A Private Luxury 16 Day Tour to Scotland and Ireland

PRIVATE WALKING TOUR OF EDINBURGH NEW TOWN AND THE ROYAL MILE INCLUDING EDINBURGH CASTLE

Private Half Day Edinburgh Walking Tour. Your tour, with an expert  local guide, will explore the city’s main attractions on or around the Royal Mile including The Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Scottish Parliament and of course Edinburgh Castle. Entrances are included to Edinburgh Castle only to allow for flexibility.

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe, set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away. Standing on its great rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland’s capital. Great events have taken place within its walls and it has witnessed many sieges. To control the castle was to hold the keys to the kingdom. Iron Age warriors understood the rock’s military potential and built a hill fort here. The castle is now a world famous visitor attraction and a key element of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

PRIVATE TOUR TO ST ANDREWS WITH AN EXPERT DRIVER/GUIDE

After breakfast this morning, meet with your driver/guide for a full day travelling east into the Kingdom of Fife and to St Andrews.  Enjoy some local sightseeing with the driver. You will see the Castle and the University and of course the Old Course. In the late afternoon, return to Edinburgh for an evening at your leisure.

St. Andrews: Standing proudly on the east coast and within half an hour from Dundee and less than two hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow, it’s easy to explore this historic gem in the Kingdom of Fife. St Andrews, Scotland’s world-famous Home of Golf, is known for its historic university, medieval streets and gorgeous traditional buildings. 

St Andrews Castle is the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. Explore the underground 16th-century siege mine and counter-mine, and the 'bottle dungeon', one of the most infamous castle prisons in medieval Britain, which was cut out of the solid rock.

The remains of St Andrews Cathedral, which was Scotland’s largest cathedral and most magnificent church, show how impressive it used to be. The museum houses an outstanding collection of early and later medieval sculptures and other relics found on the site, including the magnificent St Andrews Sarcophagus of Pictish date. The precinct walls are particularly well preserved.

EDINBURGH TO INVERNESS VIA BLAIR CASTLE AND THE DALWHINNIE DISTILLERY

Meet your driver/guide and travel North towards Inverness. Suggested stop at South Queensferry to get a great view of the Forth Bridges and it’s a beautiful little village. From there possibly stop off at the small town of Dunkeld close to the “Little Houses” (an area renovated and looked after by the National Trust) and take a wander up the lane leading to Dunkeld Cathedral which is located on the shore of the River Tay (very picturesque).

Then on through Pitlochry and you may wish to stop for a visit to Blair Castle followed by lunch in a nearby pub. After lunch, we will include a stop for a scheduled tour and tasting at the Dalwhinnie Whiskey Distillery. Arrive in Inverness in the afternoon and check in to your hotel for an evening at leisure. 

Blair Castle & Gardens. Spanning the Medieval, Georgian and Victorian eras through to present day, Blair Castle encapsulates remarkable periods in Scotland’s 

Dalwhinnie Distillery stands in the Cairngorm National Park at the heart of the Scottish Highlands in the village of Dalwhinnie. From this remote but accessible location comes a liquid known as the gentle spirit. Take a peek at the ins and outs of this working distillery. Discover its unique high location and its iconic malt on a scheduled or private tour. 

Inverness is the largest city and the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands and attracts visitors from across the world for its natural landscapes, quaint towns, medieval ruins, and prehistoric sites.

Ness Walk:  12 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5SQ

2 nights at Ness Walk in a Cedar Room inclusive of breakfast

An idyllic 5-star retreat hotel in Inverness, surrounded by a dramatic canopy of impressive trees. The grand building allows you to experience a secluded atmosphere in the heart of the vibrant city centre. Originally a 19th century house, our lovingly restored Grade B listed building still retains many of its periodic features..

PRIVATE LOCH NESS CRUISE AND LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

This morning you will meet with your driver who will bring you to the boarding area (Urquhart Bay harbour which is 1 mile north of Drumnadrochit on the A82) for a private 1-hour cruise on Loch Ness. There will be plenty of photo opportunities so a camera today is a must! After the cruise, meet your driver and travel to Urquhart Castle for an included visit.

Spend the afternoon sightseeing with your driver/guide. You can discuss options with him on the day, The battlefield at Culloden Moor is a great visit (payable locally) . Return to Inverness for an evening at your leisure.

Private Loch Ness Cruise (1 Hour): Join a local skipper for a trip lasting approximately one hour and enjoy stunning views of the Great Glen, Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle. On board, instruments monitor sub surface activity showing both bottom profile and mid water targets, which, although usually fish, are very very occasionally much larger and not readily explained.  Fun Facts, Legends and History galore from your host Gordon as you enjoy the very best views from the Loch.

Urquhart Castle. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw great conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Control of the castle passed back and forth between the Scots and English during the Wars of Independence. The power struggles continued, as the Lords of the Isles regularly raided both castle and glen up until the 1500s. The last of the government troops garrisoned here during the Jacobite Risings blew up the castle when they left. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, offering glimpses into medieval times and the lives of its noble residents. 

Culloden Moor Visitor Centre. Visit the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil. Explore the interactive visitor centre, view fascinating artefacts from both sides of the confrontation, and experience the battle in our immersive surround cinema. 

OVER THE SEA TO SKYE

This morning you will meet your driver/guide for a full day tour to the Isle of Skye. En-route you will see the most photographed castle in the world, Eilean Donan. The island of Skye, connected to Scotland's northwest coast by bridge, is known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles. The largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, it has an indented coastline of peninsulas and narrow lochs, radiating out from a mountainous interior. Spend the afternoon exploring the wonderful Island and the spectacular scenery.

The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. The capital is Portree. Villages in the north of the Island include Dunvegan, Edinbane, Uig and Staffin. Notable villages in the south of Skye include Broadford, Armadale, Carbost, Elgol and Kyle akin.  The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: dinosaur fossils, clan warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion.Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit.  The Isle of Skye is also a great destination for Wildlife watching with the white tailed sea eagle at the top of bird watchers lists. Otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer are just some of the other impressive creatures that can be seen on and around the Isle of Skye.

Kinloch Lodge: Sleat, Isle of Skye, Scotland, IV43 8QY

2 nights at Kinloch Lodge in a Suite inclusive of breakfast

Kinloch Lodge is more than a hotel and restaurant. It’s a white jewel nestled in the hills on Scotland’s spectacular Isle of Skye

SIGHTSEEING AND ACTIVITIES ON THE ISALE OF SKYE

Today, enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye.  Below are listed some of the most amazing sights you can see.  You can discuss with your driver/guide for your preferences.  This evening is at your leisure.

• Travel over Sligachan Old Bridge
• The Fairy Pools 
• The Old Man of Storr
• Visit Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
• The Quiraing
• The Fairy Glen Tour

Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye, is a bustling port and a thriving cultural centre. Set round its natural harbour and fringed by high ground and cliffs the town is the perfect spot for a bit of lunch. Famous for its seaside houses painted in various bright colours, Portree offers a chance for a relaxed stroll along the shore side with an ice cream. There are also several shops to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

SKYE TO GLASGOW VIA GLENFINNAN, FORT WILLIAM, GLENCOE AND LOCH LOMOND

This morning you will check out of your hotel and take the morning ferry for the 45-minute journey from Armadale to Mallaig admiring the spectacular scenery as you go. Travel to Fort William via Glenfinnan and time to see the monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Viaduct.  You will see the majestic Glencoe and enjoy time for an optional lunch before continuing south via the Bridge of Orchy and Crianlarich and along the bonny banks of Loch Lomond.  In the evening you will arrive in Glasgow and check into your hotel. The evening is at your leisure to relax and explore.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a renowned feat of Victorian engineering and the longest concrete railway bridge in Scotland. It takes the West Highland Railway over the River Finnan 100ft below, on its journey between Fort William and Mallaig – and is one of the most picturesque train rides in the world. Made famous by the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express.

Glenfinnan Monument: Moving tribute to those who died fighting for the Jacobite cause, framed by dramatic Highland scenery. Raise your bonnet to the lone Highlander on top of Glenfinnan Monument and take the dizzying climb up the tower for an unrivalled view of Loch Shiel. Discover the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the 1745 Jacobite Rising in our informative visitor centre and find out about the clans that supported him.

Fortwilliam is known as the outdoor capital of the Scottish Highlands with its stunning landscapes, fascinating museums and authentic ales and whiskeys.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: The National Park is famous for a reason: the scenery is stunning. From the Arrochar Alps to the island habitats of Loch Lomond, the views from the top of Ben Lomond to the Falls of Dochart, there’s a breath-taking view practically everywhere you go. At the heart of the park is Loch Lomond itself. You won't find a bigger loch or lake in the whole of Britain and you'll have a hard time finding a more beautiful one, too. 

Glasgow: Scotland's most populated City sits on the banks of the Clyde and is well known for its excellent shopping, food and nightlife and various tourist attractions and landmarks. Home to Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland, as well as acclaimed museums and a thriving music scene

Blythswood Square Hotel:11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4AD

Overnight at Blythswood Square Hotel in a Premium Garden View Room inclusive of breakfast

Blythswood Square has been a prestigious address since the early 19th century. Overlooking a private garden square, the hotel's Georgian townhouses were originally home to wealthy merchants and were later turned into the club headquarters for The Royal Scottish Automobile Club.

PRIVATE DEPARTURE TRANSFER TO GLASGOW AIRPORT ARRIVAL TRANSFER IN DUBLIN

After breakfast this morning we include a private transfer to Glasgow Airport. You will catch your independently booked flight to Dublin airport. 

On arrival at Dublin, your driver is waiting to welcome you to Ireland, with a luxury and most comfortable vehicle. Step into another world and relax. We’ll accompany you from here, your every need attended. You won’t worry about a thing.

Dublin centre is just 10km from the airport and you’ll enjoy a short orientation tour of the centre, noting many key sights (subject to traffic and times). Your driver-guide may show you O’Connell Street and the General Post Office; the Proclamation was read here for the first time on Easter Sunday 1916.

You’ll then arrive at your central Dublin 5-star hotel, where you’ll stay for two nights: The Shelbourne, The Merrion, The Westbury or the College Green Hotel. You’ll have chosen when you booked. Your driver-guide will help you check in to your room, then leave you to settle in, rest and relax.

Should you need recommendations for dinner, you only have to ask. With local knowledge and a love of the city, we’re armed with delicious ideas.

More about your driver-guide

Our driver-guides are what makes your trip so very special.

We provide only the very best of local guides and driver-guides (One Person) who will be with you for 8 hours per day with an hour for lunch. During your trip, you will discover a wealth of detailed information about Irish history, about the cities, towns and villages along the route. You will learn about the heritage of Ireland its complex history back to 13,000BC. Through an intricately woven timeline you will see first-hand the influences that have come together to make the Irish who we are. Most importantly your driver/guide is there to make your trip through the Real Ireland as memorable as possible so we will be flexible to allow you to experience and feel the Real Ireland.

You will be taken to those real places where you can immerse yourself in the culture, feel the character and meet the characters.

Dublin: A walking tour of the city

After your first Irish breakfast, you’ll meet our friendly local guide in your hotel lobby. They’ll take you on an informative, private morning walking tour of Dublin city. Offering a fascinating insight into Ireland’s capital, you’ll learn more about life in Dublin. Rest assured, we can tailor our tour to meet any mobility needs or specific interests.

Key highlights include Dublin Castle – an impressive 13th century building, now a major government complex since independence in 1922. You’ll also see The Custom House near Dublin Port. Opened in 1791, it’s awash with neoclassical splendor. And no visit would be complete without experiencing the Georgian doors of Dublin first-hand. Colourful and decorative, they’re now part of Dublin’s DNA.

Today we also include a timed entrance at Trinity College Library: home to the Book of Kells. Nestled in the heart of Dublin along ancient cobbled stone lanes, we’ve included your entrance fee to admire this lavishly decorated and most historical book. Crafted from vellum, it contains the four Gospels in Latin, dating back to the 9th Century. The book is famous throughout the world.

With the afternoon and evening free to explore further, we’ll happily make your arrangements. You might favour Kilmainham Jail, The Irish Emigration Museum, The Guinness Storehouse or The National Gallery. Even a spot of Irish shopping? Try the public transport or keep your driver for the afternoon, we’ll plan it all for you if you want. You’re never left not knowing what to see or do next.

Dublin to Cork: The land of the saints and scholars

Today, your Irish adventure leaves Dublin behind. There’s so much more to discover!

In the safety of your luxury vehicle and with the company of your trusted driver-guide, you’ll travel south-west towards Cork. There’s 265km of scenery to soak in and many sites to stop at along the way. In the safety of your luxury vehicle and with the company of your trusted driver-guide, you’ll travel south-west towards Cork. There’s 265km of scenery to soak in along the way. We include entrance fees to the following sites as you travel.

The Rock of Cashel – a historically significant group of medieval fortifications on prominent limestone outcrops in the Golden Vale. This is the site where St Patrick chose to make the head of his church in Ireland.

The Queenstown Story in Cobh – a captivating exhibition of Irish history that includes the immigration story, building the Titanic and Cobh as Queenstown.

OR

The Jameson Experience at the Midleton Distillery – enjoy a spot of Irish whiskey tasting whilst learning about the heritage of the Jameson brand. See the maturation process for yourself and walk among thousands of wooden whiskey casks, all housing the world-famous Jameson Whiskey.

At the end of an incredible day, you’ll check in to your deluxe room at Perryville House (or similar) overlooking Kinsale Harbour, the magnificent building dates to 1820. Following a no-compromise restoration, you’ll savour a comfortable overnight stay.

Cork to Killarney: The Wild Atlantic Way

Following breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to Kinsale town and continue along your well-planned route.

Today is all about scenic splendour. The Wild Atlantic Way follows the west coast of Ireland. And what a route! You’ll travel just the start of it today. Perhaps the full length is the itinerary for another trip?

Your driver-guide knows just where to go. The prettiest roads. The best photo-stops. And of course, superb places to break for lunch. Just sit back, breath in and let a magical day unfold before you.

You’ll arrive in Killarney during the afternoon. It’s a pretty town boasting many 19th century buildings of interest. Situated on the shores of Lough Leane, it’s flanked by Killarney National Park. This is your Irish home for the next three nights.  A cruise of Lough Leane and a Private Jaunting Car Ride are included.

Here you will check in for 3 nights at The Aghadoe Heights Hotel (located just 10 minutes from Killarney) in a lake side deluxe room or the Killarney Park Hotel (located in the heart of town) in a premium room. The evening is free and you can take the hotel shuttle to town to enjoy Ireland’s most famous tourist town and all of the great pubs and restaurants.

The Ring of Kerry

It’s another fine day for stunning scenery as your attentive driver-guide tours you round the Ring of Kerry. A circular coastal route forming part of The Wild Atlantic Way, it unveils many hidden gems, tucked away in this stunning westerly landscape.

You’ll first travel to Killorglin, via the pretty coastal village of Glenbeigh. It hosts one of the finest Atlantic sandy beaches in Ireland. You can also choose to stop and experience a sheepdog demonstration with Brendan Farris, an Irish border collie trainer.

Your journey continues around the Ring of Kerry. Dingle Bay is worth a stop. You’ll be drawn to the miles of sandy beaches, crashing waves and soaring cliffs. It’s a photographer’s paradise. And your driver-guide takes the guesswork out of searching for the best viewpoints.

Cahirciveen is on your route – the birthplace of Ireland’s Great Liberator: Daniel O’Connell. And if time permits, you might take the short detour around Skellig Ring (some say it’s even more serene than the Ring of Kerry) and cross the little road bridge to Valentia Island. Talk about hidden gems! You’ll spot Skellig Island from here – a location for the latest Star Wars films.

And the coastal beauty continues to unfold as you drive through Sneem village and Molls Gap – a climbing mountain pass that affords yet more awe-inspiring views of Ireland at its very best. Back towards Killarney National Park, you’ll arrive in Killarney during the afternoon (a little later if you took the detour). Muckross House & Gardens or Torc Waterfall are two additional sights, should you wish.

We recommend the Celtic Steps show in Killarney this evening, if you wish to experience some magnificent Irish music and dancing. Your driver guide can arrange this locally. Alternatively, take some time to reflect on another remarkable day.

The Dingle Peninsula

You’ll be glad of your driver-guide today as they take you to marvel at the very best views on the Dingle Peninsula. It’s Ireland’s most westerly point and rich in wild and rugged beauty.

Slea Head Drive will be the highlight: once cited as “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic. And one of the top 100 destinations in the world by TripAdvisor. Tucked away in gorgeous Ireland.

The drive is a circular route that starts and finishes at the pretty harbour town of Dingle. You’ll see fascinating archaeological remains intertwined with secluded sandy beaches and wild open countryside. If you want to escape from it all, there’s no better place. The air is clear, the natural light is captivating. You’ll feel a sense of peace and calm from beginning to end.

Walk on the beach and squelch the sand in your toes if you fancy. Imagine how those Neolithic settlers felt in 4,000BC. This was home to them.

Lunch might be seafood, or other fare at one of Dingle’s delightful restaurants. With Irish as its first language, this ancient town sits within one of the Gaeltacht regions. Be assured that your driver-guide will escort you through and ensure you enjoy your experience of traditional Irish life.

On your return to Killarney, you’ll travel over the Conor Pass to Tralee. It’s a dramatic journey of peaks and winding climbs. With views to match. Just sit back and take it all in.

Your final evening in Killarney. Let us recommend somewhere to dine. Our local knowledge is always to hand when you need it.

The Cliffs of Moher

This morning you’ll say goodbye to Killarney and travel north to the coastal town of Tarbet. Here, you’ll take a short ferry journey across the Shannon estuary and join another section of The Wild Atlantic Way. Your first destination? The Cliffs of Moher.

It’s easy to see why The Cliffs of Moher are a UNESCO Global Geopark. You’ll be struck by their staggering height (up to 668 feet) and endless stretch (5 miles). Such a natural landmark makes you feel humble in the world we live.

Enjoy the far-reaching views across the Atlantic Ocean, take a wind-swept stroll along the cliff tops, spot basking sharks and dolphins in the waters below (on a calm day). Your driver-guide will advise you on the most memorable beauty spots and particular things to look out for. Like Kittiwakes and Razorbills. Coastal sea pinks and pretty wildflowers.

Entrance to the visitor centre is included, enabling you to learn more about this natural Irish wonder.

Your journey continues north through the Burren Region; a Geosite that’s home to Burren National Park. With curious limestone landscape formed 300 million years ago, you’ll spot intriguing mushroom-like stone formations and structures – all naturally formed by the wild, Irish environment. Rich in archaeological history, you’ll see many ancient monuments and Neolithic sites. Your driver-guide will fill in the detail as you go.

The grand finale has to be your one-night stay in a deluxe room at 5-star Dromoland Castle. A sight to behold as you drive up to it in total comfort. What a treat! An original ancestral home, dating back to the 16th century, sense the depth of history as you relax in luxurious style. There’s an intimate spa, 450 acres and heavenly cuisine. No compromises here.

Farewell

Has the time flown by? What an incredible journey. What an experience of Scotland and Ireland’s best and finest. And yet, today, it comes to a close. Treasure those memories and special times. You’ll be sad to leave our gregarious and charming land, but you can always return. There’s more to discover and we’d love to see you again!

You will be privately transferred to Shannon airport for your return flight. 

We simply want you to focus on having an incredible time. It’s that simple.

All our suggested tours are created by locals, using years of country knowledge. It’s your tour though. That’s why any of our itineraries can be tailored to exactly suit your needs. And that might mean fitting it to your budget. Do you have a particular destination in mind, We can include any specific request, so please ask.

The Cost for this Wonderful Private Tour to Scotland and Ireland based on 2 Guests sharing a room ranges from UK POUNDS £13,995 - £17,495 per person sharing.

Utilising wonderful 4-star hotels in great locations, the price range will be from UK POUNDS £11,795 - £12,995

Please note that we can also use some or all 4-star hotels in great locations.  We can adjust services to meet your wish list, your requirements and your budget.

Please see below for complete list of included services.

Accommodation is included for 15 nights at the following hotels including breakfast.

Accommodation

Nts    City        Hotel    

3    Edinburgh    Balmoral Hotel - Deluxe King Room
2    Inverness     Ness Walk - Cedar King Room
2    Isle of Sky    Kinloch Lodge - King Suite
1    Glasgow       Blythswood Square - Premium Garden view Room
2    Dublin          The Shelbourne Hotel - deluxe king room
1    Kinsale         Perryville House - deluxe king room.
3    Killarney       Killarney Park Hotel - deluxe king room
1    Newmarket  Dromoland Castle - deluxe king room.

Transport in a Luxury Vehicle

• Private Arrival Transfer Edinburgh
• 6 Days of Private expert driver/guide servies in Scotland
• Private Departure Transfer Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport
• Private Arrival Transfer and Orientation Tour in Dublin 
• 5 Days of expert driver/guide services in Ireland
• Private departure transfer to Shannon or Dublin Airport

Services

• Private Half Day Edinburgh Walking Tour
• Edinburgh Castle - Skip the Line Entrance Fee
• Blair Castle & Gardens - Skip the Line Entrance Fee
• Dalwhinnie Distillery Tour - small group tour
• Private Cruise on Loch Ness
• Urquhart Castle - Skip the Line Entrance Fee
• Trinity College for the Book of Kells
• The Rock of Cashel
• The Queenstown Story or Jameson Whiskey Distillery
• The Ring of Kerry
• The Dingle Peninsula
• The Cliffs of Moher

We also include hotel taxes and fees, communication costs and the help of our local travel experts throughout your trip; 24/7.

What's Not Included

• Your flights to and from Europe
• Gratuities and tips to driver-guides and local guides
• Anything that we’ve not mentioned above

BOOKING: The proposal is subject to availability and subject to our terms and conditions available on request. To book we require a 30% deposit which is non-refundable as required to pre-book all services.  We accept payments by credit card or by bank transfer. The balance of your trip would be due by 60 days prior to travel.  We strongly suggest taking out travel insurance with your local broker or online provider.