
CIE Tours introduces small-group Walking & Hiking Tours
MORRISTOWN, NJ – CIE Tours, the premier tour operator for guided vacations to Ireland and Britain, is taking the trail less traveled with the debut of its brand-new Walking & Hiking tours for 2026. The Ireland expert has designed two new tours for active travelers eager to experience the country in a new way. The small-group adventures blend the scenic beauty of Ireland's rural landscapes with immersive cultural connections, guiding guests through charming communities along the northern coast and a southern route from Cork to Kerry.
Plus, travelers planning for 2026 trips now can take advantage of CIE Tours' special savings incentive on all tours and all destinations, including the new Ireland Walking & Hiking adventures.
Inaugural Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour Itineraries
'These new itineraries strike a perfect balance between active exploration and sightseeing,' said Stephen Cotter, managing director of CIE Tours. 'This launch marks an exciting evolution of our brand by offering travelers a new way to experience Ireland through the active lens of walking and hiking. With more than 90 years of Irish travel expertise, we've crafted each tour to showcase not only the country's iconic landmarks, but also its hidden gems, scenic trails, and local culture. Whether it's a guest's first trip with us or their fifth, this is a fresh way to see Ireland.'
The new 2026 tours will operate from May through September and are limited to 16 guests per departure. Each day features from two to six miles of walking at a comfortable pace over mostly gentle terrain and low-grade hills, offering a relaxed yet rewarding adventure for active travelers.
The nine-day Ireland Walking & Hiking: The Northern Coast brings travelers across the dramatic landscapes of the Slieve League cliffs, Glenveagh National Park, and a visit to the famed Giant's Causeway. The adventure also includes stops at Devenish Island's monastic ruins, Glenveagh Castle, and offers a taste of traditional life in Glencolmcille.
The nine-day Ireland Walking & Hiking: Cork to Kerry leads travelers through Ireland's southern wilds with hikes along the scenic trails of Glengarriff and the Beara Peninsula. Highlights include a visit to the Rock of Cashel, meeting locals in charming towns such as Dingle, and immersive experiences like traditional soda breadmaking and turf cutting demonstrations in rural Ireland.
Plan Ahead: Big Rewards for Early Bookers
From Ireland, Scotland and Britain to Italy, Iceland and Spain, the special incentive also includes all new tours debuting in 2026 plus custom private driver experiences. This promotion is valid for new bookings made between June 2 through July 31, 2025, for travel between January 1 and December 31, 2026.
Three Additional European Tours New for 2026
CIE Tours is further expanding its 2026 portfolio with three additional itineraries across Europe. Travelers can discover the charm of England, Wales, and Scotland on the nine-day Scenic Britain tour, featuring stops in Devon, Cornwall, Hay-on-Wye, the Lake District and Edinburgh. Select departures include tickets to the renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August 2026.
Two newly launched Italian journeys include the 10-day Classic Journey: Italian Lakes to Rome, which explores cultural treasures from the elegance of Milan to the grandeur of the Vatican, and the 13-day Grand Tour: Italian Lakes to Amalfi Coast, an extended version of the Classic Journey with added visits to sun-drenched Capri, historic Pompeii and the cliffside charms of Positano. Both tours immerse travelers in the rich history, regional cuisine, and the striking landscapes that define one of Europe's most beloved destinations.
As with all CIE Tours guided vacations, guests will enjoy the value of the All-In Inclusive Advantage on these new tours. Everything on the itinerary including hotels, transportation, attractions, entertainment, and most meals, is included in one upfront price.
All 2026 tours – including these five new itineraries – are now available to book.
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