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 Murder Mystery Evening, a Whisky Experience and the lovely villages of Pitlochry, Dunkeld, Crieff, Aberfeldy, Killin, Callander and Auchterarder.

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

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$9995.00 per person. Sold Out!

$1295 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. 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. We will have lunch here and then start our journey to our lovely castle home for the next week with a few scenic stops along the way. Then we get settled into our amazing castle before our Welcoming Dinner, Dinner and Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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Day 2 - October 3rd - This morning we visit Killarney. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the magnificent McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range is the vibrant town of Killarney.  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.  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. Take the time to walk down each narrow alleyway because you never know what you might find around the corner. We will stop for Afternoon Tea and then continue on to 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. Then we are back home to get settled in before dinner and then a Whisley Tasting Session after dinner. Dinner and overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

 

Day 3 - October 4th - 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 dinner followed by an evening of Irish Storytelling with a Seancha. Dinner and Overnight near Limerick. (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. 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 we meet up for dinner. Dinner and Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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Day 4 - October 5th - 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 a Night of Irish Traditional Music and Dancing. Dinner Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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Day 5 - October 6th - This morning we make our way north to Bunratty with a few stops along the way including 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. Next we stop in Limerick for Afternoon Tea before some time to explore this ancient city where the River Shannon meets the Wild Atlantic Way, Limerick 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.Before leaving Limerick behind, we 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 make our way to Bunratty and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where we join a Traditional Irish Music Night and Dinner at Bunratty Castle. Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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Day 6 - October 7th - This morning we make our way to 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 make our way to cork for Afternoon Tea before exploring the lively city sitting proudly on an island in the middle of the River Lee. Riverside walks, quirky museums and an 18th century food market make for a wonderful afternoon of exploring. Dinner in Cork before we return home. Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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Day 7 - October 8th - This morning we make our way to Cahir to see Cahir Castle, Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles. It stands proudly on a rocky island on the River Suir.The castle was was built in the thirteenth century and served as the stronghold of the powerful Butler family. So effective was its design that it was believed to be impregnable, but it finally fell to the earl of Essex in 1599 when heavy artillery was used against it for the first time. During the Irish Confederate Wars it was besieged twice more. A tour around the castle will give a glimpse into castle life in what at the time was the cutting edge of defensive castle design and much of the original structure remains. Next we make our way to the Rock of  Cashel for Afternoon Tea and then a visit to the Rock of Cashel with its well preserved ecclesiastical remains. It is one of Ireland's spectacular landmarks, rising above the surrounding plain and dominating the land route southwards. There is a 13th Century Cathedral, 12th Century Round Tower and my favourite place on the rock, the Chapel of King Cormac. We will take some time to explore Cashel before making our way to Tipperary Town. After visiting Tipperary, we take a spectacular drive through the Glen of Aherlow a country valley, which lies between the Slievenamuck Ridge and the main Galtee Mountain Range. Then we make our way back home before dinner. Dinner and Overnight near Limerick. (B,L,D)

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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 make our way to our accommodation near Dublin International Airport. Dinner and Overnight near Dublin international. (B,L,D).

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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 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 Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

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Day 10 - October 11th - This morning we will take in some of the Perthshire Highlands taking us through my most favorite Glen in all of Scotland, Glen Lyon. On the way, we will stop in 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. The drive through Glen Lyon is mystical and magical with wee villages and breathtaking scenery around every turn. We will take a short side journey to Killin for lunch and to see the Falls of Dochart which although not the greatest fall in Scotland they are some of the most scenic as the cascade through the River Dochart. Our journey then take us the full length of Loch Tay which its spectacular viewpoints and wee villages that will take us on a loop and to the lovely village of Aberfeldy. This evening we gather for dinner and then a Session of Whisky Tasting. Dinner and Overnight Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

 

Day 11 - October 12th - This morning we make 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! We will have a guided tour of the castle and then you will have some time on your own in the castle and on the grounds. Just a few minutes away from the castle we find the House of Bruar, the home of Scottish Country Clothing. We will have lunch here before taking in the Traditional Heritage Tweeds and Fine Cashmere coats stand alongside the latest cutting-edge offerings from Barbour, Musto and Aigle in the clothing halls and their Knitwear Hall, which is home to the widest selection of pure cashmere in the UK. Nowhere else will you find such a rich selection of premium materials in both traditional Scottish and excitingly contemporary styles. You can also find the Finest Country Fayre of Traditional Scottish Food and Drink in the Food Halls and Delicatessen. Then back home for dinner followed by a Musical Evening. Dinner and Overnight Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

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Day 12 - October 13th - Today will be spent in and around our lovely home and estate. This luxury Perthshire Country Paradise is at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Nestled into a prominent location in the southern fringes of the Scottish Highlands, Logiealmond Estate has a unique natural setting encompassing the best of what Scotland has to offer. Here you can take part in a host of fantastic sporting, recreational and cultural opportunities. Come and explore the heather-clad hills, and the rich history and heritage from the comfort of our Highland Farmhouse and Steading. There is a network of trails around the Estate where landscape offers great variety for walkers from strolls through rolling glens to longer expeditions in the hills. This former farmhouse and adjoining steading boasts stunning views over the heather-clad hills, fields, and streams from the hot tub. In the farmhouse, a stylish dining area makes for easy entertaining. Thanks to its large, double aspect windows and stunning cathedral ceiling, beautiful light floods into the living area and guests can enjoy amazing views across the stunning Perthshire countryside. The drawing room has sumptuous leather sofas and a woodburner for cosy relaxation on cooler days. You will have a packed lunch to enjoy at your leisure either inside or outside and then in the evening we will gather together again for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Logielamond. (B,L,D)

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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 delightful village of Dunkeld which sits upon the banks of the River Tay where you can walk along a variety of specialist shops or take a walk down by the river, which provides excellent views of Thomas Telford's Dunkeld Bridge. You may also want to step into Dunkeld Cathedral which can trace its history to the ninth century when it emerged as an important religious centre for the early Celtic Church. No building of this period survives, the present Cathedral dates from 1318. Partly destroyed during the Reformation, the choir is roofed and now serves as the parish church for regular Sunday worship. We then make our way to Pitlochry where we will have dinner and 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 interconnectedness. Overnight Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

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Day 14 - October 15th - Our first visit of the day takes us to the very heart of Angus in Scotland, Glamis Castle. This has been the ancestral seat to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since 1372. Once the inspiration for William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Glamis is renowned for its rich history and famous visitors, from Mary, Queen of Scots to James V. Glamis Castle was the childhood home of HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Her younger daughter, HRH Princess Margaret, was born here and was also frequent visitor during her childhood, alongside her elder sister HRH Princess Elizabeth. After our visit we stop for Afternoon Tea and then  make our way to Dundee where you can first find some lunch and then we visit Discovery Point where we will embark on an intrepid voyage through time. We will explore the pioneering Royal Research Ship Discovery and uncover the stories of her illustrious past, from her beginnings in the shipyards of Dundee and her legendary Antarctic expedition of 1901 under Captain Scott, to her many adventures beyond. Step aboard and immerse yourself in the journey of Discovery! Having travelled all over the globe, the ship returned to its home of Dundee in 1986 and has since been cared for by Dundee Heritage Trust. We then make our way back home to get ready for a Murder Mystery Evening. Dinner and Overnight Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

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Day 15 - October 16th - Today we take in the Kingdom of FIfe with a first visit to St. Andrews, where you can wander throughout this lovely town with its beautiful university, golf courses and lovely shops all throughout. If you are a golfer or know a golfer, you may want to get pictures on the Swilcan Bridge on the Old Course, visit the Clubhouse for some shopping and wander along the links. St. Andrews is also home to St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral. The Cathedral dates from around 1160, and was consecrated in the presence of Robert the Bruce in July 1318. It is almost completely in ruins but still well worth a visit. We then stop for Afternoon Tea before a visit to Dunfermline Abbey in Dunfermline. Dunfermline Abbey was founded about 1070 by Queen Margaret, wife of Malcolm Canmore. Margaret was made a saint, and she and Malcolm were buried here. Robert the Bruce's body (apart from his heart, which is at Melrose) is buried here as well underneath the pulpit in the main church. Margaret and Malcolm son David I is also buried here. The future Charles I was born here in 1600, the last monarch to be born in Scotland. Royal interest in Dunfermline waned when James VI became James I of England and he and Anna left for London in 1603, and the palace fell into disrepair. Dinner and Overnight Logiealmond. (B,L,D)

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Day 16 - October 17th - On our way south we will stop in Crieff before making our way through Glendevon and then to Falkirk. Crieff is a Traditional Scots Market Town set amidst Perthshire’s stunning scenery. The attractive and bustling town centre supports a wide range of family- run businesses offering the best of food and drink, clothing, gifts, crafts and arts. Once in Falkirk, we 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. 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 - Edinburgh Airport.

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