Embark on a magical journey through the lush landscapes of Ireland and Scotland! The adventure begins in the charming town of Dingle, where you'll experience the traditional Irish culture and stunning coastal views. Marvel at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and wander through the otherworldly landscapes of the Burren, home to ancient dolmens shrouded in mystery.
Our explorations will continue in Galway and Kinvara, where vibrant streets and lively pubs await. We'll journey onwards to the vibrant city of Dublin, where history and modernity collide in a captivating blend.
Crossing the sea to Scotland by air, we will delve into the mysteries of the legendary Loch Ness. Savor the flavors of Speyside, embrace the rugged beauty of the Moray Coast, stand in awe of the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe, and explore Stirling Castle.
The adventure concludes in the enchanting city of Edinburgh with a visit to Roslin Chapel, where tales of the past come to life. Together we will immerse ourselves in the rich histories and vibrant cultures of these iconic destinations, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Dear valued guest,
Thank you very much for choosing Keyrow Tours, a family company specializing in small group travel for over 20 years.
Our aim is to provide a unique and authentic experience of Italy, that exceeds personal hopes and expectations. We believe that we achieve that goal by focusing on immersive cultural experiences, such as local food and wine tastings, hands-on cooking classes, guided tours of historical sites, and interactions with locals. Of course we will visit the main attractions on each of our trips, but we especially love to explore off-the-beaten-path places that truly capture the essence of Italy.
Thank you again for choosing Keyrow Tours. We are delighted to host this extraordinary trip with you. Our time together will be recreational, educational, and experiential…with memories to last a lifetime. Please contact us with any questions, and know that we remain at your service. "Andiamo!" ("Let's Go!")
With kind regards,
Paolo C. Carman, Founder
Prior to your trip, each guest will receive an email invitation to download our digital itinerary onto your smartphones or computers. That version of the itinerary will be more detailed than the website version that you are viewing at this time. It will eventually include flight information, departure times, meeting points, helpful tips on what to pack, information about money, hotel contact information, and more.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
Pack light and dress in layers!
Best packing advice I always give is pack and then go pack and unpack at least a 1/3!
It's so easy to overpack (just to be safe) but if you only pack smart and the basics, anything else you might need on the rare instance you will be able to find there very easily!
Packing wardrobe pieces that layer well together, as the mornings typically will be crisp but then will warm up as the sun gets overhead in the afternoon.
A light sockcap is always a great idea especially for days we are on the water or outside exploring.
Laundry: There will be laundry service available our first day in Dublin at hotel.
Ireland's and Scotland's weather is mild but ever changing!
Pack light and pack layers. Include an outer layer (coat or jacket) that is water resistant. Rain is not always in the forecast but does happen. A warm sweater that goes with other clothing items is always a great idea.
Pack comfortable shoes for exploring in, like sturdy sneakers or walking shoes. You'll have time in rural settings exploring ancient sites as well as historic city center's where you'll find ancient cobblestone streets. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are absolutely essential.
Casual attire is the norm, but you may want to pack one nicer outfit for a special evening out with pints after.
All your accommodations will have hair dryers, so no need to pack one unless desired.
Centrally located historic hotels (double room occupancy)
All ground and sea transportation
to museums and special events such as cooking classes and wine tastings
Daily
daily exquisite traditional main meals with local wine
with your personal Keyrow host
optional
“For my own part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake”.
– Robert Louis Stevenson
Airfare is not included...
In conjunction with Uni-World/Jetaway Travel, Keyrow Tours is pleased to make all flight arrangements, including primary flights from anywhere in the United States.
Please arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to departure. Transportation to and from your airport of departure is each person’s responsibility.
Important: Please plan on sleeping on the plane as much as possible. This will help avoid jet lag, and enable us to enjoy Scotland on our first day…
Cody Long has been a business owner, chef, and provider of high-end travel concierge services for many years. She is drawn to epicurean traditions, regional flavors, interesting folklore, indigenous scenic beauty and communities gathered around a table. Cody has previously lived in Scotland and Ireland, developing local friendships over a meal shared and a glass raised.
To learn more about Cody, visit: The Rucksack Foodie
“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
~Irish Blessing
The Dingle Peninsula stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean on the south-west coast on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The peninsula is dominated with a range of mountains, and the magnificent coastline consists of dramatic sea-cliffs.
This is a place rich in tradition, literature and culture… where native Irish prospers alongside modern languages, where nature restores the human spirit, where you can relax and savor local food, craft distillery and breweries, or just meet the people – the choice is yours!
Dingle is a small port town on southwest Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged scenery, trails and sandy beaches. This village, located in County Kerry, is a favorite among Irish and foreign tourists alike. Because of its “forty shades of green” pastures, colorful boats in the bay, good food and very friendly people... Dingle offers a glimpse of a slower and simpler Celtic life.
We'll be checking into Dingle's premier intimate boutique hotel in the heart of town, with a long standing history of warm welcomes and award winning food.
Sean Daly master craftsman of Dingle Irish Crystal, first began his apprenticeship with Waterford Crystal at a very young age of 15. For five years he learned not only the unique skill set required for this fragile art form but found his creativity that 15 years later would elevate him to Master Designer and Craftsman at Waterford Crystal. In 1985 Waterford Crystal employed near 5000 employees. By 1987 with technical improvements and modernization in crystal making as well budget cuts and Waterford going “public” on the stock exchange – 3000 employees were let go, Sean being one of them. There was no doubt in his mind what his next step was…his own studio. There began his new home in Dingle with his family and now forty years later Sean Daly is still THE MASTER, incomparable in Irish Crystal design and craftsmanship.
The best way to be introduced to this beautiful and historic fishing town is from the water and we'll be boarding a private boat to tour Dingle Harbour and sea cliffs with a local historian. A leisure ride soaking in the wonderful scenery and landmarks and if we are lucky some of the wildlife!
We'll enjoy a dinner featuring locally sourced fresh menu items.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.”
~An Irish Proverb
Our hotel hosts a lovely breakfast from full traditional Irish breakfast to European style buffet.
The breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, on Ireland’s southwest Atlantic coast, is ringed by sandy beaches and craggy cliffs. Inland are rolling hills and mountains, including 952m Mount Brandon. The region’s an officially recognized bastion of Irish language and culture.
We'll be stopping at the ancient "Beehive Huts", these amazing structures, some over 1400 years old, were built using the corbelling technique found in other ancient sites across the country and Europe.
It's likely hermit monks and followers of Saint Peter once lived in them, though pagans may have also called some of the cone-shaped structures home even earlier. At one point in history, more than 400 of these intriguing abodes dotted the hillside.
We'll then continue driving the Slea Head drive were the beautiful views are endless.
Stops to include the Blasket Island museum as well.
Dingle is not a big town but it is the hub of this culturally rich peninsula of County Kerry and does have an amazing assortment of local craftsmen and artist's studios, bakeries, gourmet food shops and so much more!
Dingle is a small port town on southwest Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged scenery, trails and sandy beaches. This village, located in County Kerry, is a favorite among Irish and foreign tourists alike. Because of its “forty shades of green” pastures, colorful boats in the bay, good food and very friendly people... Dingle offers a glimpse of a slower and simpler Celtic life.
There are loads of shops featuring local artists, gifts & food and we'll direct you to some of our favorites, for your self exploration time.
We'll enjoy a evening meal of traditional favorites, locally sourced.
After dinner we'll be taking a stroll to visit a few of Dingle's iconic pubs.
Ireland has a rich history of "shop pubs" and Dingle has a few of these old traditional half store/half pubs still remaining, where locals sip an after work pint chatting in traditional Irish language and tourist enjoy a step back in time!
And in Dingle, every night of the week you're sure to find traditional irish music or dancers performing!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Sail away from the safe harbor: Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
~Mark Twain
Benner's hotel hosts a lovely breakfast from full traditional Irish breakfast to European style buffet.
We will checkout and depart Dingle early.
The drive north to our next accommodations will take us through some beautiful and dramatic landscapes along the way.
County Clare has unique landscape unlike any other place in Ireland. The Burren extends over more than a hundred square miles and most of it is stark bare beauty, pale grey limestone, with exceptional and rare flora and fauna making it a rock garden of extraordinary proportions. Our drive to our next few nights accommodation will take in some of the Burren's dramatic scenery and ancient sites.
Holy wells can still be found in nearly every community across Ireland. A sacred place often associated with a Saint and often their waters believed to posses healing powers (either from drinking or applying to skin)
St. Brigid’s Well in Liscannor is one of the oldest wells in Ireland rumored to have healing powers. Also, know as Dabhach Bhríde (or Brigid’s Vat) it is located at a site of pre-Christian Lughnasadh celebrations, near the Cliffs of Moher.
The well, dedicated to St Brigid is regarded as a place of healing. It is enclosed in a little passage or grotto, the Ula íochtarach or lower sanctuary which is lined with mementos, rosaries, prayers, and pieces of offerings left by pilgrims. Traditionally, the water of this well should be sipped at the end of a visit to this shrine.
The graveyard above and behind the well is the final resting place of several mythical kings and clan leaders of Ireland and is known as the Ula Uachtarach or upper sanctuary.
The well has been a pilgrimage site since at least the 1830s, when following a personal cure which he attributed to the waters of the well, Cornelius O’Brien, the local Landlord had the well house built.
Towering heights and crashing waves, ageless legends and endless flurrying birds: the Cliffs of Moher are a natural masterpiece.
Make sure to visit inside the information center for some interesting history and ecological facts & maybe grab a coffee.
We'll be exploring the vast and beautiful Burren as well as stopping at a view ancient sites like Poulnabrone. Situated on the high Burren limestone plateau, Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most iconic archaeological monuments and is the second-most visited location in the Burren, after the Cliffs of Moher. It is the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland.
This comfortable guesthouse hotel provides a warm and friendly haven to the discerning visitor who is eager to discover some of the wonders that Irelands rugged West Coast has to offer. It is an idyllic location for tourists as it nestles between the spectacular Burren Region, Galway Bay and Connemara.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“A companion shortens the road.”
~Irish Proverb
We will spend the day winding our way through majestic heather covered mountains and around picturesque lakes. The vista is ever changing from day to day as the slightest change in weather is reflected beautifully in the lakes and mountains. Stopping along with way for interesting historic sites & delicious tastes of the Irish west coast.
Nestled in the heart of Connemara, on the Wild Atlantic Way, Kylemore Abbey is a haven of history, beauty and serenity. Home to a Benedictine order of Nuns for the past 100 years, with an outstanding collection of rooms showcasing elegant Victorian life as well as breathtaking Victorian gardens to explore.
Reservations have been made, location is weather dependent.
Connemara is a wild region of bogland, pristine lakes and mountains located in western County Galway. This is Ireland’s big sky country. Because the area is so remote, the Irish language and traditions have survived, and Irish is the first tongue for many of the inhabitants. This is a place of contrasts, colors, wilderness and warm welcomes. The diversity of the landscape and history of the people are sure to enchant and delight.
We will take a brief walking tour around Galway this morning, learning of it's hidden history amongst the busy cobblestone streets & trad music buskers, and nibbling & sipping along the way.
Our guide will give us a short but interesting walking tour of the cultural center of Galway city, taking in it's rich history, peeking at architectural hidden gems, and then with some exploration time of your own to do some shopping or pop into one of the pubs for an afternoon pint and maybe hear some traditional irish music, which Galway is famous for being a mecca for trad musicians.
This ancient city turned cultural hub, started as a small fishing village over 1200 years ago. Originally the tiny village was located in the area near the Spanish Arch called ‘The Claddagh’ where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay. Galway later became a walled town in the year 1232
Galway City is a thriving, bohemian, cultural city on the western coast of Ireland. Along with being a popular seaside destination with beautiful beaches and long winding promenade, it also has a buzzing cosmopolitan city centre. The city is a joy to explore with its labyrinthine cobbled streets, colourful shop facades and busy café/ bar culture.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“A best friend is like a four-leaf clover: hard to find and lucky to have.”
―Anonymous
Today we travel east to Dublin, but along the way we will be stopping at some of the country's most important ancient sites to learn, explore and experience the special beauty of these historical and sacred sites, that others have for 1000s of years.
Dress comfortably, for the weather and in walking shoes. Nothing extreme, but we will be spending a part of the afternoon outdoors.
We'll be visiting Greenhills Farm to visit with Pat & Eveline Noone. For years locals and visitors alike have come to visit him for his ancient wisdom, storytelling and connection with the land, his farm is surrounded by faery forts, ancient burial grounds & Celtic Standing stones. Renowned for his gift in the Irish traditions of possessing "the cure" (healing & energy promotion) , house & land "clearing" and for his abilities as a faery-whisper.
A private farm tour with one of the most ancient sacred spots in Ireland.
The Hill of Uisneach is one of the most sacred and historic sanctuaries in the world, and literally the heart of Ireland. We will enjoy a private walking tour across the ancient Kingdom of Mide, walking in the footsteps of High Kings, Gods & Goddesses across the ancient landscape that is the Hill of Uisneach.
Our Georgian era Dublin hotel can date its history back to the 1800’s. Before it was a hotel is was the Queen’s Institute for the Training and Employment of Educated Women, started in 1861, the first of it's kind in Europe. By the 1880's the institute had closed and the property began it's life in hospitality. After a long history of welcoming guests to Dublin, it's location is one of the best in the city center, a perfect place to enjoy it's relaxed elegance with in walking distance to all of Dublin's wonderful sites!
Dinner will be at one of Dublin's culinary gems!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“In the name of God and of the dead generations from which she receives her old tradition of nationhood, Ireland, through us, summons her children to her flag and strikes for her freedom.”
~Opening line of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, 1916
Welcome to Dublin!
We'll enjoy a morning walking tour with our local guide as he wanders us through it's historic streets, sharing stories and showing us all the sites & sounds to be enjoyed.
A full morning touring this bustling city rich in history and culture!
After checking into the hotel, you'll have the afternoon to go and explore on your own OR you can stick with us and we will continue to explore Dublin together! We also can book tickets for you in advance if your are wanting to enjoy a tour of the brewery or a distillery or a museum.
Here are just a few suggestions you might enjoy on your own self exploration:
- Shopping along the Grafton Street
- Explore Temple bar for music or a pint
- Tour the Guinness Brewery
- Tour the Jamison Distillery
- Tour Dublin Castle
- Tour the Charles Beaty Museum
- Tour Trinity College Book of Kells Experience.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“I feel more and more the time wasted that is not spent in Ireland.”
~Lady Gregory
Early morning departure for airport
Not included
We'll grab coffee and breakfast at the airport!
And so begins our journey in Scotland, starting on the northern coast, we'll be exploring first the areas known for Jacobites, whisky & monsters!
We'll start our journey of Scotland at Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age complex of passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones in a beautiful setting. Also Outlander fans will recognize this ancient site from the series.
We'll enjoy a fascinating afternoon watching world renowned sheep farmer and his dogs work magic in the fields with their traditional sheep herding skill display!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“We look to Scotland for all our ideas of civilization.”
~ Voltaire
Elgin Cathedral, also known as the ‘Lantern of the North’ is a majestic, historic ruin situated in Elgin. one of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval buildings, dating back to the 13th century.
We will visit Johnstons of Elgin, the last vertical woolen mill still in operation in Scotland. Producing luxury cashmere and textiles for over 200 years.
Alexander Johnston established the Elgin Mill on the banks of the river Lossie over two centuries ago, founding a legacy of fine craft and exquisite fabric
AND you'll be treated to discounts on purchase thanks to our host's at Bleverie House!
With spectacular sea view, and a post meal walk on the beach
Experience firsthand how the Scotch Whisky is made in the world famous Speyside region. On our tour we will delve into the history and heritage and experience the handcrafted methods of whisky production. Plus a wee dram to enjoy at the end!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Listen to the earth, feel the fire. Allow the power to flow through ye…”
~Jean M. Grant
As we travel south we will be stopping along the way visiting scenic and historic vistas of Scotland’s most beautiful loch side route The Great Glen
There will be many scenic, historic and interesting stops along todays journey!
Glencoe is perhaps Scotland’s most historic and romantic glen. The third Harry Potter film (“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”) was filmed on location.
This evocative glen is haunted with ghostly memories of an infamous 17th century massacre, earning the valley the name “The Weeping Glen”. Echoes of battle bagpipes still blow in the wind…
We will make several stops in and around Glencoe before reaching our accommodations. The setting of this location is ideal for viewing the beauty of the Highlands, known for its waterfalls and wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles.
We'll be stopping at the newly constructed Glencoe visitor center to learn a little about life in this harsh but beautiful area complete with a visit to a traditional peat house in the most dramatic of settings. And if weather is nice we will proceed to the Glencoe Mountain Resort for an adventure up the mountain side for some breathtaking views
A fabulous Scottish dinner, with a warm crackling fire near bye.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Whatever is the truth, there is no denying that Nessie will continue to intrigue the world for years to come.”
~Jonathon Bright, “Unseen infrared image of Loch Ness Revealed at Paranormal Festival”, Scotland 2014
Dress for the weather, as much of your day will be outside and we will not return to the house until after dinner.... an exciting day of adventure and exploration ahead!
We will visit Culloden Battlefield, cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, a powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil.
** Dress for the weather this day. As some of your activities will be outside. - weather dependent.
You'll be enjoying a very special afternoon on the shores of Loch Ness including exploring Urquat Castle!
The compact Scottish city of Inverness ( the highland capital) is perfect for exploration by foot — you can easily find your way from the lovely River Ness to the bustling high streets for shopping, St. Andrews Cathedral, Eden Court, the Victorian Market and the famous Leakey’s Bookshop.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“A good gulp of whisky at bedtime - it’s not very scientific, but it helps.”
~Sir Alexander Fleming, Scottish bacteriologist and discoverer of penicillin
We'll be stopping for a wander on your own in this lovely old Victorian town, that started as a crossroads for ancient highlanders along the River Teith and in the heart of the Trossach Mountains.
A great place to grab a coffee & sweet treat before continuing south.
Stirling Castle, located in Stirling, is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically and architecturally. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation.
Castle dates from at least early 12th century, present buildings mostly built between 1490 and 1600
Not only a treasure for it's architectural preservation but also home to some exhibt gems including their collection of hand carved ceiling portrait rococos , their Tapestry project and their furnished chamber rooms.
A seventeen-bedroom luxury Hotel and bar with amazing 360-degree views of the historic Water of Leith from Edinburgh Castle to The Victoria Swing Bridge; takes you back to the elegant style of the 1920’s, with 21st Century home comforts.
Just steps off the Royal Mile!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
"Wink at small faults, for you have great ones yourself."
―Scottish Proverb
Our local guide will introduce us to this historic old city, wandering the stony streets and narrow passageways about the Royal Mile. This ancient city’s collection of medieval and classic architecture, it's rich history, it's thriving commerce of shops, pubs and museums and it's long established reputation of being a cultural & intellectual hub has made Edinburgh one of the most lively capital cities in Europe.
Your wander will include exploring the Royal Mile and some of it's hidden mews & closes, as well as stopping in St. Giles Cathedral & Edinburgh Castle, ending at the bottom strolling past the modern designed Scottish Parliament & the Queen's Scottish Palace, Holyrood.
Edinburgh was also the first city to be called the UNESCO city of Literature. With familiar Scottish names such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, J.K. Rowling, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson… Scotland is a land of poetry, story telling, and rich folklore.
And there's plenty of opportunity to do a little shopping, grab a fresh pulled pint or wee nip of the countries national drink, whisky!
Located on a volcanic hill with sharp cliffs once cut by glaciers, the impressive Castle of Edinburgh was created in the 12th century. Saint Margaret’s Chapel is the oldest part of the castle complex, built in year 1130 to the honor of Queen Margaret.
One of Edinburgh's most iconic & quirkiest pubs with an award winning menu!
After lunch you will have the option to join us on a mini trip out to the countryside to visit one of Scotland’s most remarkable buildings, the breathtaking craftsmanship that is Rosslyn Chapel. This amazing structure has been in the ownership of the same family since its foundation in 1446. An Architectual wonder in the realm of creativity and inspiration and still used today as a place of worship. The chapel’s profile greatly increased after the publication of Dan Brown’s 2003 novel, The DaVinci Code. Explore its mysterious connection to the Knights Templar, Freemasonry and a secret architectural musical masterpiece… 30 minute drive from Edinburgh.
Enjoy the final afternoon in Scotland exploring Edinburgh on your own after our lunch together.
We can also book tickets in advance for you to visit one of the many museums or historic experiences in Edinburgh.
A special closing dinner to celebrate this amazing Celtic journey we just shared together.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“To be kind to all, to like many and love a few, to be needed and wanted by those we love, is certainly the nearest we can come to happiness.”
– Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots (1542 – 87)
