Ancient History of The Lingaun Valley
Focusing on Neolithic passage tombs, high crosses, ancient quarries, and medieval heritage, you can quickly lose yourself in time, in this ancient, unfrequented valley. As a traveller to Ireland, visiting Knockroe Passage Tomb feels like stepping into ancient history. Nestled on the scenic slopes above the Lingaun River, this site is not just breathtaking but deeply significant. It lies along an age-old boundary between Leinster and Munster, adding to its sense of mystery. This Neolithic passage tomb, built thousands of years ago, is particularly special because it aligns with both the sunrise and sunset on the Winter Solstice—just like Newgrange, but without the crowds. Standing among these ancient stones, I can’t help but imagine the people who built it and the rituals they once performed here. It’s an unforgettable glimpse into Ireland’s past, and off the beaten track.
Waterford, Kilkenny
8 Hours
Max 4
€600
9:00am
5:45-6:00 PM
Visit– Knockroe Passage Tomb (free visit)
A Neolithic passage tomb , older than the ancient pyramids of Egypt, with intricate megalithic rock art, and winter solstice alignment.
Continue to visit – Ahenny Early Christian High Crosses (Free Visit)
Iconic 8th-century Celtic crosses, some of Ireland’s finest examples.
Continue to the Slate Quarry at Windgap (Free visit)
Learn about the historical slate industry that shaped local architecture.
– Lunch in Carrick-on-Suir
Visit the Ormond Castle, Carrick-on-Suir Entry fee €5
Discover the rich history of Ormond Castle, the finest Elizabethan manor house in
Ireland. Built in 1565 by Thomas, the 10th Earl of Ormond, in honour of his distant
cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, this remarkable site blends medieval fortifications with
Tudor elegance.
Step inside the magnificent great hall, a grand space adorned with some of the finest
stucco plasterwork in the country. Intricate designs depict Queen Elizabeth, her
brother Edward VI, and symbols of the Tudor monarchy, offering a glimpse into the
grandeur of the era.
This shore excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s Tudor past in a
beautifully preserved setting.
Explore Ireland’s only unfortified Tudor manor house, built by Thomas Butler,
Earl of Ormond.
Visit – Kilmogue Portal Tomb (Harristown Dolmen (Free visit)
One of the largest portal tombs in Ireland, with towering megaliths over 4
meters high. As well as being of a grander scale to most other portal tombs,
Kilmogue is a little unusual in that it has two capstones. Portal tombs
generally date to the Neolithic period, or the New Stone Age (c.3800–3500
BC)
3:00 PM – Depart for Waterford through scenic countryside
3:45-4:00 PM – Arrive back in Waterford
What’s included
✅ Your personal, qualified, Driver-Guide with over 10 years’ experience guiding in Ireland
✅ A National Transport Authority approved limousine, with appropriate insurance and licences. (Note that so-called “Driver-guides” who do not possess and display the requisite Green SPSV badge on the windscreen would NOT be insured in case of an accident; always ask to see the driver’s SPSV licence, and protect yourself from fraudsters)
✅ Fuel, tolls, parking fees, taxes, complimentary bottled water, and entrance fees to The Blasket Heritage Centre, Gallarus Oratory, Kilmalkedar (or the “Hold a baby lamb” experience, if preferred.
✅ 9 hours Flexibility re pick up and drop off location and departure time.
✅ Luggage 3-5 medium sized suitcases
Not Included
❌ Lunch, snacks, drinks (other than complimentary bottled water)
❌ Gratuities
CONTACT
Other tours
Highlights of the Southeast
Ireland – Scotland Private Guided Tour
Best of the South-West – 5-day Tour from Cork
