Scotland & Northern Ireland

Day 1 : Scotland Bound

We begin with an overnight flight across the pond to Scotland.

Day 2 : Glasgow

This morning we enjoy a city tour featuring the highlights of Scotland’s largest and most colorful city. We gather this evening for a Holiday Vacations Welcome Dinner. Our accommodations for the next three evenings are in Glasgow.

Day 3 : Inveraray & Loch Lomond

Today we leave the bustle of Glasgow for the scenic splendor of Inveraray. Overlooking Loch Fyne and nestled among gorgeous gardens sits Inveraray Castle. This sprawling chateau offers history and sophistication. After lunch at The George Hotel, we cruise the country’s most scenic waterway, Loch Lomond. Panoramic views of the Southern Highlands lay out before us as we glide along this impressive loch. A special treat this afternoon is Glengoyne Distillery where we learn about the Scotch making process and enjoy a tasty sample.

Day 4 : Edinburgh & The Royal Yacht Brittania

Experience Edinburgh on a guided tour featuring the history of Georgian New Town and medieval Old Town and enjoy a memorable visit to its iconic castle. First we explore The Royal Yacht Britannia, home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family for over 40 years sailing over 1,000,000 miles around the world. Later we discover Edinburgh Castle. Towering above the city atop a hillside, we tour this historic fortress, one of the most important military strongholds in the country’s history.

Day 5 : Ferry to Belfast

We bid goodbye to Scotland today and board an exquisite Superferry for a pleasant trip to Northern Ireland. The Cairnryan Superferry offers unmatched beauty as we cross the Irish Sea to Belfast. Upon arrival, we check-in to our hotel in Belfast for two nights. This comfortable property is located in the heart of the city. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the city and uncover its many treasures.

Day 6 : Titanic Belfast Museum

Enjoy Titanic Belfast, a museum commemorating the birthplace of the world’s most famous ship. Built to resemble the doomed vessel, it extends over nine interactive galleries and is frequently rated as one of the top museums in the world. This afternoon, Northern Ireland’s largest city comes alive on a panoramic Belfast guided tour. Belfast is a city rich with history, culture, and Irish craic. We see the Titanic Quarter, City Hall, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Queens University and the Prince Albert memorial Clock.

Included meal.

Day 7 : Giant’s Causeway

We receive our first glimpse of Northern Ireland’s majestic coast this morning and discover the beauty of Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and unique geological wonder offers unmatched landscapes and surreal views. Afternoon takes us to the historic walled city of Derry. Tour the iconic Guild Hall and discover the city’s fortified walls and city gates on a guided walking tour. Tonight we have accommodations in Derry, located within steps of the town’s main attractions and restaurants.

Day 8 : Glenveagh Castle & Donegal

Our journey today begins at the Tower Museum. This award-winning museum tells the colorful and dramatic history of the city and the tragic story of La Trinidad Valencera, one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada Fleet that sank in nearby Kinnagoe Bay. We continue to Glenveagh National Park to tour the picturesque castle where Hollywood stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable have vacationed. We enjoy a scenic drive to Donegal and a dinner at the Granary Restaurant in the Mill Park Hotel, our accommodations for the evening.

Day 9 : Belleek Pottery

Belleek Pottery is our first destination today. We begin in the visitor’s center and then enjoy a guided tour of the world-renowned pottery. Lunch will be in Enniskillen before visiting Kells, one of the most important Monastic sites in Ireland and home to the Market Celtic Cross which dates from the 9th century. Tonight's dinner and our accommodations for two nights are at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa.

Tour Saint Columba's Church & Round Tower on own (not local guide).

Day 10 : Dublin & Book of Kells

Discover Dublin this morning on a guided tour. View Dublin Castle, the Spire of Dublin, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Guinness Factory and the Ha’penny Bridge. Later we tour Trinity College, see the legendary Book of Kells and visit the National Museum of Ireland. Our Holiday Vacations Farewell Lunch today is at the Merchants Arch Bar & Restaurant. Between courses local storytellers will provide insights of Irish life in times past.

Day 11 : Return Home

We fly home with wonderful memories of our adventure.