Early Monastic Tour · 12 Days
The Celtic Echoes Tour
Our signature adventure through early monastic Ireland — from Glendalough’s mist to the crags of Skellig Michael.
“There are some journeys that start long before the first footfall. They begin as a quiet summons beneath the noise of ordinary life.”
Dr. Phil Brennan
This 12-day journey across the sacred landscape of Ireland is not mere sightseeing. It is an invitation to unhurried exploration — stepping off the beaten track to iconic monastic spaces, weather-worn stones, and the song of wind and water. Guided by the rhythm of Celtic spirituality, blending rich history, soft adventure and shared song.
The Route, day by day
Dublin → Offaly → Kerry → Cork → Waterford → Wexford → Wicklow
01
Dún Laoghaire
Arrival in Dublin
The Royal Marine Hotel on Dublin Bay — seaside calm, a welcome dinner, companions gathering.
02
Dublin
Our Celtic Story - Journey Through Dublin
The Book of Kells without the crowds, Christ Church’s Viking crypt, and the Gravity Bar above the Guinness Storehouse.
03
The Shannon · Offaly
Sailing through time — Clonmacnoise
By boat along reed-lined banks to St Ciarán’s monastic city — high crosses, round towers, a thousand years of learning. On to Killarney.
04
Killarney
The story of the monks
Muckross Abbey’s ancient yew, a boat across the Lake of Learning to Innisfallen, and the Celtic Steps show by night.
05
Ring of Kerry
Kerry Cliffs & Valentia Island
A thousand feet above the Atlantic, then footprints 400 million years old on Valentia. Overnight at the pier in Portmagee.
06
UNESCO World Heritage
Skellig Michael — the island of the monks
A private boat over the waves, 618 hand-hewn steps, and a wordless silence among the beehive huts — a thin place where heaven and earth seem to touch.
07
Kerry → West Cork
Coomakista Pass to Gougane Barra
Over the Ring of Kerry’s grandest pass, through Sneem and Kenmare’s oak woods, to a lakeside valley in the mountains.
08
Gougane Barra
The peace and the story
St Finbarr’s island oratory on glass-still water, forest bathing beneath the pines, a guided walk of mindfulness.
09
Waterford Coast
Ardmore — holy well to round tower
The cliff walk in St Declan’s footsteps, ending with an Irish coffee on the beach as the sun drops below the horizon.
10
Wexford
Hook Lighthouse, Tintern Abbey & Ferns
The world’s oldest operational lighthouse, first lit by 5th-century monks; woodland rambles at Tintern; St Aidan’s high crosses.
11
Wicklow
Glendalough's dawn & the farewell feast
The Derrybawn Loop above St Kevin’s monastic city, the Wicklow Baileys Farm, and a closing circle of song over a farmhouse feast.
12
Departure
The road home
After a final leisurely breakfast, we transfer you to the airport. You’ll leave with a camera full of photographs — but more than that, you’ll carry the quiet of Glendalough, the salt wind of Hook Head, and the welcome of the people you’ve met along the way. The Celtic way stays with you.
Included
— 11 nights B&B, dinner every evening
— Dr Phil & Elaine Brennan as hosts and guides
— Luxury coach transfers throughout
— Guest guides, bespoke tours & cultural experiences
— Boat trips to Innisfallen & Skellig Michael
— Celtic Steps evening · Celtic Gala evening
— Wicklow Baileys Farm experience
Not Included
Single room supplement · Flights & insurance · Lunches · Drinks & tips
2026 / 27 Departures
Small groups.
Tailored pace.
Every departure is shaped to the interests and fitness of its group. A 20% deposit secures your place; balance due three months before travel.
Phil & Elaine Brennan
A motivational speaker and musical director with a PhD in Spirituality, and an experienced tour manager — welcoming groups from all over the world since 2017. They design, host and chauffeur every journey themselves.
“You never quite know what awaits around each new bend.”
“Ireland is only half the reason your journey will be unforgettable.”
Lou · Florida, USA · Sept 2025 — 5.0 across 100+ Google reviews
Reach out to Phil and Elaine to enquire about availability
Email: info@celticwaysireland.com
Tel: +353 87 994 7921
Alternatively, you can submit an enquiry through the form below and we will reply as soon as possible.
Let us build you your dream Celtic experience in Ireland
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Celtic Ways Ireland tours suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. The Celtic Echoes Tour offers the perfect introduction to Ireland while taking you far beyond the typical visitor itinerary.
You’ll experience iconic landmarks alongside hidden places that many Irish people themselves have yet to discover.
Is this tour suitable if I've visited Ireland before?
Very much so. Many returning visitors tell us they want to experience “the real Ireland” rather than revisit crowded tourist attractions. Celtic Echoes reveals a different side of Ireland, rich in heritage, spirituality, local culture and unforgettable scenery.
What type of tour is Celtic Echoes?
Celtic Echoes is a 12-day guided cultural and heritage journey through Ireland’s sacred landscapes.
It combines:
Guided walking experiences
Ancient monastic settlements
Coastal scenery
Celtic history
Irish storytelling
Traditional music
Local food experiences
Gentle adventure
Time for quiet reflection
Every day has been designed to reveal another chapter of Ireland’s remarkable story as you explore and immerse yourself in Ireland. This is a chance to experience #Irelandunrushed and take home memories that will be with you for a lifetime.
Is this a religious pilgrimage?
No. People of every faith, spirituality and background are warmly welcomed. While many of the places visited have Christian origins, the journey focuses on Ireland’s shared heritage, remarkable landscapes and timeless traditions.
Many guests describe the experience as deeply moving without being religious.
Is the tour spiritual?
Many guests say it is. Standing on Skellig Michael, listening to birdsong at Gougane Barra or watching the morning mist lift over Glendalough naturally encourages reflection. The tour creates space to slow down, reconnect with nature and appreciate Ireland’s rich spiritual heritage.
What is Celtic spirituality?
Celtic spirituality celebrates the belief that the natural world is sacred. It values hospitality, community, pilgrimage, simplicity, storytelling and finding moments of peace within nature. These timeless values shape every aspect of the Celtic Echoes experience and something you will take home in our noisy modern world.
How much walking is involved?
Most days include gentle to moderate walks through forests, coastal paths, monastic sites and scenic countryside.
Walks are designed to be enjoyable rather than demanding, with plenty of opportunities to pause for photographs and storytelling.
Do I have to complete every walk?
No. Where possible, walks can be adapted to suit different abilities and interests.
The emphasis is always on enjoyment rather than endurance.
Is Skellig Michael difficult?
A visit to Skellig Michael it is the most physically demanding part of the journey but we respond to our guests ability and enjoyment, accomplishment and experience are the most important part of the journey.
Located on the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, Skellig Michael involves climbing over 600 historic stone steps. Guests should be comfortable walking uphill on uneven terrain.
Please note landings are always subject to favourable weather conditions for safety.
Why is Glendalough so famous?
Located in Ireland’s Ancient East, Glendalough is one of Ireland’s best-loved monastic settlements.
Founded by St Kevin in the sixth century within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, this peaceful valley has welcomed pilgrims for over 1,400 years.
Walking the Derrybawn Loop offers breathtaking views across the valley before descending to the famous Round Tower, ancient churches and tranquil lakes.
Will we experience traditional Irish music?
Yes. Music is woven throughout the Celtic Echoes experience. Phil and Elaine bring their love of music and storytelling to each of their guided tours of Ireland, adding to the experience and visit for their guests.
From intimate performances to evenings of traditional song and storytelling, you’ll discover how music continues to shape Ireland’s cultural identity.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
Very much so. Many guests travel independently and quickly become part of the group.
Shared experiences and smaller group sizes naturally create lasting friendships.
What is included in the tour?
The Celtic Echoes Tour includes guided cultural experiences, luxury coach travel, guest guides, selected boat trips, traditional Irish music experiences and personal hosting by Phil and Elaine Brennan throughout the journey.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. Please let us know when booking and every effort will be made to cater for your dietary requirements throughout the tour.
Can I extend my stay in Ireland?
Certainly. Many guests choose to continue exploring Ireland before or after the tour.
Phil and Elaine are delighted to help you create a personalised extension to your Irish adventure.
Now taking bookings for 2026/27
Ireland is calling you back
Celtic echoes linger long after you’ve made your way home.