6 Day Camino Experience · 12 Days

6 Day Celtic Pilgrim Experience - Saint Declan's Way

Home 5 Saint Declan’s Way | Camino Tour Ireland

Walk an Irish pilgrim path four hundred years older than the Camino de Santiago — and sleep in a living Cistercian abbey no other tour can offer.

Glencarin abbey co waterford

“St Declan’s Way echoes to the beat of times past. In the stillness of the morning, you hear the quiet murmurings of all who have passed this way before; Saints and kings, visionaries and paupers, farmers and fishermen all have left their imprint on the land.”

Dr. Phil Brennan

Celtic Pilgrim Experience along Saint Declan's Way ( For all fitness levels )

Fifteen hundred years ago, St. Declan walked from the Rock of Cashel home to his monastery by the sea at Ardmore. His path predates the Camino de Santiago by four centuries, and it is still here, threading through the Golden Vale, along the River Suir, over the Knockmealdown Mountains and down the Blackwater valley to the Atlantic.

Over six days we walk sections of it together, a small band of pilgrims, never more than seven — averaging a gentle 12 kilometres a day, with every step tailored to the group. There is no rush and no crowd. Each evening we return to Glencairn Abbey, home to a community of Cistercian sisters, where simplicity itself becomes part of the journey.

round tower in Ireland being visited by celtic ways ireland tours

Whats Included:

  • 5 nights bed and breakfast in an Irish Monastery

  • Accommodation & Meals Included

  • Gentle Walks/Kayaking (Optional)

  • Iconic 5th-century pilgrim path

  • Traditional Irish Music and Stories

  • Pilgrim Certificate

  • Local guides and coach transfers daily

Stepping stones to the real Ireland

walkers in the woods on a Celtic Ways tour

SPECIAL OFFER! August Tour - 23rd -28th 2026.

€1,500 per person.

A small number of places have become available on this tour. For these final spots, we’re offering a discount.

Perfect for sharing the experience with friends.

tour group on St Declans Way
St. Declans Way Camino trail way marker

What is St Declan’s Way?

It’s one of Ireland’s oldest known pilgrimage routes, traditionally associated with Saint Declan, who is believed to have brought Christianity to the area before Saint Patrick arrived.

Why people walk St Declan’s Way?

  • Pilgrimage: spiritual journey linked to early Irish Christianity
  • Scenery: scenic trail with varied landscapes
  • History: dotted with ancient churches, holy wells, and monastic sites
  • Peaceful alternative to busier routes like the Camino

Tailored to your fitness levels

The team of guides at Celtic Ways Ireland tailor the distance to suit the fitness levels of everyone in the group, averaging around 12 km per day.

You simply show up ready for the journey ahead and leave the rest to us!

 

Mount Mellery along St Declans Way Camino Ireland
walkers along saint Declans Way Ireland

Ireland’s Ancient Camino

The ancient Camino path of Saint Declan is a journey back in time of over 1,500 years and pre-dates the Camino de Santiago by 400 years. A unique aspect of your Celtic experience is the reflective ‘compass points’ led by Phil, as you walk in the steps of those who passed this same way before.

From the moment you step out on this age-old pilgrim path, you are invited to leave your footprints in the land, to enjoy the fun of the adventure and to go deeper into the beauty of the places you pass along the way and the stories they hold. 

Expert Tour Guides

Phil and Elaine put all the pieces in place well in advance of your arrival; sorting your accommodation and dietary needs for the week, arranging a traditional Irish music evening and a Vigil for Peace, inviting guest guides to join us each day and planning bespoke tours of iconic cultural attractions we pass along the way.

Phil and Elaine’s expertise lies in crafting that perfect ‘time-out’ off the beaten path in Ireland tailored to suit everyone in the group.

With Celtic Ways Ireland, every person matters! 

5 Star Rated Irish Camino Tour

One of the best rated guided tours of Ireland. 5 Stars out of over 100 Google Reviews.

This trip with Celtic Ways Ireland St Declan’s Way was far more than a tour—it was a soulful experience. Phil, Elaine, and their incredible team created something truly special: a journey rooted in simplicity, connection, and care. Every step invited us to slow down, to listen, and to feel.

It was a trip about the simple life—walking ancient paths, sharing stories, and embracing the quiet beauty of the Irish landscape.

Now Taking Bookings for 2026

For group bookings of 8 or more, please contact us for availability. 

April 2026 Tour

Dates: April 19th to 24th 2026

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Fully Booked

July 2026 Tour

Dates: July 5th to 10th 2026

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Fully Booked

August 2026 Tour

Dates: August 23rd to 28th 2026

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

4 Places Available

Dates for 2027

Limited availability as places are filling fast. For group bookings of 8 or more, please contact us for availability. 

April 2027 Tour

Dates: April 25th to 30th 2027

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Spaces Available

June 2027 Tour

Dates: June 20th to 25th 2027

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Spaces Available

July 2027 Tour

Dates: July 25th to 30th 2027

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Spaces Available

August 2027 Tour

Dates: August 22nd to 27th 2027

Stay at Glencairn Abbey

Spaces Available

 

Check Availability for Groups or Individuals

Celtic Ways Ireland have built up a great friendship with the sisters at Glencairn Abbey. They can only host 7 people at any given time, 5 single rooms and 1 twin room.

Availability in the Abbey is limited to 7 persons five times a year.

For larger groups wanting a more premium experience, we can host 8 to 16 persons in the Clonmel Park Hotel, Co. Tipperary.

We can check availability on request. (Price starts from €1,850 per person sharing)

Groups of 8 or more please contact us for availability:

The Clonmel Park Hotel is the venue for groups of 8 or more subject to availability.

 

Email us on:

info@celticwaysireland.com

Glencarrin Abbey Co. Waterford

Stay at beautiful Glencairn Abbey Co. Waterford

Image from outside the Clonmel Park Hotel in Co. Tipperary Ireland

Groups of 8 or more, stay at the Clonmel Park Hotel, Co. Tipperary

Booking Form
Enquiry Form

Adult

Maximum number of guests:

Adult

Maximum number of guests:
Total:

The Route, Day by Day

01

GLENCAIRN ABBEY · CO. WATERFORD

Céad Míle Fáilte ( A hundred thousand welcomes )

Arrive at Glencairn Abbey Guesthouse between 3 and 4pm to homemade refreshments and a warm welcome — rail transfers from Waterford Station can be arranged.

At 6:30pm we sit down together for our welcome dinner, meet our fellow pilgrims, and hear the story of the path we’ll walk tomorrow.

Glencarrin Abbey Co. Waterford

02

ROCK OF CASHEL · THE GOLDEN VALE

In the city of kings

We begin where Declan began: the Rock of Cashel, seat of the High Kings of Munster, rising from the plains of Tipperary. After a guided tour we take our first steps south — the very route Declan walked home to Ardmore — with lunch in an old churchyard and a tour of mighty Cahir Castle.

This evening, something unforgettable: a Vigil for Peace at the Abbey, with the voices of the Island of Ireland Peace Choir filling the ancient stones.

Rock of Cashel aerial view. Ireland, Co. Tipperary, April , 2019

03

CAHIR TO ARDFINNAN

Castle to castle

walkers on a river tour in Ireland

A riverside morning along the Suir on the Coronation Walk, then a visit to the Swiss Cottage, the Butler family’s exquisitely restored country retreat. In Ardfinnan, local guide Conor joins us with refreshments made to order and stories that only a local can tell, before an afternoon walk to the ruins of Lady’s Abbey.

Tonight, the finest of Irish traditions: fish and chips in a proper Irish bar.

swiss cottage cahir co tipperary ireland

04

THE KNOCKMEALDOWN MOUNTAINS

Over the mountains

The pilgrim’s test — and the pilgrim’s reward. From the Liam Lynch Memorial we climb into the Knockmealdowns, six hours of undulating, beautifully picturesque terrain with panoramas that are simply stunning, guest guide Mark opening our eyes to the natural world around us.

We descend at last into the wooded surrounds of Mount Melleray Abbey, with dinner together at 6:30pm and the deep sleep only a mountain day can give.

walkers crossing the mountain on Saint Declan's Way Camino trail Ireland

05

LISMORE & THE BLACKWATER

The river road

A gentler day, and a joyful one. We take to the water, kayaking the River Blackwater from Lismore down to Cappoquin — or walking the 5km riverbank if you’d rather keep your feet dry. Alice from the Lismore Heritage Centre shares the town’s stories, Barron’s Bakery supplies the coffee and homemade treats, and a woodland trail carries us back to Lismore for a bespoke tour of the castle gardens and St Carthage’s Cathedral.

This evening: our gala dinner at The Moorings in Dungarvan.

Lismore Castle Co. Waterford Ireland

06

ARDMORE · CO. WATERFORD

The sea at last

Ardmore Round tower at the end of St. Declan's Way

Our final day rolls over beautiful vales and hills until, gradually, the sea opens up before us — the moment every pilgrim on this path has walked toward for fifteen hundred years. Lunch by the water, then the cliff path to St. Declan’s Holy Well and Hermitage, and a tour of the monastic ruins and Round Tower with historian James.

Your pilgrim certificate in hand, there’s time for farewells before the journey home — a little lighter, a little steadier, than when you arrived.

group of walkers at Ardmore on the beach at the end of Saint Delcans Way Ireland

What makes St Declan’s Way special?

Unlike more commercial pilgrim routes, St Declan’s Way is quiet, lightly waymarked, and deeply atmospheric, allowing you an authentic Irish camino experience.

Every day along St Declan’s Way, you can expect something totally different to what has gone before; a country trail along the Golden Vale as we start out, a riverside walk by the Suir the next, a mountain trail over the Knockmealdowns, leaving the dimmed enchantment of Lismore behind as we stroll out alongside the Blackwater the next, a cliff path on our arrival into Ardmore… with the unique peaceful ambience of Glencairn Abbey or the Clonmel Park Hotel to return to each evening. 

We can also roll out a Gentle Celtic Experience of St Declan’s Way for those who would prefer to walk shorter distances and give more time to exploring the culture and the story of the places along this pilgrim path. It’s the unscripted moments along the way that stay with you long after the walking is over.

 

a group of walker on St Declan's Way in Ireland

Testimonials

Mary - Galway

A big thank you to Phil and Elaine for a really memorable week walking St Declan’s Way. Phil and Elaine are the perfect guides and their enthusiasm and knowledge of the route shone through, as well as their organisational flair and their attention to all our needs. We enjoyed exploring the beautiful countryside as well as the added dimension of inspirational music and reflections. Local guides provided further knowledge of historical and cultural interest. Accommodation at the beautiful and peaceful Glencairn Abbey was perfect, and the singsong and camaraderie with fellow pilgrims made walking the ancient paths a truly memorable experience. 

Marie Queen

I just returned from a pilgrimage along St. Declan’s Way organized by Celtic Ways Ireland. I highly recommend joining Celtic Ways Ireland owners, Phil and Elaine, for this incredible journey. The scenery was gorgeous, the history was rich, and the opportunity to stay in a monastery was truly unique. What really made the experience memorable was Phil and Elaine’s leadership and special touches. It’s difficult to capture in words the level of care they provided for us and the magic they worked during the 7 days we were with them. They are such talented, generous, extraordinary people who care about engaging each pilgrim in the group.

Teresa Mitchell

Walking Saint Declan’s Way with Dr Phil Brennan and his lovely wife Elaine was a magical and amazing spiritual journey!!! We had 5 days of hiking in beautiful and sunny Irish Spring weather. Saint Declan was smiling on us! When you walk the land, you meet the people. Phil and Elaine and all of their wonderful guides, Connor, Mark and Declan, personify the kindness and greatness of the Irish people. I agree!! Run , don’t walk to Celtic Ways Ireland.

Fran McCreary

I have travelled two sections of the Camino de Santiago very much expecting to experience spirituality. I didn’t expect it on St. Declan’s Way and found it in abundance. All the music, prayers and reflections were overwhelming and soul-satisfying. The care and attention to detail of the Brennans allowed me the opportunity to totally concentrate on the pilgrimage and experience it worry-free. They both went above and beyond and it is obvious that they care deeply about their mission. I will not soon forget this experience. Thank you Phil and Elaine.

Jean Greenstadt

At the start of our St. Declan’s way pilgrimage, our local guides, Phil and Elaine, challenged us to be open to surprises along the way — they didn’t disappoint! A few surprises included inspirational stories that touched my heart, additional guest local guides who were informative and often shared personal experiences, companion-led yoga sips and intriguing music interspersed throughout the walk. I’ll never forget being in a small candlelit chapel at the abbey, and hearing a well-known Irish tenor, as well as a Ukrainian refugee accompanied by piano, flute, and guitar. Glorious! And did I mention that Phil is very funny? We all loved his sense of humor.

Catherine - USA

 YOU WILL NEVER EXPERIENCE IRELAND LIKE THIS. Walk extraordinary landscapes both on and off the beaten path. Hear tales from your guides of history and myth, revealing Ireland’s powerful culture. And discern this magical country’s impact on you today.

Outstanding hospitality with customized itineraries, top-notch accommodations and delicious, local menus. Get ready to be charmed and cared for. And celebrate the beauty and play of this land as uniquely choreographed by the amazing Dr. Phil and Elaine Brennan of Celtic Ways Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Saint Declan’s Way Ireland Walking Tour - A Celtic Pilgrimage Tour in Ireland.

Guided Spiritual Walking Holidays in Ireland’s Ancient East

Saint Declan’s Way is one of Ireland’s most unique spiritual walking routes, combining Irish heritage, peaceful countryside, cultural storytelling, and mindful travel experiences through the beautiful counties of Waterford and Tipperary in Ireland’s Ancient East.

At Celtic Ways Ireland, our guided Saint Declan’s Way walking tour is designed for travellers seeking more than a traditional holiday. This is a slow travel experience focused on connection, reflection, Irish culture, authentic hospitality, and meaningful walking at a comfortable pace. 

Celtic Ways Ireland have crafted a unique Celtic Pilgrim Experience along St Declan’s Way with the modern Guest House in Glencairn Abbey as your base for the duration of your stay. Each day, you’ll be dropped off at your starting point and collected from your finishing point and brought back to your base at the Abbey. You’ll be joined by guest guides each day that open up the story of the land and its people in a way few visitors get to experience. 

With Celtic Ways Ireland, everything is tailored to suit you from your fitness levels, to your dietary requirements. The Celtic Pilgrim Experience along St Declan’s Way takes in the iconic trails along St Declan’s Way not the entirety of the pilgrim path, allowing time to soak in the stories and the beauty of the places you pass along the way. 

Owned and operated by Phil and Elaine Brennan, Celtic Ways Ireland specialises in spiritual journeys in Ireland, guided walking holidays, pilgrimage tours, Irish heritage travel, and authentic cultural experiences throughout Ireland.

Saint Declan’s Way perfectly captures the spirit of #irelandunrushed – an opportunity to slow down, disconnect from busy daily life, and fully immerse yourself in the landscapes, music, stories, spirituality, and hospitality of rural Ireland.

What is Saint Declan’s Way?

Saint Declan’s Way is an ancient Irish pilgrim trail that follows the historic journey of Saint Declan, one of Ireland’s earliest Christian saints, from Cashel in County Tipperary to Ardmore in County Waterford. It pre-dates the renowned Camino de Santiago in Spain by over 400 years. When you walk this age-old pilgrim path, you walk in the steps of St Declan as he returned to Ardmore, the land of the Deise in Waterford, after meeting St Patrick at The Rock of Cashel.

Located within Ireland’s Ancient East, the route is recognised as one of Ireland’s most rewarding walking experiences, offering visitors the opportunity to explore rural Ireland, ancient heritage sites, scenic countryside, quiet villages, and places of spiritual importance. Included in your Celtic Pilgrim Experience is a bespoke tour of The Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle and the grounds of Lismore Castle.

With Celtic Ways Ireland, the journey becomes a carefully guided and immersive experience that combines walking, storytelling, local culture, spirituality, and authentic Irish hospitality in Glencairn Abbey.

What is included in the Saint Declan’s Way walking tour?

The Saint Declan’s Way tour with Celtic Ways Ireland includes:

  • 5 night stay in an Irish Abbey with the sisters of Glencairn
  • Private en suite modern rooms
  • Phil and Elaine from Celtic Ways Ireland as your hosts and guides throughout
  • Reflective ‘compass points’ each day
  • Guest guides each day
  • Transfers to and from the trail each day
  • Continental breakfast each morning
  • Packed lunches during walking days
  • Evening dinner including a Gala Dinner on your final night
  • Daily logistical support
  • Organised transfers during the walk where required

Are airport transfers included?

Airport transfers are not included within the tour fee. However, Celtic Ways Ireland can arrange airport pick-ups and private transfers before and after your Saint Declan’s Way tour.

Transfers can be organised from Dublin Airport, Cork Airport, Shannon Airport, Belfast Airport, and other Irish arrival points depending on your travel plans.

The goal is to provide a stress-free and seamless travel experience from arrival to departure.

What level of fitness is required for Saint Declan’s Way?

Saint Declan’s Way is designed as an enjoyable and manageable guided walking holiday in Ireland rather than an extreme hiking challenge.

The walk is tailored to approximately 12 kilometres per day and is suitable for guests with a moderate level of fitness.

Celtic Ways Ireland carefully paces the journey to ensure guests can comfortably enjoy:

  • The scenery
  • The spiritual atmosphere
  • Irish heritage sites
  • Group conversation and connection
  • Rest breaks and local experiences

The focus is always on enjoyment, comfort, and immersion rather than speed or physical difficulty. For the team at Celtic Ways Ireland, it’s not the destination that matters, it’s the steps in between and soaking in the stories and the beauty of the places that await around each bend.

What should I bring for the walk?

For your Saint Declan’s Way walking holiday, Celtic Ways Ireland recommends bringing:

  • Comfortable casual leisurewear
  • Good walking shoes, runners, or hiking boots
  • Layered clothing suitable for Irish weather
  • A lightweight waterproof jacket
  • A reusable water bottle or thermos
  • A comfortable day bag
  • Warm layers for evenings

Ireland’s weather can change quickly throughout the day, so layered clothing is strongly recommended. Walking in Ireland is only challenging if you don’t have the right gear. Please feel free to reach out to us, and we can advise you on what clothes to bring.

Do I need rainwear for walking in Ireland?

Yes. Irish weather can be unpredictable, even during summer months.

Lightweight rainwear or a waterproof jacket is highly recommended for all Saint Declan’s Way walking tours to ensure guests remain comfortable throughout the journey.

As we often say in Ireland, it is always best to be prepared for a little rain.

Why should I bring a thermos or flask?

Part of the Saint Declan’s Way experience is slowing down and enjoying peaceful moments throughout the day.

Celtic Ways Ireland recommends bringing a thermos or reusable flask so guests can enjoy tea or coffee during scenic rest breaks along the walking route.

These moments often become some of the most memorable parts of the experience. You can top up each morning with tea or coffee in your thermos to enjoy over your packed lunch later in the day. 

I am not religious - will I still enjoy Saint Declan’s Way?

Absolutely. and staying in an Irish Abbey is such a unique experience. Celtic Ways Ireland are the only tour operator with access to Glencairn Abbey. 

The Celtic Pilgrim Experience along St Declan’s Way is all about connecting to something deeper in yourself and in the world of nature. Over the 6 days, you get to meet new people, see parts of Ireland few tourists get to see, and make time for yourself. People are welcomed wherever they are on their own spiritual journey. 

While Saint Declan’s Way has spiritual and historical roots, the experience offered by Celtic Ways Ireland is inclusive, welcoming, and focused on reflection, connection, Irish culture, mindfulness, nature, and personal wellbeing rather than any one religious faith. This 6 day experience gives you time to breathe, to detox a little from the world you have left behind and to give yourself the space to find perspective in a world that moves at pace. 

Many guests join the tour for:

  • Spiritual reflection
  • Walking and wellness
  • Irish heritage and culture
  • A connection with the real Ireland its people and its landscapes
  • Mindful travel experiences
  • Time away from busy daily life

Guests are welcome to join the sisters at Glencairn Abbey for evening prayer if they wish, but participation is entirely optional.

Can I book Saint Declan’s Way as an individual traveller or do I need to be part of a group?

Yes, individual travellers are very welcome on Saint Declan’s Way with Celtic Ways Ireland.

Many guests join the experience as solo travellers looking for connection, reflection, and meaningful travel in Ireland. Others travel as couples, friends, or small private groups.

Celtic Ways Ireland creates a warm, welcoming, and supportive atmosphere where guests quickly feel comfortable walking and sharing the journey together. The experience is carefully paced and designed to encourage conversation, relaxation, and genuine connection without ever feeling overwhelming.

For those travelling alone, Saint Declan’s Way often becomes a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded people while still enjoying personal space and quiet reflection throughout the journey.

I need a reset from busy life - is this tour for me?

Absolutely.

Many guests choose Saint Declan’s Way because they are looking to step away from busy schedules, constant noise, stress, and the fast pace of modern life.

This experience perfectly reflects the spirit of #irelandunrushed. 

Walking through the peaceful landscapes of Ireland’s Ancient East allows guests to slow down, breathe deeply, reconnect with nature, and experience Ireland at a gentler pace.

The combination of walking, conversation, quiet moments, spiritual reflection, local hospitality, and beautiful countryside creates an environment where many guests feel rested, grounded, and reconnected by the end of the journey.

You do not need to be religious or experienced in pilgrimage walking to enjoy the benefits of the tour. Many guests simply come seeking space to think, time to recharge, and an opportunity to reconnect with themselves in a meaningful and supportive environment.

Saint Declan’s Way with Celtic Ways Ireland is not about rushing from place to place, it is about giving yourself permission to pause, reflect, and experience the real Ireland slowly and authentically.

How do transfers and logistics work during the tour?

Celtic Ways Ireland has extensive experience operating Saint Declan’s Way walking tours and carefully manages all daily logistics and transport arrangements.

This may include:

  • Transfers to and from walking stages
  • Accommodation transfers
  • Group transport arrangements
  • Arrival and departure assistance

The aim is to remove stress and organisation from the experience so guests can fully immerse themselves in the journey itself. You simply show up, the rest is done for you. 

Is Saint Declan’s Way a guided walking tour?

Yes. Saint Declan’s Way with Celtic Ways Ireland is offered as a guided walking experience in Ireland.

Guests benefit from:

  • Experienced local guides
  • Irish storytelling and history
  • Spiritual and cultural insight
  • Support throughout the journey
  • Local knowledge and connections

The guided format allows visitors to experience Ireland more deeply and authentically than a standard self-guided walking holiday.

What makes Saint Declan’s Way with Celtic Ways Ireland unique?

Saint Declan’s Way is already one of Ireland’s most special spiritual walking routes, but Celtic Ways Ireland adds a deeply personal and authentic dimension to the experience.

Located within Ireland’s Ancient East, this region offers ancient stories, sacred landscapes, and a slower pace of travel that reflects the spirit of #irelandunrushed.

County Tipperary recently received international recognition from Lonely Planet, which named Tipperary among the world’s top destinations for 2026. However, Celtic Ways Ireland has been experiencing and sharing the beauty of this region for many years.

What truly makes this experience different is the local connection.

Phil and Elaine Brennan have built trusted relationships throughout the region, allowing guests to experience genuine Irish hospitality and community connection during the walk.

Highlights include:

  • Peaceful accommodation in an Irish Abbey at Glencairn in Lismore Co Waterford
  • Welcoming group stays through Glencomeragh House
  • Carefully paced walking experiences
  • Personal support throughout the journey
  • Authentic local encounters with music and storytelling
  • Spiritual and reflective moments in nature

Rather than simply completing a walking route, guests experience the real Ireland through local people, meaningful places, and a supportive group atmosphere. 

Who is Saint Declan’s Way suitable for?

Saint Declan’s Way attracts visitors from around the world seeking meaningful and authentic travel experiences in Ireland. It is one of the most highly rated walking tours in Ireland. 

The tour is ideal for:

  • Solo travellers
  • Couples
  • Friends travelling together
  • Spiritual travellers
  • Walking holiday enthusiasts
  • Cultural travellers
  • Wellness and mindfulness travellers
  • Heritage and history enthusiasts
  • Guests seeking slow travel experiences in Ireland

The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, relaxed, and inclusive.

Why choose Celtic Ways Ireland?

Celtic Ways Ireland is a trusted family-run Irish tour company owned and operated by Phil and Elaine Brennan. If you want a walking holiday in Ireland or a Camino experience, then Celtic Ways Ireland is your best choice. 

The company specialises in:

  • Guided walking holidays in Ireland
  • Spiritual and pilgrimage tours
  • Tailor-made Ireland travel experiences
  • Irish heritage and ancestry journeys
  • Cultural and slow travel experiences

Guests consistently value:

  • Personal communication and care
  • Local expertise and trusted relationships
  • Stress-free organisation
  • Authentic Irish hospitality
  • Carefully selected accommodation
  • Meaningful and immersive experiences

Every Saint Declan’s Way journey is designed to feel personal, welcoming, and deeply connected to Ireland’s culture, spirituality, and landscape.

Where we stay?

Glencairn Abbey Guesthouse

Glencairn Abbey is a community of Cistercian (Trappist) sisters near Lismore in County Waterford. Your rooms in Glencairn Abbey are en-suite, simple and unadorned. All our guests prefer it to hotel accommodation.

Here, in the Irish countryside, everyone works to their own spiritual rhythm. Whilst we encourage our pilgrims to join the sisters in prayer before we leave in the morning and on our return in the evening, we simply ask that everyone respects this monastic space and appreciates the privilege of being able to stay here.

We dine in the Abbey on 3 of the evenings and we go out the other 2 nights with  a special Gala Dinner in ‘The Moorings Irish Bar and Restaurant’ on our final evening.

It’s all about balance – fun, reflection, prayer, lovely meals and rest all rolled into one. Glencairn Abbey is a special place. Our visitors have singled it out as a particular highlight of their time in Ireland with us. It is the perfect base for our St Declan’s Way Experience.

 

Glencarrin Abbey Co. Waterford

Celtic Pilgrim Experience along St. Declan’s Way: €1,850 includes:

  • 5 nights bed and breakfast in Glencairn Abbey Guest House. All rooms en-suite.
  • Dinner each evening with Gala Dinner on the final evening.
  • Packed lunches sourced locally from cafes/shops in the villages and towns we pass through over the 5 days.
  • Reflective ‘compass points’ each day led by Dr. Phil and Elaine Brennan.
  • Guest local guides seeped in the stories of the places we pass each day over the 5 days with input from our mountain specialists Conor and Mark from Knockmealdown Active and our storyteller Alice from Lismore Heritage Centre.
  • Guided tour of The Rock of Cashel and The Monastic Ruins at Ardmore.
  • Bespoke tour of Lismore Castle Gardens led by the Butler Denis.
  • Kayaking experience from Lismore to Cappoquin.
  • Luxury transfers each day.
  • St Declan’s Way Certificate.

Group size 7 persons max.
5 Single Rooms and 1 Twin Room all en-suite. Twin Room €1,650 each.

We also offer our Premium Celtic Experience along St Declan’s Way for larger groups, more than 7 persons, with the Clonmel Park Hotel as our base.

Additional supplements:

  • Transfers can be arranged for an additional supplement to Glencairn Abbey on your day of arrival and from Ardmore when you connect up with the rest of your Irish tour.
  • Optional extras from fishing to boat trips can be arranged.
  • Celtic Ways Ireland can put the pieces in place for the rest of your vacation in Ireland including organising transfers, accommodation or 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 Celtic Pilgrim Experience along St Declan’s Way are not included in the price. We can arrange connections to Glencairn Abbey on the day of arrival and from Ardmore on the final day for an additional supplement.  
  • 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 and 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.

Now taking bookings for 2026/27

Ireland is calling you back

Celtic echoes linger long after you’ve made your way home.

Other Add on Tours

st davids way tour

St David’s Way Tour

Guided Celtic Journey along St David’s Way in Wales

  • Iconic pilgrims trail in Pembrokeshire over 5 days
  • Stay in St David’s Cross Hotel
  • Celtic story and song
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day
  • Pilgrim Certificate
  • Bespoke tour of St David’s Cathedral followed by Evensong
  • Cultural experiences
  • Local guides and coach transfers daily
  • Gala Dinner and so much more…