Wednesday, June 4, 2025
CIE Tours, widely recognized as a premier operator of guided vacations across Ireland and Britain, is expanding its travel offerings for 2026 by launching a brand-new series of Walking & Hiking tours. These exciting new itineraries are specially crafted for travelers who enjoy exploring destinations on foot, blending the breathtaking natural landscapes of Ireland with immersive cultural experiences. The two debut tours traverse distinct regions: the dramatic northern coastline and the scenic southern route stretching from Cork to Kerry.
Designed for small groups, these tours provide a personalized and active way to experience Ireland, allowing travelers to connect with local communities and enjoy the country’s stunning rural beauty. To mark the launch, CIE Tours is offering a generous savings incentive of up to $1,000 per couple on all its tours and destinations booked for 2026, including the new Walking & Hiking adventures.
Intimate Small-Group Adventures from May to September
Running from May through September 2026, each tour is limited to just 16 guests per departure, ensuring a relaxed and intimate atmosphere where travelers can share memorable experiences. The daily walking portions are designed to be accessible, covering between two and six miles at a comfortable pace. The routes feature mostly gentle terrain with some low-grade hills, providing a satisfying outdoor challenge without being overly strenuous — ideal for active travelers who want to stay energized while soaking up the scenic vistas and cultural highlights.
Northern Coast Tour: Ireland’s Rugged Beauty and Ancient Heritage
The nine-day Ireland Walking & Hiking: Northern Coast itinerary showcases some of the most spectacular natural and historical sites in Ireland’s northern region. Guests will hike along the towering cliffs of Slieve League, known as some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offering awe-inspiring ocean views. The adventure continues through Glenveagh National Park, a vast wilderness filled with serene lakes, forests, and wildlife.
One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. The journey also includes a boat trip to Devenish Island, where travelers can explore monastic ruins dating back to the 6th century, gaining insight into Ireland’s early Christian history.
Adding to the cultural immersion, the group will visit Glenveagh Castle, a stunning Victorian mansion set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and gardens. Finally, guests will experience authentic rural Irish life in the village of Glencolmcille, known for its strong Gaelic heritage and traditional crafts.
This Northern Coast tour is priced from USD $3,945 per person, a limited-time reduction from the regular $4,445 rate for bookings made by July 31, 2025.
Cork to Kerry Tour: Southern Ireland’s Coastal Trails and Local Traditions
For those seeking to explore Ireland’s wild and picturesque south, the nine-day Ireland Walking & Hiking: Cork to Kerry tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural encounters. Hikes wind through the lush woodlands of Glengarriff and along the rugged shores of the Beara Peninsula, an area known for its dramatic cliffs and peaceful fishing villages.
The itinerary features a visit to the historic Rock of Cashel, a medieval fortress perched on a limestone hill and steeped in Irish legend and history. Travelers will also spend time in the charming town of Dingle, renowned for its lively music scene and welcoming locals.
A unique aspect of this tour is its hands-on cultural experiences. Guests can participate in traditional soda bread baking, learning the art of making this iconic Irish staple. They will also observe turf cutting demonstrations, showcasing a centuries-old practice of harvesting peat for fuel, which remains a vital part of rural life.
The Cork to Kerry tour is available from USD $4,495 per person, discounted from $4,995 for a limited booking period through July 31, 2025.
Early Booking Discounts Across All Destinations
CIE Tours encourages travelers to plan ahead and reap significant savings. Early bookers can enjoy up to $500 off per person on any tour and destination with no blackout dates. This offer is valid for new bookings made between June 2 and July 31, 2025, for travel throughout 2026.
Whether travelers are drawn to Ireland’s rugged coastlines, the historic landscapes of Scotland and Britain, the cultural treasures of Italy, the dramatic vistas of Iceland, or the sunny shores of Spain, this promotion makes exploring Europe’s best-loved destinations more accessible than ever.
Expanding Europe’s Horizons: New Tours in Britain and Italy
Beyond Ireland, CIE Tours is broadening its 2026 portfolio with three additional new European journeys, each designed to showcase diverse landscapes and cultural riches.
The nine-day Scenic Britain tour invites travelers to discover the enchanting beauty of England, Wales, and Scotland. The itinerary includes visits to the picturesque counties of Devon and Cornwall, the literary haven of Hay-on-Wye, the stunning Lake District, and the historic city of Edinburgh.
An exclusive feature of select departures is access to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a world-famous event held in August, where visitors can witness spectacular military performances, music, and pageantry against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Italy, always a highlight for culturally rich travel, offers two new itineraries. The 10-day Classic Journey: Italian Lakes to Rome immerses travelers in the elegance and history of northern and central Italy, with stops ranging from the fashionable streets of Milan to the spiritual grandeur of the Vatican in Rome.
For a more extensive exploration, the 13-day Grand Tour: Italian Lakes to Amalfi Coast builds on the Classic Journey by adding visits to the sun-kissed island of Capri, the archaeological wonders of Pompeii, and the iconic cliffside village of Positano along the Amalfi Coast. Both tours emphasize authentic culinary experiences, historic landmarks, and stunning scenery, offering a comprehensive taste of Italy’s diverse charms.
Discover Active and Authentic Travel Experiences in 2026
With the addition of these Walking & Hiking tours and new European itineraries, CIE Tours continues to meet the evolving desires of travelers seeking engaging, active vacations that combine natural beauty with cultural depth. The company’s commitment to small groups, expert guides, and meaningful experiences ensures every journey is unique and memorable.
Thanks to attractive early booking discounts, travelers planning for 2026 have an excellent opportunity to secure their spot on these fresh adventures and explore Europe in a fresh and enriching way.
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