Discover the untamed beauty of Ireland’s South East Coast from Waterford to the Medieval City of Kilkenny, then end the tour with two nights at Kinnitty Castle, where stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage await. Walk around the Viking City of Waterford & Kilkenny, learn about the game of Hurling, and discover where St. Kieran founded his Monastery in Clonmacnoise along the banks of the River Shannon.  Our expertly guided journey ensures you experience the heart of Irish tradition and the warmth of its people. With seamless travel and insider access to hidden gems, this tour offers a truly immersive adventure. Join us and let the magic of Ireland’s west captivate your spirit. 

We are offering group airfare to Shannon from Newark on United Airlines. Caddie Tours will be happy to organize flights from any US City to Shannon.

 Once again, I'm delighted to be teaming up with my tour director, detail-oriented Niall Leogue from Caddie Tours.  Niall is a pro and has dedicated his life to tourism.  He is exceptional and detail-oriented, and I can't recommend him more for assisting you in planning your trip, from flights to hotels and even travel insurance, so don't hesitate to get in touch!

Thank you for your interest—I look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable musical adventure through Ireland!

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Sean Fleming

Welcome to Ireland! Arrive at Dublin Airport, where you will be greeted by your

friendly and knowledgeable tour driver/guide. After clearing customs, we’ll head south to Wicklow, known as the Garden of Ireland, where we will have breakfast and tour Powerscourt Estate & Gardens, named the 3rd Best Garden in the world by National Geographic; lose yourself in 47 acres of carefully curated, well-maintained gardens. With so many wondrous features to explore and the stunning Powerscourt House listed among the top 10 globally (Lonely Planet), there is something to take everyone’s breath away.

We will continue south and check into Faithlegg House Hotel for our three-night stay, A grand 18th-century country house set in expansive grounds complete with a golf course. The interiors are decadent and spacious, filled with a carefully selected collection of antiques, rich fabrics, and roaring fires. Dining is a formal affair, and there's a spa to spoil you, too. An indulgent rural escape. Spend the afternoon unwinding or taking a leisurely stroll, then gather for a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT: FAITHLEGG HOUSE HOTEL WATERFORD (B, D)

After breakfast, Depart by coach for a visit to the Kennedy Homestead in Dunganstown, the ancestral birthplace of President John F. Kennedy’s great-grandfather, Patrick Kennedy. Discover the inspiring story of five generations of the Kennedy family as you trace their journey from rural Ireland to the White House. The homestead remains a working farm, still cared for by Kennedy descendants, keeping the family’s Irish roots alive. Lunch is included today.

Continue to the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience for a moving journey into Ireland’s Great Famine and the mass emigration that followed. Through immersive exhibits and powerful storytelling, gain a deeper understanding of the courage, hardship, and resilience of the Irish people who left their homeland in search of a better future.

Dinner at own expense in Waterford city before returning to Faithlegg -possible gig at The Reg where Sean will play a few tunes.

OVERNIGHT: FAITHLEGG HOUSE HOTEL WATERFORD (B)

Step into a world of calm at Faithlegg, where relaxation and renewal take center stage. Nestled within beautiful surroundings, this Spa sanctuary is designed to soothe the senses and restore balance. From indulgent treatments and tailored therapies to soothing, nature-inspired experiences, every detail is designed with your wellbeing in mind. Take time for yourself, unwind, and leave feeling refreshed, restored, and renewed.

Set amidst the stunning countryside, Faithlegg Golf Club is a championship 18-hole parkland course that offers an exceptional golfing experience for members, guests, and visitors alike. Designed to challenge and delight players of all levels, the course combines rolling fairways, strategic bunkers, and breathtaking views to create a truly memorable round. With excellent practice facilities and a welcoming clubhouse just steps away, Faithlegg provides the perfect blend of sport, scenery, and relaxation for every golf enthusiast.

Join your fellow travelers for dinner tonight in the hotel.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT: FAITHLEGG HOUSE HOTEL WATERFORD (B,D)

After breakfast, join expert guides on this historical tour of Waterford, journey through the city, and discover the great stories of Ireland’s oldest city. The Epic Walking Tour is a fun and interactive tour covering 1,000 years of history in 1,000 paces! Described as one of the best walking tours in Ireland, the Epic Walking Tour is a fun and engaging way to explore Waterford’s history, perfect for a family day out and a great family learning experience. On this must-see tour, visitors will learn about Waterford’s heritage. Here in the Viking Triangle, visitors will encounter warring Vikings, be inspired by medieval wonders, and observe elegant Georgian Architecture. Visitors will also get the chance to see historical landmarks along the tour, such as Reginald’s Tower, Greyfriar’s Church, and the Bishop’s Palace.

We will have lunch at Grow HQ, the home of the GIY (Grow It Yourself) movement, the brainchild of social entrepreneur Michael Kelly, and opened in October 2016. Set on four acres in Waterford City, it is conveniently located with free on-site parking. The award-winning 65-seat eatery serves nutritious, delicious seasonal food, with home-grown vegetables taking center stage and free-range local meat, poultry, fish, and cheese also showcased. The distance from plot to plate is around 112 steps.

We will make our way North to Kilkenny and the Lyrath Estate - our home for the next three nights. Set amid 170 acres of parkland, Lyrath Estate Kilkenny is located on the outskirts of Kilkenny City. It offers air-conditioned rooms, the Spa with an indoor infinity pool, a leisure center, and 2 award-winning restaurants. Free WiFi is available throughout. Guests can enjoy a peaceful night's sleep at Lyrath Estate, with soundproof rooms and blackout curtains. Each room includes a 43-inch flat-screen TV and overlooks the estate. The Leisure Center features a 56-foot swimming pool, a gym and a steam room. The Spa offers a range of treatments; pre-booking of appointments is essential. Eden Bistro serves contemporary Irish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, while Tupper's is a traditional Irish bar that serves only light snacks. The Grill & Bar features an open kitchen, cocktail bar and panoramic views.

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT: THE LYRATH ESTATE, KILKENNY (B, D)

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After breakfast, we head to the village of Stoneyford, just a few miles from Kilkenny City, where Malzard’s Bar has developed a hurling skills experience for all ages, giving participants a unique insight into the fastest field game in the world.

On arrival, our host, Fred Malzard, will introduce the group to this third-generation pub and share a brief history of the bar, along with insight into life in a rural village and the importance of “The Pub” to the local community. Your compere will guide you through the skills and history of the ancient game of hurling with audio-visual aids and a short video. Then it's out onto the field of play, where you can practice the skills of the game and compete against fellow guests in a series of skills and challenges. Lunch is served, with a few tunes from Sean.

Located on the banks of the River Arrigle about 2 miles from Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, Jerpoint Abbey was founded in 1158. In Medieval times, there was a town of Jerpoint, but this had fallen into ruin by the seventeenth century. Jerpoint Abbey is regarded as one of Ireland's most interesting Cistercian ruins. It offers a unique insight into the monks' lives because many of its domestic arrangements are still recognizable. The abbey was self-sufficient and had its own gardens, watermills, cemetery, granary and kitchens. The oldest parts of the abbey are the Irish-Romanesque transepts and chancel, which contain faded wall paintings. The east window dates from the 14th century and the fantastic central tower was added in the 15th century.

Wooden steps still follow the run of the night stairs. By climbing them, you reach the roof and can look down on the Dublin-Waterford Railway. The restored cloister piers carry carvings similar to the drawings found in medieval manuscripts. The abbey was dissolved in 1540, and its 1880 acres were presented to the Earl of Ormonde.

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OVERNIGHT: LYRATH ESTATE KILKENNY (B)

After breakfast, 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. The tour will end at Smithwick's Brewery, where we will tour the facility.

In Dublin, it’s all about Guinness. In Cork, make it a Murphy’s. And Kilkenny? Well, Smithwick’s is the way to go. Brewed in the medieval city since the 18th century, this ale has a rich ruby color with a pale creamy head, and is served in pubs all over the island of Ireland. But tasting it is one thing, experiencing it is another, and the best way to uncover the history, personalities and place behind the beer is with a visit to Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny. Located right on the Medieval Mile – a trail that runs through the heart of Kilkenny and links 13th-century St Canice’s Cathedral with Kilkenny Castle – this fun, multi-sensory visitor experience brings the story of Smithwick's to life. Guided tours include everything from the Smithwick family history to ale tasting and a tutorial on how to pour the perfect pint. It's the perfect place to kick off your visit to Kilkenny.

Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before gathering for a group dinner at Kytelers Inn, with traditional Irish Music. Kytelers Inn is one of Kilkenny’s most historic and atmospheric pubs & restaurants, dating back to 1324 and famously associated with Alice Kyteler. Alice, a wealthy merchant’s wife, became central to one of Ireland’s earliest recorded witch trials when she was accused of heresy and witchcraft. While she escaped to England, her servant was tried and executed, marking a dark but significant chapter in Kilkenny’s medieval history. Today, Kytelers Inn embraces this fascinating legacy, blending myth and history with live traditional Irish music, local food, whiskey tasting, great local drinks, and a vibrant pub atmosphere, making it a must-visit landmark in the heart of the city.

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 DINNER & OVERNIGHT: LYRATH ESTATE KILKENNY (B, D)

After breakfast, we set off for County Tipperary to visit 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.

We will have lunch at the White House in Roscrea before we arrive at Kinnitty Castle for our two nights on the tour. Step into the timeless charm of Kinnitty Castle Hotel and experience one of Ireland’s most distinctive castle stays. Nestled within the historic Castle are 37 individually designed en-suite guest rooms, each offering its own unique character and style. Spacious layouts, high ceilings, luxurious fabrics, and carefully selected period furnishings combine to reflect the rich heritage and elegance of this remarkable property. Every bedroom has been thoughtfully named after historic figures and places connected to the Castle’s enduring story, creating a truly authentic and memorable experience. No two rooms are alike. Many of the Castle’s original features have been carefully preserved, and even the room keys retain an old-world charm. Each space offers a unique blend of historic character and modern comfort, complemented by the warmth and hospitality Ireland is renowned for.

Join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant called The Thatch in Crinkill, Co. Offaly, a place that reminds you why Irish pubs are famous worldwide. As one of the county’s oldest watering holes, this timeless 300-year-old classic has gathered a multitude of well-earned awards, yet it still feels refreshingly genuine. Even more impressive is the family story behind it all: the owners can trace their roots here for at least 200 years, a custodianship you can sense in every corner. Step through the door, and you’re met with the aroma of nostalgia, great cooking, and a warm buzz that instantly tempts you to settle in for the evening. Then there’s the team, and they are truly welcoming. The kitchen team clearly knows their craft, and the pride in the place is infectious. It’s exactly why The Thatch proudly earns our ‘Iconic Pub’ status.  

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT: KINNITTY CASTLE (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we will visit Clonmacnoise. Sitting peacefully on the banks of the River Shannon and shrouded in mystery, the 6th-century monastic site of Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most exceptional historical destinations. Founded by St Ciarán in 544, this sacred place transports you back to a time of religious, literary, and artistic creativity, surrounding you with stories of Viking raids, devotion, and kingly connections. Lush green fields and the calm grey-blue waters of the Shannon create the feeling that you’ve stumbled upon an Early Christian secret, a place frozen in time.

We will have lunch at the Birr Castle Cafe, followed by a Guided Castle Tour, including the gardens, for an enriching exploration of one of Ireland’s most historic and scenic estates. Nestled in County Offaly, Birr Castle has been home to the Parsons family, the Earls of Rosse, for over four centuries. The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the castle’s storied past, its role in scientific innovation, and its architectural grandeur. Led by knowledgeable guides, you'll move through beautifully preserved rooms and learn about the family’s significant contributions to astronomy, photography, and engineering. Highlights include the Great Telescope, built in the 1840s and the world’s largest telescope for over 70 years, as well as the intricate art and furnishings that reflect the castle’s rich heritage. Following the castle tour, you are invited to explore the award-winning gardens. Spanning 120 acres, these gardens feature rare plants, towering trees, and peaceful water features. The grounds also feature Ireland’s tallest box hedges and a variety of exotic species, carefully cultivated over generations. A Guided Castle Tour with Gardens at Birr Castle offers a perfect blend of history, science, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors interested in Ireland’s cultural and botanical treasures.

Join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at Kinnitty Castle tonight.

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT: KINNITTY CASTLE (B, L, D)

Sadly , our adventures are over and we‛re very sorry to see you go! Your coach driver will get you to Shannon Airport in  plenty of time for you to check in for your flight and clear customs and immigration, avoiding the long lines that you  can meet you in America. There is ample duty- free shopping available at the airport for any last-minute gifts or  mementos. Thank you for trusting us once again with your vacation and we certainly hope you had a great time.