Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimages

Fantastic experience: Had a great time with JWT in Portugal. It was soul and body retreat and within a week we managed to cover all important things. From Fatima, Lisbon to Estoril, from heavenly to earthly and beyond. Our tour guides Elsa and Carina were knowledgeable and caring, whilst the trip also offered a good balance for your own spare time. Lovely! Thank you

Fantastic experience: I travelled with Joe Walsh Tours with the Fr. Jimmy Larkin group from Dublin in August 2024. This was my 3rd trip using Joe Walsh tours and we could not find fault with them. Our hotel La Solitude was excellent as always, very clean rooms, friendly helpful staff and delicious food. But what made this year's pilgrimage was our wonderful Joe Walsh Tours rep, Liz. Nothing was too much trouble to her and I know her days were busy, but she really felt part of our group. She is also a great pianist, but that's another story! My 5 stars are especially for Liz.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely fantastic Joe Walsh team ! Every single one of them Hotel Padoue is an excellent hotel and the staff are so friendly and helpful. Thank you all for a wonderful pilgrimage to Lourdes. Will definitely return soon

Negative experience: Joe Walsh Tours are not interested in any way in their passengers even when this includes sick pilgrims travelling to a hospital setting. For the past 10 years (excluding the 2020 & 2021 years of restricted travel due to Covid-19 when tours did not take place) every pilgrimage tour I have travelled on has experienced flight delays and cancellations. JWT insist on continually rewarding Albastar airline for these flight delays and cancellations by continually using them and JWT take no responsibility and provide no support to passengers when Albastar refuse to pay the compensation they admit they are liable to pay. I am due compensation for a flight delayed by 6 hours in July 2022 and I have just returned from a pilgrimage where the flight was cancelled and then the flight time given for the follwing day was changed three times before we finally took off 7 hours after the planned flight time. JWT rep in the airport was useless and even lacked any type of compassion as she watched customers struggling to lift bags off a trolley and she stood by and did nothing - surely on a purely human level your first thought would be to try and help someone even if it was a stranger!! JWT sent e-mails during the delay which didn't align with the information airport staff had and so added confusion and panic to an already fraught situation. I would advise anyone to avoid travelling with JWT for pilgrimages and find an alternative supplier. Unfortunately as I travel as part of a church group who insist on using JWT I will probably have to suffer the terrible customer service and abysmal organisation of trips in the future but hopefully this review will help others to avoid suffering the same fate

Positive experience: Haven't travelled for a while , very expensive now. When I used these they were good .

Negative experience: To Whom It May Concern, My wife trip to Lourdes last Sept 2023 turned out to be a disaster with the flight departure cancelled for 24 hours. To add insult to injury we are still waiting for our insurance payout due. We contacted JWT who said that it was not their responsibility and to contact the insurance Company directly. We contacted the insurance last Sept and received an acknowledgement. Since then we have been totally ignored and left high and dry. We have already sent six emails and counting. Q. Why does JWT employ this agency as part of their package who then ignore the customer - JWT are just as culpable by washing their hands in all of this. It is important going forward that the public are aware of what they are getting when they book with JWT. We will continue to fight until we are re-imbursed for our cancellation flight.

Fantastic experience: I travelled to Lourdes in July this year with my daughter, two sisters and some friends. We were part of a JWT group organised by Joan Cahill. From start to finish it was a wonderful trip due in no small part to Joan’s friendly, inclusive and very professional leadership. . Nothing was too much trouble. I particularly liked all the attention to detail that went into our masses with Fr. John Kelly and the wonderful music provided by Joan with everyone encouraged to take part. It was a very special trip with very special people. Marie Lacey

Fantastic experience: I've been travelling to Lourdes & Fatima with JWT since 2001. So many wonderful memories made with my mother & sisters. JWT attend to every last detail of the Pilgrimage. Nothing is too much troublem. I look forward to my next Pilgrimage with JWT.

Fantastic experience: My sisters and myself first went to Loudres in 2022 and we enjoyed that much we went back in 2023 and are going again in 2024. It is somewhere that I myself wanted to go for a while and was on my bucket list and my sisters jumped at the chance to get on plane and to get some sunshine. Not sure if the pilgrimage at this time was there main reason for going . We went on the 5 day pilgrimage and we were so fortunate to be part of the group that was being taking care of by Joan Cahill. We met some fabulous people in the group which we are still in contact with. It is hard to put into words the experience of going to Loudres... it is something that I think you need to experience yourself. The place itself, the people, the tranquil atmosphere and above all Joan Cahill of Joe Walsh Tours. The attention to detail and the ease which Joan carries out her role go above and beyond your expectations. From you arrive at the airport till you are back on the coach going home everything runs like clockwork with absolutely no stress whatsoever. We just loved our experience from start to finish and each time and leaving aside all the holiness it is a place where great friendships are made, you laugh to your sides are sore and you cry happy tears and sad tears. Loudres is very special place and is made even more special with Joe Walsh tours and our one in a million Joan xxx Edel McCaffrey

Fantastic experience: I travelled to Medjugorje between 6th-13th September with St Augustine's, Coatbridge (Scotland) led by Fr Kane & Fr Towey. The whole week is awesome from start to finish whether it's stations of the cross with Phillip & the gang, Apparition Hill, blue cross mountain, statue of the Risen Christ, Conacolo Community, St James' church, Fr Slavko's grave, Fr Leon's sermons, evening adoration, high levels of confession provided by international priests, the lovely people of Mary's Meals. Phillip, Catarina, Dragana & Ivana are exceptional J.W personnel, staff at Hotel Leone as exceptional and so lovely. It's always a wrench to leave at the end of the week but as Sadie, Fr Dominic & Fr Michael say, our Blessed Mother always calls us back

Fantastic experience: I was lucky to travel to San Giovani Rotondo in September 2023 . It was the most wonderful experiennce and we got to view the remains of St. Padre Pio in his final resting place of a glass casket. We were delighted to have a wonderful guide, an Italian American, who gave wonderful background information on all aspects of the Pilgrimage and who looked after the group so well. Her light-hearted approach and knowledge was appreciated by all. I would fully recommend this trip !! Richard M.

Fantastic experience: I love Lourdes. I first travelled as a sick pilgrim and went back in thanksgiving the following year.This was my 21st pilgrimage in 2023. We had delays at the airport because of storm Agnes in September. I was so glad the pilgrimage went ahead as I still wanted to travel when it was safe to do so.Once we arrived Our Lady sent us the most beautiful weather. Heat and blue skies all the way. The highlight for me and will always be is the torchlight procession. When we sing the Ave Maria and raise out candles it is so moving. All our group from Athy Co. Kildare had a most rewarding and uplifting experience. Thank you all at JWT. for looking after us so well. We are already talking about next year. Our Lady of Lourdes Pray for us

Fantastic experience: I absolutely adore lourdes…it’s my medicine for when things get a little bit too much and I need some therapy to relax and get myself back together again. I’ve been going for years now, always tracking with JWT in the capable and knowledgeable hands of Fionnuala and Caroline and the amazing team of representatives on the ground in lourdes. Nothing is ever a bother to them day or night. Look forward to seeing you all again very very soon! #JWT #JoeWalshTours #Lourdes

Fantastic experience: Our family traveled with JWT to Medjugorje this year and also last year. Philip Ryan and Milkca were our tour guide both times. They were amazing… definitely a calling from God. We only want to travel with JWT in future

Fantastic experience: I travelled on my first JWT Pilgrimage, to Padua, in September. I lost my mother during the Covid lockdowns. She had a special devotion to St Anthony, so I went in her memory. The JWT pilgrimage was so well organised, travel, accommodation, guided tours, daytrips and meals. I met the most lovely people on the trip. We were fortunate to have Fr Michael Toomey as spiritual leader and a very kind and delightful JWT rep, Mario, as our guide. We were so well looked after and Mario had us all speaking a few words of Italian by the end of our wonderful pilgrimage.

Fantastic experience: I was in Lourdes with the Cloyne Pilgrimage in June 2023, we had an amazing trip, everything went great. Always great travelling with Joe Walsh, the reps are always so helpful. Looking forward to my next trip. Have travelled with Joe Walsh tours since they took over the Pilgrimage.

Fantastic experience: Loudes is a peaceful and tranquil place, where you get lost in your own thoughts, a place where you meet friends that turn into family. Lourdes captivates the soul and is a place of hope. You make memories that will last a lifetime.

Fantastic experience: An amazing experience in Medjugorje. The guides were on hand all the way through the week. Beautiful week. Totally recommend while Our blessed Mother is still appearing. Thanks to all the staff at Joe Walsh Tours.

Fantastic experience: I have arranged Lourdes Pilgrimages for school groups for over 10 years. This was the first time I participated in an organised Diocesan Pilgrimage with the Archdiocese of Glasgow. I was very impressed with the ease of booking as well as the arrangements for travel and transfers. The hotel booked was very welcoming and the support given by the staff in Lourdes was excellent. They kept us informed throughout the week of all of the activities each day as well as enquire how we were getting on. I enjoyed the experience so much I am considering a return trip booking with Joe Walsh Tours again in the future.

Fantastic experience: Made a pilgrimage to Fatima in October Would definitely recommend @joewalshtours for all your needs, Everything was included & excellent at what they do

Fantastic experience: I spent a wedk in Medjegorge. It is like heaven on earth,it is so quiet and peaceful there and i always say it is"my time' there is nothing to distract one. One forgets about mobile phones ,televisions,traffic. It is so peaceful . The people are so friendly and humble. I love the place and look forward to going every year. JWT and all the team and Philip look after everyone so well. It a great week

Fantastic experience: We travelled as part of a school group to Lourdes in September. Our school group thoroughly enjoyed it and the care and attention of our JWT reps was very much appreciated. Daily visits at lunchtime and communication of all areas pertaining to our stay was excellenty.

Fantastic experience: We travelled in September Amazing Joe Walsh staff ...Always willing to help Accommodation and food at the Agena was perfect and a short walk to the grotto Can't wait to go back again someday

Fantastic experience: It was my first time going to lourdes last year making it even more special was I shared the amazing Wonderful spirtual experience with my mam. No words can ever describe hows fantastic it was it was just Magical

Fantastic experience: Myself and my 11 year old daughter Lily travelled on pilgrimage to Lourdes in July 2023. Lourdes is a very special place for me having visited with my late mum when younger. We had such a wonderful experience, Lily was fully included in the spiritual programme and we have such treasured memories including the water gesture, Lily singing at and serving Mass and the moving candle lit procession. Our tour guide Liz was so kind and helpful and I would highly recommend travelling with JWT, we have nothing but good things to say about them and we hope to travel with them again soon.

Fantastic experience: Medugorje I have been travelling with Joe Walsh Tours on pilgrimages - mainly to Medugorje for almost 16 years, as a matter of fact I was there twice this year and would go again if I could. Medugorje is a special place set apart from the world and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It a place where you automatically switch off from the world. The simplicity of life there touches the heart and the soul. It a place where one finds healing for both mind body and soul. It's uplifting to see so many people joined in unity. It's a place where stranger don't exist. You would find yourself sharing testimonies and life experiences with someone you've never met but yet feel connected to. Everytime I go to Medugorje it's a different experience ...like everyone I bring my difficulties, struggles, disappointments and prayers are always answered ....in one way or another. Sometimes it can feel like a boot camp for the soul, sometimes it can feel like a spa day for the soul. Life is never again the same once you've been to Medugorje!! It's transforming in so many ways. The beauty of the rugged hills and the mountains and the weather is usually great. Mostly sunshine and last but not least the presence of Our Lady is so tangible. Its definitely a must for anyone wanting change in their life. Joe Walsh's guides are the best...110% support and guidance and always on call to answer any query or deal with any issue that may arise. So get booking to Medugorje with Joe Walsh...an experience never to be forgotten.Siobhan Browne

Fantastic experience: I travelled to Lourdes twice this year as part of the IPT Easter pilgrimage and the Derry Diocese pilgrimage July 23. I travel as a a volunteer nurse and enjoy every part of the pilgrimage. Lourdes is my favourite place on earth and the feeling of peace receive when there is indescribable. The Derry diocese travel with Joe walsh each yr and we are always well looked after and our every need is catered for. My favourite experience every time is the stillness of the grotto at night. The time to refkect and give thanks for the days events is very special. I pray that Our lady of Lourdes brings me safely back, very soon!

Fantastic experience: San Giovanni fabulous trip in June '22 and in September 2018

Fantastic experience: I have travelled to Lourdes many times it is such a wonderful experience spiritually emotionally and in many other ways also

Fantastic experience: Took part in the Military Pilgrimage last May, my third. A fantastic experience as it always is and Lourdes is a magnificent place. We travelled with JWT and were looked after like royalty. We had our own programme of events for the 5 days and got the chance to meet military from all over the world as well as Irish. Stayed in the lovely Hotel Mediteranne which was comfortable, clean and welcoming. The team at JWT were fantastic from the very beginning, as I book for a group and they were so pleased to help with everything both at home and in Lourdes. Lourdes is one of my favourite places to visit and I hope to make the trip again in 2024, using JWT.

Positive experience: We had a great rep last year Joan, she kept us entertained and educated all in one. Can't wait to return next year.

Fantastic experience: Review of our Pilgrimage to Lourdes, July 2023 with JWT. JWT's pilgrimage to Lourdes in July 2023 provided an exceptional experience in terms of organization and comfort. The journey commenced with a stress-free check-in process at the departure airport, facilitated by the work of the JWT staff which allowed pilgrims to start their spiritual journey with ease. Upon arrival at the destination airport, the smooth transfer process exemplified the well-organized nature of the pilgrimage. We were met by our guide Joan who welcomed us to Lourdes and directed us to our transport, a modern comfortable coach. Overall, JWT's meticulous coordination of flights and transfers made the pilgrimage to Lourdes truly unforgettable. During the Lourdes pilgrimage, the accommodation provided by JWT was excellent. The chosen hotel, "La Solitude," was conveniently located near the Sanctuary, making it easy to attend religious services and activities. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant stay. The hotel staff were friendly and accommodating, always available to assist with any queries. The hotel also had excellent facilities, including a restaurant, bar, lounge area, and swimming pool, providing ample space for relaxation and socialising. The meals provided during the tour were superb. Each day, we enjoyed a variety of delicious dishes that catered to different dietary requirements and preferences. The menu featured both local and international cuisine, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The quality of the food was outstanding, with fresh ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches and dinners, the meals were a highlight of the pilgrimage experience. The dining area was spacious and well-organised, allowing us to enjoy our meals in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Our guide, Joan, thoughtfully arranged for our group to sit together during meals, creating an opportunity for group interaction. EDuring the Lourdes pilgrimage, a wide range of events were organised to ensure a meaningful and inclusive experience for all participants. Joan played a crucial role in fostering inclusiveness throughout the journey. Group religious services coordinated by Fr John were enriching, featuring beautiful choral contributions from Joan and other group members. The hymn "Wash over me" still resonates in our minds. In addition to religious events, various activities were organised to promote inclusiveness and camaraderie among the pilgrims. Joan, the tour guide, played a pivotal role in ensuring everyone felt included and valued throughout the pilgrimage. She actively engaged with each participant, listening to their stories and providing support when needed. Joan's warm and compassionate nature fostered a welcoming environment where participants felt comfortable sharing experiences and connecting with one another. The pilgrimage to Lourdes with JWT was an exceptionally remarkable experience. From arrival to departure, every aspect of the journey was meticulously planned and executed, leaving us in awe and gratitude. After such a well-organised and enriching pilgrimage, it's not surprising that many participants expressed a desire to go again in the future. The overall experience made a lasting impression on our hearts and souls, deepening our faith and strengthening our connection to Lourdes. For this, we are forever grateful to Joan, Fr John, and JWT. Thank you to everyone. Pat and Veronica Coughlan Kilkenny.

Fantastic experience: I am just home from a pilgrimage with Joe Walsh Tours in Medjugorje. Philip Ryan and his team out there are second to none. From the day my pilgrimage is booked in JWT office in Dublin, I know my trip is in safe hands. From the minute we got off the plane and were guided to Medjugorje by Julia to our departure with Enes, nothing is too much to ask of the JWT staff. Mario, Dragada and Mikitsa helped Philip to share the peace of Medjugorje with all the pilgrims, especially in the candle light procession on Sunday night. It is such a special place where JWT staff guide pilgrims to have a very memorable pilgrimage under the guidance of Our Lady.

Fantastic experience: We had the most wonderful experience with JOE WALSH TOURS in Lourdes this year. The assistance was superb and the hotel was very good with excellent food choice.

Fantastic experience: After arriving on our flight from Dublin, we were met and welcomed by our JWT representative who guided us to 3 awaiting luxury coaches to transfer us and our luggage to our Hotel in Lourdes. After our short journey coach transfer - approximately 20 minutes - we arrived at the 3 Star Agena Hotel in Lourdes. We were welcomed there, by our host Fionnuala, where we were to stay for the next 4 nights. Our accommodation was what was to be expected in a 3 Star hotel, the food was excellent and always promptly on time and distribution of meals was very well organised. The hotel staff had great customer care skills. They were always very polite, courteous and very helpful at all times. The hotel is very well situated, about a 5 minute short walk away from the Grotto and sanctuaries and right in the heart of the main shopping area. There was a very good, intense and interesting itinerary to follow every day, which was optional. JWT staff were available at all times. They addressed everyone every day in the restaurant either before or after meals They addressed any concerns and answered all questions very promptly and professionally and explained the daily itinerary for the next day. On our last day we were taken back by luxury coach to Lourdes Airport where the JWT representative guided us to the check-in desks at the Airport, before wishing us all a safe and trouble free journey back home. My wife and I enjoyed every minute of our pilgrimage from start to finish.

Fantastic experience: Excellent hotel lovely food great variety friendly staff easy access to grotto and Lourdes town

Fantastic experience: Did the JWT Shrines Of France trip, in Oct 2023, which included 3 full days in Lourdes. Fabulous trip, shared with lovely fellow pilgrims & a great Tour Guide, Gerard. Loved Lourdes, it hasn’t changed too much in the 30 years since I was last there. Stayed in the Hotel Mediteranae, our room was lovely, the food was ok-ish, but it’s a bit of a distance from the Grotto & Sanctuary. Intending pilgrims to Lourdes should be aware it’s very expensive for eating & shopping, and there are unexpected Taxes & tolls to be paid in certain places. Including a new €10 “Tourist Tax”!! The weather was gorgeous & it was fairly crowded there, so some long queues were inevitable. All in all, we had a very enjoyable time in Lourdes, Then it was on to the amazing Rocamadour, and we had a lovely Mass & saw St Bernadette’s body in Nevers. Our trip ended in Chartes, which is well worth visiting too.

Fantastic experience: Totally amazing experience. Your staff and organisation was 5 star throughout with a full programme of spiritual events for all ages and abilities. We very much look forward to a return visit in 2024 in order to relive the special moments.

Fantastic experience: Went to Medjugorje with JWT and they are blessed with a wonderful team especially Philip.

Fantastic experience: I travelled with a group on a JWT to Lourdes in July 2023 . Our tour guide Joan Cahill was wonderful and took care of us so well . The hotel was lovely, comfortable and close to the grotto. The food was good and plenty of choices . Lourdes is a very special place . The area is beautiful and we visited some very beautiful churches. I loved every moment of our tour . I highly recommend taking a JWT as the care and attention to detail by our lovely guide was second to none . I can’t wait to return again in 2024!

Fantastic experience: Myself and my mother had the most beautiful experience in Lourdes in July this year. Mam was in Lourdes once before and that was in July 1956 so this was such a very special time in Lourdes I booked in with JWT for July 17th not knowing what group I would be with! I could not have come across a better and most wonderful group of people who made myself and mam so welcome. I treasure every moment of that few days in my heart. The photo shows mam (first lady on the left in Lourdes 1956) and myself and mam in Lourdes July 2023

Fantastic experience: Very well organised. Reps in Lourdes are excellent and very helpful

Positive experience: I haven’t travelled with Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimages recently. The last time was in 2014 when my husband and I traveled on the Shrines of France Tour which was very enjoyable. It was well organised and the tour guide was friendly and helpful. I would recommend this tour to anyone.

Fantastic experience: I travelled with Joe Walsh tours to Lourdes in July, 2023. Everything was organised very well. Our group leader Joan was amazing and really went the extra mile to ensure that we had a great experience both spiritually and socially. Each ceremony was beautifully organised and we got to know our fellow pilgrims very quickly. I came back spiritually refreshed. Helen Murphy

Fantastic experience: Lourdes is '' my happy place '' . Just to sit at the Grotto where Our Blessed Lady appeared to Bernadette sometimes not praying just sitting in that special place. '' my peace ''

Negative experience: My Trip to medjugorje ..13 June 2023 so disappointed with tour company as felt isolated as when I was told I would join a group the group was private and not happy for me to join them. The group was not informed neither was I and the atmosphere was so uncomfortable and no support from tour representatives. The whole experience tainted my spiritual journey Never again and do not recommend this company. Shocking.

Fantastic experience: We enjoyed Lourdes

Fantastic experience: Wonderful pilgrimage to Fatima. Carina and Elsa, our guides, were the best I have ever known. The spiritual message and the practical arrangements were both communicated with great clarity.

Fantastic experience: I loved their organised trips to Medjugorje. I booked to go to Fatima with them in 2020 but everything changed that year and unfortunately Joe Walsh tours struggled because of lockdowns and restrictions. The holiday was cancelled. I didn’t think I would get my money back but they stayed true to their word and refunded me every cent. I thought it was very decent of them. I know it must have been a nightmare for travel agencies during 2021/2022. Joe Walsh tours are honest.

Fantastic experience: Had such a lovely prayerful plus fun trip to Lourdes. Gerard and Una were so helpful and I want to thank them sincerely for helping me....

Negative experience: Very poor company. Holiday was cancelled because of covid-19. This company closed down. Many people myself included did not get refunds. After covid-19 they opened up again. Still did not get refund. Stay clear off this company.

Negative experience: Didn't call back on numerous occasions when promised. Booked with another agent

Negative experience: Just called enquiring about cancelling a trip in July due to needing an operation. They do not issue refunds. A totally disgusting stance to take considering 1, they purport to do pilgrimages and religious trips, that approach is not very Christian at all, 2, the majority of people who do these trips are old and prone to health issues. You should be ashamed of yourselves Joe Walsh tours. Do not book with these thieves.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic

Fantastic experience: They have sadly gone out of business.

Positive experience: Over a good trip/pilgrimage; however, disappointingly rather than one Tour Guide we had three different - not everything listed on the pilgrimage literary was completed - plus the management in the hotel in Santander were inept about the room and dining arrangements.

Fantastic experience: My son (17 year old) took the Rugby and French tour through them (we are in the US) and they were absolutely knowledgeable and professional.

Fantastic experience: I traveled with a group from Derry along with my Mum to Lourdes (1st - 6th July). Everything was so well organised and Joan Cahill was the most helpfull, approachable and kind tour guide, Joan always had a smile on her face, always had time to answer questions and have a friendly chat, even though I'm sure she had a million and one things to do. I look forward to traveling with Joe Walsh Tours again and will definitely recommend to friends.