Travelers seeking a unique blend of nature, history, and folklore will find this tour in County Wexford an unforgettable experience. Led by Lorraine O’Dwyer, an 8th generation Wise Woman and storyteller, this 2.5-hour walk isn’t just about wandering through a forest—it’s about connecting with Ireland’s ancient pagan roots, learning traditional skills, and tasting the land’s medicinal treasures.
What makes this tour special? First, the opportunity to walk through Courtown Woods, one of Ireland’s very few remaining native ancient woodlands—a rare glimpse into a landscape that has witnessed millennia of Celtic, Viking, and Gaelic history. Second, the chance to learn simple bushcraft skills and even try your hand at writing in Ogham, the ancient Irish script, using berry ink—a craft that links you directly to medieval monks and their ink pots.
A possible drawback is the tour’s focus on myth and tradition over modern practicality—so if you’re simply after a nature walk without historical storytelling or hands-on crafting, this might not be your best fit. Also, be prepared for the weather, as the walk is outdoors and requires sensible clothing. This experience suits those curious about Irish history, lovers of nature, and anyone interested in a storytelling style that brings Ireland’s past vividly to life.
Key Points
- Authentic woodland experience in one of Ireland’s rare native ancient forests
- Interactive activities including making ink, tasting medicinal plants, and writing in Ogham
- Storytelling of Celtic legends, goddess worship, and Iron Age laws that deepen your understanding of Irish heritage
- Hands-on bushcraft skills with simple, fun techniques
- Insight into the secret world of trees and their communication networks
- Value for money with included drinks, keepsakes, and craft experiences
A Natural Walk into Ireland’s Mythic Past
This tour takes you into Courtown Woods, an environment that’s not just a pretty backdrop but a living relic of Ireland’s distant past. As one of only 0.01% of ancient native woodlands left standing, it’s a place where every tree and plant feels like a portal to centuries of stories and rituals. Walking here, you’ll get a sense of what Ireland might once have looked like—wilder, more interconnected, and deeply spiritual.
Guided by Lorraine, the tour feels as much like visiting a knowledgeable friend as it does a professionally led experience. Her background as an 8th generation Wise Woman adds depth and authenticity, making it clear she lives and breathes these traditions. She shares stories of Celtic Earth Worship and ancient festivals honoring Eirú, the Goddess who gave Ireland its name, grounding the walk in history and myth.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Wexford.
Exploring Ancient Laws and Nature’s Secrets
The journey doesn’t shy away from Ireland’s Iron Age laws—like the intriguing fact that a human was considered worth less than an oak tree by ancient tribes. It’s a stark reminder of how different perceptions of value and nature once were, and makes you consider how we treat the environment today.
Throughout the walk, you’ll learn about why holly is brought indoors, the significance of Yew trees in churchyards, and the magical reputation of Elder. These insights connect you to centuries of Irish customs, many of which persist in modern traditions, and give you practical knowledge you can carry into your own home and garden.
Tasting and Making: Connecting with Plants
One of the highlights is finding and tasting seasonal medicinal plants. Lorraine’s explanations of their traditional uses—such as remedies for colds, viruses, or hangovers—embody Ireland’s long history of herbal medicine. You might even hear about a natural alternative to Botox, making this a surprisingly practical component.
The tasting experience is complemented by making soap from leaves, a playful activity that underscores Ireland’s resourcefulness. The tour’s emphasis on medicinal and edible plants provides a gentle, accessible way to reconnect with nature’s pharmacy.
The Secret World of Trees
When reaching the Mother Tree, the tour turns into a fascinating lesson about how trees communicate, create communities, and defend themselves. Seeing examples of the Mycelium Network—the forest’s underground communication system—can be eye-opening, transforming how you see trees on every walk after.
This part of the experience appeals to those curious about ecology and woodland dynamics, emphasizing that the forest is a living, connected world rather than just a collection of individual trees.
More Great Tours NearbyCrafting in the Forest
Using willow quills and berry inks, you’ll write your name or draw a picture in Ogham, Ireland’s ancient script. It’s a hands-on activity that brings history into your fingers and mind. The inks are made with the same methods used by medieval monks, adding a tangible link to Ireland’s scholarly and spiritual past.
If you’re a writer, artist, or history buff, this segment offers a memorable way to engage with Ireland’s rich symbolism and storytelling traditions.
Practical Details and Value
This tour is priced to be accessible, with included keepsakes like a name in berry ink on high-quality paper and a bottle of Sparkling Nettle Drink—a local craft produced by an award-winning food maker. The duration of 2.5 hours feels just right—long enough to immerse yourself without feeling rushed.
Meeting at a simple carpark ensures easy access, and the walk is wheelchair accessible—though there may be slight route variations on return to avoid mud, so it’s worth informing the organizers if you have mobility concerns.
Participants are advised to wear sensible outdoor clothing and comfortable shoes, and to bring their curiosity and a sense of adventure. There are no toilet facilities on site, so plan accordingly before setting out.
The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours and reserve now, pay later options makes this experience practical for travelers with unpredictable plans.
Authentic and Engaging Experience
Previous reviews praise the depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling, describing the walk as “not just a stroll but a journey into Ireland’s soul.” Many mention the value for money, especially with the inclusion of craft materials and drinks. The small group size ensures a personal experience, with ample opportunity for questions and conversation.
While some noted that weather can be unpredictable, Lorraine provides optional shoe covers for wet days, making sure the experience remains comfortable regardless of Irish weather.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a meaningful connection to Irish traditions. It’s especially suited for those interested in Celtic mythology, environmental ecology, and traditional crafts. Because children under 7 aren’t recommended, it’s best for families with older kids or adults looking for a quiet, contemplative outing.
This woodland walk in Wexford offers far more than just a nature experience. It’s a journey into Ireland’s spiritual landscape, filled with stories, hands-on activities, and insights that will alter how you see trees, plants, and folklore forever. The combination of authentic storytelling, practical skills, and local herbal knowledge makes it an excellent value for anyone eager to explore Ireland’s land and legends in a meaningful way.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious newcomer, this tour promises a memorable blend of education, adventure, and connection to the land. It’s a rare chance to step into an ancient Irish world, guided by someone who lives and breathes its traditions—an experience you’ll carry with you long after you leave the woods.
- How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
- Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, although route adjustments may occur on the return to avoid muddy sections.
- What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, as the walk is entirely outdoors.
- Does the tour include food or drinks?
Yes, you’ll receive a 500ml bottle of Sparkling Nettle Drink and a keepsake of your name written in berry ink.
- Are children under 7 allowed?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 7 years old.
- Do I need to bring anything?
Just your curiosity and sensible outdoor gear; optional shoe covers are provided on wet days.
- What is the environment like?
The walk is in Courtown Woods, an ancient, native woodland with a rich history, full of native trees and medicinal plants.
- Can I book with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Is the experience guided in English?
Yes, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide.
- What if it rains?
The tour goes ahead in most weather conditions; just dress appropriately and take advantage of provided shoe covers if needed.
You can check availability for your dates here: