The Rebel County
Journey into the Genius of Ireland
Sunday July 6 to Sunday July 13, 2025
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“Run along the way laid out above with the unspeakable sweetness of love”
– From the Rule of St. Benedict, c. 540 AD, translated by Owen Ó Súilleabháin
Unique Genius of Ireland
County Cork, named after its city, Corcaigh, is the largest and southernmost county on the island of Ireland. Referred to for over 500 years as the Rebel County, the genius of this land has always been associated with an alternative and staunchly independent identity opposed to centralised or colonial authority.
Even today the citizens of Cork city refer to Corcaigh as the ‘Real Capital’ in playful defiance of the Republic's official capital Dublin.
Cork is the place to come to claim your own rebel identity. To invite that part of yourself into conversation around what it means to be independent. Do we accept subjugation? Or welcome an identity in opposition to the centralised and colonial forces within ourselves.
An Island in the Harbour
Our journey begins on Fota Island, nestled near the ancient waters of Cork Harbour, a safe distance inland from the rugged southern Atlantic Coast. The name Fota likely traces its origins to the Hiberno-Norse tradition, meaning "foot island," a fitting name given its location at the mouth of the River Lee. From this historic "foot," we will step out into the surrounding countryside, immersing ourselves in the untamed beauty and tapping into the wild, rebel spirit that this vibrant region awakens within us.
Accomodation and food
We create a village atmosphere for the week at the luxury self catering cottages on the grounds of Fota Island Resort, one of Ireland’s most distinguished five-star destinations. Fota Island Resort boasts sweeping views of the breathtaking Fota Island landscape from the comfort of your room.
The cottages vary in terms of number of bedrooms but you will share your house with at most three other fellow guests. There are 20 rooms with attached, private bathrooms. Rooms with an attached bathroom are reserved for couples first. The rest will be assigned to the people who have signed up first. The remaining individuals share a full bathroom with one other person.
Your fridge is fully stocked and restocked through the week with the best Irish food and treats to keep you fed and found for breakfast and lunch. We have the best quality and freshest food brought to us each evening by a dedicated local chef. This allows us to fully relax and converse after each stimulating day. We will have a couple of evening meals and lunches out on our day trips, and a packed lunch one day also. We are very happy to discuss your accommodation or dietary needs in more detail.
The Daily Round
Each morning, we gather for an enriching session of song, story, poetry, and myth, opening our hearts and minds for a day. We then explore the sacred and ancient lands that surround us. This shared experience of Celtic imagination deeply nourishes our spirits, leaving us with a sense of groundedness and soulful generosity.
Each day, we embark on a pilgrimage to ancient sites and breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes. The walks are gentle and accessible, with the occasional longer journey leading us to even more stunning vistas. Afterward, we’ll gather for a warm, hearty supper, ensuring each day concludes with nourishment for both body and soul.
The ancient seat of Anglo-Norman Barry family
The de Barry family, hailing from Wales, arrived in Ireland during the Norman invasion and were granted the stunning lands of Fota in 1185. Situated in one of Ireland's most picturesque regions, known for its breathtaking beauty, rich wildlife, and lush farmlands, Fota House began as a modest hunting lodge.
By the 1820s, it had been transformed into a magnificent regency mansion with over 70 rooms, standing as a testament to timeless elegance amidst the serene landscapes that continue to thrive around it. Here, in the heart of this enchanting region, we make our home at the luxurious Fota Island Resort and Spa, on the same lands that enchanted the de Barry family for generations.
Nourishing Body and Soul
We come together to share a bountiful lunch and dinner daily, except for two or three occasions when you'll have the chance to explore an Irish town and savor its local delights. You'll be treated to the finest organic and indigenous ingredients Ireland has to offer! During special feasts, we'll dive into Ireland's vibrant artisan food culture, guided by the very chefs and artisans who are at the forefront of the country's culinary renaissance.
Cost
The cost for the this tour is $5460.
Payment for this tour will be split into 4 payments of $1,365.
You have two weeks (14 days) to cancel your booking for a full refund.
This includes Nóirín, Owen, and Mícheál's service as lecturers, singers, and workshop leaders as well as the presence of friends and experts who will meet us along the way.
It includes your private room and all meals--except one or two on your own. It includes all transport in-country during the trip as well as the service of our charming guides and drivers.
Rooms with an attached bathroom are reserved for couples, and are then assigned to those who registered first. Otherwise you will share a full bathroom with one other person in your cottage.
Flights are not included in the cost of the tour.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change, which is why we offer a full refund within 14 days of your deposit—no questions asked. Just email us within that window, and we’ll process your refund right away. This allows you to “book now, decide later” with complete confidence. Whether you want to secure your spot while you do some research, consult with family and friends, or check your schedule, this flexible option gives you the time you need without any pressure.
After that, we will refund whatever you have paid minus a non refundable, cancellation fee of $600. This includes cancellation due to pandemic or shut down of travel for any reason. This cancellation fee can be used as a credit toward any of our online experiences. We will honor this credit indefinitely. Please secure travel insurance in case of an eventuality that causes cancelation.
Next Steps
If you are curious about embarking on this experience with us, click the button below to fill out the simple application form. Owen or Mícheál will then reach out to you for a conversation. This conversation is an opportunity to get any of your initial questions or concerns answered and to ensure this experience is a right fit for you.
