Meet Your Driver & Guide – Val Calnan ☘️
VALS Private Tours is led by Val Calnan, a Cork-based private driver and tour guide with many years of experience welcoming visitors to Ireland. Known for his calm, reliable manner and deep local knowledge, Val specializes in private tours and shore excursions starting in Cork and Cobh and travelling throughout Ireland.
A Local Guide You Can Trust
Born and based in Cork, Val knows the region far beyond the typical tourist routes. His tours combine Ireland’s history, landscapes, and everyday life, offering guests an authentic experience guided by someone who truly lives here. Val has spent many years working directly with international visitors, cruise passengers, couples, families, and small private groups. His background in professional driving and guiding ensures every journey is safe, comfortable, fun and well-paced.
TOUR VEHICLES
Sedan: Up to 3 Passangers | Minivan: Up to 8 Passengers
To ensure a high level of comfort and flexibility, Val operates two modern, well-maintained vehicles suited to different group sizes. For individuals or smaller groups, a premium sedan is available, accommodating up to three additional passengers in comfort. For families or larger private groups, Val offers a luxurious minivan, providing spacious seating for up to eight additional passengers.
Both vehicles are chosen to deliver a smooth, relaxed travel experience and allow guests to enjoy Ireland’s scenery in comfort throughout the journey.
Experience That Makes the Difference
As a private driver-guide, Val understands that no two travelers are the same. Each tour is tailored to individual interests, timing, and mobility needs — whether that means visiting iconic landmarks such as Blarney Castle, exploring coastal villages, or enjoying scenic drives through rural Ireland.
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Many years guiding private tours in Ireland
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Detailed knowledge about the history of Ireland
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Extensive experience with cruise ship shore excursions from Cobh
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Strong focus on punctuality, safety, and flexibility
Why Travel With Val
Val limits tours to private parties only. This allows guests to travel at their own pace, ask questions freely, stop for photos, or adjust plans along the way. His relaxed approach and friendly conversation create an atmosphere more like traveling with a knowledgeable local than joining a formal tour.
Guests consistently describe Val as professional, dependable, and genuinely passionate about Ireland. His goal is simple: to ensure every guest feels comfortable, informed, and well looked after from pick-up to drop-off.
Core values:
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Reliability and punctuality
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Local knowledge and honest recommendations
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Clear communication and personal service
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Safe, comfortable private driving
From Cork & Cobh to All of Ireland
While Cork and Cobh are the starting point for most tours, Val regularly guides guests to destinations across Ireland, including coastal routes, historical sites, countryside regions, and hidden local favorites — always tailored to the time available and guest preferences.