A Spring Time Adventure in Ireland with St. Patrick's in Killarney.
With Fishing Villages, Seaside Drives, Afternoon Tea, Cosy Pubs, Gardens, Castles, Abbeys, Cathedrals, Stone Circles, Portal Tombs and Dolmens and Megalithic Cemeteries.

Our first week will be spent at a one of a kind Irish Castle situated in the heart of County Limerick on a magical 200 acre wooded estate and is approached along a magnificent three quarter mile long avenue, lined with ancient lime trees and within its walls you will find over 700 years of family history. Generations have fought battles, held parties and generally enjoyed life within its ancient walls. When we venture out you will find Limerick county is dotted with beautiful towns and villages and gives the visitor the perfect mix of city and country life. The attractions in Limerick county range from historic interest, the River Shannon, the Atlantic Ocean and world renowned golf courses. The castle is also ideally located as a base to tour all the best attractions such as Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula, Blarney and Cork, and so we will take them all in. In the evenings we will have Gourmet Dinners followed by a Night of Irish Traditional Music and Dancing, an Irish Storytelling Session with a Seanchai and a Whiskey Tasting Session in the bar and one evening out to a Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet.

Our second week will be spent at a luxury Perthshire country paradise, Stucktaymore House lies on the shores of Loch Tay and features the most wonderful panoramic views of the water. Set within extensive grounds, you can enjoy beautiful manicured lawns and an enchanted forest. The house and grounds are located near the Perthshire village of Killin, where the famous Falls of Dochart can be found. There is much to do and see in the local area, including scenic walks, historic landmarks and outdoor activities. The house has a sitting room, dining room, breakfast room, cottage kitchen, tea room, snug with roaring fire, bar and games room, study, media room and party room. There’s both indoor and outdoor dining space, a Jacuzzi hot tub and extensive self-catering facilities. During the week we will take in the Enchanted Forest at Pitlochry, Blair Castle, Scone Palace, a Musical Evening, a Whisky Experience and the lovely villages of Pitlochry, Dunkeld, Crieff, Perth, Aberfeldy, Killin and Falkirk.

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The itinerary is all inclusive and includes all meals as listed, all accommodation, all sightseeing, all taxes and service charges and guided minibus travel. No additional charges.

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$10,995.00 per person.This tour is now closed!

$1795 per person single supplement.

$1000 per person deposit.​

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Day 1 - October 2nd - This morning we will meet at our Shannon International Airport Accommodation to start the tour. On our way to our lovely wee Irish Castle we make a few stops including in Limerick, an ancient city where the River Shannon meets the Wild Atlantic Way. It is quirky, arty and utterly individual. From brutal sieges in the 17th century to the grand Georgian era of the 18th century, all of which is written into the town’s streetscapes. And then there’s its music, art and literature, from The Cranberries to Pulitzer prizewinning author Frank McCourt. This vibrant city is a place of tragedy and regeneration, of culture and "craic" (fun), of little secrets and famous locals. Frank McCourt wrote a book titled Angela's Ashes, so it only seems fitting that we have a guided Angela's Ashes tour. The tour takes us through the various locations mentioned in the book – through historic Georgian Limerick viewing the stone-faced Georgian offices and townhouses which frame St. John’s Square. Through the streets and parks that McCourt played in as a child, by the street where the McCourt’s Family lived and to Leamy House, the school which Frank attended until his 14th birthday. Our guide will captivate you with stories of Frank McCourt's life and times in Limerick.We then stop for for Afternoon Tea in Limerick before we make our way to our castle home for our first week together. Then we get settled into our amazing castle before our Welcoming Dinner, Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

Day 2 - October 3rd - Our first visit of the day will be Doneraile Court, built by the St Leger family around 1645 on the site of a ruined castle. By the time it was refurbished in the mid-eighteenth century it had become an outstanding example of Georgian architecture. Its associations range from links to the famous St Leger Stakes in horse racing and literature, with famous Irish writers such as Elizabeth Bowen. Thirteen generations of the St Leger family lived at Doneraile over three centuries. Nest we stop in Adare for Afternoon tea before making our way to the acclaimed 15th Century Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. We will take a  tour of this iconic fortress; hear and see how the lords and ladies of this castle lived; hear stories of battles and bravery and enjoy stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside. Next, visit the Folk Park set on 26 acres of unspoilt Clare countryside and featuring over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting. Rural farmhouses, village shops and streets are recreated and furnished as they would have appeared at that time according to their social standing, from the poorest one roomed dwelling to Bunratty House a fine example of a Georgian residence built 1804 home of the Studdarts, the last family to occupy Bunratty Castle. This evening we will join a Medieval Evening at the Castle. Experience a truly unique entertainment and dining experience in the iconic setting of the world famous Bunratty Castle. The lifestyle of medieval Ireland is recaptured at the Castles with these medieval banquet nights. Once the preserve of the nobility who resided in these fortresses, it can now be experienced by everyone. Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

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Day 2 - October 4th - This morning we visit Kenmare for a visit to the Shrubberries Stone Circle, one of the largest stone circles in Southwest Ireland. Unlike any other ring in Muster, this one is egg-shaped composed of 15 heavy boulders. At the centre is an impressive Boulder-Dolmen with a giant capstone. Kenmare is known as the lace capitol of Ireland, so we will also make time for shopping. Next we visit the vibrant town of Killarney, nestled in a valley surrounded by the magnificent McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. At the foot of these mountains lies thousands of acres of National Park comprising of the world famous lakes of Killarney, ancient woodlands, waterfalls and pristine parkland.  This is what gives Killarney its extraordinary and magical beauty. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the magnificent McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range is the vibrant town of Killarney. We will stop for Afternoon Tea and then take the time to walk down each narrow alleyway because you never know what you might find around the corner. Then we are back home to get settled in before dinner followed by an evening of Irish Storytelling. Dinner and overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

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Day 4 - October 5th - Today will be spent entirely at your leisure at our home situated in the heart of County Limerick on a magical 200 acre wooded estate and is approached along a magnificent three quarter mile long avenue, lined with ancient lime trees. There are fields of quietly grazing deer and acres of woodland walks tempting you to explore. Springfield is a prime example of an Irish Castle with gardens. The organic farm, woods and gardens at Springfield are all yours to roam and in season you can enjoy a visit to the Victorian era walled garden with flowers, herbs, salads and vegetables produced for the meals in the castle. Walking through the woodlands and avenues you may be lucky enough to see some of the wildlife of Ireland. There is rabbits, foxes, badgers, squirrels, buzzards  and even barn owls! You will have a packed lunch so the day really is at your leisure. The beautiful drawing room off the main entrance is filled with antiques and works of art which make it a special place to sit and chat, and perhaps put another log on the open fire when it suits. The elegant large dining room with its rich red walls, and fine silver candelabra lighting up the large mahogany dining table, is a pleasure to dine in at night. The study is a cosy sitting room with leather sofas and open fireplace. On the premises are leisure facilities including a sauna for relaxation, full sized snooker/billiard table, table tennis, a hard court tennis court, boules, archery and the newly installed hot tub. At the end of the day you will have the option of going into Limerick to explore and to find some dinner on your own. Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L)

 

Day 5 - October 6th - This morning we make our way to just near Bonane with a stop to experience 5000 years of history at Molly Gallivan’s Cottage and Traditional Farm with a Real Taste of Old Ireland. We will enjoy a guided tour of Molly’s Cottage and Farm with all demonstration and tastings. During this fascinating guided visit, the O’Sullivan family welcome us onto their farm to experience rural Ireland’s lifestyle long before electricity and modern conveniences arrived. We will hear about the relics and stories associated with the on-site famine ruins and then wonder at ancient Ireland on an exploration of the astronomical significance of the Neolithic Stone Row that forms part of a sun calendar. We will learn how, help to bake and taste traditional soda bread and butter. We will learn all about Poitin whiskey and Mead wine. We will also cut our own sod of turf and smell its aroma in the open fire. All of this while enjoying the animals and 5000 years of history. This of course will be followed by lunch in the Barn Restaurant. After our full days outing, we make our way back home for a Night of Irish Traditional Music and Dancing. Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)​

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Day 6 - October 7th - We take in the west coast of Ireland today with a journey around the Dingle Peninsula. A drive around Dingle reveals fascinating antiquities ranging from Iron Age Stone Forts to Inscribed Stones, early Christian Oratories and Beehive Huts. Stops include Dunbeg Fort, Slea Head, Ballyferriter, Kilmalkedar and Gallarus Oratory Drystone Church. The Gallarus Oratory was built and used by local farmers of the area at an early date, estimates of which generally range from the 6th century to the 9th century. Nearby is Kilmalkedar Church, a very important monastery in the early medieval period. The ruined 12th- Century Romanesque Church displays fine carving, especially on the doorway and on the chancel arch. Near the chancel arch is an Alphabet Stone, which has been dated to the 6th century and an Ogham Stone dating to the 5th century! We will stop in Dingle for Afternoon Tea before we explore more of the wilds of Dingle. Then we make our way back home get settled back into our castle accommodation before dinner followed by a Whiskey Tasting Session after dinner.. Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

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Day 7 - October 8th - This morning we make our way to Cobh which was the last docking point of the Titanic before its fateful voyage. After arriving into Cobh we will take in the Titanic Experience located in Casement Square in the heart of Cobh Town in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, a building steeped in history dating back to the early 19th century and the departure point for many thousands of White Star Line Passengers. When we arrive, we check in, get our Boarding Card and learn about the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic on Thursday April 11th 1912. Each boarding card will have the name and some information about one of those passengers and you will find out their fate as we go along. Cobh was known as Queenstown in the early 1900's and we will view the original pier also known as Heartbreak Pier, which was the last point of land contact for the Queenstown passengers. We then stop for Afternoon Tea in Cork before taking some time to explore Cork, known for its Riverside walks, quirky museums and an 18th century food market. We will take time to uncover one of Ireland’s oldest cities as we explore historic buildings, narrow streets and lively markets which keep Cork City always buzzing. Then we make our way back home to get settled in before our last dinner in the castle. Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

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Day 8 - October 9th - This morning we make the long journey to our Dublin Airport Accommodation to spend the night before our flight to Edinburgh. We will make a stop along the way at Adare with its main street lined with enchanting thatched roof cottages and shops! Billed as Ireland’s Prettiest Village Adare, founded in the 13th century, abounds with a rich history and a strong heritage, which remain ever present in its monuments, its thatched cottages, its streets and its people. Then we make our way to County Kildare and to the Irish National Stud and Gardens for the Irish Racehorse Experience. Since the Irish began telling stories horses and horse racing have been at the heart of Kildare's culture. The enduring question has always been, who has the fastest horse? Journey through the history of horse racing. Brought to life like never before. The Irish Racehorse Experience takes the visitor on a journey through the rich history and heritage of the Irish thoroughbred sector, from the world’s very first steeplechase in Cork to today’s commercial success story where Ireland and the Irish diaspora continue to lead the world in breeding, training and racing. We will have lunch here following our Racehorse Experience and then make our way to our accommodation near Dublin International Airport. Overnight near Dublin International. (B,L)

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Day 9 - October 10th - This morning we take a one hour flight from Dublin to Edinburgh and then start our journey into the Perthshire Highlands, an area famed for dramatic mountains, glens and lochs, ancient castles and unspoilt nature; for golf, fishing, walking and adventure; for distinctive cultural venues and exciting events. Located at the geographical heart of Scotland, within easy reach of busy cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, Highland Perthshire is at the heart of Perthshire Big Tree Country and boasts some of Europe’s most remarkable woodlands – all easily accessible on dozens of waymarked paths and trails. The main towns and villages of Pitlochry, Aberfeldy, Dunkeld and Birnam, Blair Atholl and Kinloch Rannoch are all within short drives of each other - while you can go from the auditorium of one of Scotland's major theatres to the lower slopes of one of Scotland's highest mountains in under an hour, taking a journey that passes through some of the Highlands' most breathtaking scenery. We will stop for Afternoon Tea and then visit the lovely Trossachs town of Callander, a beautiful place situated at the junction of two rivers in an area of outstanding natural beauty. In the scenic surroundings of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, overlooked by Callander Crags and Ben Ledi, Callander is a wonderful place to explore.  Then we get settled into our new home for this week before gathering for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

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Day 10 - October 11th - This morning we will take in some of the Perthshire Highlands with a stop in Killin to see the Falls of Dochart, which although not the greatest falls in Scotland they are some of the most scenic as the cascade through the River Dochart. We then continue to Lochearnhead which as the name suggest, is at the head of Loch Earn. We continue along the whole length of the loch all the way to the end and then drive through this lovely area taking in St. Fillans, Comrie and then stopping in the lovely village of of Crieff to explore this wee town known as the birthplace of Scottish actor Ewen McGregor. It is always a favourite stop with our groups and we will take it all in. We then make our way to Aberfeldy to visit Dewars World of Whisky for Lunch and Drams of Your Dreams Premium Whisky Tasting. We then take some time to explore Aberfeldy, a pretty, lively town situated on Scotland's longest river, the River Tay. While here you will want to enjoy the unique experience of Aberfeldy Watermill, a bookshop, café and gallery housed in a listed former watermill. We then continue our scenic drive that will takes the full length of Loch Tay which its spectacular viewpoints and wee villages and back to our lovely home on the Loch where we settle in before dinner. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

 

Day 11 - October 12th - This morning we make our way to Highland Safaris with our kilted Safari Rangers as they share their passion for Nature, Culture, History and breathtaking scenery. Armed with cameras and binoculars, climb aboard your off-road vehicle and journey to the high tops through a land sculptured by the elements and steeped in history, culture, nature, and breathtaking views with no shortage of photo opportunities. You may even be lucky enough to see the Majestic Red Deer, the Famous Grouse, the elusive Mountain Hare, or the soaring Golden Eagle as you travel through forests, mountains, and moors on private hill tracks. This Safari will inspire you with an insight into this magnificent natural wilderness and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. We will lunch in the cafe before joining the Red Deer Experience where you will come face to face with Britain’s largest native land mammal – the majestic Red Deer. With stunning views across the Red Deer Park and the surrounding countryside, spend some time in the Red Deer Centre learning about these incredible animals before meeting them in person. Explore a fascinating collection of antlers that you can pick up and examine, while hearing stories and interesting facts from your Safari Ranger. Then step outside and come face to face with our friendly Red Deer herd. We then back home for an early pizza night followed by a Musical Evening. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

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Day 12 - October 13th - Today will be spent in and around our lovely home and estate. Sitting high above Loch Tay in Scotland, this large holiday home boasts stunning panoramic views of the loch and surrounding Perthshire hillside. Each bedroom has en-suite facilities and there is plenty of space for large groups to get together or spread out, with unique sitting rooms, dining rooms, a snug, library, kitchen, breakfast room, party room, bar, games room and media room. There’s outdoor seating and a hot tub, and the extensive grounds contain manicured lawns with fruit trees, plus an enchanted forest with walkways, statues and fire pits. There is also access across the fields to the lochside for wild water swimming. The house and its grounds were built in 1843 for the Earl of Breadalbane as his summer hunting lodge. Originally the estate covered over 50,000 acres of land on the north shore of the loch and included much of what is now Killin village. You will have a packed lunch to enjoy at your leisure either inside or outside. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to go into Pitlochry for some exploration and to find some dinner on your own. We then take in the Enchanted Forest, a spectacular immersive art experience like no other. It takes place in the beautiful Faskally Wood, near Pitlochry is a kaleidoscopic outdoor experience, an unforgettable journey through a symphony of lights, music, and the natural beauty of the forest – a magical celebration of the beauty of nature’s inter-connectedness. Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L)

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Day 13 - October 14th - The first stop this morning will be Perth and Scone Palace, the home of the Earls of Mansfield. Once the crowning place of Scottish Kings, Scone Palace occupies a unique position in Scotland’s history. A breathtakingly beautiful place of power and mystery and the rightful home of the celebrated Stone of Scone, Scone Palace is regarded as a national treasure and is revered as the historic jewel in Scotland’s crown. We will take Afternoon Tea at Scone Palace before making our way further up the road to the Perth Museum where we see the Stone of Destiny itself! This is an ancient symbol of Scottish monarchy and Kingdom. As a King-making stone, it was used in the inauguration of Scottish monarchs at Scone Palace. Its first documented use was in 1249 for the inauguration of the boy-king, Alexander III. Taken as war loot by King Edward I of England fifty years after Alexander became king, the Stone was carried to Westminster Abbey in London; a symbol of Edward’s victory and his perceived right to rule. Returning home to Perthshire for the first time in 700 years, this iconic artefact is still used to crown kings and queens of the United Kingdom today, including the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023. We then return home before dinner. Diiner followed by an evening of a Highlands Bagpiper. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

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Day 14 - October 15th - This morning we make our way back toward Aberfeldy with a stop at Fortingall to see the Fortingall Yew standing next to the wee church there. The yew tree which grows there has been estimated to be 5,000 years old and is the oldest living organism in Britain and possibly the world. The churchyard also has grave slabs and incised crosses that are hundreds of years old. If the church is open, it is lovely to explore as well. We then make our further up the road to the Beatrix Potter Garden in Birnum. Beatrix Potter is most often associated with the Lakes District in England, but many of her childhood summers were spent in Scotland, and the gardens and shop are lovely to visit. Then we are off to Grandtully and Iain Burnett, the Highland Chocolatier where some of the world’s most highly awarded chocolates are created. You can also get a mug of some of the best Hot Chocolate in the world! We then make our way to Moness Estate for Afternoon Tea and a Gin Tasting Afternoon. The gin tasting includes a welcome cocktail followed by a guided tasting of 4 unique gins, each paired with its perfect serve all accompanied with some grazing platters. Moness is nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire, where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes. We will take in some of this before returning home along the opposite coast of Loch Tay. After a full day of delights we will have a light soup, bread and salad dinner. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

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Day 15 - October 16th - Today we stay very close to home with our first stop being the Scottish Crannog Centre. 2,500 years ago, people across Scotland lived in Iron Age loch-dwellings known as “Crannogs”. Eighteen of these have been found on Loch Tay. Since 1979, these ancient dwellings have been explored and in 1997 a reconstruction based on excavation results was built and became the showpiece of the Scottish Crannog Centre. Recently a new reconstruction has been built and our visit to it will include a guided tour of the museum and artefacts as well as interactive demonstrations of ancient crafts and technologies in the Iron Age Village. Their team of enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and friendly Iron Age Interpreters will guide us through the Crannog story, giving us a glimpse into prehistoric life, and showing us the skills and lives of folk 2,500 years ago in this newly built Iron Age Village. We will have lunch here before making our way to Blair Atholl to visit Blair Castle, ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl. Blair Castle is set in extensive parklands, including the recently restored Hercules Garden and Diana's Grove, and with 725 years of history and over 30 rooms open to the public, an absolute delight to explore! You will have an introduction to the castle and then you will have plenty of time on your own in the castle and on the grounds. After some exploration we return home before a dinner outing. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

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Day 16 - October 17th - On our way south to just near Edinburgh we stop in Falkirk to visit the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift in central Scotland, connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. During our one hour journey we sail through the sky to join the Union Canal over 100 feet above. After smoothly moving along the aqueduct and through the Roughcastle Tunnel to the beginning of the Union Canal, we then descend to the start point. We then stop in Grangemouth for Afternoon tea. While here we will visit Helix Park to see the Scottish Kelpies, the world's largest equine sculptures. We will have a Guided Walking Tour that takes you through the vision of artist Andy Scott and how history and industry impacted on his designing of these breath-taking sculptures. The pinnacle of the tour is that you get to experience a Kelpie from the inside, and see for yourself the breathtaking engineering and design of the Kelpies. We then make it to our accommodation just outside of Edinburgh for dinner. Farewell Dinner and Overnight near Edinburgh. (B,L,D)

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Day 17 - October 18th - We make our way to the Edinburgh International Airport for the journey home.

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