Spiritual Paths – Ancient Myths
in The Heart of Ireland
Crossroads between the Worlds
In central Ireland, known as the ‘The Midlands’, many places bear witness to the rituals of the ancient Celtic druids and the early Christian influences that followed. This is a magical landscape which has inspired innumerable Irish artists and writers.
Observe the day unfold from Lough Lugh, The Catstone, The Royal Palace or even from St. Patricks Bed (The Summit), a 5,000-year-old megalithic tomb, where the astonishing view on a clear day encompasses almost all of Ireland with up to twenty counties being visible.
The Hill of Uisneach is the ancient spiritual centre of Ireland. This is where spectacular fire festivals took place to welcome the seasons and appease the gods. Walk in the footsteps of druids and kings on an hour-long guided tour around this spectacular site with breath-taking panoramic views.
At lunchtime we stop in the town of Moate on the Cloghatanny River. Originally a Norman fortress, Moate evolved into an important market town and has a strong Quaker heritage. Beside a variety of different shops, you may enjoy a lighter or more substantial lunch in one of Moate’s famous traditional pubs. One of these, ‘The Gap House’ was described by Kevin Troy in his book By Hooker or by Crooker: Tales of Amusement and Despair as “a jovial local, full of all walks of life . . . in the heartland of this great country lies this gem. A true philosopher’s goldmine”.
Our tour will lead us from Moate to Clonmacnoise, a place where people say “Time stands still”. This monastic site on the banks of the River Shannon is home to three high crosses, a cathedral, seven churches and two round towers. Founded by St. Ciarán in 544 AD, Clonmacnoise soon became a major centre of education, craftsmanship and trade. Closely associated with the Kings of the West of Ireland (or Connaught) until the 9th century, it is also the resting place of many High Kings of Tara.
After a guided walk through the atmospheric monastery ruins you will have some time to explore this impressive site on your own and enjoy refreshments in the visitor center cafe.
For whom is this tour suitable?
Everyone interested in the spiritual evolution of Ireland, especially the crossover from Paganism to Christianity and the development of the early Church.
Walking recommendations:
Generally all paths are manageable for all levels of walker. The guided walks on this tour are on both solid and unpaved pathways. Steeper and more uneven paths can be experienced on your own during free time. We highly recommend suitable sturdy footwear for best enjoyment of this day.
Included
- Tour duration of approximately 8 hours
- Spacious, fully air-conditioned coach
- Live on-board commentary in English by an Irish Tourist Board approved, fully insured Tourist Guide
- Complementary WiFi on board
- Entrance fees to all sites
- Guiding on the sites by qualified local guides
Excluded
- Lunch and all refreshments are at your own expense
Good to Know
- Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended
- Generally tours will run with a minimum of 20 persons and a maximum of 40
- Travel times between stops will be between 45 and 90 minutes. We do not anticipate additional comfort stops being necessary
- The coach will be white and have the name ‘Sillan’ in red on the front, back and sides.
- As we must always keep to schedule, guests should be at the arranged meeting point at least 15 minutes before the designated departure time. No refunds can be given for no-shows.
Pick ups
Gresham Hotel, O’Connell Street 08.30
Shelbourne Hotel, Stephen’s Green 08.45
Mespil Hotel, Grand Canal, Mespil Road 09.00
Return to Dublin.
Approximate Times
Mespil Hotel 17.30
Shelbourne Hotel 17.45
Gresham Hotel 18.00
€ 65
Children under 14 and students with a valid ID card will be given €5 back as they board the coach.
