We are hoping to visit in May (first trip, 3 adults) for a week, mostly hitting Wild Atlantic Way. For past trips to Europe, I've planned and booked everything direct using Steve's guides. But older and busier now, so want someone else to handle all arrangements and transport BUT we want very small group or private. Contacted AAA who had only 3 companies and their group tours were 40+ people and had very "touristy" stops and lodgings. I came across Essential Ireland Tours which seems to be run by current/former Rick Steve's guide. But I can't find much info on them other than their own site (for reviews). Any experience? BTW - I did check Rick's tours but timing doesn't work out. Thank you.
Posted by
Green Bay
20301 posts
I have friends who swear by Insight Tours. Smaller groups, along the lines of RS with excellent guides. Here is one.
https://www.insightvacations.com/en-us/tours/irish-elegance?optionId=324
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
14112 posts
That's Stephen McPhilemy's company. He's a long-time RS guide and knows Ireland. He has a couple of B&Bs in Dingle Town. Looks like the North Atlantic Way tour stays at Milltown House which is his first acquisition. (got a tour when he was still re-doing it!)
I had Stephen for an RS guide on the Best of Ireland tour. He's a great story-teller and had me laughing until I cried every day on the bus. He's very knowledgeable and certainly understands what US-based tourists want in a tour.
I have not done one of his tours though.
Posted by
Missouri, USA and Essex, UK.
998 posts
https://vagabondtoursofireland.com/ is a good company. The Driftwood tours are less adventurous than their Vagabond tours. We had an excellent small group tour, great hotels, and experienced guides. Just need to make your way to Dublin a few days before the tour picks you up there. They are pretty reasonably priced also.