Willing Foot - Andy & Ace Andonov

Day 1 - Sunday 18^th August - Arrival and Galway City

Arriving in your chosen airport this morning, your private guide/ driver will great you at the airport and together you will transfer to the most well know city on our west coast Galway.

Galway is the capital of Ireland’s west. Known as the ‘town of the tribes’ the small centre of cobblestone streets and colourful store fronts is vibrant, fun and cosmopolitan. A local military historian will meet you at the city’s main square to guide you through the bustling alleys sharing Galway City’s important roles in the clash of the French, Spanish, Russian and British Empires from 1700 to 1922, including in Ireland’s revolution for independence.

Your accommodation this evening is a fitting introduction to your time on the Wild Atlantic Way. Ballynahinch Castle is one of Ireland’s finest luxury castle hotels, set in a private 700 acre estate of woodland, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara, Co. Galway. This authentic and unpretentious Castle Hotel stands proudly overlooking its famous salmon fishery, with a backdrop of the beautiful Twelve Bens Mountain range.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Room Type: Luxury Twin
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 - Monday 19^th August - The Coast of Connemara

Windswept and austere, the exceptional barren beauty of Connemara has captured the imagination of writers and artists for centuries. Visit the soaring hills of the Connemara National Park with its wild and unpopulated landscape this morning for a hike on the slopes of Diamond Hill- perhaps heading to the quartzite scattered summit. After a well earned hardy lunch in the nearby village of Clifden return to you hotel for an afternoon Fly Fishing with a local gilley. Cast a rod, tie flies, and immerse yourself in the sounds of nature all around you.

This evening, we have arrange some local traditional musician’s to play in the hotels Fishermans Pub for some after dinner entertainment.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahiinch Castle
Room Type: Luxury Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Tuesday 20^th August - The Aran Islands

It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you and your guide will take to the water and ferry to The Aran Islands. The history of these islands goes back millennia and today Gaelic is still the daily spoken language of the inhabitants. The Aran islands seem to defy their size by all they have to offer: breathtaking scenery, mediaeval castles, cliffs and prehistoric forts are all to be found on this little group of islands.

Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands, is your destination today where you will join up with two brothers for an exciting 4×4 adventure on the island. Explore hidden parts of the island, learn the history and culture from the locals and see the native flora and fauna, the blue flag beach and natural landmarks.We will make sure you don’t miss the incredible prehistoric cliff top fortress at Dun Aenghus as well as some hidden spots along the island’s shore.

Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle
Room Type: Luxury Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 21^st August - Dromoland Castle

From the wilds of Connemara we make our way further south into Co Clare this morning, stopping on route to see the famed Cliffs of Moher and grabbing a bite to eat in a local pub. This afternoon, you check into one of Ireland’s most magical addresses, Dromoland Castle. Dating back tot he 16th century the castle was the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland who’s linage dates back to Brian Boru.
The perfect introduction to country life awaits you this afternoon with an onsite Falconry Experience where you’ll get up close and personal with mesmerising falcons, hawks and owls in the Castle grounds

Overnight: Clare | Dromoland Castle
Room Type: Viscount Stateroom Twinned
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 22^nd August - Golf at Dromoland

Every golfer dreams of playing at Dromoland Castle Golf & Country Club. Designed by Ron Kirby and JB Carr, the impressive 18-hole 6,824 yards par 72 championship course is set on the magnificent 450-acre estate combining gentle hills, ancient trees and unexpected water hazards.

Following a morning on the course, this afternoon is open to you to enjoy. You can explore further afield with your guide or take advantage of the onsite activities including Clay Shooting for some more of that country good life.

Overnight: Clare | Dromoland Castle
Room Type: Viscount Stateroom Twinned
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 23^rd August - Dromoland to Dublin

Leaving the west coast, we head to Dublin today to enjoy some of the sights and sounds of Ireland’s capital city.
Meeting a local guide you will first hit the streets ready to explore starting at the Guinness Storehouse to experience the history, heart and soul of Ireland’s most iconic beer. From there you will be brought to three of Dublin’s most iconic traditional pubs & the best pints of Guinness the city has to offer in luxury transport! Taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the city along the way.

We have some great restaurant and pub recommendations to make for you to help you get the most oof your first night in Dublin

Overnight: Dublin | The Marker
Room Type: Premium Room View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 24^th August - The Big Game Day

Dare to be a Celtic Warrior today! Take a journey of discovery deep into Irish culture, where our sports and language meet. From hurling, one of the oldest field sports in the world, to Gaelic football you will experience an enthralling energy packed introduction to our National Games that will literally take your breath away and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
The rest of the day is yours to explore Dublin before an early dinner ahead of the big game this evening as Florida State takes on Georgia Tech. Who are you rooting for?

Overnight: Dublin | The Marker
Room Type: Premium Room View

Day 8 - Sunday 25^th August - Depart Ireland for Scotland

Departing Dublin this morning, your guide will drop you to the airport where you will be met on the other side by your Scottish guide/ driver. You will head north to the beautiful area of Royal Deeside.  On the way stop to enjoy the historic Scone Palace, once the crowing place of Scottish Kings and Queens. Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the unique Murray Star Maze. Later, arrive at your home for the next few nights, the unique 5* Fife Arms Hotel, created by the acclaimed gallery owners Hauser & Wurth. Once you are settled into your room, why not head out to enjoy the numerous artworks and antiques around the hotel or explore the spectacular scenery in the local area.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms Hotel
Room Type: Victoriana Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Monday 26^th August - Golf and exploring Royal Deeside

Enjoy a classic links golf experience this morning, as you play one of Scotland’s most iconic coastal courses. Carnoustie will test your skills as you take on one of Scotlands ‘greatest tests in golf’. Once you have completed your morning on the green, head back to you hotel to get ready for further explorations this afternoon.

You can choose to head out on a beautiful walk amongst the ancient pinewood forests that cover this area. Delight in the tranquility and nature as you wander along the riverside with the sound of the water always close by.  If you feel more energised, perhaps head out to explore this stunning place on two wheels. A local biking guide will be on on hand to help you pick the best hidden gems to explore depending on the weather and your energy levels. Head back to your luxurious hotel to rest and relax for the evening, perhaps sip at a warming dram in the drawing room.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms Hotel
Room Type: Victoriana Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 27^th August - A Whisky Safari

Have a leisurely breakfast this morning and a little time to make the most of your luxury of your hotel.  This afternoon, head over the hills of Glenlivet to the private home and kitchen of the charismatic writer, broadcaster and ‘food anthropologist’ Ghillie Basan, who has been called a ‘World Food Expert’. Set in an idyllic and remote location you will discover a colourful and well stocked kitchen with inspiring views over the hills. Ghillie will guide you in a cooking feast of traditional Turkish and Middle Eastern mezze dishes while you share stories and learn about the spices and culture of the dishes you are creating. Later this evening head back to your hotel to rest and relax.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Victoriana Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Wednesday 28^th August - The Nevis Range and Distillery tour

Today you leave the Cairngorm National Park and head to the stunning Nevis range. On the way enjoy a wonderful private tour in one of Scotland’s best known distilleries where you can enjoy a wee dram of ‘Uisge Beatha’ or ‘water of life’.  This is the ancient celtic name given to the traditional fiery amber nectar that we now call Scottish whisky. Your guide will transfer you to your luxurious castle accommodation to settle in for the evening or perhaps take a stroll around the grounds to explore the surrounding area.

Overnight: Fort William | Inverlochy Castle
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Thursday 29^th August - Golf & hiking in Glencoe

This morning it is time to tee off at a stunning course in the heart of the Highlands. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this little known 18-hole heathland course provides a great challenge whilst also offering some of the most stunning views in the country. This afternoon head off with your guide to explore the infamous and striking valley of Glencoe. Formed of sharp ridges and peaks, shaped by volcanoes. Glencoe has a turbulent and troubled past with layers of history to discover.

Your guide will discuss hiking options with you – from hidden valleys to secret glens, there are many choices where you can get off the beaten track and hear stories about the tragic past of this beautiful area.  To end the day, you will arrive at a traditional hikers tavern where you will meet a local storyteller. Sit back with a wee dram and let the stories of the area wash over you as you immerse yourself in the history and culture of this magical part of Scotland.

Overnight: Fort William | Inverlochy Castle
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Friday 30^th August - Chocolate and Edinburgh's hidden secrets

Today you will head to the historic city of Edinburgh. En-route to Scotland’s capital city, you will stop to enjoy an artisanal tasting experience, trying some of the Highland Chocolatier’s world-famous truffles.  Depending on time you may have a chance for one final hike in the beautiful Highlands before arriving in the city.

Arriving at your luxurious hotel in the centre of Edinburgh have some time to get settled in and refreshed before setting out to explore this afternoon. Discover a secret side of Edinburgh as you adventure down underneath the cobbled streets on a private underground tour of a warren of tiny fascinating alleyways dating from the 17th century. The evening is yours, perhaps head out to the bright lights of the city or simply relax in the comfort of your hotel.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Room Type: Junior Suite with Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Saturday 31^st August - Edinburgh explorations & Whisky

This morning you will be met by your local city guide who will take you on a tour to discover the true character of the Old Town and discover some of the lesser known sites. Edinburgh is a labryinth of cobbled alleyways contrasted with Georgian townhouses and more modern architecture and this tour will give you a real insight into the history and character of this amazing city.  For your final evening in Scotland, head to the iconic Princess Street and experience a special tutored tasting of four iconic Johnnie Walker whiskies, each accompanied by a luxury chocolate truffle. Guided by whisky experts, you are sure to enjoy this special pairing. What better way to end your Scottish adventure.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Room Type: Junior Suite with Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 15 - Sunday 1^st September - Depart - Farewell Scotland

After breakfast your guide will drive you to the airport to catch your flight home, taking with you memories of an adventure of a lifetime and a longing to return.

Meals Included: Breakfast