|
 Join author Phil Cousineau as he leads you on a pilgrimage through the enchanted “Isle of Eire” where the age of myth, mystery and magic live on. Captivating Ireland is still a land where mysteries are etched as runes within ruins. Treading the Irish mythic past today, we encounter a rich culture that embodies the preservation of its magnificent oral tradition, ancient rituals, romantic poetry and literature, and vibrant folklore and music. Meander along scenic roads that hug the rugged Irish western shore, roam about the undulating countryside and rocky plains, ferry to the alluring Aran Islands, and journey deep into the very heart of Ireland.
 Our journey will include visits to the towering Cliffs of Moher, the limestone moonscape of the Burren, Yeat’s Tower, Kilfenora, the City of High Crosses, the ancient grave passage of Newgrange, the literary shrines of Dublin, and more! Together, we will walk in the footsteps of 15 centuries of pilgrims as we climb Croagh Patrick, the holiest place in Ireland, and explore the ruins of Clonmacnoise, the abbey where the Irish monks “helped save civilization”, in the words of Thomas Cahill. Stroll through charming seaside villages and quaint country towns where the traditions of old are still very alive today. Gaze at stunning panoramas from soaring cliffs, discover ancient ruins and stone structures, journey to sacred sites of pilgrimage, and return to a time of romance and enchantment with visits to majestic castles. Discover the vibrant culture of the Irish with traditional entertainment, music and fun-filled evening pub crawls. Indulge your creativity with daily journaling, sketching, poetry readings and traditional folktales, and enjoy the peace and serenity of beautiful settings for personal reflection.
 Our journey to what was once called the “Island of Saints and Scholars, Poets and Priests”, will combine many of the myriad elements such as storytelling, music, landscape and fierce independence that have made this Emerald Isle one of the most beloved countries in the world. This will also be a journey of questions: Where does the myth of leprechauns come from? Who was Molly McGuire? What role does the pub play in Irish Life? What was the Irish Famine and how did it influence the Great Irish Immigration to the North America? Why do the Irish have such a reputation for being entertaining storytellers, poets and musicians? Tour leader, Phil Cousineau will discuss all these themes and more during enlightening daily lectures, group discussions, and informative talks so that the many myths and secrets of Ireland can be revealed. We will also enjoy special guest appearances along the way with one of Ireland’s leading authorities on Irish music, P.J. Curtis as well as leading expert on Celtic Mysticism, Dara Molloy, and have the opportunity to meet other wonderfully entertaining and knowledgeable locals to fully enrich our journey.
Ireland is truly a land that reaches deep into your heart, lifts your spirits and stirs you to your very core. So come join your new “Anam Cara” (Celtic for Soul Friends) and discover this fascinating island which entices all the senses and leaves you craving more on a journey that combines an exploration of Irish mythology, poetry, literature, history and mysticism as well as taking a look at the rapid changes in the new aspects of the Celtic Tiger. This pilgrimage is designed to be a meaningful, spirit renewing experience to nurture your creativity and help you understand the myriad aspects of one of the most inexhaustibly interesting cultures in the world.
|
