wexford. This old Cistercian Abbey has strong links with the past and there is much to engage the interest of the walker. The Normans first landed in Ireland at Bannow in 1169 and dominated the region for many years. Their influence can still be seen in the wealth of castles and other remains which dot the landscape.
The Bannow Bay Trail meanders out to Saltmills, along the edge of Bannow Bay and back to the trailhead at the Abbey covering just over 7km offering panoramic views of Bannow Bay and the Saltee Islands. For those who would like a little longer, we can follow the looped Caesar Colclough Trail that extends on another 4km. Or you might just want to walk less and a gentle stroll around the walled garden and monastic ruins of the Abbey.
- Midday – Visit to Hook Lighthouse to include bespoke tour and lunch
Climb 115 steps to the balcony of Hook Lighthouse in County Wexford, and soak up stunning views of the coastline. A hugely popular attraction in South East Ireland, experience its stunning beauty for yourself during a bespoke tour of this wonderful building. Hook Lighthouse still stands in all its glory as the oldest operational lighthouse in the world in fitting homage to the many lives it helped save over the years.
- Kayaking off Baginbun Beach in South Wexford
Sea Cave Kayaking with us is a unique and exhilarating way to explore this magical and visually stunning coastline. An incredibly beautiful natural area, the Hook Peninsula in Wexford is steeped in jaw-dropping history, Irish heritage and wildlife. You can enjoy this fantastic experience with a fun, informative and professional local kayak guide.
For those who would prefer something a little more leisurely, we can arrange for a guided walk from Baginbun Beach over the headland to the nearby Carnivan Bay. The views are breath-taking. You’ll even get to see the kayakers from above. So only do what is best for you!
Day 4: Johnstown Castle Estate and Gardens
- Morning at your leisure to enjoy the Spa facilities in the Ashdown Park Hotel or take a stroll through the streets of Gorey for some shopping.
- Midday transfer to Johnstown Castle in Wexford.
Enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of our Johnstown Castle gardens and discover the vibrancy of a fairytale estate that’s teeming with gorgeous planting and native wildlife! Johnstown Castle has been declared a conservation area for the native Irish black bee which is thriving in wild colonies on the Estate. The story goes that these colonies can be traced right back the 5th Century when they followed St Aidan back from Pembrokeshire in Wales to Wexford. Local expert, Matt Wheeler, will lead us on a guided walk through the estate and make the connection between the bees of today and our Celtic past.
- Morning at your leisure to enjoy the Spa facilities in the Ashdown Park Hotel or take a stroll through the streets of Gorey for some shopping.
- Midday transfer to Johnstown Castle in Wexford.
Enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of our Johnstown Castle gardens and discover the vibrancy of a fairytale estate that’s teeming with gorgeous planting and native wildlife! Johnstown Castle has been declared a conservation area for the native Irish black bee which is thriving in wild colonies on the Estate. The story goes that these colonies can be traced right back the 5th Century when they followed St Aidan back from Pembrokeshire in Wales to Wexford. Local expert, Matt Wheeler, will lead us on a guided walk through the estate and make the connection between the bees of today and our Celtic past.
- Visit to the monastic ruins of St Aidan in Ferns followed by evening dinner and a Vigil for Peace led by members of the Island of Ireland Peace Choir.
In the year AD 580, St Aidan crossed the Irish Sea from St Davids in Pembrokeshire (where he had been studying as St David’s favourite pupil) to Rosslare in County Wexford. Eighteen years later, he established a new monastery at Ferns, in the same county. This grew to become one of south-east Ireland’s most important settlements, a seat of royal power and the site of an Augustinian abbey.
When Aidan visited Wales as a student of St David, he looked after the beehives in David’s monastery. When he returned to Ireland the bees followed him. Three times he tried to take them back to David’s monastery and three times they followed him back to the boat. When David saw the bees for the third time, he knew that Aidan and the bees had a special relationship so he let Aidan take the bees back to Ireland.
During our time in Ferns, we will be joined by members of The Island of Ireland Peace Choir for a special ‘Vigil for Peace’ in St Eden’s Cathedral.
Day 5: The Valley of the Monks – Graignamanagh & Kilkenny
- Coach transfer at 8.30am to Graignamanagh, Co. Carlow for visit to Duiske Abbey and Cushendale Woollen Mills.
Graignamanagh (Gráig na Manach in Irish), meaning ‘Village of the Monks’ is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in the South East of Ireland. It is located on the River Barrow at the foot of Brandon Hill. It is home to Duiske Abbey, the largest and perhaps the finest of the thirty-four medieval Cistercian abbeys in Ireland and to the Cushendale Woollen Mills which owes its origins to the monks who first arrived here over 800 years ago.
- Follow the pilgrim pathway by the River Barrow to St Mullins.
The ‘Valley of the Monks’ trail brings you face to face with Ireland’s Pilgrim Past. Through the centuries, pilgrims walked along the banks of the River Barrow en route to Waterford from Dublin before setting sail for Spain to do the iconic Camino de Santiago. Walking by the riverside, you sense the spirit of those who have passed this way before. This place is mystical beyond words.
- Coach transfer at 8.30am to Graignamanagh, Co. Carlow for visit to Duiske Abbey and Cushendale Woollen Mills.
Graignamanagh (Gráig na Manach in Irish), meaning ‘Village of the Monks’ is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in the South East of Ireland. It is located on the River Barrow at the foot of Brandon Hill. It is home to Duiske Abbey, the largest and perhaps the finest of the thirty-four medieval Cistercian abbeys in Ireland and to the Cushendale Woollen Mills which owes its origins to the monks who first arrived here over 800 years ago.
- Follow the pilgrim pathway by the River Barrow to St Mullins.
The ‘Valley of the Monks’ trail brings you face to face with Ireland’s Pilgrim Past. Through the centuries, pilgrims walked along the banks of the River Barrow en route to Waterford from Dublin before setting sail for Spain to do the iconic Camino de Santiago. Walking by the riverside, you sense the spirit of those who have passed this way before. This place is mystical beyond words.
- Visit to the ancient city of Kilkenny to include bespoke tours of Kilkenny Castle and Smithwick’s Brewery.
Kilkenny Castle is ideally situated in the heart of Kilkenny City, which allow visitors to explore this vibrant and compact city. The castle itself stand on a heights and was built by William Marshal, 4th Earl of Pembroke in the 12th century to command the crossing of the River Nore.
The Smithwick’s Brewery tour is a deep dive into the impact of Kilkenny’s brewing tradition on Irish culture. Kilkenny’s brewing tradition dates back to the 13th century when monastic communities initiated the craft. Over time, brewing became a significant industry, transforming Kilkenny into a bustling commercial centre. The wealth generated from brewing financed significant public works, contributing to the city’s distinctive medieval architecture that we admire today.
As you raise a glass to Kilkenny, you are not just toasting its excellent beers but also its enduring spirit, its rich history, and its vibrant culture. The story of Kilkenny’s brewing tradition is, in many ways, the story of Kilkenny itself – a story that continues to unfold with each pint poured.
- Return to Ashdown Park Hotel for Gala Tapas Dinner.
Day 6: Farewell gathering by the shoreline.
After breakfast, we’ll take a short trip out to the coastal village of Cahore for some mindful moments by the sea. Group departs at 12 midday.
Day 6: Farewell gathering by the shoreline.
After breakfast, we’ll take a short trip out to the coastal village of Cahore for some mindful moments by the sea. Group departs at 12 midday.
Where we Stay
4 star Ashdown Park Hotel Guesthouse
Located in County Wexford in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, The Ashdown Park Hotel is an award winning boutique hotel, less than an hour from Dublin, 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of the buzzy market town of Gorey and 10 minutes’ drive to some of the best coastline, activities and attractions in Ireland.
A selection of contemporary and comfortable bedrooms await you which are carefully designed to suit couples and families alike. Choose from their newly refurbished Rowan restaurant, their Ivy Bar and Restaurant and also two lovely outdoor dining options, their restaurant terrace and Ivy courtyard.
The Ashdown Park Hotel Gorey offers impressive, state-of-the-art leisure facilities, including an 18m swimming pool, children’s pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. In addition, there is a kids’ playroom and a beauty salon onsite.
It’s the perfect base from which to explore the many hidden gems in this South East corner of Ireland.
Price €2,250 includes:
- Hosts: Phil Brennan: prominent motivational speaker (PhD Phil.)
Elaine Brennan: gifted host/tour manager - Guest guides: Local guides with a unique insight into the story of the places we pass along the way
- Accommodation: 5 nights bed and breakfast in the 4 star Ashdown Park Hotel
- Food: Lunch and Dinner each day from the land we walk
- Coach transfers: To and from the trail each day and to all other events connected with the tour
- Music: Daily reflective moments through music led by Phil and Elaine
Traditional Irish Music session and Vigil for Peace
Bespoke tours of iconic visitor attractions in South East Ireland:
The Irish National Heritage Park, Hook Lighthouse, Tintern Abbey
Johnstown Castle in Wexford
Cushendale Woollen Mills, Duiske Abbey, Kilkenny Castle & Smithwick’s Brewery in Carlow/Kilkenny
Bailey’s Irish Farm & Glendalough in Wicklow
Additional supplements:
- Single Room Supplement inclusive of the 5 nights €350.
- It is possible to add one night’s bed and breakfast in the Ashdown Park Hotel prior to the start of our tour. Prices subject to seasonal rates and availability.
- Transfers can be arranged for an additional supplement to Gorey on your day of arrival and from Gorey when you connect up with the rest of your Irish tour.
- Optional extras from horse riding, to fishing, to boat trips can be arranged.
- Celtic Ways Ireland can put the pieces in place for the rest of your vacation in Ireland from organising transfers, accommodation to guiding you in terms of how to get the most out of the remainder of your time in Ireland.
Exclusions:
- Flights: All your flight arrangements and payments are left to your own discretion.
- Transfers: All your transfer plans to connect to our 6 Day Celtic Adventure in South East Ireland are not included in the price.
- Insurance: Whilst we at Celtic Ways Ireland have our own insurance cover in place, we strongly advise that each person/group take out your own travel insurance for the duration of your time with us. Given that our tour involves walking and gentle adventure, it is better to veer on the side of caution and have your own insurance in place to cover all eventualities.
Drinks/Refreshments: Whilst lunches and dinners are included for the duration of your time with us, any additional drinks, beverages and refreshments are not included in the package.
Walking Activity Level: Walkers should have a moderate level of fitness and be comfortable walking 8km-10km a day.
Terms & Conditions:
A deposit of €500 is payable once a tour is booked with the balance payable 3 months in advance of the tour (non-refundable). Payments can be made via PayPal or directly into our account.
If you have to withdraw, every effort will be made to re-schedule your booking.