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Driftwood Van

8 Day Jigs & Reels Music Tour of Ireland

Move To Ireland's Rhythm!

Hit the high notes on this epic music tour of Ireland.

Take a tour of U2's recording studio. Tap your toes in an Irish dance workshop. Experience spontaneous music sessions in pubs, a music and dance stage show and an intimate folk concert in a 200 year old church.

Fully guided by a local expert, your music tour of Ireland drops by amazing towns like Dingle, Doolin, Galway and Kenmare.

Embark on a true cultural journey of discovery; a toe-tapping, soul-enriching, sing-along adventure!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "All the scenic stops, musical offerings, hotels and side excursions were so well planned and executed… I highly recommend this tour regardless of your musical skills or preferences." Guest Review JULY 2024

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Reviews

8 Day Jigs & Reels Tour

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"highly recommend"
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Michael and Roisin were amazing - their love of Ireland was contagious to the whole group.

They were fun, energetic and laser-focused on giving us the best experience of Ireland and its wonderful traditional music.

I highly recommend this tour regardless of your musical skills or preferences - it was a delight.

VERIFIED GUEST, JULY 2024
"it was seamless"
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I still can't believe all that we experienced and it was seamless. Our guides, Michael and Róisín gave this tour their all.

I can't speak highly enough of this tour company.

We are already talking about which tour we'll take next with Vagabond Driftwood tours and we've barely unpacked from this one!

VERIFIED GUEST, JULY 2024
"a wonderful mix"
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This trip was a wonderful mixture of seeing the sites and still truly experiencing the culture.

The pace was good and our tour guides Michael and Roísín were top-notch ... They were filled with so much knowledge, were so kind, and truly love what they do!

I cannot wait to book another Vagabond tour in the future.

VERIFIED GUEST, JULY 2024
Tour FAQs

Find answers to questions about the 8 day Driftwood Jigs & Reels Tour Itinerary.

Is This The Right Tour For Me?

We do our utmost to ensure that the tour style you choose matches your needs. Our team offer honest and professional customer service from the moment you first get in touch.

Read the following physical requirements to understand if your tour choice matches your abilities.

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How Fit Do I Need To Be?

You'll need basic mobility to enjoy any of our small group tours of Ireland. Standing and walking for extended periods is required on both tour styles.

For Vagabond Cultural Adventures, the fitness requirement is considerably higher than on a Driftwood Journey of Discovery.

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What Day & Time Do Tours Depart?

All of our tours depart from Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel [Google Maps location] on either Sundays, Mondays or Tuesdays between 7.50am and 8.30am.

Please plan to arrive at the Grand Canal Hotel at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

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When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin.

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

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What Is A Boat Trip To The Skellig Islands Like?

Whether you're planning to land on Skellig Michael or simply cruise around both Skellig Islands, the boats you travel on will be similar in size and oceangoing ability.

They measure roughly 9 metres or 30 feet in length. Though they have powerful engines, they are open-decked vessels with little or no protection from rain, waves and water spray.

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Do I Need To Pre-Book Activities Before My Tour?

You don't have to pre-book activities until you join your tour. While on tour, your VagaGuide will advise you when you need to book an optional extra.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: The only exception is the Skellig Michael Island landing option. This optional extra is only available on the 12 Day Vagabond Giant Irish Adventure Tour. It requires prior booking at least 45 days before you arrive in Ireland.

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How Much Cash Should I Bring To Ireland?

We recommend bringing a small amount of cash in euros to Ireland with you.

Around €300 euro should be more than enough to get you through your first days in Dublin.

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How Much Should I Tip Tour Guides In Ireland?

The industry standard in Ireland is €15 per person, per day. But this is, of course, at your discretion.

Our team of VagaGuide tour guides really appreciate any tips that come their way after leading a Vagabond or Driftwood small-group tour.

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What Size Luggage Should I Bring?

To make everyone's tour run smoothly, we operate strict limits on baggage size. Plan to bring 1x compact suitcase as well as 1x daypack or backpack, per guest booking.

Your single large piece of luggage should weigh no more than 51lb (23kg) and measure no longer than 31” (79cm) along its longest side. This 31 inch (79cm) limit includes any wheels that may protrude from the suitcase or bag.

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What Should I Pack?

Travel light.

That's the one travel tip that we hear again and again from guests who have experienced our tours.

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Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

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Is Lunch and Dinner Included?

Lunches and dinners are not included on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours. You are free to choose your own lunches and dinners.

Your VagaGuide tour guide will recommend their favourite cafes, restaurants and shops. We find that this flexible approach to included meals allows us to cater for diverse tastes, budgets and diets.

All hotel breakfasts are included in your tour price.

Similar Questions

Do Hotels In Ireland Have Air Conditioning?

Most hotels in Ireland do not have air conditioning.

The climate in Ireland usually isn't hot enough to warrant air conditioning.

In periods of prolonged warm weather, hotels that don’t have air conditioning will normally install fans in the bedrooms.


Find out more about Irish weather and the best time to visit Ireland

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Do Hotel Rooms In Ireland Have Hairdryers?

All of your hotel rooms on tour provide hairdryers.

Please note that, in some cases, Irish hotel hairdryers may not be the most powerful models.

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What Types Of Rooms Are Available?

All of our hotels offer double, twin and single room types. Doubles have 1x bed, twins have 2x separate beds and singles have 1x bed.

When booking with us, please select a room requirement for each passenger listed. Choose your room type based on each person sharing.

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What Size Are The Hotel Beds?

The standard bed size in Ireland equates to a US Queen (60" x 80"). This may vary with hotel or room type.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance?

While travel insurance is not a requirement for our tours, we strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance cover before your trip to Ireland.

Your policy should cover all medical costs associated with travel.

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Are There Restroom Stops During The Tour?

Yes, there are regular comfort stops along the tour route where you can avail of restroom facilities.

Simply ask your VagaGuide if you're unsure when the next stop is coming

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Do Tour Vehicles Have Wifi & USB Charging Points?

There are no wifi or charging points available on Vagabond & Driftwood tour vehicles.

We recommend bringing a cellphone with you on tour in Ireland to take pictures and to stay in touch with loved ones back home.

Talk to your cellphone provider about international data roaming before you depart. Alternatively, purchase a sim card on arrival in Ireland to help you get online.

If you think you'll need it, pack a lightweight power bank in your daypack or backpack.

Even better, take a digital detox while exploring Ireland with us!

Similar Questions

What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

🛶 Kayaking

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

 

Similar Questions

Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides.

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What Time Does My Tour Leave & Return To Hotel?

Your group will start exploring between 8.45-9.30am each morning.

Each evening, your group will return to your hotel at around 6pm.

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What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

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Can I Access My Bag While On Tour?

It's difficult to access your main luggage or suitcase while on tour. Luggage is securely packed in our tour vehicles. As a result, it's not easy for your driver guide to access individual items of baggage during the day.

However, you can easily access your luggage at each hotel. So that you have your travel essentials close at hand, we recommend bringing a daypack, or backpack, that you can keep beside you in the tour vehicle.

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Where Will My Tour Start From?

All of our tours pick-up and drop-off from the same point in Dublin - the Grand Canal Hotel.

The Grand Canal Hotel is located just south of Dublin city centre.

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Are Hotel Rooms In Ireland Ensuite?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower unit and/or combined shower and bath.

Similar Questions

Are Wheelchairs & Mobility Aids Allowed On Tour?

We want our small-group tours to be as accessible as possible. Our friendly Sales team do their utmost to help you choose a tour itinerary that suits your needs

To fully enjoy both of our tour styles, all guests must have a minimum level of fitness. Full mobility is crucial.

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Hotels

We put great effort into selecting accommodation. Your 8 day Driftwood Jigs & Reels Tour will overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations). No hotel chains here!

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The Salthill Hotel

Salthill Hotel, your tranquil retreat nestled along the stunning shores of Galway Bay.

The perfect beach-side hotel for relaxing after a long day of adventures.

With breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Salthill Promenade, this hotel offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Galway city where you will be exploring for the day.

The exterior of the salthill hotel with flowers outside
The interior of a double room in the salthill hotel

Fiddle + Bow Collection

Nestled in the heart of Doolin and born in 2019, Fiddle + Bow Hotel stands as a charming boutique retreat, inviting you to experience a true home away from home.

The hotel serves as an ideal launchpad to discover the wonders of Doolin, the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the enchanting Burren, providing a gateway to all that County Clare has to offer.

The exterior of the fiddle and bow hotel
A photo of a triple room in the fiddle and bow hotel

Dingle Skellig Hotel

Imagine waking up to a traditional Irish breakfast with spectacular views over Dingle Bay.

Now make that dream a reality at the Dingle Skellig Hotel.

Just a short stroll from the centre of Dingle town, this is the perfect base for enjoying the charms of Dingle and its wild and beautiful surrounding countryside.

The only dilemma facing you at the Dingle Skellig is whether to unwind in the bar first or soak in the rooftop hot tub!

Aerial view of Dingle Skellig Hotel in Ireland
Waiter and dining room with scenic view at Dingle Skellig Hotel in Ireland

The Moorings Hotel

Literally 30 seconds walk from the pier, The Moorings Guesthouse is well-named!

The Moorings lies at the heart of this tiny but characterful village in remote West Kerry.

Gerard and Patricia Kennedy’s warm welcome and delicious home-cooked food is a great way to end a day’s adventuring.

There’s simply nowhere better to base yourself when you are exploring the Ring of Kerry with Vagabond & Driftwood Small-Group Tours.

The exterior front view of the Moorings Guesthouse directly across from the harbour
The interior design of a double room in the Moorings Guesthouse

Coachman's Townhouse

You just can’t beat Irish hospitality!

The Jones family have been welcoming guests to The Coachmans Townhouse since 1969.

The Coachmans is located at the heart of the small town of Kenmare. When you stay here with Vagabond & Driftwood Tours, speciality shops, music venues and great restaurants are only a few footsteps away.

Music-lovers, take note that the pub in the Coachmans frequently hosts live performances by traditional musicians. Not to be missed!

The Coachman's Townhouse exterior
The interior design of a double room in The Coachmans

River Lee Hotel in Cork

Get ready to kick back and soak in the good vibes at the River Lee Hotel – a top-notch hotel in the heart of Cork!

Nestled on the banks of the River Lee, this hotel is the perfect for experiencing city life while also being able to relax away from the hustle and bustle.

The River Lee Hotel boasts an extraordinary location in this delightful and historically rich city.

The exterior of the river lee with a view of the riverside
The interior of the river lee room
Inclusions

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 8 Day Jigs & Reels Music 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 In Your Trip
  • A musical journey of discovery in a slick Mercedes mini-coach
  • The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
  • 8 full days on tour
  • 7 nights' accommodation
  • 7 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
  • Walking tour in Galway City
  • Tickets to Irish music and dance show in Galway and music performance in Doolin.
  • Guided visit to traditional harp-making studio
  • Guided farm tour and sheepdog demo
  • Guided Irish dance workshop in Kerry
  • Guided musical walking tour of Cork
  • Guided castle tour in Athenry
  • Entrance to Blarney Castle & Gardens and the Rock of Cashel
  • Shannon ferry tickets

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.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

  • Dingle Folk Concert**
    €20.00
    Folk music concert at the 200 year old St James' Church in Dingle. Cash Required.
  • Skellig Islands Cruise
    €50.00
    Cruise around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. 2hr 30 mins.
  • Portmagee Whiskey Tour
    €20.00
    Guided whiskey tasting and historical tour at the Portmagee Distillery
  • Hysterical Histories
    €50.00
    Factual — but fun — stage show that tells the history of Cork city.
  • Windmill Studios Tour
    €22.00
    Guided tour of Windmill Studios in Dublin, first made famous by U2
Vagabond, Always going that extra mile
Our tour prices do not include flights, travel insurance or Dublin accommodation
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Loads of Laughs
Photos
Older male buskers playing music in Galway, Ireland
Wander through Galway City and catch traditional Irish street performances.
Two musicians playing the flute and banjo indoors
Experience the vibrant energy of live Irish music in pubs around Ireland
A bright and colourful street scene in Galway, Ireland
Take your time to soak in the bohemian city of Galway.
Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren
Marvel at a 5000 year old dolmen as you explore the mystical beauty of the Burren National Park.
Blue sky and clouds over colourful houses and a bridge in Doolin, Ireland
A visit to the village of Doolin is an essential part of any music tour of Ireland.
Cliffs of Moher  on a tour of the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland
Explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way.
A busker playing a guitar in Ireland
Enjoy live traditional music every night on tour.
Traditional Irish instruments including a squeezebox and a banjo
Become an expert in traditional instruments such as the banjo and accordion.
A panoramic view of Slea Head
Tour the Slea Head Drive, one of Europe's most scenic and westernmost points.
A boat in front of Little Skellig island off the coast of Ireland
Cruise the remote and dramatic Skellig Islands
Itinerary
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8 Day Jigs & Reels Music Tour of Ireland Intro & Highlights

  • Take a rockin' guided tour of Dublin's Windmill Lane Studios, a recording venue first made famous by U2.
  • Embark on a walking tour of Galway leading you to a live trad music session.
  • See world champion dancers and internationally-renowned musicans perform in a live Irish music and dance show.
  • Step into the real home of a traditional musician in Clare for an intimate gig and historical talk.
  • Learn about an ancient and symbolic instrument on a guided visit to a traditional Irish harp maker's studio.
  • Get your dancing shoes on for an Irish sean nós dance workshop with a champion dancer in Kerry.
  • Enjoy overnight stops and quality time in towns with serious musical heritage: Doolin; Dingle; Miltown Malbay.
  • Visit a working Irish sheep farm with charming old-style cottages for a live sheepdog demo and guided farm tour.
  • All aboard! Take a boat trip around the spectacular Skellig Islands to experience seabirds and amazing history.
Ireland tour guide smiling and holding a violin in the front seat of a tour vehicle in Ireland
Discover the vibrant music traditions of Ireland
Three traditional Irish musicians playing on beach in Ireland
Delve into the rich music history of the island of Ireland

Day 1: Stage Show in Galway City

Meet your VagaGuide in Dublin and hit the road, bound for Galway.

  • Guided castle tour in Athenry
  • Embark on a walking tour of Galway leading you to a live trad music session.
  • Attend live Irish music and dance spectacular; Trad on the Prom in Galway city.

Accommodation tonight is at Salthill Hotel Galway.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Three Irish dancers on stage with Irish musicians
Experience the magic of Live Irish music and dance
One man band playing saxophone in front of red window in Ireland
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Galway's vibrant streets

Day 2: Harp Workshop & Music in Doolin

Mix magical music with incredible landscapes as you turn south from Galway and move into Clare.

  • Guided visit to a traditional Irish harp maker's studio.
  • Intimate performance and talk at the Doolin Music House.
  • Visit The Burren and the world famous Cliffs of Moher.

Accommodation tonight is at Fiddle & Bow Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Colourful houses under a blue sky with clouds in Doolin, Ireland
Discover the charming village of Doolin
Dry stone wall and blue sky in Ireland
Explore ancient stone walls as you journey through the Burren

Day 3: Irish Dancing Workshop

Today you'll cross from the Banner county of Clare to the Kingdom of Kerry.

  • Visit the Music Makers of West Clare experience in Miltown Malbay (Fee Included).
  • Meet a champion dancer for an Irish dance workshop in north Kerry (Fee Included).
  • Visit a working Irish sheep farm for guided tour and sheepdog demo (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at Dingle Skellig Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours.

Black and white image of Ranóg Townsend, Irish dancer, in a workshop in Ireland
Learn the art of Irish dance with an expert instructor
Three musicians perform together in a traditional Irish pub
Enjoy the lively pubs of Dingle, filled with traditional Irish music and good vibes

Day 4: Dingle Folk Concert

Today is yours to design with a special concert and quality downtime in Dingle.

  • Savour an Irish folk music concert at the magical, 200 year old St James' Church in Dingle (Optional Extra).
  • Free time to soak up the charms of Dingle with various retail, boat and craft options.
  • Rugged cliffs and incredible vistas on the Slea Head Drive.

Accommodation tonight is at Dingle Skellig Hotel.

The average driving time today is 1 hours 30 minutes.

Guitarist with two females in Irish pub
Experience the heart of Irish Folk Music at a concert in Dingle
Side view of tour vehicle parked beside a sunny coastline and flowers
Explore the Stunning Slea Head Drive

Day 5: Skellig Islands Boat Trip

Head further into Kerry, moving from the Dingle peninsula to Portmagee, on the Iveragh peninsula.

  • Dip your toes in the ocean at Inch Strand, a broad stretch of golden sand with rolling Atlantic waves.
  • Take a guided boat trip around both Skellig Islands to experience seabirds and amazing history (Optional Extra).
  • Alternatively, savour a guided whiskey tasting and historical tour at the Portmagee Distillery (Optional Extra).

Accommodation tonight is at The Moorings Portmagee.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Vagabond tour guide playing violin in Irish pub
Discover the rich history of Ireland's traditional instruments
All aboard! The magnificent Little Skellig island is one of the world's most important breeding colonies of gannets

Day 6: Skellig Ring to Kenmare

Explore the breathtaking Skellig Ring driving route before heading for an Irish-speaking Gaeltacht are in Cork.

  • Stand in awe at the spectacular Kerry Cliffs (Fee Inlcuded)
  • Visit Derrynane House or take a stroll on one of Ireland’s most pristine beaches.
  • Savour free time to stroll the heritage town of Kenmare.

Accommodation tonight is at The Coachman's Townhouse.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Singer with violinist in pub in Ireland
Did we mention even MORE music?
Wander the quaint streets of Kenmare in Kerry

Day 7: Cork City & Blarney Castle

Your penultimate day exploring Irish music and culture brings you deeper into county Cork.

  • Kiss the Blarney Stone or amble through the lush landscaped gardens of Blarney Castle (Fee Included).
  • Take a music-centric tour of Cork with a local guide (Fee Included).
  • Check out the live traditional music scene in Cork city and see for yourself if it's the real capital of Ireland, as locals claim.

Accommodation tonight is at River Lee Hotel Cork.

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

Three traditional Irish musical instruments including an accordion, a banjo and a bazouki
Explore the soul of Ireland through its traditional instruments
Blarney Castle tower with blue sky and green gardens in Ireland
Discover the rich history and enchanting charm of Blarney Castle

Day 8: Studio Tour & Rock of Cashel

Before we wave goodbye in Dublin, you'll stop in Tipperary and take a tour of a legendary recording studio.

  • Take a rockin' guided tour of Windmill Lane Studios (Optional Extra).
  • Self-guided tour in and around the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most historic sites (Fee Included).
  • You’ll reach Dublin in your Mercedes tour vehicle around 3pm.

The average driving time today is 4 hours.

Tour Group at Windmill Lane Recording Studios in Dublin
Join us for a behind the scenes tour of the legendary Windmill Lane Studios
Aerial drone shot of the Rock of Cashel in Ireland
Tour the monastic site at the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary
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