PRE TOUR: Friday 10 July 2026
Depart St. Louis for Shannon, Ireland.
Saturday 11 July 2026
Arrive in Shannon and drive 15 minutes to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Bunratty Castle is one of the country’s most complete and authentic medieval castles. Built in 1425 and once home to the powerful O’Brien clan, it features a richly furnished interior with centuries-old artifacts, including tapestries and weapons. Visitors can explore its winding staircases, Great Hall, and even a dungeon with a 15-foot drop. The castle sits beside the Bunratty Folk Park, a recreated 19th-century Irish village complete with traditional farmhouses, shops, and native animals.
Travel through the stunning landscape of Connemara, a mosaic of rugged mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands. The Twelve Bens mountain range dominates the skyline, offering some of the most dramatic views in Ireland. If time permits, we will enjoy a hike through this spectacular landscape.
Finish your day at Glen Keen Farm, one of Ireland's largest working sheep farms, is a popular visitor center located along the Wild Atlantic Way. This family-run farm offers a range of authentic cultural experiences. We will enjoy sheepdog herding demonstrations, traditional music, and tea and scones
Off to Galway's Raddison Red Hotel for check in.
Tonight we dine at a local restaurant. (I/F/D)
Sunday 12 July 2026
After a full Irish breakfast, we will head south through the Burren, a distinctive limestone landscape known for its rocky terrain, rare plant species, and underground caves. Despite its barren look, it supports a unique mix of Arctic, Mediterranean, and alpine flora. The area also holds ancient archaeological sites, making it both a natural and cultural landmark.
After lunch, we will visit the majestic Cliffs of Moher., which rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for nearly 8 miles. We will visit the cliffs from both the sea and land. We will get up close and personal views from a unique cruise (weather permitting), which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and also the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
We will pay a visit to the Burren Smokehouse, a delicious and authentic taste of Ireland’s west. Taste Ireland’s finest artisan smoked salmon, crafted with traditional oak-smoking methods and local, sustainably sourced fish. You can explore interactive displays, watch a short film on salmon smoking, and learn about the Burren’s food heritage. We will have samples after the presentation.
After our tour, we will end our day at the famous Dingle Skellig hotel, a beautiful hotel overlook Dingle Bay. Tonight would be a great night to head to town to enjoy traditional Irish music as Dingle, a vital hub for traditional Irish music due to its strong cultural heritage and vibrant local music scene. The town hosts regular live sessions in pubs, where local musicians and visitors gather to play traditional instruments like the fiddle, bodhrán, and uilleann pipes. Its location in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region) also helps preserve and promote traditional songs and the Irish language, making Dingle a cornerstone of Ireland’s living musical tradition.
Dingle Skellig Hotel (B)
Monday 13 July 2026
After a full Irish breakfast, we will travel the Dingle Peninsula., which offers one of Ireland’s most scenic experiences, with dramatic Atlantic views, historic sites, and rich cultural stops. Highlights include the coastal Slea Head Drive, ancient Beehive Huts, and sweeping beaches like Inch and Coumeenoole. Along the way, enjoy views of the remote Blasket Islands—making this drive a perfect blend of nature, history, and Irish tradition.
On our return, we will see Conor Pass, one of Ireland’s highest and most scenic mountain passes, located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. It offers dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and coastline as it winds between Dingle Town and the north side of the peninsula. The narrow, winding road is not for the faint of heart, but the breathtaking scenery—especially from the summit viewpoint—makes it a must-see for adventurous travelers exploring the area.
Overnight at the George Hotel Limerick.
Tuesday 14 July 2026
After a full Irish breakfast, we head to famous Tipperary, where we will tour the stunning Rock of Cashel, a historic fortress complex, known for its striking medieval architecture and rich history. Perched on a limestone hill, it was once the seat of the kings of Munster and later became an important ecclesiastical site. The Rock of Cashel dates back to the 4th century as a royal site, but most of the surviving structures were built between the 12th and 13th centuries. Its medieval buildings, including the cathedral and chapel, reflect its significance from the 1100s onward. The complex includes a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, and a Gothic cathedral, making it one of Ireland’s most impressive and visited heritage sites.
After our tour, we will head to Dublin to meet the rest of the group at Guinness Storehouse. (B/D)
MAIN TOUR
Day 1 –Monday 13 July 2026
Fly to Dublin, Ireland. (I/F).
Day 2 –Tuesday 14 July 2026
Arrive in Dublin and explore rich history on a guided tour, visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, and the bustling O’Connell and Grafton Street. Visit Trinity College and marvel at the Book of Kells and Trinity College reading room at the Old Library Exhibition.
Then, dive into Ireland’s brewing heritage at the Guinness Storehouse for a tour. The Guinness Experience is a self-guided tour. The journey begins at the bottom of the world's largest pint glass and continues up through seven floors filled with interactive experiences that fuse Guinness' long brewing heritage with Ireland's rich history. At the top, guests will be rewarded with a pint of perfection in the world-famous 360 degree rooftop Gravity Bar.
Enjoy a delicious welcome 3-course dinner at local restaurant. Dinner includes a three course meal, water and gratuities. (I/F, D).
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT
We also have an optional Jameson Whiskey experience for those looking to indulge in the Irish pleasure. The Bow Street Experience Guided tour, approximately 45 minutes long, includes a tasting of three Jameson's whiskeys. Each tour is public and includes up to 30 participants, so there may be members of the public on the tour with the group. Participants also receive a complimentary Jameson's signature cocktail in JJ's Bar. Under 18s can take part in the Bow Street Experience and will be provided with a soft drink in place of the whiskey tasting. GBP 35.00 per person.
Check in to our 4 Star Accommodation: Iveagh Garden
Day 3—Wednesday 15 July 2026
Step inside the historic Kilmainham Gaol. For over 100 years Kilmainham held thousands of men, women and children for crimes that ranged from minor offences to being involved in some of the most momentous events in Irish history. A visit will take you on a journey through Irish history. You will discover the stories of people held here as ordinary criminals alongside those who fought for Irish independence. From the 1798 rebellion, to the 1916 Easter Rising, the Anglo-Irish War (1919-21), to the devastation of the Irish Civil War (1922-23) all these important events have a chapter in the story of Kilmainham Gaol. After a guided tour, we will leave Dublin and head to Belfast.
In Belfast, we will visit the award-winning Titanic Belfast Museum and learn about the building of the “unsinkable” ship. Then, take a tour of the Belfast murals, particularly those on the Falls Road and Shankill Road, which are powerful visual representations of the city's history, political and religious divisions, and the ongoing struggle for peace and reconciliation. Many of these paintings depict key figures, events, and messages of the "troubled" decades of Irish history. We will also see the Peace Wall, which still divides parts of the Protestant and Catholic communities.
Finally, we will have a three-course dinner showcasing Northern Irish flavours.
Check into the luxurious Europa Hotel, a 4 Star Accommodation. (B,D).
Day 4–Thursday 16 July 2026
Marvel at the legendary Giant’s Causeway, a unique geological formation of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. According to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool). Fionn was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner. Fionn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so that the two could meet. In the legend, Fionn hides from Benandonner when he realizes that his foe is much bigger than he is. Fionn's wife, Sadhbh, disguises Fionn as a baby and tucks him in a cradle. When Benandonner sees the size of the "baby," he reckons that its father, Fionn, must be a giant among giants. He flees back to Scotland in fright, destroying the causeway behind him so that Fionn would not be able to chase him down. Across the sea, there are identical basalt columns (a part of the same ancient lava flow) at Fingal's Cave on the Scottish isle of Staffa.
If time permits and there are some brave souls, we will stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge for a crossing of the 90-foot high swinging bridge.
Then return to Belfast for another delicious dinner, which includes a three course meal, water, taxes, and gratuities.
Europa Hotel, Belfast (B,D).
Day 5 –Friday 17 July 2026
Leave Northern Ireland and fly to Glasgow: on arrival embark on a scenic drive through its breathtaking landscapes. Cruise the serene Loch Lomond. This one-hour circular tour of Loch Lomond's South basin departs from Balloch and enjoys views of the magnificent Ben Lomond and passes a number of Loch Lomond's stately homes and castles along the shoreline. Venture out towards Inchmurrin Island- the largest of Loch Lomond's 33 islands and home to the ancient remains of Lennox Castle, which in the 14th century sheltered a fugitive Robert the Bruce before he was to become King of Scotland.
Travel to the charming town of Oban where we will be introduced to Scotland fare over a warm Scottish welcome dinner.
Check into our 4 Star Accommodation at Oban Bay: Oban Bay Hotel (B,D).
Day 6 –Saturday 18 July 2026
Hop on a ferry to the Isle of Mull for a full-day exploration of its rugged beauty (Ferry from Oban to Craignure is 50 minutes, although this can vary depending on the service. Please note that ferry services can be affected by poor weather).
We will have a guided tour of Isle of Mull.
Sip Scottish whisky at Tobermory Distillery with an option to visit a local cheese farm for a tasty tour. Or enjoy free time in the colourful harbour town before returning to Oban.
Optional: Isle of Mull Cheese Farm tour GBP 26.00 per person
Dinner at leisure Oban Bay Hotel (B)
Day 7 –Sunday 19 July 2026
Today's journey explores Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and rich history. Begin with a tour of Inveraray Castle & Gardens, the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, and home to the present Laird and his family where grand architecture and lush grounds offer a glimpse into Scotland’s noble past, followed by a light lunch or afternoon tea.
In the afternoon, a guided hike from Glencoe Visitor Centre reveals the rugged beauty of this historic valley, infamous for the 1692 Glencoe Massacre of the Jacobites.
End the day with dinner at leisure in this charming coastal town. Oban Bay Hotel (B)
Day 8 –Monday 20 July 2026
Today's journey blends stunning scenery with poignant history. Visit Fort William (where scenes of Outlander were filmed) and ride on the Nevis Range Gondola, offering breathtaking views of Ben Nevis and the Highlands.
Then, visit Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre, where the 1746 battle marked the end of the Jacobite Rising—an atmospheric site with immersive exhibits.
For whisky enthusiasts, we have an optional Highland Malt Whisky Experience at MacGregor’s Bar. Subject to availability.Experience is available nightly at 7pm and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Includes 5 drama whisky. GBP 52.00 per person. MacGregor's is know for its vibrant atmosphere and strong focue on music and culture.
Enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant (we have requested MacGregor's).
Check in to Inverness 4 Star Accommodation Craigmonie Hotel (B, D)
Day 9--Tuesday 21 July 2026
Visit Scone Palace and GARDENS for a taste of Scottish royalty with a traditional cream tea lunch.
Continue to enjoy St Andrews for a guided walking tour of this historical town and visit its famous cathedral.
Head to our final destination, Edinburgh, where we will enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant
Check in to 4 Star Accommodation Hoxton Edinburgh
Day 10--Wednesday 22 July 2026
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh with a city sightseeing ticket, allowing entrance to three royal attractions, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyrood, plus unlimited access to three Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tours, so you can hop on and off throughout the city. Edinburgh City Sightseeing Royal Edinburgh Ticket includes 48 hour access to Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tours and admission to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Dinner at leisure. Overnight at Hoxton Edinburgh (B)
Day 11--Thursday 23 July 2026
Enjoy a day at leisure in the capital today or include an optional day excursion with a guide to Rosslyn Chapel and Stirling Castle.
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT: Admission to Rosslyn Chapel includes access to the Chapel, the chance to enjoy a talk and enjoy the visitor centre, including the interpretation, coffee shop and gift shop. Rosslyn Chapel Guides give information talks throughout the day, providing an introduction to the Chapel’s history and main carvings as mentioned in Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code.
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT
Visit Stirling Castle, a historic landmark in Scotland, played a significant role in the country's history, hosting battles, royal events, and even serving as a location for the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots. It is fully furnished as when Mary lived there. There are docents throughout telling about each room/area.
Dinner at leisure. Overnight at Hoxton Edinburgh (B)
Day 12--Friday 24 July 2026
Bid farewell to Scotland with a transfer to Edinburgh Airport, taking home unforgettable memories of your Celtic adventure! (B, I/F).
