An Introduction to IRISH ARCHEOLOGY
Walk in the footsteps of your ancestors!
DAY-DAY, MONTH 2026
Hosted + Guided by one of Ireland's foremost Archeologists...
Experience Ireland’s Ancient Past with a Leading Archaeologist. Embark on an exclusive archaeological journey through Ireland, guided by one of the nation’s top archaeologists. This immersive experience offers insight into iconic sites like Newgrange, the Hill of Tara, and rare access to lesser-known hidden gems scattered across the Irish landscape. Gain firsthand insight into prehistoric tombs, Celtic mythology, and early Christian history, all while learning directly from a seasoned expert who brings ancient Ireland vividly to life through factual storytelling, field interpretation, and deep cultural knowledge. Perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone seeking a deeper connection with Ireland’s rich and mysterious past.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
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Private coach with professional driver
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Dedicated local archeologist / historian / guide
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8 nights accommodation
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Full Irish breakfast each morning and 6 group dinners
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Archeological lectures
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Archeological site visits
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Entrance fees into historic sites
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Entrance fees into scheduled events
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ADDITIONAL NIGHTS IN DUBLIN CAN BE ARRANGED BEFORE OR AFTER THE TOUR - ask us about special deals!
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Visit the beautiful, historic sites of Ireland!
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Spend close-up time with fellow like-minded guests in a most unique setting, in one of the most beautiful and friendly countries in the world!
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Sample Irish music and experience traditional Irish sessions in quaint Irish listening venues!
MEET - Joe McCooey -
Our resident Archeologist, Historical Advisor + Guide
Joe is highly regarded as one of Ireland's foremost archeologists. Archaeology has always been his passion, along with his huge interest in local history. He has extensive knowledge of areas not on standard tourism routes, which are hidden gems and reflective of true Irish life over the centuries.
Joe is interested and passionate about the need to preserve monuments for future generations and to regenerate community interest in and support for monuments and buildings of archaeological and historical importance.
He has undertaken the major long-term project of restoring the ruin of the medieval Killilagh Church in the Doolin area, to restore and to stop further deterioration in the condition of the fabric of the building, on a phased basis. He is also working on a graveyard survey at Killilagh and aims to link Doolin with the Irish diaspora in the USA
FAQs:
DO I HAVE TO BE AN ARCHEOLOGIST TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS TOUR?
Absolutely not! All are welcome - spouses, partners, friends, travel enthusiasts etc! This is an enjoyable tour of Ireland, visiting many historical sites. The tour will include time for sightseeing, shopping, attending history talks, sampling archeological digs and many other activities!
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS ARCHEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION?
LALALALA. and LA.
Students and avid explorers will be given extra challenges!
WILL THERE BE IRISH MUSIC SESSIONS?
Yes!
You'll have opportunities to attend (and participate if you wish) in Irish music sessions along the way.
WHAT IF I WANT TO EXTEND MY TRIP IN IRELAND?
We are happy to arrange additional nights in Dublin (or elsewhere in the country) for you, for before or after the tour! Just ask us for further details.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED?
No. Since many people these days prefer to select their chosen airline / flight routing, and also choose to add extra days in Ireland before or after the tour, this is a land-only package. We're happy to refer you to an American based agency who can assist you with the flights if you require.
TENTATIVE ITINERARY
(subject to change)
8 nights / 9 days in Ireland
Depart from your chosen location (if coming from North America, this will require an overnight flight)!
Next day, arrive in Ireland
DAY1 OF TOUR:
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Arrive in Dublin Airport – Meet and greet your archeological guide, board our coach and head northwest to the Boyne Valley,stopping along the way to view some historic sites.
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We will visit Trim Castle - the largest and best preserved Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Few places in Ireland contain more medieval buildings than this heritage town. Trim gets its name from the Irish, ‘Baile Atha Troim’, which means ‘Town of the Ford of the Elder Trees’, indicating that this was an important fording point on the River Boyne.
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Before re-boarding the bus, there’s time to shop at Trim’s local craft shop.
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Check into our hotel (stay 3 nights) and relax before dinner. Tonight, after dinner, we will be briefed on the local history.
DAY2 (xxxxx)
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After breakfast, we explore the Boyne Valley Region.
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Subject to scheduling + availability, we will visit Newgrange - a prehistoric monument located on a rise overlooking the River Boyne, It is an exceptionally grand passage tomb built during the Neolithic Period, around 3200 BC, making it older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids!
DAY3 (xxxxx)
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After breakfast, ..... TBC by Joe.
DAY4 (xxxxx)
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After a well-prepared breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head ..... TBC by Joe
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Accommodation: TBC (2 or 3 nights)
DAY5 (xxxxx)
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TBC by Joe...
DAY6 (xxxxx)
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TBC by Joe.....
DAY 7 (xxxxx)
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TBC by Joe...
DAY8 (xxxxx)
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Last night.....TBC by Joe...
DAY9 (xxxxx)
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Final morning to start the day with a full Irish breakfast , then check out of the hotel and we say goodbye until next time….!
CUSTOMARY GRATUITIES FOR TOUR GUIDE AND DRIVER NOT INCLUDED.
FURTHER DETAILS TO FOLLOW!
THIS IS A LAND PACKAGE ONLY.
FLIGHTS/ AIRFARE NOT INCLUDED.
TOUR BEGINS AND ENDS IN DUBLIN <coach picks up on first morning of tour at arrivals hall in Dublin Airport and finishes up in Dublin at end of tour>
Price quoted in Euros. Due to currency fluctuation, the dollar amount is not guaranteed and is subject to change until time of final payment.
Deposits are non-refundable. Final payments will be non-refundable within 120 days of start of programme.. It is advisable for participants to secure their own travel/health insurance in the event of illness or cancellation. IATW reserves the right to alter or change any and all details of this trip as necessary. /
Further information at
IrelandAlongTheWay@gmail.com PH: 615-955-4575
