General Testimonials

To say we enjoyed our time with you would be the greatest of understatements.

Over eight days, the old Pullman carriages and their diesel engine carried us up the whole western side of Ireland, from the south all the way north into Northern Ireland. Along the way we stayed in a number of hotels, four- and five-star, every one of them comfortable and well-appointed.

Yet here is the kicker. Each time we stepped back onto the train, it was like coming home. That feeling of familiarity and comfort, of a seat that already knows you.

Which brings me to the volunteers. We have never experienced service so professional and, I will say it, so loving. Along with Dave and Jim, and everyone on board with us, carry a deep love and knowledge of heritage trains. To be immersed in it was to live, for a little while, a life long gone.

At Maam Cross, the Connemara Railway Project made us forget the rain. And the rain did its best. But for an afternoon we were back in the days when rail travel was still a fledgling thing. Oh, and the Irish coffee served there was truly a whisky experience. Somewhere in it, we did taste coffee.

Now, as fate would have it, our carriage was the closest to the bar. Jim knew well we weren't big drinkers, and still he made a point of reminding us the bar was open. We were, after all, never more than a short distance from some of Ireland’s finest beverages. And John, our barkeep, assured all of us he was there to keep us well quenched, and he was always there to listen to our stories. I'll never figure out how he keeps his ears so attuned.

What am I forgetting?

Abbeyglen Castle.

Of all the hotels, this was the highlight. Our welcome, just before we were led into the dining room, is one we will never forget. Ronan Hughes’ hospitality and storytelling sit well above anything we have known on any cruise. His tales of local legend and fact kept us informed and entertained for a good thirty minutes, and the Prosecco kept flowing the whole while. Could that be topped?

The fare was as special as the storytelling: well prepared, well presented, and every bit of its five stars. And I say that as someone who once owned a bistro in a small town east of Montreal, Canada.

To travel through 1960s Ireland is an experience that needs repeating. If only to live the quiet of the countryside and the hospitality of its people. Sitting in the pubs, meeting and talking with the Irish, gives meaning to why we travel at all. And we travel to relax, to learn and to engage.

Dave and Jim are the perfect hosts. They complement each other. They with all the other volunteers and the train, are the guarantee of a successful Emerald Pullman Tour.

Shirley and I wanted to thank you and the rest of the team at Railtours Ireland for all of your hard work on the Emerald Pullman trip. Your hard work along with that of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland team made it a truly unique and wonderful experience. First class from start to finish;  on the trains, on the buses, and the accommodations.

We were on the Emerald Pullman Train Tour for 8 days! We were on & off the train thru that time! Our stay at the Abbey Glen Castle was a wonderful surprise!! I would recommend this tour to family members and my friends!! This trip would be a great gift or anniversary present!!! It was a well organized and fun experience!!!!

The Emerald Pullman 7-Day Tour of Ireland was an outstanding experience from start to finish. The tour was exceptionally well organized, allowing us to relax and enjoy every moment while experiencing the very best of Ireland.

The excursions were thoughtfully selected and provided a wonderful mix of history, culture, scenery, and local charm. From breathtaking landscapes to fascinating towns and cities, the tour offered a fantastic “big picture” view of Ireland while still allowing us to appreciate the unique character of each destination.

What truly made the experience special was the team. They were witty, knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly helpful throughout the journey. Their stories, insights, and good humor brought Ireland to life and made every day enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to experience the beauty, history, and spirit of Ireland, I highly recommend the Emerald Pullman tour. It exceeded our expectations and created memories we’ll cherish for years to come.

It was a wonderful way to see Ireland & Northern Ireland - great hotels, guides & drivers.

So many highlights... the train, the people, the hotels, the food, Brian! We met so many lovely people - between your folks and other passengers! This was such a memorable journey - one rainbow after another. The crew was great! We will tell others what a lovely & good experience we had. David & Jim were great. Lots of interesting info from them. Felt safe & cared for.

Your stewards and staff, the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel and excursions were all great! I am so glad we found you online and took this wonderful trip!

We loved the old style classy feel of the trip. All the staff and crew were very pesonable. We'll recommend it to others!

We have had a lovely time - we enjoyed the experience on the Emerald Pullman and visiting Ireland and learning the history. A beautiful country!

The organisation and level of service has been unbelievable - from the tour guides to the volunteers - the lovely hotels (Abbeyglen was beyond our expectations) and the food. Well done to all! Thank you for the exceptional experience - your knowledge of Ireland is outstanding and your genuine warmth has been very much appreciated.