Join us on winding country lanes to hidden castles, timeworn abbeys, and riverside trails, where every stop comes with a story told over a pint by locals who know these roads best.
Join Trails and Tales for intimate public or private tours that reveal the castles, trails, and local lore travelers rarely find on their own across Kilkenny and neighboring counties.
Trails and Tales, our new tour company based in Kilkenny, is officially here! Over the years, we've had the pleasure of helping thousands of you explore Ireland, and we've heard time and again that while the famous landmarks are amazing, what you truly long for is the real Ireland – those charming small towns, hidden gems, and authentic experiences that don't always make it into guidebooks or pop up on the first page of a search engine. That's exactly why we created Trails and Tales.
Our mission is to take you off the beaten path to uncover the heart and soul of Ireland. With our expertly guided half-day and full-day tours – available as both public and private options – we'll lead you through the picturesque villages, secret spots, and captivating stories of Kilkenny and its neighboring counties.
Whether it's a tucked-away castle, a quiet countryside trail, or a tale of local legend, we're here to share the Ireland you've been dreaming of.
Cozy buses for a personal, intimate experience
Stories and places you won't find on your own
Half-day and full-day options to suit your schedule
Bringing Ireland's heritage to life with every story
Wander old monastic paths and stone-walled laneways where whispers of Ireland’s past still drift on the breeze.
Hear the legends and half-true tales passed down by the fireside, part history, part magic, all unforgettable.
Step inside mossy ruins and ivy-covered towers where you can actually hear yourself think, and maybe even the ghosts.
Pop into a bakery, chat with a butcher, or share a laugh in a quiet pub. These towns are tiny, but full of heart.
We skip the highways in favour of winding backroads, riverside rambles, and forest trails only the locals use.
It’s not curated or polished. It’s real, raw landscapes, warm people, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left.
“Every stop had a story, and every story had a bit of magic in it. I didn’t want the day to end.
“Jerpoint Abbey and the tales that came with it? Absolutely blew me away. You can’t get this from a guidebook.”
“An inspiring adventure through Ireland's lesser-known towns. The stories were captivating!”
“I joined on a whim and felt instantly welcomed. It was like discovering Ireland with old friends.”
From what to pack to where we’ll wander, here’s everything you might be wondering before you hop on the trail with us.
We keep it small, usually between 8 and 16 people, so it feels more like a road trip than a tour bus.
We pick up in Kilkenny or Waterford, depending on the tour, exact times and spots will be confirmed when you book.
Comfortable shoes, a jacket (this is Ireland, after all), and maybe a bit of curiosity, we’ll handle the rest.
Absolutely. Our tours are relaxed, with gentle walking and plenty of time to take things at your own pace.
Get inspired with travel tips, local legends, hidden gems, and behind-the-scenes moments from our adventures across Ireland.
From Norman strongholds to riverside rambling routes, Kilkenny blends 800 years of heritage with some of Ireland’s prettiest green spaces. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer Irish-East adventure, use this guide to hit the capital of the Marble County at its very best.
Kilkenny offers a variety of family-friendly activities, ensuring fun and engagement for visitors of all ages.
Kilkenny's food scene features diverse dining options, showcasing local ingredients and culinary creativity.
Kilkenny is a cultural hub with festivals celebrating arts and heritage, making it a vibrant destination.
Whether you’ve got a question, a plan, or just fancy a bit of travel talk, we’re all ears.
Drop us a message and we’ll reply quicker than you can say sláinte.
info@trailsandtales.ieGive us a ring, we’re always up for a chat about castles, routes, or Irish rain.
Ready to wander quiet roads, hear local tales, and find the kind of Ireland that doesn’t come with a souvenir shop? We’d love to have you along.
