The Ancient East made for you
Ireland
Bask in the past, from the dawn of civilization, to Ireland’s religious and cultural awakenings
This vast and changing landscape of the east offers such a wealth of historic sites, you can journey through the country’s historic narrative, starting right from the dawn of civilisation. From the prehistoric builds of the Late Stone Age, and the sacred sites of early Christian Ireland, to the medieval castles and the landmarks of early Anglo-Ireland, the east truly encompasses it all.
North of Dublin, discover the mind-blowing Neolithic Brú na Bóinne, one of the world’s most important prehistoric landscapes upon which the passage graves of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth stand, at an estimated 5000 years old.
Journeying a short distance south-west, you’ll find more megalithic structures. Ireland‘s history is embedded into each and every stone at the tombs of Loughcrew Cairns, which date back to the start of the Bronze Age. Venture south-west to enter early-Christian Ireland at Clonmacnoise Monastery, founded in 544 A.D. Feel part of the past as you walk around the monastic settlement in the glacial valley of Glendalough, found further east of Ireland’s historically bountiful landscape. Here the 1000-year-old Round Tower looms over the tranquil scenery.
Dotted all across the east of Ireland are an array of medieval castles to further your insight into this awe-inspiring ancient land. The imposing walls of Trim Castle, built almost 850 years ago, sits in the very north, while the bold Reginald’s Tower stands over Waterford, the country’s oldest city.
Over in the lush surrounds of County Kildare, the 18th-century Palladian Castletown House is just one of several insights into the beginning of Anglo-Ireland. While closer to the Irish Sea, the contrastingly gloomy and austere Wicklow Gaol will bring shivers to your spine as it opens your eyes to life for the less fortunate during this era.
Here in the Ancient East you’ll discover the never tiring stories of Ireland’s remarkable past.
Luxury accommodation in The Ancient East
There are many incredible places to stay in The Ancient East. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:
Mount Juliet Estate
Mount Juliet Estate is a place to stay in Ireland's Ancient East, Ireland.
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Why book with Jacada?
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Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
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Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
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Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Trip Inspiration
Get inspired with our The Ancient East example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
All-encompassing Ireland
An intensive full-circle journey through some of the very best places Ireland has to offer, from Dublin to Galway, Belfast and beyond
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A Luxury Discovery of Ireland
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Family Adventure in Ireland
Discover Ireland's charm on a ten-day family adventure blending history, nature and culture. Begin in Dublin with visits to Trinity College, the National Histo…
Explore tripMeet your Europe team
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Alice Cosso
Europe Concierge
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Dan Rhodes
Travel Designer
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James Wakelin
Senior Travel Designer
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Kirsty Brand
Travel Designer
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Kit Wong
Senior Travel Designer
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Luisa Armandine
Travel Designer
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Marta Silva
Client Experience Manager
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Meg Simpson
Senior Travel Designer
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Melania Siriu
Senior Travel Designer
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Murray Mitchell
Senior Travel Designer
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Rita Pinto
Senior Concierge – Europe
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Symmone Anderson
Europe Concierge
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Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.