- Boru Irish Adventures - Escape the hustle and bustle of Dublin for a day and explore the UNESCO world heritage sites in the Boyne Valley, including Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, and the Loughcrew Neolithic tombs.
Newgrange, constructed around 5,200 years ago, predates both Stonehenge and the Pyramids. Visitors can explore its passage and chamber, which align with the rising sun during the Winter solstice, illuminating the innermost chamber and revealing ancient artwork. It is believed that generations of Neolithic people took decades to build it, using it as a burial chamber and for ritual and community gatherings.
Stroll around the one-acre site, featuring a tomb that stands 12m (40 feet) high and 85m (278 feet) in diameter. Encircled by a henge or ring of massive stones, the structure’s roof remains intact and waterproof even after 5,000 years. This monument contains over 250,000 tonnes of stone and earth, making it the largest of all the Bru na Boinne sites. The Knowth and Dowth passage tombs complete the Bru na Boinne UNESCO heritage site, with Dowth’s passage and chamber aligning with the setting sun around the Winter solstice.
After lunch in Slane, venture further into the Boyne Valley to the Hill of Tara, the historic seat of the Celtic Kings of Ireland, including Brian Boru. The Tara brooch, displayed at the National Museum, is linked to this site.
Continue inland along the Boyne river to Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, famously featured in the movie ‘Braveheart.’ Partially restored, the castle invites exploration of its spiral staircases, dining halls, and sleeping chambers of the De Lacy stronghold. Built over 30 years starting in 1172 by Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, the site was chosen for its strategic position at a fording point on the Boyne river.
Conclude your day with afternoon tea at the luxurious Dunboyne Castle on your way back to Dublin. This suggested Boyne Valley tour itinerary lasts approximately 8 hours, but as a private tour, you can customize it to your preferences. Other notable sites in the area include the Monastic settlement of Kells, associated with the Book of Kells at Trinity College Dublin, and the Loughcrew Cairns on the Loughcrew Estate, a lesser-known yet equally impressive collection of Neolithic monuments. Loughcrew House also boasts an excellent café and dining area. Meath is an ideal county for a day trip from Dublin due to its abundance of world-class sites in close proximity. Your guide will provide further information on the sites and help you tailor the itinerary to your group’s interests.
- Private tour
- National Park fees included
- Knowledgeable driver/guide
- Local taxes covered
- Comfortable transport via air-conditioned minivan
- Convenient hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
Experience the beauty of Boyne Valley and Trim Castle on your exclusive small group excursion across county Meath. The Boyne Valley hosts the esteemed UNESCO heritage destinations of Bru na Boinne that encompasses 3 core Neolithic monuments, surpassing 5,000 years in age, thus predating the Pyramids or Stonehenge. Traverse through the verdant landscapes of county Meath, pausing to explore its numerous world-renowned locations like Newgrange, Loughcrew, Trim Castle, Slane Castle, and the monastic site at Kells. Your personal guide will assist in customizing the trip per your group’s preferences, providing valuable information, and suggesting spots for meals and beverages towards the day’s end. Depending on your group’s selected attractions, the exploration spans 7 to 8 hours. Enjoy a stress-free journey as your guide/driver takes care of all the particulars during your private small group excursion.
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
