Why Inroads Ireland
Small Group Tours with Genuine Irish Experiences
At Inroads Ireland, we believe that the island is best experienced beyond the well-worn tourist routes. Since 2005, we’ve used our experience and unique knowledge to design the best cultural, historic, and awe-inspiring tours of Ireland. We introduce travelers to the heart of Ireland, showcasing its beautiful landscapes, interesting history, Irish culture, and friendly communities. You’ll be talking about your small group Ireland tour for years to come!
Our tours are meant for travelers who want more than a checklist of famous sights. We explore along Ireland’s scenic back roads—visiting charming villages, uncovering hidden treasures, and creating opportunities for meaningful connections with locals. It’s why so many of our guests return year after year, craving the different perspective of Ireland that they are able to see on our tours.
Our Story
Inroads Ireland was founded by Phil Ryan from Dublin, Ireland and Carolyn Janette from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Having traveled extensively around the world, both independently and with organized tour groups, they shared a common belief: the best travel experiences happen when you connect with a destination on a deeper level and explore beyond the obvious.
Inspired by their love of Ireland and a passion for meaningful travel, they launched Inroads Ireland in 2005 with a mission to create journeys that showcase natural beauty, local culture, history, and human connections. That philosophy continues to guide every tour we operate today.
Supporting Local Communities
As a socially responsible tour company, we are committed to supporting local Irish communities and businesses. Because of this, you’ll stay in locally owned guesthouses, hotels, and B&Bs. By choosing local accommodations and experiences, we help ensure that tourism benefits the people and communities that make Ireland such a special destination.Experience the Real Ireland
With Inroads Ireland, you will not feel like you are on a “tourist route” along with all the other tour buses. Our tours aren’t just about seeing Ireland, but rather, they’re about experiencing it. You’ll travel to less-frequented and more unique places that represent all that is wonderful about Ireland. We’re positive that you’ll return home with a deeper appreciation for the island’s people, culture, and beauty.Guided by Local Experts
Our experienced Irish guides are much more than drivers and tour leaders. They are storytellers and local experts with a passion for their homeland. Their knowledge, friendships, and connection to Ireland allow travelers to experience the island in a way that can’t be found in guidebooks. Our guides help transform a vacation into an authentic Irish experience.
Here are just some of the things our guests say about our guides...
Our guide Hugh was outstanding in every way! He provided amazing commentary about what we were seeing, was very attentive to our questions, was very engaging, went out of his way to make every part of the trip convenient and enjoyable for us, and was just great to be around – Kathy 2026 Go South
Our guide Johnny made the trip memorable. His knowledge of history and funny stories kept us entertained – Shelby 2023 Go West
Hugh was beyond GREAT! He was passionate about Ireland. His knowledge of both current and ancient history was fascinating. He has a pleasant personality and took time to know his clients. He was accommodating to individual needs and was a very safe driver – Billy and Valerie 2023 Go North
Hugh had a bright outlook, even when it rained. He was full of knowledge and I enjoyed his commentary. It was great to travel with an expert. He took time to learn about each member of the group and made us feel special. His combination of knowledge and hospitality was perfect – Carolyn 2026 Go South
Neil – fantastic at his job! Knowledgeable, managed the group effectively and efficiently, made sure everyone was well taken care of, and was a tremendous Irish storyteller! You couldn’t have asked for a better guide – a definite keeper!! – 2025 Go West
We have had three guides with Inroads Ireland, Phil, the former owner, Emily, and now Hugh. They have been uniformly excellent and we’d love to travel again with any one of the three – David 2022 Go West
Eamon Hegarty was our guide and he was so knowledgeable and willing to share information with us. This tour was our first but our travel mates who have traveled with a guide on previous trips indicated that he was the best they had ever had. And we can believe it – Carol & Jeff 2022 Go South
Jonny was so knowledgeable and entertaining and looked out for everyone on our tour – our tour had passengers aged 25-75; he was excellent to all & their needs and interests – Maureen 2022 Go South
Jonny – We could not have asked for a better guide! The depth and breadth of the knowledge he shared was amazing. And the stories!! Jonny should write a book! I think we learned everything we possibly could have about everything we saw and every area we passed through. We felt very comfortable with Jonny from the get-go. I also want to personally thank him for helping us out with our luggage. I know that wasn’t part of the deal, but was so very appreciated – Annie 2022 Go South
With a maximum group size of 16 people, you get an up close and personal tour. Traveling Ireland in a comfortable mini-bus, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and flexible itinerary.
Stay in small towns in local guesthouses, B&Bs, and boutique hotels where a chance to mingle with the Irish is just steps away.
We hope you’ll come along for a truly memorable, insightful, and exciting week exploring the magic of Ireland!