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.

​

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.

​

​

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

$1795 per person single supplement.

$1000 per person deposit.​

​

​

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. We will first visit King John's Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick City. King John's Castle brings to life over 800 years of dramatic local history. We will explore the spacious outdoor courtyard where you’ll get a sense of the bustling activity that took place many years ago. On our journey, expect to see some lively characters. We then stop for for Afternoon Tea in Limerick before we make our way to the Lovely Village of 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 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 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,D)

​

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)

​​

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. Enjoy a relaxing stay in a one of a kind castle. The estate has many ancient trees up to 400 years old. 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 Cork 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)​

​

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)

​

Day 7 - October 8th - This morning we make our way back toward Cork, but the morning will be spent in Cobh which was the last docking point of the Titanic before its fateful voyage. We will take a Guided Titanic Walking Tour that will bring us through the streets and environs of Cobh, revealing locations and incidents directly connected to the Titanic, Lusitania, and about the many millions of Irish Emigrants who departed on ships from its port. We will also learn many other aspects of Cork Harbour History and Irish Heritage. After our walking tour 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 before making our way back home to get settled in before our last dinner in the castle. Dinner and Overnight Dromcolliher. (B,L,D)

​

Day 8 - October 9th - This morning we make our way to Dublin Airport for our flight to Edinburgh. Our first stop is Birr Castle Demesne a lived in home and Historic Science Centre housed in what was the stable block designed by the 3rd Countess over 7 galleries. The remarkable story of this unique site and family is revealed through the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy with a wonderful collection of stories, heritage and interesting artefacts that sets you up for a more fulfilling experience before you head on to explore the demesne. With 10 kilometers of walks, two Rivers, a lake and waterfall and beautiful castle gardens and terraces, the estate is perfect for exploring. You can visit St Brendan’s well dating back to the 6th Century, the oldest structure here on the demesne and still full of spring water. We will have lunch here and then make our way to Kilbeggan and and the oldest licensed distillery of its kind in Ireland. Kilbeggan Distilling Company has seen its share of trials and triumphs. Founded in 1757, the distillery spent the next 200 years making a whiskey beloved the world over. So when tough times ground its gears to a halt, the town came together to save the whiskey that built the town. It wasn’t quick or easy, but they persevered. Today, every bottle produced stands as proof that the spirit of Kilbeggan never wavered. We will have a Fully Immersed Distillery Experience before we make our way to our accommodation near Dublin International Airport. Overnight near Dublin International. (B,L).

​

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 lunch and then visit Falkland Palace, fine Renaissance palace with an extensive formal garden and one of Britain’s oldest tennis courts.Inspired by the grand châteaux of France, successive Stuart royals transformed this favoured retreat into the Balmoral of its day, now one of the finest surviving examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland. One of Falkland’s most famous royal residents – Mary, Queen of Scots – was enchanted with the palace, and took advantage of Falkland’s vast estate to pursue falconry and hunting, while also enjoying a game of tennis in what is now the oldest surviving real (or royal) tennis court in the world. Then we get settled into our new home for this week before gathering for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

​

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)

​

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)

​

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)

​

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 visit C astle Menzies, a spectacular sixteenth century Scottish castle, restored during the twentieth century by the Menzies Clan Society. Architecturally fascinating, it is a splendid Renaissance example of the transition in Scottish castles from earlier rugged Highland fortresses to later mansion houses. The Castle was the seat of the Chiefs of Clan Menzies for over 500 years.  Situated in a strategic location, it was involved in much of the turbulent history of the Highlands.  During the second Jacobite rising the Castle first hosted both Bonnie Prince Charlie, who rested on his way to Culloden in 1746 and then, just four days later, the Duke of Cumberland, son of the British Monarch and commander of the Government forces. 

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)

​

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 next stop in Killin for lunch before we visit Finlanrig Castle. The substantial ruins of the Castle stand on top of a large wooded mound that rises to the north of the road that links the north end of the village of Killin to the west end of Loch Tay. The site has the River Lochar running to its west and south, and Loch Tay to its east, and it takes only a little imagination to cast back a few centuries and see much of the surrounding low lying land as impassibly boggy. As a result this would have made an excellent defensive site, and although no archeology has ever been unearthed to support the idea, it is thought that Finlarig Castle was only the most recent of a series of defensive structures, possibly dating back into prehistoric times, placed on this site. After some exploration we return home before a dinner outing. Dinner and Overnight Loch Tay. (B,L,D)

​

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)

​

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

​

​

​

 

 

​