Exploring Ireland’s ancient Celtic roots is a captivating experience, and the Celtic Boyne Valley & Ancient Sites Day Tour from Dublin offers an immersive journey through the country’s rich heritage. Visitors can discover millennia-old passage tombs, the former seat of High Kings, a formidable castle, and a historic monastic site, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable guide. This comprehensive tour promises an enlightening and memorable day, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Ireland’s remarkable past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the Emerald Isle’s captivating legacy, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Dublin explores the Celtic Boyne Valley, visiting 6,000-year-old passage tombs at Loughcrew and the historic Hill of Tara.
- The tour includes a guided exploration of the impressive Trim Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Anglo-Norman castles.
- Complimentary amenities such as air-conditioned transportation, Wi-Fi, and lunch are provided to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
- The tour starts and ends at the convenient Molly Malone Statue in Dublin, with punctual transportation crucial for the full itinerary.
- Additional highlights include the ancient monastic site of Fore Abbey, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
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Tour Overview
This full-day tour from Dublin takes visitors on a journey through the Celtic Boyne Valley, providing the opportunity to explore some of Ireland’s oldest and most historically significant sites.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, guests will visit the 6,000-year-old passage tombs at Loughcrew, where ancient artwork is carved into the stones.
The tour also includes a stop at the Hill of Tara, the former seat of the High Kings of Ireland, which boasts a rich history spanning over 1,000 years.
Travelers will also explore the impressive Trim Castle, one of the best-preserved Anglo-Norman castles in the country.
Throughout the day, guests will enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with USB ports and complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as a provided lunch.
Included Amenities
The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with USB ports, allowing travelers to charge their devices throughout the journey.
A knowledgeable driver-guide accompanies the group, providing round-trip transportation from Dublin.
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board ensures passengers can stay connected during the excursion.
Plus, the tour fee covers a provided lunch and entry to Trim Castle, one of the highlights of the itinerary.
This comprehensive package allows visitors to fully enjoy the Celtic history and culture of the Boyne Valley without worrying about logistics or additional expenses.
The included amenities contribute to a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Meeting & Pickup
The tour’s meeting point is the Molly Malone Statue in Dublin, where participants should arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The tour ends at the same location, the Molly Malone Statue in Dublin. This ensures a smooth start and end to the day’s activities.
Travelers will be picked up and dropped off at this central meeting point, making it convenient for those joining the tour from various parts of Dublin.
The driver/guide will be there to greet everyone and ensure a comfortable and organized start to the Celtic Boyne Valley and Ancient Sites Day Tour.
Punctuality is essential, as the tour has a full itinerary to cover during the day.
Itinerary
The tour’s comprehensive itinerary takes visitors on a journey through some of Ireland’s most captivating ancient sites.
First, they’ll explore the Hill of Tara, where the High Kings of Ireland ruled over a millennium ago.
Next, the group will travel to the impressive Trim Castle, one of the best-preserved Norman castles in the country.
Afterwards, they’ll visit the Loughcrew Cairns, an ancient passage tomb complex featuring 6,000-year-old artwork.
The final destination is Fore Abbey, a religious site with a rich and storied history.
This carefully curated itinerary allows travelers to enjoy Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and discover the country’s fascinating history.
Hill of Tara
From the impressive Trim Castle, the tour moves on to explore the Hill of Tara, a site of great historical significance in Ireland. This ancient hilltop was the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Visitors can wander the grounds, taking in the panoramic views and learning about the site’s rich cultural heritage. The Hill of Tara features several noteworthy landmarks, including the Stone of Destiny, where the inauguration of the High Kings took place.
| Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| Stone of Destiny | Where High Kings were inaugurated |
| Royal Seat | Site of the seat of the High Kings of Ireland |
| Mounds and Earthworks | Remnants of ancient ceremonial and religious structures |
| St. Patrick’s Church | A 5th-century church built on the hill |
| Lia Fáil | The "Stone of Destiny" used in the inauguration ceremonies |
Trim Castle
After visiting the impressive Hill of Tara, the tour moves on to explore Trim Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Anglo-Norman castles.
Built in the 12th century, this majestic structure stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at its imposing walls, towers, and gatehouses, which have withstood the test of time.
The tour includes:
- A guided exploration of the castle’s interior, where visitors can learn about its architectural features and the lives of its former inhabitants.
- A chance to admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s battlements.
- An opportunity to visit the adjacent Trim Castle keep, a well-preserved example of medieval fortification.
Loughcrew Cairns
Next, the tour heads to the captivating Loughcrew Cairns, a collection of ancient passage tombs dating back over 6,000 years. Perched atop the Sliabh na Caillí hills, these megalithic structures offer a glimpse into Ireland’s Neolithic past and feature intricate carvings that continue to fascinate visitors.
| Feature | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Over 6,000 years old | Among the oldest passage tombs in Ireland |
| Location | Sliabh na Caillí hills | Commanding views of the surrounding landscape |
| Carvings | Intricate Neolithic art | Offer insights into the beliefs and practices of ancient Irish people |
Exploring the Loughcrew Cairns provides a unique opportunity to connect with Ireland’s rich archaeological heritage and appreciate the enduring mysteries of its distant past.
Fore Abbey
The tour then proceeds to Fore Abbey, a renowned monastic site that dates back to the 7th century. Nestled in the scenic Westmeath countryside, Fore Abbey boasts a rich history and well-preserved architectural features that offer visitors a glimpse into medieval monastic life in Ireland.
Highlights of the site include the unique Fore Abbey Holy Well, which is said to have been blessed by Saint Fechin, the founder of the monastery.
Visitors can explore the remains of the abbey’s church, which features ornate Romanesque carvings and a magnificent west doorway.
The site also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a picturesque and captivating stop on the Celtic Boyne Valley tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour accommodates infants, who must sit on laps. There is no minimum age requirement, allowing families with young children to participate. However, stroller accessibility suggests the tour may not be suitable for very young babies.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed full-day itinerary. Customers can’t add extra time or modify the schedule. The tour operator doesn’t offer any extension options for this tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours. However, it’s best to check the tour’s specific policies, as some may provide meals or have restrictions on outside food and beverages.
Is There a Discount for Students or Senior Citizens?
The tour operator generally offers discounts for students and seniors, but the specific discount amounts may vary. It’s best to check with the operator directly at the time of booking to inquire about any applicable discounts.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
For this type of tour, travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera to capture the ancient sites, sun protection, and any necessary medications or snacks. Dressing in layers is also recommended for the day’s activities.
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Recap
The Celtic Boyne Valley & Ancient Sites Day Tour from Dublin offers an immersive journey through Ireland’s storied past.
Travelers will explore iconic landmarks like the Hill of Tara, Trim Castle, Loughcrew Cairns, and Fore Abbey, guided by a knowledgeable driver.
With comfortable transportation, complimentary amenities, and a provided lunch, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience exploring these renowned historical sites.