Celtic Pilgrimage: A Sacred Journey Through Ireland
Ireland’s windswept landscapes and storied ruins whisper the legacy of saints and scholars, inviting the modern pilgrim into a sacred journey of discovery. From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the quiet sanctuaries of Glendalough, the monastic strongholds of Clonmacnoise to the mystical landscapes of the Causeway Coast, this pilgrimage is an exquisite fusion of faith, history, and natural splendor. Join us on an odyssey of the spirit, tracing the footsteps of St. Patrick, St. Brigid, St. Kevin, and St. Columba—where ancient stones and sacred wells speak to the soul, and every moment is steeped in meaning... discovery.
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Pilgrimage Director: Rev. Liz Nau
Liz will prepare the group for this special pilgrimage with pre-departure materials on a dedicated webpage and daily mini-seminars during the tour to enrich you spiritually and intellectually.
Learn More Here
Special Features​​
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Visit to the Book of Kells at Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin
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Guided pilgrimage through Glendalough’s monastic ruins and reflective lakeside walk
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Visit to St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Fire Temple, and Holy Well in Kildare
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Exploration of Clonmacnoise, with its round towers and Cross of the Scriptures
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Journey to Newgrange, Kells, and the Hill of Tara—sites of ancient and Christian significance
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Walking in the footsteps of St. Patrick at Saul Church, Struell Wells, and Down Cathedral
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Visits to Clonard Monastery and East Belfast Mission—centers of faith and reconciliation
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Coastal pilgrimage to the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery
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Reflection on the legacy of St. Columba in Derry/Londonderry, including sacred wells and heritage sites
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Daily moments of prayer, reflection, and shared community throughout the journey
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Tour Package Includes
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9 nights’ accommodations in comfortable, 3–4 star hotels (final hotel names to be confirmed)
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Irish & UK hotel taxes, fees, and service charges
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All transfers included with airfare purchased with package arrival & departure dates
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15 meals: 9 breakfasts & 7 dinners
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Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern motor coach or mini bus in urban area
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Spiritual leadership from Rev. Liz Nau
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Services of an English-speaking tour manager throughout
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Services of expert local guides
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All entrance and excursion fees
Pricing Details
Cleveland Departure
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Tour Cost: $4,799
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Early Bird Special: $4,499 (available through May 16, 2025)
Includes round-trip economy airfare from Cleveland, one checked bag, and one carry-on. -
Pricing is based on double occupancy.
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Single Room Supplement: +$500
Land-Only Package
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Tour Cost: $3,999 (airfare not included)
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Early Bird Special: $3,699 (available through May 16, 2025)
Pricing is based on double occupancy. -
Single Room Supplement: +$500
The Early Bird Special will be applied to the Final Payment.​
Please Note:
Maximum group size is limited to 28 participants. We encourage early registration as tours are likely to sell out.​​​​
Payment deadlines:
1. Deposit due at time of registration
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$1000 / add $500 if joining one of our group flights
2. Installment Payment
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$2000 due by Friday, July 11, 2025
3. Final Balance
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Due by Friday, August 29, 2025
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An individual invoice will be provided based on your selected options and preferences, showing your final balance due.
Grants for those Involved in Ministry and Religious & Theological Studies:
We’re pleased to offer a $300 grant toward the cost of the pilgrimage for:
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Clergy and religious
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Graduate students in theology
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Individuals involved in ministry (e.g., Eucharistic Ministers, Deacons, Pastoral Ministers, DREs, Christian educators, etc.)
This grant is made possible through the generosity of an angel donor and reflects our commitment to supporting those engaged in faith and service.
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To apply the discount:
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Use code A.M.D.G.25 during online registration
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Provide brief details about your role, parish/church involvement, or educational program
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The grant will be applied to your final payment
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What is included?
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Group transfers and all ground transportation
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9 nights' accommodation at 3-4 star hotels in double rooms
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16 meals: 9 breakfasts & 7 dinners; 4 select meals will have wine/beer included
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Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
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Services of local guides
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All Irish and UK city hotel taxes, fees & service charges
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All Entrance Fees & Excursion Fees
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What's not included?
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Airfare in Land Only Package; but guaranteed pricing on group flights from select us gateways
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Lunches and 2 independent dinners
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Drinks are included with select dinners
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Tip for bus drivers and local guides
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Single room supplement
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Travelers are responsible for obtaining their own European Travel Authorization (ETIAS) for the EU and an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the UK online prior to departure.
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Travel Insurance or Trip Protection (Click Here for More Information)​
Detailed Itinerary
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Day 1: Monday, October 6, 2025
Depart for Dublin – A Pilgrimage Begins
With hearts open to transformation, we depart for Ireland, a land where faith and history intertwine. This is more than a journey—it is a sacred homecoming, a quest for renewal amid landscapes shaped by saints and centuries.
Day 2: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Dublin – A City of Saints & Scholars
Our arrival in Dublin sets the stage for what is to come. After gathering as a community of fellow pilgrims, we embark on a curated exploration of Ireland’s capital. A visit to Trinity College grants us a rare glimpse of the illuminated splendor of the Book of Kells, a masterpiece of faith and artistry. We then step into the hallowed halls of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where Ireland’s patron saint once baptized new believers. Here, we pause in reverence, allowing the weight of centuries to settle upon us. An evening of warm conversation over a welcome dinner invites us into the rhythm of pilgrimage. Overnight in Dublin. (D)
Day 3: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Glendalough – The Monastic Heart of Ireland
Today, we journey into the heart of Glendalough, a valley of ethereal beauty where St. Kevin sought solitude in the 6th century. Beneath the watchful gaze of the round tower, we wander through moss-clad ruins, stepping into the quiet sanctity of St. Kevin’s Church and the ruins of the medieval cathedral. A contemplative walk along the Upper and Lower Lakes allows for deep reflection, as the gentle rustling of leaves and the murmur of water invite communion with the divine. If the weather permits, before departing, we pause at a sacred site for a short prayer service in this place of profound peace. Overnight near Kildare. (B, D)
Day 4: Thursday, October 9, 2025
Kildare – The Fire of St. Brigid
The spirit of St. Brigid, Ireland’s beloved female saint, welcomes us to Kildare, where devotion and Celtic tradition meet. We step into the sacred grounds of St. Brigid’s Cathedral and Fire Temple, where the eternal flame of faith once burned bright. At St. Brigid’s Well, we engage in a deeply personal ritual of prayer, allowing the water’s gentle flow to remind us of renewal, grace, and the passage of time. Overnight near Kildare. (B, D)
Day 5: Friday, October 10, 2025
Clonmacnoise – Echoes of Monastic Glory
We travel westward to Clonmacnoise, the revered 6th-century monastic site poised along the banks of the River Shannon. Here, we explore its ancient round towers, stone churches, and the famed Cross of the Scriptures, standing as testaments to Ireland’s enduring faith. Amidst these sacred ruins, we take time to reflect on the wisdom of the monks who once called this place home, drawing inspiration from their dedication to prayer and knowledge. Overnight near Kildare. (B, D)
Day 6: Saturday, October 11, 2025
The Mystical North – Newgrange, Kells & the Hill of Tara
Our journey takes a mystical turn as we visit Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb older than Stonehenge, where ancient light rituals continue to awe and inspire. In Kells, we stand in the shadow of the monastery that once safeguarded the world’s most exquisite illuminated manuscript. Finally, we ascend to the Hill of Tara, the legendary seat of Ireland’s High Kings, where the echoes of St. Patrick’s mission still resonate in the rolling emerald hills. Overnight in Belfast. (B, D)
Day 7: Sunday, October 12, 2025
Downpatrick – In the Footsteps of St. Patrick
Today, we trace the sacred steps of Ireland’s patron saint. At the St. Patrick’s Centre, we uncover the story of his journey from captivity to sainthood. A visit to Saul Church, where he preached his first sermon, brings us closer to his legacy. At Struell Wells, long believed to possess healing properties, we take a moment for quiet reflection. Our day culminates at Down Cathedral, where St. Patrick’s final resting place invites us to stand in awe of a life lived in faith. Overnight in Belfast. (B, ID)
Day 8: Monday, October 13, 2025
Belfast – A City of Faith & Reconciliation
Belfast’s spirit of resilience and reconciliation shapes our day. We visit Clonard Monastery, a beacon of hope in times of strife, and the East Belfast Mission, where faith and service have transformed lives. The afternoon invites personal reflection and exploration—whether wandering the city’s vibrant streets, savoring Irish hospitality, or seeking quiet moments of contemplation. Overnight in Belfast. (B, D)
Day 9: Tuesday, October 14, 2025
The Causeway Coast – God’s Handiwork in Stone
Nature itself becomes our sanctuary as we follow the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route. At the Giant’s Causeway, we marvel at the hexagonal basalt columns, a masterpiece of creation that sparks wonder and gratitude. The journey continues to Bushmills Distillery, where we reflect on the ancient monastic tradition of distillation—water, transformed into something of depth and character, much like the pilgrimage experience itself. Overnight in Belfast. (B, ID)
Day 10: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Derry/Londonderry – A Pilgrimage to St. Columba’s Lands
In the walled city of Derry/Londonderry, we uncover the legacy of St. Columba, the exiled monk who brought Christianity to Scotland. At St. Columba’s Heritage Center, we explore his enduring influence before walking to St. Columba’s Well, a place of healing waters and quiet supplication. As our pilgrimage nears its end, we gather for a farewell dinner, sharing stories of transformation, laughter, and the blessings of the journey. Overnight in Belfast. (B, D)
Day 11: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Return Home – Carrying the Spirit of Ireland
With hearts full and spirits renewed, we bid farewell to Ireland, carrying with us not only the memories of sacred sites and breathtaking landscapes but the deeper understanding that pilgrimage is not a place—it is a way of being. (B)
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​Dining Codes:
B = Breakfast
D = Dinner
ID = Independent Dinner​​​
Flight Information
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Airfare is not included in the land package, as prices fluctuate daily. For most travelers, airfare typically ranges between $1,100 and $1,500, depending on your departure city in the United States.
​We offer flight options for travelers departing from Chicago (ORD), Fort Myers (RSW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Orlando (MCO), Omaha (OMA), and San Luis Obispo (SLQ). If booked by May 30, 2025, we guarantee that your flight cost for the main travel program will not exceed the amounts listed below.
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Chicago (ORD): $800
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Fort Myers (RSW): $800
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Los Angeles (LAX): $800
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Miami (MIA): $800
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Newark (EWR): $800
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Orlando (MCO): $800
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Omaha (OMA): $900
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San Luis Obispo (SBP): $900
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Washington DC (IAD): $800
Groups departing from these cities are guaranteed flight prices between $800 and $900 when booked through us. The cost may be less, but will not be more than the guaranteed maximum price. We work with major carriers like United, American, and Delta, as well as reputable international airlines such as Aer Lingus (Ireland's flagship carrier). All tickets include one checked bag (up to 50 pounds) and one carry-on item.
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Flights are booked separately from the land package. For those choosing to join one of the group flights, an additional $500 deposit is required. Please note that once a flight is ticketed, it is non-refundable and subject to the airline's Terms & Conditions. If you would like to add travel insurance to your ticket for an additional cost, please contact us within 24 hours of booking your trip. Keep in mind that flights are not covered by the Trip Protection Plan.
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We can also create travel groups from other cities upon request. Travelers departing from cities not listed above will be booked on major carriers in economy class, with one checked bag (up to 50 pounds). We ensure that your flight schedule aligns with the main travel group’s itinerary. To secure the best possible pricing, we pass on the actual cost of airfare and work diligently to find the best deals for you. Additionally, we can assist with booking Business or First Class options upon request.
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You are also welcome to book your own flights. To estimate your flight costs, we recommend using Google Flights. This powerful flight search tool allows you to find and compare flights across various airlines, offering features like flexible date searches, price tracking, and filters for stops, baggage, and airline preferences. Unlike third-party booking sites, Google Flights directs you to purchase tickets directly from the carrier, providing the best protection for your booking and reliable customer service.
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We will share the group flight information to help you coordinate your arrival time with the travel groups. For those traveling independently, it is ultimately your responsibility to connect with the group.
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Special Feature: Optional Scotland Extension
October 16–20, 2025
This optional post-pilgrimage extension will be led jointly by Rev. Liz Nau and Rev. Dr. Gene McAfee, transitional pastor of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church. It will be offered if 10 or more people are interesting in joining.
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On Thursday, October 16, 2025, the group will fly from Belfast to Glasgow (flight included) and then travel by private coach to the picturesque port town of Oban. The evening will be spent settling in and enjoying an overnight stay in this coastal haven.
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On Friday, October 17, pilgrims will journey by ferry to the sacred island of Iona, long known as a center of Celtic Christian spirituality. After a full day of reflection and exploration, the group will return to Oban for another restful overnight stay.
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On Saturday, October 18, the group will depart Oban and travel through the stunning Scottish countryside, stopping en route at Stirling Castle—one of Scotland’s most iconic castles with historic ties to William Wallace and Mary, Queen of Scots. From there, the journey continues to Edinburgh. That evening, a special worship service at St. Giles Cathedral will be arranged by Rev. McAfee, who previously served there. This rare opportunity promises to be a moving highlight. Accommodations will be in the heart of Edinburgh.
On Sunday, October 19, the group will enjoy a guided walking tour of Edinburgh. The tour includes the Royal Mile, a storied stretch from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse; Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for its folklore and the beloved tale of Greyfriars Bobby; and captivating tales of madness, genius, and rebellion shared by a local guide. The afternoon will be free for personal exploration or quiet reflection. The group will spend a final night in Edinburgh.
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On Monday, October 20, after breakfast, the group will transfer to the airport for the flight home. Airfare for this return leg is included for travelers departing from Cleveland, Ohio.
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Approximate Extension Cost:
• $1,800 per person based on double occupancy
• Single rooms available for $2,200
This unforgettable extension includes all internal flights, private coach transportation, guided tours, hotel accommodations, breakfast daily, two evening meals, and worship opportunities in some of Scotland’s most meaningful spiritual sites. A perfect closing chapter to your pilgrimage, rich with beauty, faith, and connection.​
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Frequently Asked Questions
What ages typically travel in the group?
Our groups are diverse, with participants ranging from young adults to seniors. As long as you are healthy and able to meet the physical demands of the tour, you’ll enjoy the experience.
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How physically demanding is this tour?
This tour requires participants to be physically active. You can expect 3-4 hours of walking daily, including standing for extended periods. The terrain may include uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, steep steps, and slopes. To prepare, we recommend walking daily. Before you depart on the tour you should be comfortable walking 3-4 miles over the course of a day.
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
This tour is not recommended for individuals who have difficulty walking or require mobility aids. Participants should be in good health and ready for the physical demands of the trip, including walking on uneven terrain, navigating steep steps, and exploring cobblestone streets. The tour involves pedestrianized areas around historic sites and museums, requiring a good level of mobility and stamina. We welcome travelers of all ages who are prepared for these physical requirements.
What is included in the tour cost?
The tour cost includes accommodations, transportation during the trip, guided experiences, and most meals. Unless chosen, airfare is not included, as participants may travel from various locations. If you’re departing from a city outside the group departure points, we recommend using Google Flights to estimate airfare costs.
Will you book my flights, or do I need to arrange them myself?
We’re happy to book your flights for you! We can provide estimates for airfare from group departure cities and assist with booking flights from other locations as well. If you prefer to book your own flights, that’s perfectly fine—just coordinate with us in advance to get the group flight details.
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How can I estimate the cost of airfare?
Since airfare fluctuates frequently, we recommend checking Google Flights to get a general idea of prices. Keep in mind that the lowest fares often don’t include baggage fees, so factor those costs into your estimate.
Can I bring my university student on this trip?
Yes! Healthy travelers aged 18 and older are welcome to travel.
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Are single accommodations available?
Yes, single rooms are available for an additional cost, ideal for travelers who prefer private accommodations.
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What do I need to know before the trip?
A comprehensive predeparture webpage will be shared six weeks before departure. This will include updated information on group flights, hotels, and any itinerary modifications (e.g., changes due to unforeseen events like the Notre Dame fire). You’ll also find a packing list and helpful links to prepare for your journey.
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Can I register if I don’t have a passport yet?
Yes! You can register using your legal name as it appears on your birth certificate. Make sure the name you use matches the one that will appear on your passport when issued.
Do I need a visa?
Since you are traveling to Europe, you will need a travel authorization. Please visit our webpage on New European Travel Regulations for more details.
What should I know about meals and dining?
While many meals are included, some will be independent to give you the opportunity to explore local dining options. Special dinners with wine pairings are a highlight of the tour, offering a delightful taste of the region’s cuisine.
What if I want to come earlier or stay later?
Would you like to extend your stay, arriving earlier or departing later? Let us know during registration if you’d like to adjust your travel dates, and, pending availability, we can modify your airline reservations. Please note that additional fees will apply.
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​​​Ready to Join Us?
Thank you for choosing to embark on this unforgettable journey with us! Before proceeding to registration, please take a moment to review our Terms and Conditions. These outline important details about your trip, cancellation policies and traveler responsibilities.
Quick Tips for Registration:
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The process typically takes about 7-10 minutes to complete.
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You can use any device, but many find it easier on a Smartphone or Tablet/iPad.
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Be sure to enter your legal name exactly as it appears (or will appear) on your passport. If you don’t yet have a passport, please use the name on your birth certificate or the name that will appear on your passport when issued.
Payment Options:
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After completing your registration, you’ll be taken to a confirmation page.
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You have the option to pay by check or credit card.
When you’re ready, click the button below to begin your registration. We can’t wait to travel with you!
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​Begin Your Journey Early: Extra Days in Dublin
Our pilgrimage focuses on Ireland’s sacred sites and spiritual heritage, so time in Dublin is intentionally limited. However, if you’d like extra time to explore, shop, or simply rest before the pilgrimage begins, you’re welcome to arrive one or two days early.
We’ll arrange accommodations at the same hotel used for the pilgrimage for your convenience. If you're interested in arriving early, please indicate this on your registration form. We’ll follow up with a personalized quote based on your preferences.
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