Máirtín your Guide

JEEPERS! A Tour of the Coast & Countryside of Ireland with Máirtín de Cógáin!
*LAND ONLY

Here it is, the tentative itinerary for YOUR Tour of the Coast and Countryside of Ireland with Máirtín! (subject to changes, with comparable and equitable substitutions) come back for more details as things are confirmed.

Wednesday September 24th

Day 1 – Overnight in Roscommon Town Abbey Hotel

Here we will be the start of an absolutely grand adventure through the hidden heartland of Ireland! Gather in Dublin City Centre, where our ever-cheerful host Máirtín de Cógáin and our jolly driver will be ready to whisk you away on a seven-day escapade across the Emerald Isle in our luxury coach.

Today we will journey northwest along the famine trail to the National Famine Museum and Strokestown Park House & Gardens. This splendid Georgian Palladian mansion, built by Thomas Mahon, MP, is a shining example of the grandeur of its era. Juxtapositioning the haves and have nots of the 1840’s. It’s like stepping into a time machine and getting a glimpse of the opulence of old Ireland. 

Then it’s off to the charming town of Roscommon, where we’ll be bunking down for the first two nights at The Abbey Hotel. This is a charming 18th Century Castle Style Manor House Hotel, set idyllically on its own private grounds. The Hotel boasts 51 beautifully appointed bedrooms, a pool and leisure centre. They were voted by Tripadvisor in the 2020 Travellers Choice Award! 

Wrap up your day with a delicious group dinner at the hotel, followed by a performance with Máirtín and a maybe a local friend to come in to play for us all. He’ll have you tapping your toes and clapping along to some of the finest tunes Ireland has to offer.

So buckle up and get ready for a whirlwind of beauty, history, and hearty Irish hospitality. Let the adventure begin!

Thursday September 25th

Day 2 – Overnight in Roscommon Town Abbey Hotel

Well, folks, brace yourselves for another day of Irish magic! After a hearty breakfast that’ll put a spring in your step, we’re off to explore the legendary Rathcroghan, or Cruachan Aí, the Ancient Capital of Connacht. This is where Queen Meabh once reigned and where Samhain—yep, that’s Halloween to you and me—first took root. It’s the grandest, oldest unexcavated Royal Site in all of Europe, so get ready to dive into its rich tapestry of archaeology, mythology, and history with some top-notch interpretive rooms and guided tours.

On our way back the road we will stop at St. Patrick’s first monastery and try to move the stone that Oisín tried to move when he came back from Tír na nÓg at Tulsk.

After lunch, we’re off to Clonmacnoise, a ruined monastery set on the banks of the River Shannon in County Offaly. Founded in 544 by Saint Ciarán, a local lad from Rathcroghan, it’s a serene spot with a fascinating history and stunning views.

Next, we’re heading south along the River Shannon to the lively town of Athlone, where a pit stop at Seán’s Bar awaits. Now, this isn’t just any bar—it’s reputed to have been serving pints since AD 900, making it the oldest bar in Ireland and Europe! Here, you’ll hear the tale of the very first recorded ingredients for Irish whiskey.

To top off the day, you’ll have the chance to take a sail up the river on a Viking boat—just like the raiders who once ransacked these ancient monasteries. And when we return to Roscommon, dinner’s on you! Explore the town and discover its culinary treasures and lively entertainment. If you’re up for some more fun, there’s a cracking session at JJ Harlow’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from your lodgings.

So let’s dive into another day of Irish wonder and merriment!

Friday September 26th
Day 3 – Overnight in Lahinch

Get ready for another thrilling day of Irish adventures! After we’ve all had our breakfast and gathered our things in the lobby, it’s time to hit the road. Our swanky luxury coach is ready to whisk us off to the vibrant city of Galway—where you’ll be dazzled by centuries of stunning architecture and a rich blend of cultures.

Once we arrive, our friendly guide will lead us on a whirlwind tour of Galway’s historic sites. After that, you’ll have some free time to grab a bite on your own, do a bit of shopping, or just wander through the charming streets of the City of the Tribes. Make sure to take in the local vibes and maybe pick up a little souvenir or two!

We’ll regroup at the Kinlay Hostel at the bottom of Eyre Square and continue our epic journey along The Wild Atlantic Way. Our next stop is the picturesque town of Ballyvaughan, where we’ll pop into O’Loclainn’s, a family-run pub and whiskey bar with a legacy spanning six generations. Margaret will greet us with an Irish Coffee or a nice hot cúpán tae to get us ready for the Burren Trail which our guide will be waiting to take us on. The Burren is a karst landscape of bedrock incorporating a vast cracked pavement of glacial-era limestone, with cliffs and caves, fossils, rock formations and archaeological sites. 

Tonight, we’ll be settling into the Lahinch Coast Hotel, a lovely four-star spot right on the coast in Lahinch, County Clare. The hotel’s got a Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool, but that’s not all—during the lockdown, some cheeky fairies decided to move in! You’ll find fairy doors and fairy fun all around the hotel, adding a magical touch to your stay.

We’ll gather for a delicious group dinner, and the music will soon follow in on top of us. Sit back, relax, and soak in the unforgettable sights and sounds of Ireland’s beauty and culture. It’s going to be a day full of laughter, discovery, and memories to cherish forever!

Saturday September 27th
Day 4 – Overnight in Lahinch

Be ready to unwind and soak in the tranquil beauty of today’s itinerary! We’ll start with a leisurely jaunt along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, heading towards the charming town of Doolin. Once we arrive, we’ll hop aboard a boat that’s all set to whisk us away to Inis Oirr—better known as Inisheer, the smallest of the three Aran Islands.

Inis Oirr itself is a picture-perfect snapshot of a traditional, secluded fishing village. When we dock, you’ll step onto a pristine, sandy beach with sparkling turquoise waters. The scene is straight out of a storybook, with fishing boats bobbing in the gentle waves and fishermen returning with their day’s haul.

Take your time to explore this serene island and grab a bite to eat—whether you fancy some local seafood or a cozy café lunch, the choice is yours. After our island adventure, we’ll sail eastward again for a spectacular view of the Cliffs of Moher from the sea. Seeing these majestic cliffs from the water is an experience you won’t soon forget!

When we return to the mainland, you’ll have the evening to yourself. Take a stroll along the beach, jump in the pool or put your feet up with a book. Feel free to enjoy dinner at your leisure—there are plenty of delightful spots in town to try or stay within the hotel. Mass is at 6:30pm and only 1 minute walk away from the hotel. Let Máirtín know if you need to arrange confession.

So, get ready for a day filled with breathtaking views, charming local scenes, and the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Enjoy every moment, and let the magic of Ireland continue to enchant you!

Sunday September 28th
Day 5 – Overnight in Kilkenny

Be rested and ready for a day packed with castles, tales, and a sprinkle of Irish charm! Start your day with a hearty breakfast that’ll fuel your adventures, then grab your bags and head to the lobby. It’s time for a grand castle-hopping expedition!

First up, we’re off to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a true gem of medieval Ireland. This magnificent castle dates back to the 15th century and stands proudly in the heart of County Clare. Here, you’ll wander through the castle’s storied rooms and explore the surrounding Folk Park, where traditional Irish cottages and costumed characters bring history to life.

After soaking in all that castle grandeur, we’ll make a stop at Durty Nelly’s, a legendary pub right by the castle. Here, you’ll have some free time for lunch. Grab a bite and maybe a pint, and soak up the lively atmosphere of this historic watering hole.

We’ll enjoy a delightful group dinner at Hotel Kilkenny, a 4 star resort with pool and fitness center. Afterward, settle in for a night of enchanting storytelling by Máirtín. He’ll regale us with tales of Irish folklore and legend, making the evening as magical as the day has been.

So, put on your adventure hats and get ready for a day of medieval marvels, hearty fare, and captivating stories. This is going to be another day to remember!
Kilkenny is a fantastic city. A vibrant city with an amazing historic heart. Ireland’s Medieval Capital. Kilkenny offers superb shops, restaurants and night life. The County of Kilkenny is equally as important with great villages, walks, historic sites and superb things to do!

Monday September 29th
Day 6 – Overnight in Hotel Kilkenny

Get ready for an enchanting day in the heart of medieval Ireland as we explore the captivating old town of Kilkenny City! Our day will be brimming with history, culture, and a touch of music.

We’ll begin by heading into Kilkenny City, a true medieval treasure. We will begin with a Tour of St. Canice Cathedral with a viewing of the Red Book of Ossory where in 1324 the oldest written recipe in the world of Aqua Vitae was put on velum. It is from this we have our Irish Whiskey today. After that you’ll have some free time to stroll through its charming streets, visit local shops, or simply immerse yourself in the town’s rich history, maybe take a guided tour of the majestic Kilkenny Castle. 

Next, we’ll make our way to a nearby country pub for some traditional Irish craic. There, you’ll also get a chance to learn about Gaelic Games, particularly hurling, Ireland’s beloved sport. Be sure to place your drink order before we leave so it’s ready when we return—this round is courtesy of Máirtín!

As evening descends, we’ll head back to the hotel or return to town to find dinner for the night. To cap off the night music will be found in town.

Prepare for a day filled with vivid history, fine dining, and unforgettable music. Kilkenny promises memories you’ll treasure long after the journey ends!

Tuesday September, 30th
Day 7 – Overnight at the Hilton Dublin Airport Hotel

Ah, the final day of our grand Irish adventure has arrived! But fear not—today is all about winding down and savoring our last moments together.

We’ll be hitting the road for our next adventure. Our first stop is the Newbridge Silverware factory, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Ireland’s finest silver craftsmanship. After the tour, you’ll have some free time for lunch on your own—explore the local dining options and maybe pick up a shiny souvenir!

Once we’ve all gathered back on the bus, we’ll head into Dublin City. As the day winds down, we’ll check into the Hilton Dublin Airport Hotel, our home for the final night of our journey. Be sure to book a taxi for your early morning departure to Dublin Airport, so your travel the next day goes off without a hitch.

In the evening, we’ll come together for a final supper at the hotel. And to wrap up our Irish escapade. We’ll reflect on the wonderful memories we’ve made and the friendships we’ve forged, celebrating the magic of our time together in the Emerald Isle.

So, let’s savor every moment of our last day, cherish the camaraderie, and bid a fond farewell to this enchanting land we’ve had the pleasure of exploring together. Sláinte to each and every one of you!

—————————————

About Máirtín –  Máirtín is a singing, dancing, story-telling bodhrán player who also is a noted playwright and actor.  He performs in his native Ireland and all over the U.S…. and between and beyond, too!

An infectious personality, Máirtín pleasantly commands the attention of any collection of people, from a concert hall to an intimate porch.  Descended from a long line of storytellers and with two CCÉ All-Ireland’s for Storytelling under his belt, Máirtín gets no more joy out of life than the telling of stories.

When touring the globe with The Máirtín de Cógáin Project, The Fuchsia Band, & Gailfean, Máirtín is also a true promoter of the Ballad.  He is searching ever for those forgotten songs of old to give them new life, and also writes some of his own.  Máirtín learnt from many famous Irish singers such as Danni Maichi Ua Súilleabháin, Séamus Mac Mathúna, and Ciarán Dwyer. A fluent speaker of Irish, his love of the ‘Teanga na Gael‘ stems from his parents, who brought him up in a bilingual house and sent him to primary & secondary schools taught in the medium of Irish.  Máirtín then earned a Degree in the Irish language from University College Cork.

If not on stage singing, storytelling, dancing, or playing the bodhrán, Máirtín is threading the boards as an actor, most notably in the film The Wind that Shakes the Barley.  He has co-written many productions with the Be Your Own Banana Theatre Company, recently playing De Bogman off-broadway in NY.

Máirtín has been playing the bodhrán for a long many moons, learning first from Eric Cunningham (The New De Danann) and later from Colm Murphy (The Old De Danann).

Growing up in a house full of dancing, Máirtín could not but help teach the steps at the family run Céilís from an early age, and a gifted teacher of Cork’s folk dances he is.  Máirtín makes friends wherever he goes.  In a very short time, Máirtín, the Fuchsia Band, and the “Project” have made themselves regulars at some of the most prestigious Irish festivals in the U.S. While now living in San Diego, he has taken up Sanke Charming & Bird Watching while not on the road and hopes one day for A Big Year!

And now, Máirtín is proud to offer this special tour of Ireland!  We hope you are able to join us for what is sure to be a grand event!

ONLY 30 SPOTS ON THIS TOUR!

FIRST COME, FIRST RESERVED!  HOW TO BOOK YOUR SPOT:

1.    Contact Máirtín by email at travel@mairtinmusic.com – This only PROVISIONALLY holds your spot.  Spots will be provisionally held in the order in which they are received by emails to Máirtín.
2.    Once you have paid your deposit by check or credit card, your reservation(s) is (are) at that time CONFIRMED and will be held for you pending your balance payment on June 1st 2025.
3.    After your deposit is received by Máirtín Music, you will receive an email from Máirtín welcoming you to the group.

Note: All Payments are to be made to:
Máirtín Music
PO BOX 1811
Poway, CA 92074

Deposit payments and payments on balance are non-refundable upon cancellation, unless another person can be found to buy your tour package.

IMPORTANT: We at Máirtín Music HIGHLY RECOMMEND the purchase of a comprehensive Travel Insurance policy through a travel agency or insurance carrier of your choosing, in the event that you must cancel or interrupt your trip. In the event of a cancellation, Máirtín Music will attempt to refund a portion of payments made to them, but cannot guarantee any return, as these funds have already been guaranteed to other service providers (hotels, restaurants, transportation, attractions, and sites).

Price of $3,299.00 per person is based on double occupancy, either twin beds or full sized bed.

Any further questions, contact:
Máirtín de Cógáin
Máirtín Music
+1-310-447-4839
If you have questions call anytime just be sure to leave a message or send a text, I’m on California time
Travel@mairtinmusic.com
www.MairtinMusic.com