AUTHENTIC IRELAND AND SCOTLAND
Dublin, a luxury castle stay, Westport, Cong Connemara, Galway, The Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty, Edinburgh, Oban, the Highlands and Sterling
Optional Post-tour back to Edinburgh for the Military Tattoo
Our group with Tour Director, Sandy Gregory is being scheduled for
July 19 - Aug 1, 2024
Please inquire about pricing
Dublin, a luxury castle stay, Westport, Cong Connemara, Galway, The Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty, Edinburgh, Oban, the Highlands and Sterling
Optional Post-tour back to Edinburgh for the Military Tattoo
Our group with Tour Director, Sandy Gregory is being scheduled for
July 19 - Aug 1, 2024
Please inquire about pricing
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Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through Scotland, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience with our Concierge Travel Services.
Suggested time to travel: July - September |
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Authentic Scotland:
3 nights Edinburgh 2 nights Oban 1 night in Pitlochery 1 nights in Stirling |
DAY 1: EDINBURGH |
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Arrive Edinburgh Airport. Your greeter and private driver be waiting for you outside of baggage claim to take you to our hotel.
Welcome to Scotland. Edinburgh is the historical, cultural, and political capital of Scotland. We’ll have some time to freshen up before our late-afternoon orientation walk. We’ll take some time to explore and freshen up before we enjoy a Scotch-tasting and included dinner.
Included dinner tonight.
Overnight in Edinburgh, 2 nights with breakfast.
Welcome to Scotland. Edinburgh is the historical, cultural, and political capital of Scotland. We’ll have some time to freshen up before our late-afternoon orientation walk. We’ll take some time to explore and freshen up before we enjoy a Scotch-tasting and included dinner.
Included dinner tonight.
Overnight in Edinburgh, 2 nights with breakfast.
DAY 2: A DAY IN EDINBURGH |
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This morning our private tour begins with a driving tour of many of the important sights in Edinburgh including the Georgian architecture of the New Town, the Parliament building, The Palace of Holyroodhouse and Aurthur’s Seat. We’re then back to the Royal Mile to learn more about its history and finish at Edinburgh Castle where we’ll tour the towers, defenses, the crown jewels and the Stone of Scone before we experience the 1:00 cannon.
You have the afternoon to explore this rich city.
• Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia and learn about Queen Elizabeth’s life at sea. This awesome ship has served as home to The Queen of England and the rest of the Royal Family, as well as to a number of other famous people.
• Enjoy the Scottish National Museum.
• Shop the Royal Mile or cross Prince Street to the New Town boutiques.
• Catch a performance. Theater buffs come from all over the world come to Edinburgh in August to attend the city's famous Fringe Fest. Performances take place all over the city. Student theatre companies rub shoulders with TV celebrities. Shows play not only in established year-round venues but spontaneously pop up on the street.
• Join an Edinburgh Literary Tour. Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, JK Rowling - for those wishing to tread in the footsteps of these literary heroes, Edinburgh is home and the inspiration to many great writers and rightly proud of its accreditation as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
You have the afternoon to explore this rich city.
• Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia and learn about Queen Elizabeth’s life at sea. This awesome ship has served as home to The Queen of England and the rest of the Royal Family, as well as to a number of other famous people.
• Enjoy the Scottish National Museum.
• Shop the Royal Mile or cross Prince Street to the New Town boutiques.
• Catch a performance. Theater buffs come from all over the world come to Edinburgh in August to attend the city's famous Fringe Fest. Performances take place all over the city. Student theatre companies rub shoulders with TV celebrities. Shows play not only in established year-round venues but spontaneously pop up on the street.
• Join an Edinburgh Literary Tour. Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, JK Rowling - for those wishing to tread in the footsteps of these literary heroes, Edinburgh is home and the inspiration to many great writers and rightly proud of its accreditation as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
ADD AN OPTIONAL 2 DAYS BACK IN EDINBURGH FOR THE ROYAL MILITARY TATTOO
If you travel to Scotland in August, you have the opportunity to see The Military Tattoo. The Edinburgh Tattoo is a spectacular like no other. A kaleidoscope of music, dance and entertainment. All set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. See your evening burst into life with a colourful blend of Scottish pipe and drum bands, highland dancers and performers from across the world. Bigger, better and more technically thrilling than ever before. A unique mix of military tradition and global cultures. This really is an experience for the senses.
The evening will include:
The evening will include:
- A three-course “Taste of Scotland” menu
- A sampling of three specially selected Scotch whiskies, each chosen to complement your meal and introduced by a member of the Senior Tasting Team
- Wine
- A brief recital by members of the international Tattoo cast
- A private viewing of the World’s largest collection of Scotch whisky
- A prime location Premier Seat with padded seat/backrest in the outdoor arena with exceptional views of the performance
- An official Tattoo Show Program
ADD AN OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL DAY IN ST. ANDREWS
Golf enthusiasts might like to add a day in St. Andrews. St. Andrews is famous throughout the world as being the home of golf, but there is much more to explore in this beautiful area. We’ll leave our hotel and begin at the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, now a UNIESCO heritage site, then on to St. Andrews for a private tour.
• Book a round of golf.
• Take a guided tour of the old course. There is a wonderful golf museum and you can even hit a few balls on the driving range.
• Have lunch at the Jigger Inn, an adorable white house directly on the 17th hole of the Old Course that dates back to 1850 and provides cozy nooks and open fireplaces to enjoy.
• Take a walk along West Sands – a long beautiful beach directly next to the Old Course, and where the opening scene of Chariots of Fire was shot.
• Pop in to B. Janetta’s, an ice cream shop that has been in St. Andrews since 1908 to try Sticky Toffee or Brown Bread ice cream
• Meander around town and the University of St. Andrews campus. (where Kate Middleton met her Prince)
• Book a round of golf.
• Take a guided tour of the old course. There is a wonderful golf museum and you can even hit a few balls on the driving range.
• Have lunch at the Jigger Inn, an adorable white house directly on the 17th hole of the Old Course that dates back to 1850 and provides cozy nooks and open fireplaces to enjoy.
• Take a walk along West Sands – a long beautiful beach directly next to the Old Course, and where the opening scene of Chariots of Fire was shot.
• Pop in to B. Janetta’s, an ice cream shop that has been in St. Andrews since 1908 to try Sticky Toffee or Brown Bread ice cream
• Meander around town and the University of St. Andrews campus. (where Kate Middleton met her Prince)
DAY 3: OBAN |
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\8:30. This morning we’ll wind our way through the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond. We’ll make a technical stop in Luss, where you will be able to stretch your legs for a bit and see Loch Lomand.
12:00: lunch (not included) in Inveraray. You have some time to explore the street and stretch your legs before lunch. This charming county town, with its characteristic black and white terraces, sits on the western shore of Loch Fyne, Scotland’s largest sea loch.
We’ll finish our day in Oban. With panoramic views of the mountains, the colorful, coastal Victorian town of Oban is the unofficial capital of the West Highlands and the “Gateway to the Isles.”
BUT FIRST, an included whisky tasting. I have to say that I do enjoy a wee dram of the “Spirit of Life” and how Scottish of us to take the time this afternoon to make a distillery stop enroute to learn about the “Angels Share”. Our reservation includes a complete tour of the distillery and a guided tasting of their single malt.
Tonight: Let's think about joining a local Caleigh, a traditional night of food, line dancing and a lot of laughs.
Overnight in Oban, 1 nights with breakfast.
12:00: lunch (not included) in Inveraray. You have some time to explore the street and stretch your legs before lunch. This charming county town, with its characteristic black and white terraces, sits on the western shore of Loch Fyne, Scotland’s largest sea loch.
We’ll finish our day in Oban. With panoramic views of the mountains, the colorful, coastal Victorian town of Oban is the unofficial capital of the West Highlands and the “Gateway to the Isles.”
BUT FIRST, an included whisky tasting. I have to say that I do enjoy a wee dram of the “Spirit of Life” and how Scottish of us to take the time this afternoon to make a distillery stop enroute to learn about the “Angels Share”. Our reservation includes a complete tour of the distillery and a guided tasting of their single malt.
Tonight: Let's think about joining a local Caleigh, a traditional night of food, line dancing and a lot of laughs.
Overnight in Oban, 1 nights with breakfast.
DAY 5: TO THE HIGHLANDS & PITLOCHERY |
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During the rest of your Scotland journey, you will visit castles, villages, scenic stops and epic battlefields. I know it will be one of your highlights when you travel this rugged, scenic landscape. From bagpipes to kilts, you will see it all in the Highlands. Bens, glens, lochs and moors abound as you make our way through this amazing landscape.
We will travel from Oban through the the Cairngorm mountain range to Pitlochry with panoramic stops along the way and a stop at the Highland Folk Museum. This museum of Scottish life goes back to the 1700’s with a small ‘township’ at one end and a ‘working modern farm’ at the other. It's a beautiful place to walk around and of course, come close to the famous Scottish Coos.
Steam Train with Afternoon Tea. We'll then step aboard a vintage train and be transported back to a time when Afternoon Tea was a tradition. We'll travel through the beautiful Scottish countryside while relaxing with a fine selection of sandwiches, mouth watering cakes from a local speciality baker, scones (baked on board with local jam and cream) together with a choice of speciality teas.
You will finish your day in the charming town of Pitchery. 1 night.
We will travel from Oban through the the Cairngorm mountain range to Pitlochry with panoramic stops along the way and a stop at the Highland Folk Museum. This museum of Scottish life goes back to the 1700’s with a small ‘township’ at one end and a ‘working modern farm’ at the other. It's a beautiful place to walk around and of course, come close to the famous Scottish Coos.
Steam Train with Afternoon Tea. We'll then step aboard a vintage train and be transported back to a time when Afternoon Tea was a tradition. We'll travel through the beautiful Scottish countryside while relaxing with a fine selection of sandwiches, mouth watering cakes from a local speciality baker, scones (baked on board with local jam and cream) together with a choice of speciality teas.
You will finish your day in the charming town of Pitchery. 1 night.
ADD AN OPTIONAL TWO DAYS IN INVERNESS
If you are creating your own custom itinerary, think about adding 2 days on to your itinerary and head north to Inverness, known as the “Capitol of the Highlands.” Straddling the river Ness, the town takes its name from the river and the Gaelic word “inver” meaning river mouth.
Culloden Battlefield, the site of the battle of Culloden, where on a rainy day in 1746 Bonnie Prince Charlie marched his tired, rain-soaked Highlanders to Culloden Moor into hopeless battle with the English. In less than one hour, 1200 Highlanders were killed. This was the last battle fought on British soil and Charlie’s defeat led to the decline of the Highlands and the destruction of the clan system. Dramatic interactive exhibits and movies tell the story and the mass graves of the fallen clansmen are marked with small headstones. Its hard to imagine that the course of so much history could have been sparked in such a small, desolate space.
Culloden Battlefield, the site of the battle of Culloden, where on a rainy day in 1746 Bonnie Prince Charlie marched his tired, rain-soaked Highlanders to Culloden Moor into hopeless battle with the English. In less than one hour, 1200 Highlanders were killed. This was the last battle fought on British soil and Charlie’s defeat led to the decline of the Highlands and the destruction of the clan system. Dramatic interactive exhibits and movies tell the story and the mass graves of the fallen clansmen are marked with small headstones. Its hard to imagine that the course of so much history could have been sparked in such a small, desolate space.
DAY 6: STIRLING |
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This morning we'll enjoy an included tour of Stirling Castle. Knights, nobles and foreign ambassadors once flocked to Stirling Castle to revel in its grandeur with its superb sculptures and beautiful gardens. It was a favored residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations from christenings to coronations. And it was the sight of famous battles such as Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn. You’ll walk the walk of Mary Queen of Scots, Robert the Bruce and William Wallace as costumed characters in the roles of bodyguards, court officials, maids of honor and servants will welcome us into 16th century life and make history come alive.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the town of Stirling.
Tonight: Farewell Dinner
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the town of Stirling.
Tonight: Farewell Dinner
ADD AN OPTIONAL 2 DAYS BACK IN EDINBURGH FOR THE ROYAL MILITARY TATTOO
If you travel to Scotland in August, you have the opportunity to see The Military Tattoo. The Edinburgh Tattoo is a spectacular like no other. A kaleidoscope of music, dance and entertainment. All set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. See your evening burst into life with a colourful blend of Scottish pipe and drum bands, highland dancers and performers from across the world. Bigger, better and more technically thrilling than ever before. A unique mix of military tradition and global cultures. This really is an experience for the senses.
The evening will include:
The evening will include:
- A three-course “Taste of Scotland” menu
- A sampling of three specially selected Scotch whiskies, each chosen to complement your meal and introduced by a member of the Senior Tasting Team
- Wine
- A brief recital by members of the international Tattoo cast
- A private viewing of the World’s largest collection of Scotch whisky
- A prime location Premier Seat with padded seat/backrest in the outdoor arena with exceptional views of the performance
- An official Tattoo Show Program
DAY 7: FLIGHTS OUT OF EDINBURGH AIRPORT |
This morning we'll enjoy an included tour of Stirling Castle. Knights, nobles and foreign ambassadors once flocked to Stirling Castle to revel in its grandeur with its superb sculptures and beautiful gardens. It was a favored residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations from christenings to coronations. And it was the sight of famous battles such as Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn. You’ll walk the walk of Mary Queen of Scots, Robert the Bruce and William Wallace as costumed characters in the roles of bodyguards, court officials, maids of honor and servants will welcome us into 16th century life and make history come alive.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the town of Stirling.
Tonight: Farewell Dinner
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the town of Stirling.
Tonight: Farewell Dinner
OPTIONAL EXTRA DAY AT A LUXURY CASTLE |
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Think about adding an extra day to enjoy time at a luxury castle.
This afternoon, we'll enjoy a private custom experience with a master falconer. We'll interact with a variety of species of large birds. Everyone will get a chance to handle the birds. You will be shocked and thrilled at the sheer size and majesty of these beautiful creatures.
Tonight enjoy dinner on your own at the castle restaurant. Relax at the castle tonight:
Enjoy the next day at your leisure at the castle hotel. Think about:
• Fly fishing
• Tennis
• Archery
• Clay-pigeon shooting
• Outdoor garden games
• In-room spa treatments
• Hiking the property
• Scotland Games competition
Lunch is on your own at the castle today. You can make arrangements for a picnic lunch, dine at the restaurant or enjoy a full afternoon tea with your choice of tea leaves and accompanied by finger sandwiches, freshly made scones and selection of sweet delicacies.
Included Farewell Dinner at the castle.
This afternoon, we'll enjoy a private custom experience with a master falconer. We'll interact with a variety of species of large birds. Everyone will get a chance to handle the birds. You will be shocked and thrilled at the sheer size and majesty of these beautiful creatures.
Tonight enjoy dinner on your own at the castle restaurant. Relax at the castle tonight:
- Explore the myriad choices in the whisky room with over 60 single malts
- Enjoy a game of snooker or boardgames amidst the castle's cozy lounges with fireplaces
Enjoy the next day at your leisure at the castle hotel. Think about:
• Fly fishing
• Tennis
• Archery
• Clay-pigeon shooting
• Outdoor garden games
• In-room spa treatments
• Hiking the property
• Scotland Games competition
Lunch is on your own at the castle today. You can make arrangements for a picnic lunch, dine at the restaurant or enjoy a full afternoon tea with your choice of tea leaves and accompanied by finger sandwiches, freshly made scones and selection of sweet delicacies.
Included Farewell Dinner at the castle.
DAY 8. TRANSFERS TO THE EDINBURGH AIRPORT FOR FLIGHTS OUT OR CONTINUE ON TO |
Included transfers to the Edinburgh airport or on to the next part of your journey. Here are a few of our suggested itineraries:
AUTHENTIC IRELAND |
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Click here for our suggested Ireland itinerary.