We operate several centres throughout the island of Ireland, ranging from big cities like Dublin to beautiful rural getaways like Westport and Monaghan. Read on to find the centre that best suits your needs.

Cork

Lively, creative Cork is unlike anywhere else in Ireland. The city itself is famous for its distinct culture and attitude, while the nearby towns of Cobh and Kinsale are rightly considered some of the most beautiful in the country.

Why Cork?

Located in the historic province of Munster, in the south-west of Ireland, Cork is an easygoing, youthful city known for its food, music, and alternative “rebel culture.” Just a short drive away are the colourful harbour-side towns of Cobh and Kinsale, while visitors will have an opportunity to visit Killarney, one of the most popular destinations in Ireland. From the bustling foodie heaven of the English Market to the architectural beauty of St. Fin Barr’s Cathedral, Cork has something to offer for everyone.

Details

Here is what a typical four-night stay in Cork will look like.

DAY 1
7.00pm Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Visit to Cork city.
Morning – Guided tour of Cork (Cork City Gaol, St. Fin Barr’s Cathedral, and more.)
Afternoon – Free time for shopping or exploring.
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm
Morning – Visit to the picturesque harbour-side town of Cobh and Cobh Heritage Centre to learn about the mass emigration that took place through the port of Cobh in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Afternoon – Visit to Kinsale and Charles Fort, an example of a late 17th century star-shaped fort and one of the largest military installations in the country when it was in use.
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Tour to Killarney, one of the best known tourist towns in Ireland. Return to Host families for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 5
8.30am: Group assembles with luggage for departure to ferry port or airport.

Cork/Galway 4-night 2-centre stay:

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Tour to Killarney, one of the best-known tourist towns in Ireland. Return to host families for dinner and overnight.
DAY 3
8.30am: Depart for Galway via Limerick, the Burren region, and the Cliffs of Moher. Meet host families in Galway for dinner and overnight.
DAY 4
8.30am: Connemara. Overnight Galway.
DAY 5
8.30am: Depart from centre

Cork/Dublin 2-centre 4-night stay:

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.00am – 6.30pm: Dublin city
DAY 3
8.00am – 6.30pm: Kilkenny & Kildare. Overnight Cork
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Cork city and surrounding area
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

Dublin

Dublin, Ireland’s capital, is a globally popular city, and the perfect gateway to the country as a whole. We offer the option of staying exclusively in the city, or pairing it with other locations throughout Ireland.

Why Dublin?

With its fantastic architecture, shopping, and nightlife, Dublin is one of Europe’s most vibrant capital cities. Unlike many metropolises, however, the city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the stunning Wicklow Mountains. Little more than an hour away is the unmissable Glendalough Abbey. Other day trips include County Kildare and the charming medieval city of Kilkenny. From Dublin, students will also have the opportunity to explore other great cities such as Galway and Cork (see below).

Details

Here is what a typical four-night stay in Dublin will look like.

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.00am – 6.30pm: Dublin City
DAY 3
8.00am – 6.30pm: Wicklow & Glendalough
DAY 4
8.00am – 6.30pm: Kilkenny & Kildare
DAY 5
8.00am: Departure from centre

You can also choose to pair our Dublin centre with any of three alternatives: Cork, Galway, and Limerick.

Dublin/Galway 2-centre, 4-night stay:

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Connemara
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Burren region & Cliffs of Moher. Overnight in Dublin
DAY 4
8.00am – 6.30pm: Dublin city
DAY 5
8.00am: Departure from centre

Dublin/Limerick 4-night stay:

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Return with host families for dinner and overnight
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Full day tour of Limerick – Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Craggaunowen.
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Depart for the Burren and Cliffs of Moher, then on to Dublin for overnight.
DAY 4
8.00am – 6.30pm: Dublin.
DAY 5
8.00am: Departure from the centre

Killarney

Our Killarney centre is located in one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland. Just a short drive from town, in the middle of a breathtaking landscape, this accommodation is perfect for those who prefer the beauty of nature to the hustle and bustle of the big city. As well as exploring Killarney itself, students will also have the opportunity to experience the unbeatable attractions of Blarney, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, all situated nearby.

Why Killarney?

For lovers of nature and outdoor adventures, Killarney is a must-see destination. Lying on the shores of Lough Leane in the scenic county of Kerry, the town is a hub of music, sport, and tourism. Nearby is the Ring of Kerry, a world-famous 120-mile stretch of winding country roads, ancient Irish castles, and stunning coastal views, which you will have the chance to visit, along with the majestic Dingle Peninsula. Another wonderful day trip will take you to neighbouring Cork, home of the Blarney Stone (kiss it to acquire the ‘gift of the gab’). A 4-hour drive from the capital city of Dublin, Killarney and its surroundings are truly a world of their own.

Details

Here is what a typical week looks like in our Killarney centre:

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Killarney & Ring of Kerry
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Cork & Blarney
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Dingle Peninsula
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

Alternatively, you can split your week between our Killarney and Galway centres. Here’s what a typical schedule would look like:

DAY 1
7.00pm Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Killarney & Ring of Kerry
DAY 3
8.30am: Depart for Galway via Limerick and Burren Region Overnight Galway.
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Connemara
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

Limerick

Set on the River Shannon, Limerick is one of Ireland’s most historic and dynamic cities.

Why Limerick?

In 2014, Limerick was named Ireland’s first City of Culture, and it’s not hard to see why. With its incredible castles and churches, and classic Georgian architecture, Limerick is a must-see for lovers of history and architecture. Lying on the banks of the River Shannon, the city is equally renowned for its contribution to pop music, its street art, and, of course, its great shopping and dining options. The surrounding area contains outstanding attractions such as Bunratty Castle and the adjoining Folk Park, where you can wander through a reconstructed 19th-century town, and see Ireland as it was more than a century ago!

Testimonials

“I started keeping students from different countries when my children were small so that they might experience other cultures. This was to be for one summer only. This was 23 years ago. I became involved with IECT and have had such a wonderful relationship with them that I continue to host students from France, Spain and many other countries. My children have grown up with foreign students and have benefited greatly. The student is immersed in our culture, and when in our home, becomes one of the family. They speak English daily and take part in all family activities.”

“Ann Marie works extremely hard ensuring that the student and host family are well suited, matching the students with the correct families. She is extremely helpful in every way possible. Nothing is ever a problem that cannot be sorted. I also have lots of contact with the Limerick representative Liz Keyes. Liz is always at the end of the phone at any time of the day or night. I enjoy working with IECT and as a result of their efficiency, helpfulness and kindness to both the student and the host family I will continue to keep students for the foreseeable future.”
— Orla

Galway

Beloved by locals and tourists alike, Galway City is a fabulous cultural destination in its own right as well as a gateway to the treasures of the West of Ireland.

Why Galway?

Located on Ireland’s west coast, at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Galway is a hub of traditional cuisine, folk music, and medieval history. Perhaps more than any other Irish city, Galway boasts an incredible array of natural beauty in its vicinity, including the mesmerizing landscapes that form the Burren region as well as the world-famous Cliffs of Moher (which feature prominently in the Harry Potter film series). A short boat ride away are the largely Irish-speaking Aran Islands, whose iconic stone walls are unlike anything else in Europe. Indeed, it’s easy to see why the National Geographic magazine named Galway last year as one of the world’s top destinations. There’s only one way to find out what all the fuss is about!

Details

Here is what a typical four-night stay in Galway will look like.

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Connemara
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Aran Island of Inismor, by ferry
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Burren region & Cliffs of Moher
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

You can also combine a stay in Galway with a stay in Dublin.

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Connemara
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Burren region & Cliffs of Moher. Overnight in Dublin
DAY 4
8.00am – 6.30pm: Dublin city
DAY 5
8.00am: Departure from centre

You can also combine a stay in Galway with a stay in Killarney.

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Killarney and the Ring of Kerry
DAY 3
8.30am: Depart for Galway via Limerick and Burren Region Overnight Galway.
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Connemara
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

You can also combine a stay in Galway with a stay in Cork.

DAY 1
7.00pm Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Tour to Killarney, one of the best known tourist towns in Ireland. Return to Host families for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 3
8.30am: Depart for Galway via Limerick, including trip to the Burren region and the Cliffs of Moher. Meet host families in Galway for dinner and overnight.
DAY 4
8.30am: Connemara. Overnight Galway.
DAY 5
8.30am: Depart from centre

Belfast

Birthplace of the RMS Titanic, Belfast is the bustling capital city of Northern Ireland. Beyond its cool urban vibe, the city is within reach of some of the region’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Why Belfast?

In an island as small as Ireland, it’s remarkable that each city has its own particular character, history, culture, and even accent. A proud shipbuilding city on the mouth of the River Lagan, Belfast is no exception to this rule. It was here that the most famous cruise ship of all time, the Titanic, was constructed. Harland & Wolff, the shipyard where it was built, is now a popular museum. Nearby lies the Giant’s Causeway, one of the island of Ireland’s most remarkable natural formations, as well as the gorgeous Glens of Antrim and the Fermanagh Lakelands.

Details

Here is what a typical four-night stay in Belfast will look like.

DAY 1
7.00pm: Arrival in centre to meet with local organiser and host families. Dinner and overnight with the families
DAY 2
8.30am – 6.30pm: Belfast City
DAY 3
8.30am – 6.30pm: Glens of Antrim & Giant’s Causeway
DAY 4
8.30am – 6.30pm: Fermanagh Lakelands
DAY 5
8.30am: Departure from centre

Please note: All the above stay can be adapted and extended to suit your interests and requirements

Testimonials

Over the past few years we have enjoyed taken Students for David.

As parents with a younger child we were quite nervous at the start, our son completely surprised us and really enjoys the extra company in the house.

It is so much fun having the students some may cook with you, others my bring their musical instruments and entertain you. The younger students who have left their own homes for their first holiday without their family can be quiet to begin with but once they realise they are in a family home they settle and relax.

We take the students out walking with our dogs, have movie nights with popcorn. All students are welcome to join us in the evenings for meals we chat and we learn all about their world.

They may have homework to do and it can get great conversation and quite a few giggles going, we have found Google translate a great help 🤣 though the majority of the students are pretty good at English.

We have had a lovely time supporting IECT and local organiser David.

Westport

With its picturesque streets and squares, and its stunning outlying scenery, few towns in Ireland can match Westport’s charisma and charm. The place is now firmly established as one of Ireland’s most popular holiday destinations.

Why Westport?

Right at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, County Mayo — home of Westport — embraces the Atlantic Ocean with many of the county’s unforgettable landmarks dotted along its coastline – Croagh Patrick, Clew Bay and Achill’s majestic cliffs. The multi-award-winning Great Western Greenway runs more than 40 kilometres around the eastern and northern stretches of Clew Bay, it is one of Ireland’s fastest growing and most sought-after tourist attractions and the longest designated cycling and walking trail in the country. Here are some of the top attractions.

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick, which overlooks Clew Bay in County Mayo, is considered the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition of pilgrimage to this holy mountain stretches back over 5,000 years from the Stone Age to the present day without interruption. Its religious significance dates back to the time of the pagans, when people are thought to have gathered here to celebrate the beginning of harvest season. Croagh Patrick is renowned for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honour of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. It was on the summit of the mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD and the custom has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. The Black Bell of Saint Patrick was a highly venerated relic on Croagh Patrick for many years.

Westport House

18th Century Westport House is privately owned and operated by Jeremy Browne (the 11th Marquess of Sligo) and his family, who are direct descendants of Grace O’ Malley, the famous 16th Century Pirate Queen of Connaught. From small beginnings — with only 2,700 visitors in 1960 — the house has become one of Ireland’s best loved attractions and was recently voted one of the Best Family Visitor Attractions in Ireland by Primary Times magazine.

Clew Bay Heritage Centre

The jewel in the crown of the West, you cannot visit Westport without stopping in Clew Bay Heritage Centre. Situated in a 19th Century building on the Quad, the Clew Bay Heritage Centre traces the history of Westport and the Clew Bay Area from pre-Christian times to the present. Artefacts, documents and photographs connected with the general Westport area provide a basis for the presentation of local history, customs and traditions.

Details

Here is what a typical five-night stay in Westport will look like.

DAY 1
Arrival Dublin Ferryport. Depart for Westport via Athlone, Athenry and Tuam. Optional visits in Dublin depending on arrival time in Dublin. Meet local organiser and host families and disperse for dinner and overnight.
Day 2
8am: Group assembles for a full day of activities. Continue via Newport and Mallranny to Achill Sound before crossing the bridge on to Achill Island – Ireland’s largest island. Visit the Deserted Village and some of the 5 Blue Flag beaches on the island. Later carry on to Ballycroy National Park, where it’s possible to take a 2km walk to discover uninterrupted panoramic views of the Nephin Beg Mountain Range and Achill Island from a gently ascended Viewing Point. Return to Westport families for dinner and overnight.
Day 3
8am: Group assembles for full day of activities. Visit Westport town and then on to Louisburgh and Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s “Holy Mountain”, closely associated with St Patrick. Head south towards Doo Lough and on to Killary – Ireland’s only fjord. Take a boat trip on the fjord before returning to Westport via the more direct N59.
Day 4
8am: Group assembles for the day’s activities. Drive south towards Leenaun and into the heart of Connemara. Visits to the Sheep and Wool Centre, Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park are all in the area. Return to Westport for dinner and overnight.
Day 5
8am: Group assembles for the day’s activities. Drive to Castlebar to visit the National Museum of Country Life at Turlough Park. Later, return to Westport for an introduction to Gaelic Games or an Irish dancing activity.
Day 6
Group departs for Dublin via Galway with time to visit the city, depending on ferry times.

Monaghan

County Monaghan is Ireland’s best-kept secret. The birthplace of Clones and Carrickmacross lace, an exquisite technique used in royal wedding dresses over many centuries, the county is also renowned for its round towers, historic houses, and the drumlin-dotted landscape which inspired the poems of Patrick Kavanagh.

Why Monaghan?

Besides its extraordinary cultural offerings, Monaghan is home to some of the finest forest parks in Ireland. Groups can explore the county’s natural beauty a hike in Rossmore and Dartrey Forest Park. Monaghan is also an ideal centre for those wishing to visit Belfast and Dublin during their stay.

Here are some of the finest heritage centres and sites on offer to you during your visit to Monaghan and ‘Ireland’s Ancient East.’

Carrickmacross Workhouse

An imposing stone building, Carrickmacross Workhouse was one of over 100 workhouses built between 1841 and 1843 to house the poor, hence the Irish name, “Teach na mBocht”, or The Poorhouse. Between 1845 and 1848, a terrible blight destroyed the potato harvest across Europe, affecting Ireland worst of all. Now known as An Gorta Mór, or The Great Hunger, the resulting famine swelled the population of Carrickmacross Workhouse. Originally intended for no more than 500 people, the building would go on to house almost 2,000 men, women, and children by 1851. Many underage residents were left orphaned as their parents emigrated to places like Australia and the US. Carrickmacross Workhouse contains a restored original Girl’s Dormitory, from which 38 teenage girls were sent to Australia. In addition, mass graves from the famine era can be viewed at the rear of the Workhouse site.

Monaghan County Museum

Monaghan County Museum opened its doors to the public forty-five years ago, becoming one of the first full-time professionally-staffed heritage museums in the country. For over forty years, the museum staff have worked to promote the cultural diversity and historical richness of the region to as wide an audience as possible. The museum’s extensive collection covers an amazing stretch of Monaghan’s history, from the end of the last Ice Age over 10,000 years ago all the way to the present day. Its continued commitment to provide a quality service has been rewarded on a number of occasions, winning awards for the quality of its collection in 1980, 1993, 2004, and 2008. These honours confirm the museum’s standing as one of the premier cultural attractions in the country.

Lisnadarragh Wedge Tomb

One of the best Megalithic sites in the region, Lisnadarragh Wedge Tomb has been said to resemble the ribcage of a huge stone giant. A roofless gallery forms the centrepiece of this incredible and often-overlooked historical site, which will remind visitors of how far back Irish heritage runs. Shrouded in an air of mystery, the plot is known to locals as “the giant’s grave.”

The Patrick Kavanagh Trail, Inniskeen

One of Ireland’s best-loved poets, Patrick Kavanagh was famous for his lyrical odes to the people and landscapes of his beloved Monaghan, and his work is studied in schools up and down the country. On this trail, you will visit the churches, monasteries, and schoolhouses that provided his poems with their immortal imagery, and take in some of the region’s finest megalithic sites and natural beauty along the way.