Celtic Excursion
14 Nights
2 - 16 People
Ireland
Scotland
A spectacular tour of the highlights of both Scotland and Ireland
Tour Details:
General details:
We are delighted that you are considering joining us on our 14 night Celtic Excursion. We understand the trust you are placing in us to provide you with an unforgettable experience on your trip of a lifetime. From the moment you contact us, we will work in partnership with you to curate an effortless, bespoke itinerary to provide you with the utmost on this bucket-list holiday.
Our team are passionate about travel in Ireland and Scotland and have first-hand experience of the accommodation and activities which we will organise for you. We use this passion and knowledge along with our five-star partners in Irish tourism to ensure that the trip is specifically tailored to your group and their needs and interests.
We are confident that our team will work tirelessly to ensure you a vacation of a lifetime!
What is included in your trip?
- Bespoke personal itinerary
- Accommodation as described in your itinerary.
- Breakfast included in your hotel each morning.
- Luxury vehicle as described in your itinerary with your friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable driver guide.
- Admission to all attractions mentioned on your itinerary.
- A personal connection with a member of the team, so you can build rapport and who will provide you with support at all times of your trip.
Arrival Location: Edinburgh Airport, Scotland.
Departure Location: Shannon Airport, Ireland.
Not to be missed attractions:
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
- Edinburgh Old Town
- Arthur’s Seat
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Calton Hill
- Andrew’s
- Balmoral
- Pithlocry
- Blair Athol Distillery,
- Jacobite Tour
- Fort William
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glencoe
- Loch Lomond
- Water Plane Tour
- Glasgow
- Ayrshire
- Ferry to Belfast
- Belfast
- Titanic Belfast
- Giant’s Causeway
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Dark Hedges
- Black Cab Tour
- Guinness Storehouse
- Temple Bar
- Glendalough
- Avoca
- Ashford Castle
- Cong
- Corrib Cruises
- Connemara
- Sky Road
- Kylemore Abbey
- Galway
- Aran Islands
- Cliffs of Moher
- Burren National Park
- Bunratty Castle
Exclusive accommodation:
- Waldorf Astoria (2 nights)
- Fonab Castle Hotel (1 night)
- Ness Walk Hotel (1 night)
- Cameron House (1 night)
- Glenapp Castle (1 Night)
- The Fitzwilliam, Belfast (2 nights)
- The Merrion Hotel, Dublin (2 nights)
- Ashford Castle (1 night)
- The Hardiman, Galway (1 night)
- Dromoland Castle (2 nights)
Itinerary
Transport: Exclusive Transfer into your Edinburgh city centre accommodation
When you touch down in Edinburgh Airport, you will be welcomed to Scotland by a friendly local driver. You will be able to sit back and relax in your luxurious vehicle while your luggage is taken care of. From here, you will be transferred to The Waldorf Astoria, your luxurious, five-star accommodation located at the heart of Edinburgh city. En route to the hotel, you will catch a sneak peak of some of the magnificent sights which Edinburgh has to offer.
Once you arrive at the hotel you will have time to admire the elegant setting and settle into the comfort of one of Scotland’s most exclusive hotels and significant landmarks. Located in prime position at the end of Princes Street, in a former rail station, you will experience the perfect blend of modern luxury and Victorian style. Nestled in the shadows of the impressive Edinburgh Castle, Waldorf Astoria- The Caladonia, truly is a gem in Edinburgh’s crown. You will be spoiled for choice of top-class food and drink, with an award-winning restaurant, bar food, afternoon tea, and elegant drinks all available on site.
Recommended Activities: Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Old Town, Arthur’s Seat, Royal Yacht Britannia, Calton Hill
Organised activity: Half day walking tour of Edinburgh to take in some of the main sights.
Following an exquisite breakfast, you will be greeted at reception by your private walking tour guide. Edinburgh is an exciting, breath-taking city, brimming with history and a unique blend of Scottish charm. With culture, history and creativity, at every corner, you will be guided through the sites and attractions by your knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. Following your walking tour, you will have time to explore Edinburgh at your leisure. If you wish, we can pre-book tickets for the attractions of your choice for your afternoon at leisure.
After a long day exploring, you will be delighted to see the welcoming doors to Waldorf Astoria, where you can enjoy an evening of relaxation and fine dining before travelling north tomorrow.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: St. Andrews, Balmoral, Pitlochry, Blair Athol Distillery
You will be met by your friendly and knowledgeable driver guide at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. We are confident that you will automatically feel at ease with your private, chauffeur driver who will continue to provide you with top-class tour guiding throughout the rest of your stay. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your first views of the Scottish countryside as you travel north towards the famed Scottish Highlands.
Your first stop of the day will be to the beautiful St. Andrews. With medieval roots, there will be lots for you to see and do in this historic, university town, ranging from a visit to St. Andrew’s Cathedral to the nearby Scotland’s Secret Bunker. Known as the world-famous Home of Golf, a visit to the Old Course is a must for any golf-enthusiast. Join an expert guide on a tour of the world’s most famous golf course and walk in the footsteps of icons of the game.
Once back with your driver-guide, you will continue onto to Balmoral, the famed favourite residence of the royal family in Scotland since 1852. During the summer months, the estate is open for the public to visit the grounds, gardens, and exhibitions, a most visit for any fans of ‘The Crown’ or the royal family.
Your final stop for the day will be to the vibrant, beautiful Pitlochry, in the heart of Scotland. Don’t forget your camera, as you will want to capture the spectacular scenery at Queen’s View. Visit the Blair Athol Distillery, standing at the gate of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy a tour of this distillery, set in the most idyllic of settings.
A warm welcome will be waiting for you at Fonab Castle Hotel. Situated in truly breath-taking surroundings, this unique five-star hotel draws from its historic past with a contemporary twist. With a luxurious spa, a 3 AA Rosette awarded restaurant nestled amongst the tranquil settings, you will never want to leave.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Cairngorms National Park, Inverness, Jacobite Tour, Urquhart Castle
Following a decadent breakfast in Fonab Castle Hotel, your driver guide will meet you at a time of your choosing. Today you will travel north, further into the famed Scottish Highlands. You will travel through the largest National Park in the UK, Cairngorms National Park. Enjoy the unspoiled landscape as you drive through this area of stunning natural beauty. The Cairngorms National Park has more mountains, forest paths, rivers, lochs, wildlife hotspots, friendly villages, and distilleries than you can possibly imagine. You can find five of the UK’s six highest mountains, alongside 55 Munros – mountains over 3,000 ft. From ancient fortresses, wildlife, and distilleries to some of the best attractions and museums, you won’t be lost for activities in the Cairngorms.
You will continue onto Inverness, a vibrant city with all the Highlands have to offer on its doorstep. Experience true Outlander Highland scenery, iconic castles, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife, including the famous Loch Ness monster.
From here you will catch The Jacobite Tour, a coach and boat tour that transports you from Inverness to the famous Loch Ness. You’ll learn everything there is to know about the stirring past of these famous shores as you relax on this guided coach tour. Then it’s time to hop on board a cruise across the Loch’s world-famous waters, including a one-hour visit to marvel at the once mighty stronghold of Urquhart Castle before you sit back and relax on your return coach journey to Inverness.
Enjoy an evening at leisure exploring all Inverness has to offer, find a traditional pub, and enjoy a wee dram after your busy day exploring. When you finally decide to call it a night, a warm welcome will await you at Ness Walk Hotel. Nestled on the leafy banks of the River Ness and surrounded by a dramatic canopy of trees, you will experience a secluded atmosphere at the heart of a vibrant town. With a focus on exceptional service, your comfort and satisfaction will be a top priority once you step foot inside this magnificent five-star hotel.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Sea Plane Tour of Loch Lomond, Glasgow, Ayr, Ayrshire
Waking up in the luxurious surrounds of Cameron House, your first activity for the day will be an unforgettable seaplane tour of Loch Lomond, a truly once in a lifetime experience. Glasgow offers a lively, bustling place, distinctive and full of character, where you are bound to get a very warm welcome indeed. A city with striking architecture, contemporary art spaces and fascinating museums you will find plenty to explore for a few hours over a tasty lunch in one of Glasgow’s many diverse culinary options.
Following a few enjoyable hours exploring Glasgow, you will continue south to Ayrshire. You will stop in Ayr for some fresh air and to enjoy this popular seaside resort, complete with a charming sea front and leafy suburbs. Ayr has a fantastic esplanade with a long sandy beach that is perfect for walking. Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, was born in Alloway, on the outskirts of the town. Visitors can make the short trip to visit his birthplace and the new Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
You will finish your day in the beautiful Glenapp Castle. The luxury, award-winning five-star hotel in Ayrshire, Scotland, provides an intimate level of service with genuine attention to detail. It has great beauty in its period furnishings and interiors as well as through the breath-taking gardens, forest, and the seascapes that surround that castle.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Fort William, Glenfinnan, observe Ben Nevis, Glencoe, Loch Lomond
This morning you will travel south through some of the most spectacular scenery Scotland has to offer. Travelling south through Fort Augustus, the most southerly town on Loch Ness, you will continue towards Fort William, your first stop of the day. From sandy beaches and dramatic hills to iconic films locations, castles and distilleries, there are plenty of things to do in Fort William. Take your time and explore the natural wonders of Lochaber, breathe the fresh mountain air and marvel at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Fort William, you will be able to see Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland and marvel at its majesty.
A further stop at Glenfinnan Viaduct, famed for providing the backdrop to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, this area of stunning natural beauty is well worth a visit.
Next you will travel through Glencoe, perhaps, Scotland’s most famous and scenic glen. Words cannot do this area of spectacular beauty justice, but this area of awe-inspiring beauty and a sorrowful past, will without a doubt remain with you long after you have travelled through.
Your final destination, for the day will be the spectacular Loch Lomond. The mesmerising loch lies in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where you’ll be surrounded by charming villages, rolling countryside, hills, and some truly wonderful activities.
Experience a night of luxury in the undeniably five-star luxury resort, Cameron House. With enough to suit every taste we are confident that your night spent on the banks of Loch Lomond will be a real tour highlight.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Ferry to Belfast, Belfast city, Titanic Experience
Today you will leave Scotland behind as you journey west to Ireland. You will drive to Cairnryan where you will catch the ferry to Larne in Northern Ireland, just outside Belfast. You will have access to the exclusive club lounge, with complimentary snacks and beverages. Once you reach Irish soil, your first stop will be to Belfast, an interesting cosmopolitan city with a rich and diverse history. Quick to charm and packed with brilliant attractions, including the world-class Titanic Belfast, this is a city that’s bursting with creativity. You’ll see it in the boundary-pushing art galleries of the Cathedral Quarter, in the super-cool pop-up restaurants that spring up around the city, and in the bustle of St George’s Market, where artisan food producers rub shoulders with craftspeople.
Enjoy an afternoon exploring Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience. Titanic Belfast tells the story of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to its maiden voyage and subsequent place in history. Tonight, you will stay in The Fitzwilliam Hotel, your luxury five-star, city centre accommodation for the next two nights. This boutique hotel is unmatched in elegance and service in Belfast, it is the perfect base for your exploration of Belfast.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges
Stock up on a large breakfast this morning, as you have an action-packed day ahead of you from the moment you are collected from the hotel by your driver guide. You will travel north to the North Coast of Ireland, to see some of the most famed sites of Northern Ireland. Your first stop of the day will be to the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. Woven between Carrickarede Island and County Antrim, the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge swings 30 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and the rocks below. Spanning 20 metres across, the bridge is not for the faint of heart, however, a must see on any bucket-list tour of Ireland.
Your next stop will leave you mystified as you walk in the step of Giants at the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a truly spectacular sight. With a whopping 40,000 or so basalt columns tumbling down into the Atlantic Ocean, dating back to the Volcanic Age, almost 60 million years ago. A geological marvel, cloaked in myth and legend, the Giant’s Causeway is a high point on any tour to Ireland. According to folklore, Fionn MacCumhaill, an Irish giant, was rivalled with a Scottish giant, Benandonner. After enduring countless insults from Benandonner, Fionn, challenged his rival to a fight. Building the causeway, using rocks from along the Antrim coast, so he could reach his enemy, Fionn completes his new crossing, only to discover the Benandonner is bigger an enemy in many ways than he first thought. Discover this delightful myth, and more on your trip to the Giant’s Causeway.
Dunluce is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and romantic castles in Ireland. Now in ruins, the current settlement mainly dates to the 16th and 17th century, however, there is evidence of remains from the first millennium. Previously inhabited by both the feuding McQuillan and MacDonnell clans, historical and archaeological exhibits are available for public viewing. Your final stop of the day before returning to Belfast will be to see The Dark Hedges, made famous as one of the shooting locations for Game of Thrones. Now one of the most photographed locations in Northern Ireland, this beech-lined road is picturesque and worth a visit regardless of whether you have watched Game of Thrones or not.
You will once again be welcomed back to the Fitzwilliam Hotel, where you can spend an evening of leisure, or head into Belfast to explore the local nightlife and atmosphere.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Black Cab Tour Belfast, Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar, Dublin
You will begin the morning with a Black Cab Tour of Belfast. Considered a must for any visitor visiting Belfast, you will have a private guided tour of Belfast with a local tour guide in the iconic black cabs. Described by many as enlightening, your tour guide will provide you with interesting and unbiased facts on Belfast’s troubled history, while answering any questions you may have. You can witness the murals first hand, along with visiting the Peace Wall.
Your driver-guide will then drive you to Dublin, to the Guinness Storehouse, your first stop on your visit to Dublin. Considered a symbol of Ireland, Guinness is one of the world’s most recognisable brands. Savour the sights, sounds, smell, and taste of the iconic stout as you explore the storehouse. The 360 Gravity Bar at the end of the visit will allow you to see Dublin from a new perspective. Spend your evening at leisure enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Temple Bar as you sample the nightlife Dublin has to offer.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Glendalough, Avoca, Dublin
This morning you will travel south to County Wicklow to explore the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, and the jewel in its crown, Glendalough. The largest of Ireland’s National Parks, Wicklow features wide-open vistas, winding mountain roads and fast-flowing streams that descend into the deep lakes of the wooded valleys, including St. Kevin’s monastic settlement at Glendalough. A true flavour of Ireland’s ancient wilderness awaits you in the park.
Gleann Dá Loch in Irish translates directly to ‘The valley of the two lakes’, an insight into the beauty you will encounter. For thousands of years people have been drawn to Glendalough for its spectacular scenery, rich history, archaeology, and abundant wildlife. Glendalough is a remarkable place that will still your mind, inspire your heart and fill your soul. The remains of this ‘Monastic City’, which are dotted across the glen, include a superb round tower, numerous medieval stone churches and some decorated crosses. Of note is St Kevin’s Bed, a small man-made cave in the cliff face above the Upper Lake. It is said that St Kevin lived and prayed there, but it may be a prehistoric burial place that far predates him.
Enjoy a stop at the quaint village for Avoca, famous for its copper mines and wool weaving. Enjoy a quiet stop in this picturesque village.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Cong, Ashford Castle grounds, Corrib Cruises
Today, you will travel west towards County Mayo and the spectacular Connemara, towards the picturesque village of Cong, famed as the backdrop for the filming of ‘The Quiet Man’. Home to the ruins of many historical sites, such as The Royal Abbey of Cong and the Monks Fishing House, you will enjoy your time exploring this picturesque and sleepy village.
You will check into the impressive Ashford Castle, on the banks of Lake Corrib, where a warm welcome will await you. As Ireland’s first and only two Forbes Five Star Hotel, you truly will experience a once in a lifetime memorable stay. With an award-winning spa, six restaurants on site, a 350-acre estate and 800 years of history, you really will be walking in the footsteps of the rich and famous. As the former home of the glamourous Guinness family, you really will find beauty in every detail, while enjoying the finest service. Take your time to explore the magnificent grounds.
Providing an excellent way to explore the area, you will enjoy a cruise on Lough Corrib with commentary along the way. Stopping at the historic island of Inchagoill, you will be taken on a guided tour of St. Patrick’s 5th Century Monastic Site.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Connemara, Sky Road, Kylemore Abbey, Clifden
Today you will continue to explore Connemara, travelling south into County Galway. You will truly be taken away by the rugged charm and natural beauty which you will encounter today. You will notice the signature landscape associated with Connemara, as you take note of the signature hand built small stone walls dividing the landscape into blocks of green fields. Connemara is considered by many as Ireland’s Wild and Wonderful Region. With close ties and connections to traditional Ireland, it is easy to feel transported to a different time as you travel this ancient and beautiful Gaelic heartland. A unique landscape, where the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way meets with the majestic mountains and lakes of the Gaelic heartlands.
Travelling along the Sky Road, justifiably famous for its spectacular views, it is advisable to have your camera once again to hand to capture the beautiful scenery you will encounter. Nestled in the heart of Connemara, you will visit Kylemore Abbey, a haven of beauty, history, and serenity. This stunning Victorian castle is perched overlooking a stunning lake. Explore the diverse and interesting history of the castle, originally built as a family home, it has taken functions since, as a home to the Benedictines, a school and now a celebrated visitor attraction. Take your time to wander the grounds and the beautifully maintained, magnificent gardens.
Spend some time exploring Clifden. Clifden is one of the most picturesque towns in Ireland with a stunning location at the foot of the Twelve Pins Mountains, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the heart of the beautiful Connemara region. It is the largest town in Connemara, and one of the most precious jewels in Ireland’s scenic crown. Set against a backdrop of mountains and ocean, this colourful and lively town is brimming with boutiques, gift and souvenir shops, cafes, fine restaurants, and lots of quaint Irish pubs.
Your day will come to an end in the traditionally called ‘City of the Tribes’; Galway, Ireland’s fifth largest city and key gateway to the West. Considered wild, and bohemian, and internationally recognised as a place of culture, artistry, music, as well as delicious local food and drink. You will be charmed as you wander the cobblestoned streets, lined with colourful shop facades and lively traditional pubs. You will have a real sense of Irish hospitality in play in many of the traditional pubs with their turf fires and traditional music.
The Hardiman is one of Galway’s most iconic hotels, located centrally in Eyre Square. Enjoy the impressive combination of Victorian grace and opulent luxury, evident in this hotel that has played host to numerous notable guests over the last century and a half. The easy charm and flawless hospitality will leave you feeling right at home.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Aran Islands, Burren National Park, Cliffs of Moher
Travelling south along the Wild Atlantic Way, today you will take to the sea! On your way south you will travel through The Burren National Park, a UNESCO Geopark, internationally recognised as a place with unique geology, landscape, history, and culture. You will be mesmerised by the natural beauty of the 330-million-year-old limestone pavements, with the diverse array of flora, including Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean species.
When you reach the picturesque village of Doolin, you can enjoy your quaint surroundings. Your boat trip will take you out of Doolin and past the beautiful islands of Inis Óirr and Inis Meain, before arriving at the port of Kilronan, on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands. Your journey should take roughly 35 minutes, during which you can enjoy your beautiful surroundings.
Inis Mór is an area of unique natural beauty. Inis Mór is home to a wide range of historic and prehistoric monuments, from the dramatic bronze age cliff top fortification Dun Aonghasa to the Teampull Bheanáin, said to be the smallest church in the world. With very few cars on the island, you will feel transported to the past, as you witness most people travelling by foot, bicycle and even pony and trap. If you let us know of your preferred means of travelling the island, we can arrange to have bikes, or a pony and trap hired for you should you wish. Regardless of how you travel, it will be a memorable experience for you.
Once you arrive back on the mainland, you will follow the Wild Atlantic Way to an unmissable spot in any trip to Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher really are one of Ireland’s most spectacular natural attractions, rising 200m above the Atlantic Ocean. The Cliffs of Moher really will leave you feeling awestruck, with the rugged Clare coastline to one side and the unique landscape of The Burren National Park to the other. Without a doubt, a highlight of any trip to Ireland. Be sure to have your camera to hand, so you can capture those memories to stay with you for life.
Your final destination of the day will be at the majestic Dromoland Castle. Welcoming guests since the 16th century, the castle has links dating back to Brian Ború, one of the last High Kings of Ireland. Enter the world of historic grandeur underpinned by the finest modern comforts. From delicious cuisine, a world class golf course, fabulous views of the 450-acre estate, magnificent bedrooms and lavish décor this is a place you will truly feel at home. With a commitment to treat each guest as royalty, and a promise that your expectations will be met, there is no doubt that your stay at Dromoland Castle will be a memorable one.
Transport: Luxury Vehicle with your Private Driver Guide
Activities: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, leisure at Dromoland Castle
Today you will visit the acclaimed 15th iconic Bunratty Castle – the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. Set on 26 acres of unspoiled Clare countryside, Bunratty Folk Park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living village’ and rural setting. Rural dwellings, village shops and streets are recreated so that you can really feel as though you have stepped back in time. An enjoyable way to spend a morning, you truly will get a sense of life in Ireland in the past.
For your final afternoon, you can enjoy your opulent setting in Dromoland. Enjoy a round of golf, afternoon tea by the roaring fire, a luxurious spa treatment or one of the many outdoor activities available on the estate.
