Glasgow
Day 01: Greetings from Glasgow! Enjoy some leisure time to explore. Later, at 6 pm, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)
Day 02: Discover Scotland’s Lochs & Highlands GLASGOW: Enjoy a guided exploration, featuring the ancient cathedral, historic university, and charming Georgian squares.
HIGHLANDS: Journey through the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond, Loch Linnhe, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe.
FORT WILLIAM: Encounter the entrance to the towering Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK. LOCH NESS: Experience the mythic allure of this famous lake. (B)
Distance: 178 mi / 286 km
TOUR ESSENCE: Embark on an unforgettable adventure across the Scottish Highlands, where the allure of Loch Lomond, Loch Linnhe, and the mystic moors and valleys unfold. Witness the rugged beauty of Rannoch Moor, the dramatic vistas of Glen Coe, and the majestic Ben Nevis. Dive into the legend of Loch Ness as you traverse Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Day 03: Explore Culloden & Blair Atholl
CULLODEN: Discover the historic battlefield of Culloden Moor and its visitor center. BLAIR ATHOLL: Tour the majestic Blair Castle. (B) Distance: 178 mi / 286 km
TOUR FEATURE BLAIR CASTLE: A journey through 700 years where the Stewarts and Murrays of Atholl’s tales of passion, triumph, and sorrow are etched within its walls. Esteemed guests include Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Queen Victoria.
Day 04: Explore Edinburgh’s Splendors & Spectacles
Morning Exploration in EDINBURGH: Embark on a guided journey through Edinburgh’s contrasting New and Old Towns, culminating in a visit to the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Here, marvel at the Scottish Crown Jewels. Enjoy free time in the afternoon for personal exploration.
Exclusive EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Experience: Witness the globally acclaimed Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an unforgettable display of music and military precision, available exclusively from August 5 to August 19. (B)
TOUR ESSENCE Majesty & Music: Venture to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, a site with a rich tapestry of Scottish history and the distinction of being the most besieged place in Britain. Discover the castle’s treasures, including the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. This historic fortress also serves as a stunning backdrop for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a grand celebration of pipes and drums held every August.
Day 05: Musical Notes & Whispered Promises GRETNA GREEN Discover the iconic spot where a Scottish smithy united runaway lovers in matrimony. LAKE DISTRICT Embark on a picturesque journey. GRASMERE Explore Wordsworth’s cherished hamlet and indulge in authentic Grasmere gingerbread. LIVERPOOL Delve into The Beatles Story, an immersive exploration of the legendary band’s history and hits. (B) 235 mi / 378 km
HIGHLIGHT ENDURING CUSTOMS Relish the classic taste of Grasmere gingerbread and uncover the tale of Sarah Nelson, the inventive Victorian cook who created this renowned delicacy, a unique blend of cake and biscuit, in 1854.
Day 06: Enchanted Journey in NORTH WALES: Traverse the captivating woodlands of Betws-y-Coed and the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. Embark on a ferry journey from Holyhead to Dublin. (B) Distance: 131 mi / 210 km
TOUR ESSENCE Explore the majestic beauty of Snowdonia National Park, where the wilderness, towering peaks, and coastal vistas come alive, seamlessly blending the Welsh language with nature’s grandeur.
Day 07: Explore Dublin, Ireland’s Capital: Embark on a scenic drive featuring highlights like O’Connell Street, historic Georgian squares, the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the prestigious Trinity College. Enjoy some leisure time. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT Dublin’s Delights: Beyond the beauty of its charming locals, Dublin boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a wealth of pubs. Experience the elegance of Georgian Squares, the ancient St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the famed Trinity College library, all contributing to the city’s enchanting character.
Day 08: Explore Ireland’s Treasures:
- KILDARE: Discover the famous Irish National Stud, a testament to Ireland’s equestrian passion.
- CASHEL: Experience the historic Rock of Cashel, where the legendary St. Patrick once preached.
- BLARNEY: Journey to the village famed for its enchanting Blarney Stone.
- KILLARNEY: Enjoy some leisure time. (B, D) Distance: 231 mi / 372 km
HIGHLIGHT: Embrace the Culture & Tradition at the Irish National Stud in County Kildare, the heart of Ireland’s esteemed horse breeding heritage. Delve into the legacy of world-renowned champion stallions that have shaped the racing world since the early 1900s.
Day 09: Discover the enchanting beauty of the Ring of Kerry, a panoramic journey around Ireland’s southwest peninsula. Pause in the charming village of Adare to admire its quaint thatched cottages. Enjoy free time in Limerick. Marvel at the emerald vistas and ocean panoramas along the route, showcasing Ireland’s natural wonders. The Ring of Kerry adventure begins and concludes in Killarney, offering a scenic exploration of lush landscapes, stunning cliffs, and serene beaches along the Iveragh Peninsula.
Day 10: Experience the breathtaking majesty of the Cliffs of Moher, towering 668 feet above the Atlantic. Enjoy free time in Galway before journeying 188 miles through picturesque landscapes. Marvel at the timeless beauty of these ancient cliffs, a source of inspiration for generations of artists, poets, and scientists.
Day 11: Explore the grandeur of Northern Ireland with a stroll atop the ancient city walls of DERRY alongside a knowledgeable guide. Marvel at the geological wonder of GIANT’S CAUSEWAY, where over 40,000 basalt columns stand as a testament to time. Delve into local history as you traverse the 400-year-old walls of Derry, a cultural gem and the site where aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart made her historic landing in 1932 after flying from Newfoundland. This journey of 187 mi / 301 km connects the Wild Atlantic Way to the Causeway Coastal Route, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.
Day 12: Embark on a memorable journey with the Grand Ship & Great Scots as they delve into the Titanic Belfast experience. Traverse the waters to Cairnryan, a maritime gem on Scotland’s western shores, en route to vibrant Glasgow. Delve into history at Titanic Belfast, unraveling the mysteries of the iconic ocean liner with captivating stories and artifacts. Gain insights into Belfast’s maritime legacy, from its bustling shipbuilding industry to the tragic events of April 1912. Witness the launch, sinking, and aftermath of the Titanic, separating fact from fiction in an immersive exploration.
Day 13: Wishing you a journey filled with safety until our next reunion! Your vacation concludes with breakfast this morning. (B)