Rock of Cashel:
Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, The Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
Originally the seat of the kings of Munster, according to legend St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital.
In 1101 the site was granted to the church and Cashel swiftly rose to prominence as one of the most significant centres of ecclesiastical power in the country.
The surviving buildings are remarkable. Cormac’s Chapel, for example, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.
The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions.
Duckett's Grove:
Kilkenny Town:
Kilkenny, often called Ireland’s “Medieval Mile,” is a vibrant town that perfectly blends history, charm, and lively culture. Wander its narrow cobbled streets where ancient stone buildings now host boutique shops, cozy pubs, and artisan cafes. At its heart stands the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, surrounded by beautiful parklands, while nearby the majestic St. Canice’s Cathedral and its round tower offer breathtaking views of the town. Known for its thriving arts scene, bustling festivals, and traditional Irish music echoing from every corner, Kilkenny is a must-visit destination that captures both the spirit of old Ireland and the energy of modern life.
Fitzpatrick's Castle:
The original house, Mount Mapas was built in 1740 by Col. John Mapas, although records show that a building or buildings stood here at a much earlier date. By 1755 it was acquired by Captain Maunsell who was succeeded by Colonel Loftus in 1770.
The Colonel's stay was a short one; in 1772, he advertised the castle and its 150 acres for sale despite his short tenure. During his time in residence, however, Colonel Loftus and his nephew converted the barren stony soil to meadow and pasture and cut a road around the hill, his successor was Lord Clonmel who in 1790 improved the estate further spending £3,000 in the process, a handsome sum of money in the early 19th century.
The name Robert Warren is very much associated with the Castle and it was he who in 1840 enlarged the house and called it Killiney Castle. He also restored and added to the monuments on the hill, repairing the obelisk originally erected by Col. Mapas and donated land and most of the money for the building of Killiney parish church.
In the 20th Century, Killiney Castle was used by the Black & Tans, the IRA and the Republicans in the civil war before being burnt by Free State Troops. It was requisitioned by the Government during the 1939-45 period and used as billets for the army
Killiney Castle exchanged hands again, with the late Paddy and Eithne Fitzpatrick taking over the helm in the 1970s, transforming it into a first-class hotel and renaming it Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Today their daughter Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon owns the hotel and, together with her family, continues to guide the way to its continued success, whilst maintaining the original Castle charm and Irish welcome long associated with the Castle.
Activity Level: Low/Moderate
Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond out control.