Name: Joanie Madden - Southern bound - SOLD OUT
Start: 2026-09-21
End: 2026-09-28
Location: Ireland

Caddie Tours

89 reviews

Sep 21 - 28, 2026

Group size: 12 - 59

Joanie Madden - Southern bound - SOLD OUT

Ireland

$NaN

Sep 21 - 28, 2026

Group size: 12 - 59

Transportation
Deluxe Motor Coach with professional driver/guide. Complimentary Wifi provided onboard the coach.
2 Nights Hotel
Accommodation at the 4 Star Hotel Kilkenny
2 Nights Hotel
Accommodation at the 4 Star Actons Hotel Kinsale Co. Cork
2 Nights Hotel
Accommodation at the 4 Star Maritime Hotel Bantry Cork
1 Night Hotel
Accommodation at the 4 Star Ballykisteen Hotel Limerick Junction Tipperary
Shannon Airport Pickup
Upon your arrival at Shannon Airport, you'll be greeted by Joanie Madden, Mary Coogan, and your coach driver/guide. They will escort you to our deluxe motor coach. Specific time to be announced soon.
Breakfast Everyday
8 Breakfasts
Dinner Every Night
6 Gourmet Dinners Included
Lunch
2 Lunches Provided
Porterage
Porterage of 1 Suitcase per person.
Entertainment
Nightly entertainment hosted by Joanie Madden with special musical guests!
Program of activities
Roscrea Castle & Gardens Kilkenny Walking Tour Glendalough National Park Avoca Hand Weavers Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance Charles Fort Michael Collins CenterGarnish Island Healy Pass Bantry House
Entrance Fees
Your price covers all entrance fees for the activities outlined in the brochure. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change.
Group Departure Transfer
Coach will be provided from The Old Ground Hotel Ennis to Shannon Airport

Flight Option

Group protection plan - double or twin

$303

Available until June 5, 2026

Group protection plan - single

$382

Only 3 left

Group protection plan - triple room

$303

Only 3 left

Park Inn Shannon Airport

$150

Available until July 3, 20264 left

Deposit: $0

Park Inn Shannon Airport - Single

$225

Available until July 3, 2026Sold Out

Deposit: $0

JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
SEPTEMBER 20TH - UNITED STATES TO SHANNON AIRPORT
Enjoy in-flight entertainment and meal service as you start your vacation.
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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST - SHANNON ARRIVAL AND KILKENNY
Day One – Welcome to Ireland
Your Irish adventure begins in County Clare, where Joanie Madden and Mary Coogan, along with your friendly coach driver Eamonn Dempsey, will greet you at Shannon Airport at 10:00 AM. They’ll escort you and your luggage to the waiting coach as we set off on our journey.
Our first drive takes us through Limerick and into the rolling countryside of County Tipperary, arriving in the Heritage Town of Roscrea. Here, we’ll pause for a delightful lunch at the White House Restaurant, nestled in the town square beside the magnificent 13th-century Roscrea Castle and Gardens.
After lunch, we continue on to the medieval jewel of Kilkenny, where we’ll check into the centrally located 4-star Hotel Kilkenny for a two-night stay. Shortly after our arrival, we’ll head out for a very special guided experience—“Shenanigans: The Kilkenny City Walk.” Led by the witty and engaging Nevin Cody, this walking tour blends history, humor, and storytelling in a way that will have you laughing while you learn about this charming city.
Following the tour, return to the hotel with some free time to relax before we gather for our welcome dinner in the grand dining hall. Afterward, settle in for a memorable evening of outstanding entertainment hosted by Joanie and Mary—the perfect start to our week together.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT: THE HOTEL KILKENNY, KILKENNY (L, D)
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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND - WICKLOW MOUNTAINS & KILKENNY
Day Two – The Garden of Ireland
After a hearty breakfast, we set off northwest through the gentle countryside of Carlow and Kildare, bound for the majestic Wicklow Mountains—often called “The Garden of Ireland.” Here lies Glendalough National Park, a place of breathtaking natural beauty and deep spiritual resonance.
Nestled in a glacial valley carved during the Ice Age, Glendalough—meaning “Gleann Dá Loch” or “Valley of the Two Lakes”—is home to two pristine lakes surrounded by dramatic cliffs, forests, and waterfalls. At its heart are the evocative ruins of an early Christian monastic city, founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin. For over 1,500 years, pilgrims and visitors alike have been drawn to this serene landscape, inspired by its history and awe-inspiring scenery.
From there, we travel to the quaint village of Avoca, home of the renowned Avoca Handweavers. Established in 1723 on the banks of the Avoca River, this is the oldest working handweaving mill in Ireland. During our visit, you’ll enjoy lunch, watch skilled artisans at the loom, and perhaps browse the colorful shops for handcrafted treasures to bring home.
We'll return to Kilkenny, for a little rest before meeting up for another memorable night of great food, music and entertainment.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT: THE HOTEL KILKENNY, KILKENNY (B, D)
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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD - ROCK OF CASHEL & KINSALE
Day Three – Kings, Saints & Seaside Charm
After breakfast, we journey to one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, the Rock of Cashel—a place steeped in legend, faith, and royal power. Rising dramatically above the surrounding golden plains, this ancient fortress was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and is forever linked with St. Patrick, who is said to have converted King Aengus here in the 5th century. With over a thousand years of history etched into its walls, the Rock of Cashel stands as a breathtaking symbol of Ireland’s Ancient East.
Our travels then take us south into County Cork, where we stop in the lively market town of Fermoy for lunch on your own.
Following our lunch break, we will start our journey to Kinsale by first honoring the anniversary of 9/11 with a visit to the Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance, a memorial built by Kathleen Murphy, a local nurse from the area who emigrated to America and worked along New Yorks finest at New York‛s Lennox Hill Hospital for over 40 years. Following the tragedy of the 9/11 attacks, she was so moved that she decided to establish the Garden of Remembrance in memory of the 343 firefighters who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001.
It’s just a short drive to Kinsale, one of Ireland’s most picturesque and historic harbor towns, where we’ll be based for the next two nights at the charming 4-star Actons Hotel overlooking the harbor. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a delicious dinner in the hotel restaurant, followed by an evening of lively music and entertainment with Joanie and Mary—the perfect welcome to this colorful seaside town.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT: ACTON’S HOTEL, KINSALE (B, D)

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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH - CHARLES FORT & OLD HEAD
Day Four – History, Clifftops & Kinsale Charm
After breakfast, we set out to explore Charles Fort, one of Ireland’s most important National Monuments. Built in the late 17th century, this massive star-shaped fortress remains one of the largest military installations in the country. Its walls have witnessed centuries of conflict, from the Williamite War (1689–91) to the Irish Civil War (1922–23), making it a place where history truly comes alive.
From there, we travel a short distance to the breathtaking Old Head of Kinsale, one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal headlands. Rising hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean, this vast promontory is crowned by the striking black-and-white striped Old Head Lighthouse. Just offshore lies the tragic resting place of the RMS Lusitania, sunk by a German torpedo in 1915, a reminder of how this peaceful coastline once became the stage of world history.
We then return to the colorful streets of Kinsale, where you’ll have free time to wander, shop, or simply soak in the town’s charm. Known as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland,
Later, we’ll reunite for dinner an an authentic night of live music, laughter, and craic in the heart of town.
OVERNIGHT: ACTON’S HOTEL, KINSALE (B)
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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25TH - CLONAKILTY AND GARNISH ISLAND
Day Five – Patriots, Bays & Island Gardens
After breakfast, we bid farewell to Kinsale and travel west to Clonakilty, where we’ll visit the Michael Collins Centre. Here, you’ll gain insight into the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s greatest patriots—a brilliant strategist and key figure in the nation’s early 20th-century struggle for independence. Through fascinating exhibits and storytelling, the Centre brings to life the extraordinary achievements and tragic fate of “The Big Fellow.”
From there, we journey on to the legendary beauty of Bantry Bay, stopping for lunch along the way before reaching the colorful village of Glengarriff. Here, we’ll board a ferry for a short but unforgettable trip across the sheltered harbor to Garnish Island (Ilnacullin). This 37-acre paradise is world-famous among horticulturists and garden lovers for its lush plant life, elegant Italianate gardens, and unique microclimate that allows rare and exotic species to thrive. As we cruise across the bay, keep an eye out for the local seal colony basking on the rocks, as well as seabirds and, with luck, dolphins or porpoises playing in the water.
After returning from the island, it’s just a short ride to the welcoming town of Bantry, where we’ll settle in for a two-night stay at the stylish 4-star Maritime Hotel, beautifully set on the waterfront. Bantry itself is a town steeped in history and character. Once a thriving market town and fishing port, it became famous in 1796 when a French Armada attempted to land here to aid the Irish rebellion—a dramatic moment that still echoes in its heritage. Today, Bantry is known for its lively square, bustling shops, and warm hospitality, all surrounded by sweeping views of mountains and sea.
This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers in the hotel restaurant, followed by another lively night of entertainment with Joanie and Mary.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT: MARITIME HOTEL, BANTRY (B, D)

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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26TH - Gougane Barra, Kenmare & the Beara Peninsula
Day Six – Gougane Barra, Kenmare & The Caha Mountains
After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to the magical Gougane Barra, a serene valley surrounded by forested hills and rugged mountains. At its heart lies the tiny lakeside oratory of St. Finbarr, a place of pilgrimage and reflection for centuries. With its peaceful waters and breathtaking scenery, Gougane Barra is one of Ireland’s most enchanting hidden gems.
From here, we travel on to the charming town of Kenmare in County Kerry. Known for its colorful streets, artisan shops, and warm welcome, Kenmare offers the perfect spot for lunch and some free time to browse the boutiques, explore the town square, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, we take the dramatic drive through the Caha Mountains, following winding roads and tunnels that cut through the rock itself, offering sweeping views across the valleys and coastline of the Beara Peninsula. Our journey then brings us down into Glengarriff, a picturesque village nestled along Bantry Bay, before returning to our home at the Maritime Hotel.
This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers, followed by another lively night of music and entertainment with Joanie and Mary in the hotel.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT: MARITIME HOTEL, BANTRY (B, D)

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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
SUNDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER - BANTRY HOUSE & BLARNEY CASTLE
Day Seven – Bantry, Blarney & Farewell Celebrations
We couldn’t leave Bantry without visiting the magnificent Bantry House and Gardens, a stately home overlooking the bay with sweeping views of the Caha Mountains. Here, we’ll stroll through the historic gardens, laid out over seven terraces, featuring an elegant fountain, a grand wisteria circle, and the famous 100 stone steps that climb to the woodland above—rewarding those who ascend with a truly spectacular view.
Our journey then takes us east to the world-famous Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills. for lunch and a visit. Step inside the castle’s storied stone walls and wander its enchanting gardens before climbing the winding staircase to the top, where the legendary Blarney Stone awaits. Tradition says that those who dare to kiss the stone are bestowed with the “gift of eloquence”—so pucker up if you’re feeling brave!
After exploring the castle, we’ll visit the nearby Blarney Woollen Mills, the largest emporium of Irish crafts in the country, where you’ll have the chance to browse finely woven woolens, crystal, pottery, and a host of other Irish treasures for last minute memories and gifts to bring hom.
From here it's on to Tipperary and the welcoming 4-star Ballykisteen Golf Hotel, where we’ll enjoy a festive farewell dinner together. The evening will be capped with one last unforgettable night of music and memories with Joanie & Mary, a joyful celebration of the friendships and experiences we’ve shared along the way.
DINNER, MUSIC & OVERNIGHT: BALLYKISTEEN GOLF HOTEL, LIMERICK JUNCTION (B, D)
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JOANIE MADDEN
JOANIE MADDEN
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 28TH - DEPART SHANNON AIRPORT - SAFE HOME
Day Eight – It’s a Long Way to Tipperary…
All too soon, our Irish adventure draws to a close. After breakfast, we will bring you to Shannon Airport in plenty of time to check in, clear customs and emigration, and enjoy a stress-free departure. With duty-free shopping on hand, you’ll have the chance to pick up a few last-minute gifts or mementos before your flight.
As the old song says, “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary”—and an even longer way home—but we hope you leave with hearts full of music, laughter, and cherished memories from your time in Ireland.
From all of us - Joanie, Mary, Bruce, Eamonn and of course Niall, thank you for trusting us with your vacation and we look forward to welcoming you again on another unforgettable adventure.
Until then, we wish you a safe journey home.
Slán Abhaile – Safe Home!
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JOANIE MADDEN

SEPTEMBER 20TH - UNITED STATES TO SHANNON AIRPORT

Caddie Tours

89 reviews

Niall P. Leogue, Dublin-born-and-raised Caddie Tours owner and president, has been actively engaged in the travel industry for more than half his life. Niall started his career in 1990 with Aer Lingus, venturing out on his own with his launch of Caddie Tours in Virginia in 2002. Originally centered on Ireland and golf tours there, Caddie Tours evolved into the Europe specialists we recognize today, with Niall continuing to arrange multiple group tours to Ireland throughout each year.

We all had a great days golf. Transport to the golf course was great and well organised. Golf course was fantastic, company was great too. Lunch and beers included with the golf and delivered on course. Brilliant. Niall was a great leader and everything was efficient.

By Andreas D for Joanie Madden Golf Classic on Feb 07, 2026

I did enjoy the golf outing. My only complaints are they did not suggest we bring golf balls and I had to purchase some from the golf course. And I didn’t get the info when and where to meet on the ship until the night before. They were thorough on what else to bring, hat, glove, sunscreen, and shoes. (optional). The course was challenging on some holes The rules were clear. The weather was good.

By Chris M for Joanie Madden Golf Classic on Feb 06, 2026

Niall Leogue, is one of the best organizer’s i’ve experienced in all my travels be it golf or leisure. Niall is so thorough that he examines the smallest detail, such as dress code for the golf course, tipping, etc etc. I highly recommend Niall for any trip you may be making. Donal Carroll NY. NY.

By Donie C for Joanie Madden Golf Classic on Feb 06, 2026

Well organised by Niall & we all had a great day out. Highly recommended.

By Adrian M for Joanie Madden Golf Classic on Feb 06, 2026

Loved every minute of it. Well, maybe not the cart path only part of it. Very professional from start to finish.

By Gary T for Joanie Madden Golf Classic on Jan 31, 2026

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My wife and I visited Ireland from 10/10/24 through 10/23/24. This was our first time ever visiting Ireland and we split our time between Dublin and Galway. Our time in Galway was spent on tour with Caddie Tours. The specific tour was Sean Fleming – Best of the West (Galway) Tour. My wife and I know Sean from the Auld Shebeen Irish Pub in Old Town Fairfax and make sure we have reservations any time Sean shows up. In a nutshell, Caddie Tours, under Niall Leogue’s watchful eye, was excellent and thoroughly entertaining. Sean alone would have been enough, but Niall was the cherry on top. Engaging, witty, and charismatic, Sean and Niall provided everyone on tour memorable experiences. The tour included visits to “The Quiet Man” village (where I not only walked in John Wayne’s steps, I wore the clothing and acted out a few of the scenes (thanks, Niall)), Aran Islands (wonderful scenery and small village shops), and a Story Telling evening in the back of a pub in Galway called The Office (Brian Nolan, The Story Teller, was incredible!) to name a few. Intertwined with the visits was singing by Sean Fleming who literally had his acoustic guitar with him EVERYWHERE we went. He sang on the bus, in a church, in a few pubs, and the hotel bar! All in all, I highly recommend using Caddie Tours as part of your visit to Ireland. Splitting our time between doing our own thing and using a touring group was excellent as we were able to enjoy having the freedom to do whatever we wanted while also enjoying a planned, guided event. We met some great people on the tour and look forward to seeing them again when we see Sean play at the Auld Shebeen. So, reach out to Niall and let him know John sent you to Caddie Tours!

By John G on 25 Nov, 2024

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Joanie Madden - Southern bound - SOLD OUT

Joanie Madden - Southern bound - SOLD OUT

About this trip

What’s included

What’s not included

Available Packages

Available Add-Ons

Itinerary

Day One – Welcome to Ireland

Day Two – The Garden of Ireland

Day Three – Kings, Saints & Seaside Charm

Day Four – History, Clifftops & Kinsale Charm

Day Five – Patriots, Bays & Island Gardens

Day Six – Gougane Barra, Kenmare & The Caha Mountains

Day Seven – Bantry, Blarney & Farewell Celebrations

Day Eight – It’s a Long Way to Tipperary…

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