The Heart Of Our Tours

True Local Immersion with Friends, Family, Guides and Genealogists

Expert local irish tour guide, stephanie woollard.

Stephanie Woollard OAM, Founder and CEO

In all my years adventuring in Ireland and tracing my roots, perhaps what I love most about it are the Irish people themselves - the incredible humans whose spirit of generosity and warmth have never failed to inspire me. Reconnecting with family and friends in my grandmother's village, where twelve of our family members once resided, is always a highlight, reminding me of the importance of knowing and honoring our heritage. I want to share this with others who are exploring their own heritage and don’t know where to begin and/or have a desire to visit this great country.

*Please note our tours welcome those also with a desire to visit Ireland and it’s not necessary to have Irish Heritage to travel with us.

Fall in Love with Ireland with Me

The rural view in my Grandma’s hometown Glenmask.

A picture of my lovely granny. She is a big part of my life and the reason why I’m so passionate about Ireland.

Local experience of Irish heritage tour.

My Grandma’s old cottage - now a donkey shed. This is where it all started!

As a third-generation Irish descendant, Ireland holds a special place in my heart. My daily thoughts are often filled with memories of this beautiful land, accompanied by the soul-stirring melodies of Celtic tunes playing in my car. Each departure from Ireland has brought tears to my eyes, while every return fills my soul with joy.

I've had the privilege of experiencing some of the best moments of my life in Ireland. Living and working there, I've had the opportunity to trace my Irish roots, following in the footsteps of my grandmother, Nora Delia Brown, who hailed from the west of Ireland. Her journey from a tiny village in County Mayo to Australia, where she raised her family, serves as an inspiration to me.

My grandmother's strong faith and unique phrases, coupled with her unwavering determination, have left an incredible mark on my life. Her influence has fuelled my passion for Ireland, its people, and its culture. Listening to Irish music and visiting her old cottage, now a donkey shed, have become cherished traditions during my annual trips to Ireland.

Throughout the years, I've shared my love for Ireland with numerous friends, embarking on solo adventures to the west of the country, where the warm welcome of the locals always makes me feel like I've come home. The Irish countryside, with its majestic beauty, never fails to captivate me, while the sense of humor and culture of kindness leave a lasting impression.

In 2019, I fulfilled a lifelong dream of working in an iconic Irish pub, soaking in the rich history and camaraderie of the locals. Despite the brevity of my time there, the memories remain etched in my heart, especially the bond forged with the pub owner, whose passing during Covid left a profound sadness.

Thanks to my uncle Coleman, a historian and Gaelic teacher, our family history is meticulously documented. His wealth of knowledge and passion for Irish heritage enriches our tours, offering guests a deeper understanding of their roots. Additionally, dear friends in Limerick, who are genealogists and historians, provide invaluable insights into Irish ancestry, ensuring a meaningful experience for all.

But perhaps what I love most about Ireland are its characters - the incredible humans whose spirit of generosity and warmth never fails to inspire me. Reconnecting with family and friends in my grandmother's village, where twelve of our family members once resided, is always a highlight, reminding me of the importance of knowing and honoring our heritage.

At Heritage Ireland Tours, we aim to share the enriching experience of exploring Ireland's nostalgia and beauty with others. Join us as we embark on a journey through the heart of the Emerald Isle, where every step reveals a piece of our shared history and heritage.