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Exploring Ireland with a small group tour offers a cozy and enriching travel experience, perfect for those who love adventure and culture. But what is a small group tour? At Collette, small group tours have an average of only 19 and a maximum of 24 travellers, providing a truly personal and engaging experience.
The smaller size often means the chance to connect with fellow travellers and the opportunity to access certain locations or experiences that may not be accessible to larger groups. In many ways, they offer the best of both worlds between guided travel and independent travel. You get the ease and convenience of a guided tour, with much of the intimacy and personal touch of travelling on your own.
A small group tour of Ireland with Collette means stays in more boutique accommodations, experiences like home-hosted meals, and the chance to explore hidden gems along the way. And in a place like Ireland, with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and ancient buildings and castles, small group tours provide an intimate and immersive way to discover the country’s charm and beauty.
Here are four of the top benefits of our small group tours in Ireland.
Top Four Advantages of Small Group Tours in Ireland
1. Ease of Transportation
Navigating Ireland's picturesque landscapes and charming towns can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. The country's winding roads and rural paths, while beautiful, can be tricky to traverse without local knowledge. Small group tours eliminate this hassle, offering convenient and often regionally-unique transportation with an expert guide by your side. Whether you're travelling by cozy minibuses designed for intimate groups or hopping on a private coach, the logistics are handled for you, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
With the ease of transportation provided by small group tours, you can focus on soaking in the stunning scenery and rich history of Ireland. From the dramatic Cliffs of Moher to the serene lakes of Killarney, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Emerald Isle without worrying about directions or parking. This convenience allows you to make the most of your trip, visiting multiple destinations efficiently and comfortably.
2. Meeting New People
One of the joys of small group tours is the opportunity to connect with like-minded travellers. Sharing experiences with others who share your passion for exploration and adventure can make your journey even more enjoyable. In a small group setting, there are many chances to bond with fellow travellers through shared experiences and common interests.
Travelling with a small group fosters a sense of camaraderie as you explore Ireland’s highlights together. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional Irish meal, hiking along scenic trails, or exploring historical sites, these shared moments often lead to meaningful connections. We’ve received feedback from many travellers who have met on our tours and formed lifelong friendships, and even found future travel partners.
3. Informative Tour Guides
A knowledgeable tour guide can make all the difference in your travel experience. Small group tours feature guides who are experts in their field, offering in-depth insights and fascinating stories about Ireland’s history, culture, and landmarks. At Collette, our guides live in the destinations they tour, bringing a deep, personal connection to each place. They aren’t just point-and-see tour guides; they are storytellers and culture whisperers who help unlock the soul of the place because they are passionate about their homeland.
Whether it’s learning about the legends of the Blarney Stone or the vibrant traditions of Irish music and dance, an informative guide adds immense value to your journey, bringing each location and experience to life. Our guides provide context and understanding that you might miss when travelling alone, making every experience rich and immersive. Their passion and expertise turn your tour into an unforgettable adventure, deeply connecting you with the essence of Ireland.
4. No Planning Required
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a small group tour is the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary. All the details are taken care of, from accommodations and transportation to activities and meals. This means you can relax and enjoy your trip without the stress of planning and organizing.
Having a set itinerary ensures you won't miss out on any of Ireland's must-see attractions. You'll visit iconic sites, enjoy local experiences that may only be accessible with experts like Collette, and have the flexibility to explore at your own pace in your free time. The carefully curated itineraries of small group tours are designed to provide a balanced mix of guided activities and free time, allowing you to make the most of your Irish adventure.
2 Incredible Small Group Tours of Ireland
1. The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way
Experience the beauty and culture of Ireland, where traditions are passed down through generations and reborn in the modern era. Discover Dublin's rich history with a walking tour guided by a local expert. Explore the charming town of Donegal and be enchanted by traditional Irish stories told by a local seanchaí. Enjoy a day on your own in Galway to experience all this lively city has to offer. Discover the breathtaking landscapes, music-filled pubs, and storied past of this rocky isle. Must-see inclusions, such as the ethereal landscape of Giant's Causeway, Derry's political history, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher enrich the journey. Engage with local traditions through activities like hurling or listening to folklore, explore thatched cottages in Glencolmcille, and savour traditional Irish cuisine in Dublin's vibrant dining scene.
2. Countryside of the Emerald Isle
Explore Ireland’s remote islands, historic cities, and charming villages on this captivating tour. Begin in Dublin, Ireland’s spirited capital, and step off the beaten path in Kinsale, known as Ireland’s “gourmet capital.” Overnight on the enchanting Aran Islands, surrounded by a labyrinth of stone walls. Discover the windswept terrain of West Cork’s Wild Atlantic Way and experience the colourful charm of Dingle. Travel through the tranquil countryside and explore the hidden garden island nestled in Bantry Bay. Highlights include cruising beneath the Cliffs of Moher, taking in scenic views along the Wild Atlantic Way, and enjoying an after-hours tour at Christ Church Cathedral. Delight in culinary experiences at the Old Midleton Distillery, savour traditional cuisine at a local restaurant, and enjoy a cheese tasting at an award-winning goat farm. This tour offers a truly immersive journey through Ireland’s scenic coastal routes and cultural treasures.
Collette: Experts in Ireland for Four Decades
Collette’s small group tours provide a unique way to explore Ireland, combining the benefits of guided travel with the intimacy of a small group. With over 100 years of expertise in guided travel and four decades of experience leading tours in Ireland, Collette crafts truly immersive and personal journeys.
Choosing a small group tour with Collette means experiencing the very best of Ireland. It’s about more than just seeing the sights; it’s about truly connecting with the soul of the place, the people, and the culture.
Book Your Ireland Small Group Tour with Collette
Ready to explore Ireland in an intimate and enriching way? Book your small group tour with Collette and discover the unique experiences that await. Our expert guides and carefully curated itineraries await. Join us and experience the magic of a Collette small group tour
