Dublin to Edinburgh
Day 01: Embark on a journey to uncover the rich Celtic traditions and warm hospitality of Ireland and Scotland. Begin by immersing yourself in the charm of Dublin, followed by a delightful Welcome Reception with fellow adventurers and our knowledgeable Travel Director.
Day 02: Cruise through Dublin’s avenues with your dedicated guide, taking in the grand Georgian architecture and the towering St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Dive into the city’s charm at your own pace, perhaps indulging in a pint at Temple Bar or catching the vibrant street performers on Grafton Street. For an unforgettable evening, why not join an Optional Experience and immerse yourself in the spirited rhythms of an Irish cabaret?
Day 03: Embark on a cultural journey exploring Ireland’s rich heritage of breeding top-notch racehorses at the Irish National Stud in Kildare. Marvel at the majestic equines with a guided tour, reflecting on their significant role in racing lore, and wander through serene Japanese gardens. Later, delve into the artistry of crystal-making at the House of Waterford Crystal, where skilled artisans demonstrate their craft in an immersive workshop experience.
Day 04: Immerse yourself in Irish tradition by kissing the Blarney Stone for the ‘gift of gab’ before traversing the Kerry Mountains to County Kerry. Transport to 1930s Ireland tonight for an exceptional adventure at Muckross’s working farms. Engage with local families, preserving rural heritage while enjoying authentic flavors at Quilles Farmhouse overlooking the picturesque lakes of Killarney.
Day 05: Embark on a mesmerizing coastal expedition around the Ring of Kerry, where the breathtaking allure of the Iveragh Peninsula unfolds before us. Marvel at landmarks like Daniel O’Connell’s Cahirciveen, the quaint village of Waterville, and the majestic sights of the Black Valley and Moll’s Gap, all framed by the distant peaks of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
Day 06: Embark on a journey to Adare, renowned for its charming thatched cottages. Our next destination awaits at Galway, where the majestic stone cathedral stands on the grounds of a former prison. Afterward, take in the sights of Eyre Square before we resume our northern expedition. Tonight, we indulge in a delightful dinner at our hotel.
Day 07: Travel northward to Donegal, where you’ll explore its bustling ‘Diamond’ hub. Later, in Londonderry, link up with a knowledgeable guide to wander the 17th-century fortifications. Discover the Bogside area, renowned for its poignant murals portraying historical events such as the pivotal Battle of the Bogside during the ‘Troubles’.
Day 08: Follow in the legendary path of Finn McCool at the mystical Giant’s Causeway, where the unique ‘steps’ lead into the sea, all part of your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® journey. Your visit contributes to the preservation of this iconic site. Afterward, we head to Belfast to explore the Titanic Belfast Experience, delving into the poignant tale of the renowned ship’s fate in the Atlantic Ocean. The evening grants you the freedom to immerse yourself in the lively nightlife of Northern Ireland’s capital.
Day 09: Embark on a guided exploration of Belfast with a local expert this morning. Highlights include visits to Queen’s University and the elegant City Hall. Afterward, we hop on a ferry bound for Cairnryan in Scotland, journeying through picturesque Ayrshire to reach Glasgow, where we’ll stay for the next two nights.
Day 10: Explore the captivating cultural hub of Scotland as you wander through the city, taking in the scenic vistas of George Square and the historic River Clyde, which once thrived as the epicenter of Scotland’s shipbuilding legacy. Afterward, immerse yourself in a whisky distillery experience, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind Scotland’s beloved amber elixir and have the opportunity to savor a wee dram. Following this, enjoy some leisure time to further discover the city’s treasures at your own pace.
Day 11: Explore the scenic shores of Loch Lomond, tracing the path to the poignant ‘Glen of Weeping’, where the MacDonalds met their tragic fate in 1692. Afterward, journey to Fort William, nestled beneath the towering peak of Ben Nevis. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at our hotel on the captivating Isle of Skye.
Day 12: We bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of Skye and head towards the convergence point of three stunning lochs. Eilean Donan Castle awaits our admiration before we trace the shores of Loch Ness, hoping to catch a glimpse of its legendary inhabitant. Our journey then leads us to the solemn grounds of Culloden, where we pause to honor the fallen soldiers from the clash of the Redcoats and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobites. As night falls, we enjoy a hearty dinner at our hotel nestled in the Scottish Highlands.
Day 13: Exploring the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands, our journey leads us through Pitlochry before reaching St. Andrews, renowned for its historic golf course cherished by golf legends throughout history. After crossing the picturesque Firth of Forth, we arrive in captivating Edinburgh, where we’ll stay for two nights. Guests departing on select dates can enjoy tickets to the mesmerizing Edinburgh Tattoo.
Day 14: Embark on an exclusive tour with your neighborhood expert, exploring Edinburgh Castle atop Castle Rock, the Royal Mile, the graceful Palace of Holyrood nestled beneath Arthur’s Seat, and the modern Scottish Parliament building. Conclude our unforgettable journey with a Farewell Dinner alongside our Travel Director and companions, cherishing cherished moments together.
Day 15: It’s time to bid a heartfelt goodbye to Scotland and our cherished companions, following our remarkable journey through the Celtic lands.