Welcome to Joanie Madden’s Hidden Treasures of Ireland

A Musical Journey Through the Heart and Soul of Ireland

For more than 20 years, legendary Irish flute and whistle player, National Heritage Fellow from the National Endowment for the Arts, and founder and leader of Cherish the Ladies, Joanie Madden has led dozens of sold-out musical tours throughout Ireland, opening the doors to the Ireland she treasures most and welcoming guests on unforgettable journeys filled with music, friendship, history, hidden gems, and authentic Irish experiences.

Born in the Woodlawn section of the Bronx, New York, to parents from Counties Clare and Galway and raised in a home where traditional music was woven into everyday life, Joanie has spent a lifetime sharing Irish culture around the world. From concert halls and festivals to performances at the White House and international stages, her music has touched audiences everywhere.

Beloved not only for her extraordinary musicianship, Joanie is also known for her infectious sense of humor, storytelling, quick wit, and larger-than-life personality. Whether on stage or aboard a coach winding through the Irish countryside, she brings the same warmth, laughter, energy, and showmanship that have made her performances unforgettable for audiences around the globe. Some of her favorite moments happen right here in Ireland, introducing guests to the places, people, traditions, and hidden treasures she knows and loves best.

Joanie Madden’s Hidden Treasures of Ireland is not a typical sightseeing tour. This is Ireland experienced from the inside — scenic back roads, hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, music-filled evenings, local characters, and unforgettable places that many visitors never get to see. Traveling the road less traveled, guests will discover an Ireland rich in music, stories, traditions, and authentic experiences rarely found on ordinary tours.

Guests will enjoy luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, warm Irish hospitality, carefully curated experiences, and, of course, plenty of music along the way.

Joining Joanie on this journey are her dear friends and lifelong musical companions, guitarist Mary Coogan of Cherish the Ladies and renowned ballad singer and guitarist Bruce Foley, together with special surprise guests throughout the tour. Their music, stories, humor and friendship help create the warm atmosphere that has become the hallmark of Joanie’s tours — where strangers become friends and every day brings another hidden treasure of Ireland to discover.

Joanie is partnering once again with Niall Leogue of Caddie Tours, who brings a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and passion for showcasing Ireland. Throughout his distinguished career in travel, Niall has earned a reputation as one of the very best in the business. Together, Joanie, Mary, and Niall have created a journey that combines spectacular scenery, rich history, wonderful music, and the true spirit of Ireland.

From hidden villages and spectacular coastlines to castles, gardens, local stories, and spontaneous sessions, this tour offers Ireland through the eyes of people who know it, live it, and love it.

Come experience the magic, music, beauty, and warmth of Ireland while creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Joanie’s tours have become legendary, selling out year after year and earning a loyal following of returning guests — early booking is highly recommended.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE 

$500 non-refundable deposit due at time of booking 

2nd payment -50% due by October 16th, 2026

Final balance due by February 5th, 2027 

Credit cards are subject to 3.5% service fees. Checks or ACH, no fees 

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Coverage can be arranged through Caddie Tours. 

Day One – Welcome to Ireland!

You’ll be warmly greeted at Shannon Airport at 10:00 AM by your hosts, Joanie Madden, Mary Coogan, along with Bruce Foley and your friendly coach driver, Eamonn Dempsey.

Leaving County Clare behind, we travel through the rolling green countryside of Clare and Tipperary, passing stone walls, farmland, and picturesque villages as we make our way to our first stop, Cahir Castle in County Tipperary. Set dramatically on its own rocky island overlooking the River Suir, Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved medieval fortresses. Dating back to the 13th century, this magnificent castle has witnessed centuries of Irish history and still stands proudly with its towers, battlements, and defensive walls remarkably intact. Enjoy time to explore the castle grounds and soak in the atmosphere before we stop for lunch in the charming heritage town of Cahir.

After lunch, we continue south into beautiful County Cork, often called “The Rebel County, “known for its rugged coastline, warm hospitality, and spectacular scenery, arriving at our home for the next two nights, the elegant 4-Star Garryvoe Hotel overlooking beautiful Ballycotton Bay.

With stunning sea views and one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal settings, the Garryvoe offers the perfect place to begin our journey. Take time to settle into your room, enjoy a stroll by the sea, or simply relax and take in the Atlantic views before gathering for our Welcome Dinner, followed by an evening of music with Joanie and Mary, the perfect beginning to our unforgettable week together.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: GARRYVOE HOTEL (L, D)

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Day Two – Mount Congreve, Copper Coast & Dungarvan

After a leisurely breakfast, we depart at 10:00 AM and travel east into County Waterford to visit one of Ireland’s great horticultural treasures, the magnificent Mount Congreve Gardens. Set along the banks of the River Suir, Mount Congreve is internationally renowned and considered one of the finest gardens in the world, featuring beautifully designed woodland walks, ornamental gardens, sweeping lawns, and an extraordinary collection of plants gathered from across the globe. Enjoy time to wander through the peaceful pathways, admire the seasonal blooms, and take in the beauty of this spectacular estate before we stop for lunch overlooking the gardens.

This afternoon, we continue along the breathtaking Copper Coast Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes and a designated UNESCO Global Geopark. Stretching along the rugged shoreline of County Waterford, the Copper Coast is famed for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and spectacular Atlantic views. Named after the old copper mines that once operated here in the 19th century, this lesser-known corner of Ireland offers some of the most unspoiled scenery in the country and is truly one of Ireland’s hidden gems.

Our day concludes in the lively harbor town of Dungarvan, beautifully positioned on the shores of Dungarvan Bay. Here we’ll enjoy free time to stroll through the town and soak up the atmosphere before gathering in one of the local pubs for an afternoon music session. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music, stories, and craic before we return to the 4-Star Garryvoe Hotel for another outstanding dining experience, followed by music and another evening together on Ireland’s beautiful south coast.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: GARRYVOE HOTEL (B, D)

Day Three – Blarney Castle, Kenmare & Parknasilla Resort & Spa

At 10:00 AM, following breakfast, we depart County Cork and make our way to one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, Blarney Castle, home of the legendary Blarney Stone, said to bestow the “gift of eloquence” upon those who kiss it. Guests will have time to explore the castle grounds, wander through the beautiful gardens, and perhaps climb the ancient stone steps to experience this iconic Irish tradition.  We will have lunch here and a chance to do some shopping at the Blarney Woolen Mills.

Leaving Blarney behind, we continue west into the spectacular scenery of County Kerry with our midday stop in the colorful heritage town of Kenmare, often called “The Jewel of the Ring of Kerry.” Nestled between the mountains and sea, Kenmare is known for its brightly painted shopfronts, charming cafés, artisan boutiques, and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy some free time browsing and exploring this picturesque Kerry town before continuing along the shores of Kenmare Bay, where breathtaking scenery unfolds around every corner.

Late this afternoon, we arrive at our magnificent home for the next three nights, the beautiful Parknasilla Resort & Spa, one of Ireland’s most treasured seaside retreats. Surrounded by woodland paths, hidden islands, gardens, and sweeping views across Kenmare Bay, Parknasilla offers a magical setting where guests can relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and take in the natural beauty that makes this corner of Kerry so special.

Tonight, we gather for a fabulous dinner overlooking one of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes as our adventure through the Kingdom of Kerry begins. And of course, what would a Joanie Madden tour be without music! Following dinner, settle in for another wonderful evening filled with music, songs, stories, and laughter with Joanie, Mary, and friends, the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: PARKNASILLA RESORT & SPA (B,D)

Day Four – Parknasilla Resort, Kissane Sheep Farm & Sneem Village

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the magnificent Parknasilla Resort & Spa and take time to experience all that this beautiful property has to offer. Perhaps indulge in a relaxing treatment at the spa, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the woodland paths and coastal walking trails, explore the gardens and hidden coves, or simply sit back and admire the spectacular views across Kenmare Bay. This morning is yours to relax and enjoy one of Ireland’s most breathtaking settings at your own pace.

At 2:00 PM, we depart for the wonderful Kissane Sheep Farm Experience, where we’ll enjoy a traditional sheepdog demonstration and gain an insight into everyday farming life in Kerry. Watch the remarkable skill of the sheepdogs as they respond to whistles and commands, while learning about the history and traditions of sheep farming in this rugged, beautiful landscape.

On our return journey, we stop in the colorful village of Sneem, one of the prettiest villages along the Ring of Kerry. Known for its brightly painted buildings, charming shops, and welcoming atmosphere, Sneem offers the perfect opportunity for a stroll, photographs, and a taste of authentic village life in the southwest of Ireland.

Returning to Parknasilla, we gather once again for another wonderful evening together with a fabulous dinner overlooking the bay, followed of course by more music, songs, stories, and plenty of laughter as another memorable day in the Kingdom of Kerry comes to a close.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: PARKNASILLA RESORT & SPA

Day Five – Derrynane House, The Moorings & Transatlantic Cable Station

After another scrumptious breakfast, today we explore one of the most scenic and historic corners of the Ring of Kerry as we travel along spectacular coastal roads with breathtaking views of mountains, beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Our morning begins with a visit to Derrynane House, the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, known throughout Ireland as “The Liberator.” Beautifully situated among gardens and woodlands, overlooking some of the most stunning coastline in the country, Derrynane offers a fascinating glimpse into Irish history while surrounded by the unforgettable scenery of Derrynane Bay.

Continuing along the famous Ring of Kerry, we head toward the colorful fishing village of Portmagee, gateway to the world-famous Skellig Islands. Here we stop for lunch at The Moorings, a favorite local gathering place overlooking the harbor, where fishing boats gently bob and life moves at a relaxed pace.

Following lunch, we continue across the bridge to beautiful Valentia Island, one of Ireland’s true hidden treasures. Rich in history, dramatic landscapes, and Atlantic beauty, Valentia offers spectacular views across the sea and surrounding mountains. Our visit includes the fascinating Transatlantic Cable Station, where guests will discover the remarkable story of the first successful permanent telegraph cable linking Europe and North America, forever changing global communications and bringing the world closer together.

Later this afternoon, we return through the spectacular scenery of Kerry to our beautiful seaside retreat at Parknasilla. This evening we gather once again for another wonderful dinner overlooking Kenmare Bay, followed of course by more outstanding music, songs, stories, and laughter with Joanie, Mary, Bruce, and friends, another magical evening in the heart of the Kingdom of Kerry.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: PATKNASILLA RESORT & SPA

Day Six – Gap of Dunloe, Killarney & Bunratty Castle Hotel

Today, we bid farewell to the beautiful Kingdom of Kerry as we begin our journey north toward County Clare, but not before experiencing one of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes.

After our breakfast, our morning begins with a visit to the spectacular Gap of Dunloe, a dramatic glacial valley nestled between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain ranges. Here we step back in time and enjoy a traditional journey by horse and jaunting car, traveling through rugged mountain scenery, winding roads, stone bridges, and peaceful lakes while taking in one of the most iconic views in all of Ireland. It is a magical experience and a wonderful glimpse into Ireland’s past.

We then continue into the lively town of Killarney, one of Ireland’s most beloved destinations. Guests will enjoy free time for lunch, shopping, and exploring the colorful streets filled with traditional pubs, craft shops, cafés, and local boutiques. Whether you are looking for the perfect Irish gift, a cozy lunch spot, or simply wish to soak up the atmosphere, Killarney offers something for everyone.

This afternoon, we continue north through the rolling countryside of Kerry and Limerick before arriving back in County Clare and checking into our home for the final two nights, the welcoming 4-Star Bunratty Castle Hotel.  Perfectly located in the heart of historic Bunratty Village, the hotel places us just moments from the famous Bunratty Castle and folk park, while offering the perfect setting for our farewell days together. Take time to settle in, relax before we enjoy another wonderful evening meal together, followed by another night of incredible music with Joanie, Mary, and friends!

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: BUNRATTY CASTLE HOTEL (B, D)

Day Seven – Craggaunowen, Ennis, Bunratty Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle: Our Final Chapter

Our morning begins with a wonderful breakfast and a visit to Craggaunowen, one of Ireland’s most fascinating heritage attractions, where Ireland’s ancient past comes vividly to life. Step back thousands of years as we explore reconstructed ringforts, crannógs, and early Irish dwellings, offering a glimpse into everyday life in ancient Ireland.  Craggaunowen is also home to the remarkable St. Brendan Boat Project, inspired by St. Brendan the Navigator, the legendary 6th-century Irish monk and explorer from County Kerry. According to tradition, St. Brendan set sail across the Atlantic in a leather boat known as a currach, leading many to believe he may have reached North America centuries before Columbus. The replica vessel displayed at Craggaunowen successfully recreated this incredible voyage, sailing from Ireland to Newfoundland in modern times and capturing worldwide attention. Craggaunowen offers a fascinating blend of archaeology, history, legend, and adventure, making it one of Ireland’s most unique heritage experiences.

Following our visit, we continue to the colorful market town of Ennis for lunch, shopping, and time to explore before returning to prepare for our grand finale at the Bunratty Medieval Banquet. This evening, we step back in time once again inside historic Bunratty Castle for an unforgettable night of music, entertainment, storytelling, and celebration as we raise a glass to a wonderful week together.

OVERNIGHT: BUNRATTY CASTLE HOTEL (B, D)

Day Eight – Slán go fóill and Safe Home!

This morning, we depart for Shannon Airport in County Clare, ensuring everyone arrives with ample time to check in, clear U.S. immigration and customs, and prepare for the journey home. There will also be time to browse duty-free and pick up a few last-minute treasures to carry with you.

As we part ways, we do so with hearts full of music, laughter, and cherished memories from our unforgettable time together. We hope you leave with new friendships, stories to share, and the spirit of Ireland lingering long after your return home.

Until we meet again on another of our musical adventures, Joanie, Mary, Bruce, Eamonn, and of course Niall wish to thank you for trusting us with your vacation. We send you off with safe travels and warm thoughts from the Emerald Isle.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.