An animated green map of Ireland with cartoon houses, round tower, pint of Guinness, Dolmen and castles dotted around the country

6 Day Tour of Ireland's Ancient East

The ideal tour of Ireland for seniors, couples, and families

Explore the ‘Ancient East’ on this relaxing 6-day tour of Ireland. Discover Viking history, Norman castles, and spectacular scenery while still having plenty of free time to explore Ireland for yourself. Highlights include the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, and the medieval Kilkenny City.

This tour is ideal for seniors, young couples, and families who want a guided Ireland adventure with plenty of free time for themselves. For something more active, check out our Vagabond Ireland Tours. However, just because we’re not hiking and cycling , it doesn’t mean we can’t have an Irish adventure; we just want to take our time a little – to stop and take in the beauty. If you’re fascinated with Irish cuisine, you might also be interested in our 6 day food tour of Ireland.

🏆 Winner of Best Ireland's Ancient East Tourism Experience at the 2019 Irish Tourism Awards! If you have any questions whatsoever, please get in touch. Plan your dream Ireland tour with Driftwood Tours!

€1,615.50 pps*

*Single Supplement EURO €315.27
Estimated $ USD 2020 Price: $2,002 (based on $1 = €0.91)

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Dates+Availability

Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (6 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!

2020

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Start:

Finish:

Price:

Spaces Status:

€1,615.50 Per person sharing

If the date you want is full please contact us and we will do our best to accomodate you.

A 15% deposit is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

All tours are charged in EURO. Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Please note: Waterford Castle is yet to be confirmed for all 2021 dates.

As Featured In:

Time to relax and explore historic Ireland

Smooth and comfortable Mercedes-Benz tour vehicles

Tour historic castles and traditional Irish culture

Itinerary What's Included Reviews Photos Accommodation

What's Included

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

What's Included

A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
6 full days on tour
5 nights' accommodation
5 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
Most daily activities and visits (see Tour Options below for extras)
Entrance into Jerpoint Park to see history unearthed and hear amazing stories
Entrance onto the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an exact reproduction of an 1840s emigrant vessel
A guided tour of the Jameson Distillery, the undisputed home of Irish whiskey
Entrance into 13th century Tintern Abbey

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

Flexible and optional activities on tour

Blarney Castle
€18.00
Kiss the Blarney Stone and explore lush gardens.
Kilkenny Castle
€8.00
Self-guided tour of 12th century Kilkenny Castle.
St Canice’s Cathedral
€7.00
Self-guided tour of historic cathedral and round tower.
Smithwicks Brewery Tour
€15.00
Guided tour of Smithwicks brewery in Kilkenny. Estd. 1710.
Titanic Experience Cobh
€10.00
Historic museum exhibition about Cobh, the Titanic’s last port of call.
Medieval Museum
€7.00
Historic exhibition including a 13th century chamber.
Viking Museum
€5.00
Waterford's Viking history in Ireland’s oldest civic building.
House of Waterford Crystal
€14.00
Guided tour of glass-making factory and craft workshop.
King of the Vikings 3D
€7.00
Virtual reality experience depicting Waterford's Viking history.
Bishop's Palace Musum
€7.00
Museum of 18th century Georgian Waterford.
Ros Tapestry
€8.00/€7.00 Seniors
Exhibition of large-scale embroidered tapestry depicting Norman history.

Vagabond, Always going that extra mile

Our tour prices do not include flights, travel insurance or Dublin accommodation

Guaranteed Booking Price

Amazing VagaGuides! Read More

All Taxes & VAT

Responsible Tours Read More

Loads of Laughs

Reviews

Our Guests Feefo Reviews

View on FeeFo

All aspects of the tour were truly excellent! Damien, our guide, truly connected with the group. He really made each area we visited come alive via stories and anecdotes. Hats off to Vagabond for another fantastic tour!

15th Oct 2019

Exceptional customer service

View on FeeFo

My second tour with Vagabond and the service continues just as good as on first tour 5 years ago. Customer service of the very best can be demonstrated over a luggage mix-up when Vagabond made sure my suitcase was sent across country overnight and reunited with me before I flew out early from Dublin.
Product : Perfect tour. Intere…

26th Sep 2019

Great trip! Rhys was knowledgeable and very nice!

View on FeeFo

Trip was fun because our group of travellers was great! Rhys was knowledgeable and kind
Product : Great trip! Nice vehicle and great tour guide.

26th Sep 2019

Our Guests Trip Advisor Reviews

Another Great Driftwood Tour

A few years ago we did the 11 day Driftwood Tour and were very pleased with our experience. We decided to return and take the 6 Day Ancient Ireland Tour. Once again we were very happy with the tour. The guides are very knowledgeable and tell good stories about Irish history without being boring and also tell you some fun, interesting facts.

View on Trip Advisor

6-day Ancient Ireland Driftwood tour was better than I imagined

This tour was jam-packed with activities, but it didn't feel like it. Although we saw many sites, we felt relaxed at the end of every day. That's because the tour guide was fabulous and knew just what we would like to do and how much we could tolerate. She was fun, funny, charming, knowledgeable, and a good driver. Everyone on the tour was crazy about her.

View on Trip Advisor

WARNING- Driftwood/Vagabond may become habit forming! (6-Day Ancient East Tour Review)

I just completed my third tour with Driftwood in two years, so I feel like it's only fair to warn others that you will have so much fun with this company that you will want to come back again and again...and again! Start budgeting accordingly. Thanks to Driftwood/Vagabond for yet another great tour!

View on Trip Advisor

Photos

Visit the 6th century mountain monastery of Glendalough

Ornately decorated museum hall in Kilkenny Castle, Ireland

Explore Kilkenny, Ireland's medieval capital and craft centre

Copper Coast in Waterford with green patchwork fields and cliffs

Fall in love with the spectacular Copper Coast in Waterford

Characterful guide Joe O'Connell at Jerpoint Abbey

Take a fun guided tour of the historic ruins at Jerpoint Park

Colourful streetscape at Stone Mad Gallery in Kinsale

Savour the foodie mecca of coastal Kinsale in West Cork

A view of Ballycotton harbour during the sunset with fishing trawlers and other boats in view.

Stay in quaint seaside villages like Ballycotton in Cork

Waterford city quays in Ireland's Ancient East

Explore Viking history in Waterford, Ireland's first capital

The Rock of Cashel pictured from a distance

Admire Celtic crosses and ruined cathedrals at medieval Rock of Cashel.

Accommodation

A hot shower after a woodland stroll. A real fire. A pint. We assure you that wherever you stay with us, you’ll love it.

We put great effort into selecting accommodation on Driftwood tours. No large, impersonal hotels here! Your tour will overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations). Receive a heartfelt welcome, often from the hoteliers themselves.

Waterford Castle, Co. Waterford

Vikings and Normans sailed up the River Suir to establish Ireland’s oldest city at nearby Waterford. Now you can follow in their footsteps at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort. It is set on an enchanted 310-acre Private Island, accessible via a short crossing on the resort's private car ferry. A jewel in Ireland's Ancient East, the Island Resort offers the very best of Irish hospitality on the most beautiful surroundings imaginable.

Waterford castle exterior facade — Waterford Castle Hotel

Waterford Castle lobby interior fireplace

Dunbrody House, Co. Wexford

Dunbrody Country House Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in Co. Wexford. Located on the dramatic Hook Peninsula on Ireland’s south coast, Dunbrody House is owned and operated by husband and wife team Kevin & Catherine Dundon. Set in 300 acres of parkland, 1830s Dunbrody really is the perfect stay after a long day exploring the south-east coast.

The exterior view of Dunbrody House and Gardens with blue skies and flowers in view

The interior design of a main bedroom in Dunbrody House with the bed, georgian style mirror and armchair in view

Pembroke Hotel, Co. Kilkenny

This 4 star boutique hotel in Kilkenny is situated on Patrick Street, Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, right in the centre of a city rich in medieval heritage and alive with a vibrant arts culture. With over 400 years of history and a vast array of beautiful countryside to explore, Pembroke Kilkenny provides the perfect city-centre base for guests of all ages looking to make the most out of everything Ireland has to offer.

"Feel instantly refreshed as you walk into your room, put your bags down and settle in for your stay."

Interior of Pembroke Hotel bar and restaurant

Interior design of the mainbedroom in the Pembroke Hotel

Bayview Hotel, Co. Cork

The 4-star Bayview Hotel is a fine manor house nestled on the Cliffside of the beautiful fishing village of Ballycotton. It offers luxurious accommodation and stunning ocean views. Hear the waves crashing as you wake up in the morning in this amazing location. The hotel has lovely gardens, which lead to miles of sandy beaches for you to enjoy.

"Our family run hotel is dedicated to providing modern luxury with the charm and warmth of bygone days."

Exterior of Bayview Hotel with a view of the bay and the fishing boats

Beautiful views from the Bayview Hotel overlooking Ballycotten Bay

Actons Hotel, Co. Cork

Actons Hotel is situated in heart of the colourful historic harbour town of Kinsale also referred to as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Over the years Actons of Kinsale has established a reputation for its exceptional location with Kinsale holding some of the most breath-taking views one can imagine.

"Here at Actons, we have gained a reputation for highly personal and genuine guest care for all travelers"

Exterior view of Actons Hotel with views of the harbour views

Interior design of a harbour view main bedroom

Blue Haven, Co. Cork

Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Blue Haven Hotel will welcome you with open arms. Just a stone's throw from dozens of great restaurants, lively bars and interesting craft shops. You will love their seamless blend of boutique and contemporary luxury, whether you're relaxing in the lounge with a coffee, enjoying Tapas & Fine Wines in Aperitif, or sampling the Seafood in their Fish Market.

"The Blue Haven prides itself in delivering the ultimate in
friendly, efficient and personal service to its customers"

Interior design of Blue Haven's main bedroom

Hotel bar and restaurant interior at Blue Haven

Itinerary

Download Full Itinerary

6 DAY IRELAND ANCIENT EAST TOUR INTRO & HIGHLIGHTS

Time to look east! At a leisurely pace, you will explore the amazing history and culture in Ireland’s ancient cities, castles, and gardens. You’ll taste Irish food, sip our whiskey, and take part in our enigmatic culture.

Explore amazing Irish cities, such as medieval Kilkenny and Viking Waterford.
Enjoy an unforgettable 2 night stay in an elegant Irish castle hotel.
Soak up stunning scenery on the Hook Peninsula, in Wicklow Mountains National Park and along the Copper Coast.
Delve into the rich and evocative history of Ireland at Glendalough, Cahir Castle, and Blarney Castle Gardens.
Take an Irish whiskey tasting tour at the historic Jameson Distillery.
Visit Cobh — Condé Nast Traveler called it one of Europe's most beautiful small towns in 2019!

⬇️ SCROLL DOWN TO DISCOVER WHAT HAPPENS EACH DAY ⬇️

Hook Lighthouse on Hook Head peninsula bathed in orange and pink sunrise/sunset light in Ireland — Soak up stunning scenery in amazing destinations like the Hook Peninsula

A smiling Driftwood tour group on a guided tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery in Midleton, Ireland — Take an Irish whiskey tasting tour at the historic Jameson Distiller

DAY 1: EXPLORE ANCIENT GLENDALOUGH, WICKLOW MOUNTAINS, & KILKENNY

Begin your 6 day Ireland itinerary at Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin at 8.10am. Climb aboard your comfortable Mercedes tour vehicle, bound for Kilkenny.

Explore the 6th century monastery of Glendalough.
Cross the wilderness of Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Discover the Bronze Age Rathgall Hill fort – one of Ireland’s largest ringforts.
Explore the charms of historic Kilkenny.
Your accommodation tonight is at the centrally located Pembroke Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Celtic cross gravestone in graveyard with sunlight lens flare in Glendalough, Ireland — Explore the 6th century mountain monastery of Glendalough

Smiling Driftwood tour group standing in an old arch in Glendalough, Ireland — Archway at Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

DAY 2: MEDIEVAL KILKENNY & IRISH CRAFT TOURS

Always happy to stop and take in the beauty of the Irish countryside, your VagaGuide will lead your tour from medieval Kilkenny to Viking Waterford.

Enjoy some free time in Kilkenny to explore craft studios, cafés and numerous quaint independent shops.
Take a guided craft beer tour at Smithwick's (Tour Option - €16 per person, €14 seniors) or a self-guided cathedral tour at St. Canice's (Tour Option - €7 per person).
Enjoy a charismatic guided tour of the historic ruins at Jerpoint Park.
Step on-board the Dunbrody Famine Ship; an exact replica of a 19th century Irish emigrant vessel.
Unwind at Waterford Castle Hotel, located on its own island in the River Suir.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Couple exploring colourful shops in Kilkenny, Ireland — Explore Kilkenny, Ireland's medieval capital

Joe O'Connell, guide at Jerpoint Park in Kilkenny — Guided tour of Jerpoint Park's storied ruins

DAY 3: FREE TIME TO EXPLORE WEXFORD

Freedom abound on day three, with lots of time to explore Wexford – one of the jewels of Ireland's Ancient East.

Relax at your genuine Irish castle hotel or explore the Hook Peninsula in Wexford. This is your time and you’re free to craft this part of your Ireland itinerary to suit your desires.
If history is at the top of your to-do list, take a guided tour of the world's oldest operational lighthouse at Hook Head.
Enjoy a guided tour of Norman-built 13th century Tintern Abbey.
Visit Fethard-on-Sea, a quaint and characterful Irish fishing village.
Your accommodation is once again at Waterford Castle Hotel.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Hook Head lighthouse and buildings — Climb the world's oldest operational lighthouse at Hook Head

Tintern Abbey and river viewed from between stone battlements — Visit 13th century Tintern Abbey

DAY 4: WATERFORD, VIKING MUSEUM, & COPPER COAST

On day 4 of this 6 day Ireland tour, you’ll take a scenic route from Waterford to Ballycotton, a quaint coastal village in East Cork.

Discover the delights of Waterford – Ireland's oldest city, established by Vikings in the 10th century.
Admire the pinnacle of Irish crafting excellence with a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal (Tour Option - €14 per person).
Meet the Norsemen at the Viking Museum, housed in an 800-year-old tower (Tour Option - €5 per person, €4 seniors). There’s so much more to Ireland’s history than you might think!
Drift along Ireland’s gorgeous Copper Coast with charming villages, secluded coves and dramatic sea stacks. These are seaside views you will remember for the rest of your life.
Gaze out across the Celtic Sea from your lodging at the Bayview Hotel in Ballycotton.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Quays in Waterford city showing buildings and reflection in river — Meet the Vikings in Waterford

Road along Copper Coast at sunset with flowers in foreground and ruins in the background — Ride along the scenic Copper Coast

DAY 5: IRISH WHISKEY TOUR AT THE JAMESON WHISKEY DISTILLERY

The fifth day of your 6 day Ireland itinerary is a countryside amble along the coast of Cork.

Taste authentic Irish whiskey on a guided tour of the restored 18th century Jameson Whiskey Distillery.
Cobh is an optional port of call for everyone on the tour; this historic maritime town is located on an island in Cork Harbour. It doesn’t get more idyllic!
Choose from a menu of amazing restaurants and colourful streets tonight in Kinsale, Ireland's gourmet capital.
Your accommodation is at either the Blue Haven Hotel Kinsale or Actons Hotel in Kinsale.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Bright and colourful shops in Kinsale — Explore the picture perfect town of Kinsale

DAY 6: KISS THE BLARNEY STONE & ROCK OF CASHEL

Turning homeward, your tour takes in some amazing sights on the journey from Cork back to Dublin.

Kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the gift of the gab – the Irish ability to flatter and speak with great eloquence.
Imbued with your new conversational powers, explore the lush gardens at Blarney Castle (Tour Option - €18 per person).
If you prefer, take in colourful stalls and meet friendly locals at the English Market in Cork city. As usual, we try to help our Driftwood guests choose various parts of the tour themselves.
Admire Celtic crosses and ruined cathedrals at medieval Rock of Cashel.
Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin is the final stop, and we arrived there between 5-6pm.

The average driving time today is 4 hours.

Stallholder laughs with customers at English Market in Cork City — Sample the delights of the English Market

The inside of the Rock of Cashel — Tour the epic Rock of Cashel

Dates+Availability

Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (6 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!

2020