Laurie Becht Ireland and UK Adventure - V2
Laurie Becht
April 2025
Number of Travellers: 1
Duration: 31 Days / 30 Nights
Laurie Becht Ireland and UK Adventure – V2
April 2025
April 2025
As you step into Cardiff Airport, a sense of anticipation fills the air, knowing that your Welsh adventure is about to unfold. Meet your private driver who will take you to your city center hotel. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city. Perhaps visit Cardiff Castle and discover the city’s rich history. Standing within the castle’s grand walls, you’re transported back in time, imagining the dramas that once unfolded within its walls.
Overnight: Cardiff | The Parkgate Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: None
Today you will set off from Cardiff to have a private tour with your local miner guide, and delve deep into the heart of Wales’ industrial heritage at the Welsh Mining Experience. As you descend into the underground tunnels, you gain insight into the lives of the miners who once toiled here, their stories echoing through the cavernous chambers.
Emerging from the depths, your guide will transfer you to the gateway of the Brecon Beacons and charming town of Abergavenny. This Welsh market town offers locally foraged cuisine, a museum of Mesolithic archeological finds and local boutiques.
Overnight: Abergavenney | Angel Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Chat with your guide about the many walking choices today before lacing up your boots and heading out to explore the Brecon Beacons. You may wish to hike to the summit of Pen y Fan, a characterful, flat-topped mountain and the highest peak in South Wales. Or, if you fancy a lower-level walk, perhaps wind your way through Cwn Sere, Cwm Oergwn or Cwm Cynwyn, which are peaceful, glaciated valleys nestled at the feet of the central Beacons. Later this afternoon, your guide will transfer you back to the hotel for relaxing evening.
Overnight: Abergavenney | Angel Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, leave the misty mountains behind as you travel West to Pembrokeshire. A stunning salt-soaked county, it encompasses 186 miles of magnificent coastline where you’ll find hidden bays, golden beaches and towering, rugged cliffs.
This afternoon, head out with for a guided hike along the coast, stopping to soak in the breathtaking views that stretch large and long towards a glittering horizon. Embarking on this journey, your guide will share tales that breathe life into the landscapes, revealing the rich history and folklore of the region. The rugged beauty of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path unfolds before you, with panoramic views of cliffs and pristine beaches.
Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today explore the stunning medieval Pembroke Castle, surrounded by a serene mill poind and most famously known as the birthplace of Henry VII. Learn about the turbulent 1000 year history in this spellbinding Norman fortress and witness the excellently preserved grounds. Take time to imagine the battles fought here long ago, visit the dungeons and climb the keep to be rewarded with panoramic countryside views from the top.
Later on, journey South to the coast with your guide and discover swathes of golden sand and crystal clear waters. With a background of dunes and pine trees, you’ll be transported to a surreal tranquil landscape at one of Pembrokeshires most beautiful beaches, Barafundel Bay.
Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, enjoy a private chartered boat trip to Ramsey Island. Sail over the salty swell to the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) Reserve and be met by one of the wardens. After learning about the island – which is home to ravens, peregrines and buzzards, as well as guillemots, razorbills and fulmars, set off to walk its perimeter. The southern headlands are a unique combination of heather, gorse and coastal plants, so look out for meadow pipits and skylarks. Ramsey Island is also a fantastic place to spot seals so as you sail by the huge western cliffs, listen out for the huff of these big-eyed, curious creatures. On your return to the mainland your guide will transfer you back to your hotel for the evening.
Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head out with your guide to visit St Davids Bishop’s Palace. A magnificent medieval palace that now stands in impressive ruins. Learn about its interesting history on a guided tour as you walk around the sun-dappled grounds. Next, venture across to the Cathedral to admire the most ancient cathedral settlement in Britain. Explore the beautiful chapels and learn how it survived the plunder of the Norsmen in the Dark Ages.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure and take the opportunity to explore Britains smallest city. As a place of pilgrimage for centuries, there are hidden gems round every corner. Perhaps visit an independent art gallery to discover works of local artists and craftspeople, find treasures in artisanal shops or enchanting collections at the Oriel Y Parc Gallery. Your guide will transfer you back to your accommodation for your final night in Wales.
Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Wales guide will drop you at the airport to catch your flight to Scotland this morning. On arrival at Edinburgh airport you will be met by a private driver who will take you to drop your bags at your hotel. Here you will be met by an expert local city guide and head out on a private walking tour to immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city from the Palace of Holyroodhouse all the way up the ‘Royal Mile’ to the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle itself.
Walk the ramparts atop castle rock and hear the tales of the One O’Clock gun and the stories of locals of times past. Walk the ancient cobbled streets and discover the unique buildings that house vibrant and ever-changing art collections before heading to The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art to finish the day with fresh inspirations.
Overnight: Edinburgh | Kimpton Charlotte Square
Room Type: Double Premium Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your private guide for Scotland, who will also act as your driver for your time together, will collect you from your hotel this morning and together you will head north to the Highlands. Enjoy the scenery becoming more mountainous as you travel to the beautiful Cairngorms National Park.
Here you meet with a local character who makes a living as a green wood-worker in his beautiful unique woodland workshop. Hear about his style of working, see how his creations are inspired and used in the surrounding National Park. Try his favourite skills for yourself as you settle in under the trees that surround you and immerse yourself in this ancient craft. Your guide will then take you onward to your unique hotel, which was once a battlefield heaadquarters of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Overnight: Near Inverness | Culloden House Hotel
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day by exploring the medieval castle of Cawdor, which was made infamous by Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Legend says that the Thane of Cawdor chose this spot as a safe place for his family to live after an oracle spoke to him in a dream, it must have been a true oracle because the Cawdor family still live there today!
Then you adventure west, enjoying the unique scenery as you go and hearing the local tales from your guide. A lovely option is to follow a quieter road on a northernly route, taking in a charming coastal village. There are many opportunities for stops and scenic leg stretches along the way. And if you wish you can take a short diversion to visit Eilean Donan Castle before you head over the graceful arch of the Skye bridge onto the island itself.
You could instead choose your route to take in Loch Ness if you want to see if you can spot the infamous monster with your own eyes. This is a more popular route, so discuss with your guide what you would prefer today. Your welcoming hotel will be awaiting you on arrival, and you can settle in to enjoy the views over the harbour town of Portree.
Overnight: Portree - Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills
Room Type: Premier Room with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you have a full day to explore some of the special corners of this magical island with your guide, discovering the landscape that has inspired the local artists. You will be spoilt for choice with artist studios, fascinating history and dramatic landscape on offer. Unique hiking routes through stark and unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. This ‘misty isle’ is also home to so many curious stories and legends of fairies and islander culture, your guide will share some of the best hidden gems and personalise the day to your interests.
Overnight: Portree - Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills
Room Type: Premier Room with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast
After taking the short ferry back to the mainland you’ll travel along the stunning Road to the Isles with your guide. This is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. Admire the silver sand beaches of Arisaig and admire the views back to Skye and out to the small isles. Pass the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may well recognise from the Harry Potter films. Hear the tales of the Glenfinnan Monument and see if you can spot the Jacobite Steam Train puffing its way along the tracks. Then continue on to your luxurious castle hotel near Fort William.
Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Large Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wave farewell to the Highlands this morning, but don’t depart before admiring atmospheric Glencoe. The dramatic mountains and ridges of Glencoe have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Take some time to explore this famous valley with your guide and hear the local tales while enjoying a short hike, there are plenty of options.
Then head south, passing hikers on the classic long distance trail the West Highland Way, as you carry on towards ‘Scotland’s friendliest city’ through the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. This afternoon spend a fascinating few hours self-exploring the magnificent halls and collections of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Taking time to yourself to discover the hidden gems and the stories entwined with this extensive collection. Your guide will then take you to your city centre hotel and depart, leaving you to enjoy a relaxed evening.
Overnight: Glasgow | Abode Glasgow
Room Type: Enviable
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your local city Guide will meet you at your hotel today to take you on a private morning walking exploration of Glasgow’s art and architecture in the city centre. Enjoy the bustling city centre today, exploring the varied architecture of streets that have been home to all kinds of creatives over the years. Discover the historical influences of Charles Rennie MackIntosh and the Modern Art Gallery. Or set out to find the popular contemporary graffiti murals tucked into unexpected corners all over the city, it’s a flourishing and ever-changing theme of this bustling city.
You then have a free afternoon to continue your explorations at your own pace. Whatever you choose to focus on, you are sure to be inspired for your last day before heading to Ireland.
Overnight: Glasgow | Abode Glasgow
Room Type: Enviable
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departing Glasgow airport today, your flight to Belfast will be a short hop across the Irish Sea. On arrival in Belfast, an airport transfer will meet you at arrivals and take you the short distance to your central hotel. Later this afternoon, start your introduction to northern Ireland with a Black Cab Experience. Belfast has had a turbulent history and today you will find out all about it – Belfast was at the heart of The Troubles for over thirty years and you’ll see firsthand how this shaped the city and its residents. Many stories of this time are now depicted through the murals dotted throughout the city, which are now recognised as political art. Visit the peace walls and hear tales from your local guide – an expert who lived through it.
Overnight: Belfast | The Merchant
Room Type: Deluxe Victorian
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your guide this morning and after some short introductions you’re off on your first adventure! The 1700s and 1800s saw the introduction of Dance Masters who travelled throughout Ireland to teach the centuries-old Irish dancing steps to the masses. Throughout rural communities, locals loved to socialise by dancing at the crossroads after a long day of gathering potatoes or saving hay. Today you’ll head to Downpatrick, the burial place of St. Patrick, and learn the origin and evolution of Irish dance, the shoes and costumes before trying it out for yourself! You’ll have a go at everything from the steps from traditional Sean Nós (old style Irish dance) to the iconic steps of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. Afterwards, head to the crossroads at the historic Down Cathedral which overlooks the Mourne Mountains, spotting some historic attractions along the way. Make your way back to Belfast this evening for some free time before dinner.
Overnight: Belfast | The Merchant
Room Type: Deluxe Victorian
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will follow the stunning causeway coastal route out of Belfast along the northernmost coast to Portrush, Co Antrim. The Causeway Coastal Route is possibly one of the world’s greatest road trips, featuring castles, temples, cliff top walks, caves, Game of Thrones filming sites, remote islands and its most famous attraction, The Giant’s Causeway. En route you will visit the Gobbins Cliff Path, which is a spectacular cliff walk that offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. As you embark on the cliff walk, you would be able to witness the sheer natural beauty of the area, including stunning waterfalls, diverse birdlife, and rugged cliffs. The grande finale is at the spectacular Giant’s Causeway – octagonal columns of rocks created by feuding giants or volcanic activity – myth or science, you decide! Your guesthouse tonight offers breathtaking views as it overlooks the stunning Atlantic Ocean.
Overnight: Portrush | Blackrock House
Room Type: Seaview King
Meals Included: Breakfast
You’ll have some free time this morning to relax – enjoy a walk around the town or kick back with a book overlooking the sea. This afternoon you’ll make your way to a traditional working sheep farm in one of the most idyllic areas of the North Coast. Meet a local family who have been living in the area and farming sheep and cattle for over 70 years. Step into the farming world, learning about a sheepdog’s relationship with the shepherd and sheep and admire the speed, agility and intelligence involved with gathering the flock. The lambing season runs from mid-March until mid-April, so you may get lucky enough to meet a brand new baby lamb! Enjoy a relaxed dinner this evening back in town.
Overnight: Portrush | Blackrock House
Room Type: Sea View King
Meals Included: Breakfast
Derry City is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. Built in the 17th century, the walls, approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade with which to view the layout of the original town. Your private tour guide will incorporate the tragic events of Jan 30th 1972 when a peaceful protest turned violent leading to the killing of 14 unarmed men and boys along with the injury of many other in an event knows as Bloody Sunday. Take a step off Derry’s 400-year-old City Walls and step inside the delightfully Dickensian Craft Village – the Jewel inside Derry’s crown. The reconstructed 18th Century streets meets a 19th century square, packed with an inviting mix of artisan shops, home to local crafters, restaurants and coffee shops – the perfect lunch/ afternoon tea activity! Afterwards, make your way to your accommodation Malin in Co. Donegal, a quaint village nestled along the ruggedly beautiful coastline of Ireland’s northernmost point.
Overnight: Malin | Ballyliffin Townhouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
At the tip of the vast and wild Inishowen Peninsula is Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland. Jutting into the restless Atlantic Ocean, it is so other-worldly that scenes from Star Wars Episode VIII were filmed here. Malin Head is a wild, windswept landscape peppered with ancient archaeological sites. Your hike climbs over rocky hills, across rugged headlands, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as seabirds and seals, and take time to explore historic landmarks like the Signal Tower and the iconic “Hell’s Hole” sea arch. You have free time this afternoon to explore as you wish.
Overnight: Malin | Ballyliffin Townhouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Donegal, head south into Sligo, last resting place of W.B Yeats. Sligo is blessed with some stunning coastline and this morning you will explore Streedagh, with it’s miles long sandy beaches on the north Sligo coast. At low tide it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the rock pools and coves that flank the beach and you will be joined by local foraging expert and author Prannie Rhatigan who knows these shores inside and out. Prannie is a world renowned expert on seaweed and her insight into the natural heritage of the Irish coast is unparalleled. Keep an eye out from sand-feeding seabirds that flock along this stretch of coastline. This part of Ireland is dominated by the mighty Benbulben Mountain and an afternoon walk in its mighty shadows is a must before moving on to Westport.
Overnight: Westport | Knockranny House
Room Type: Grand Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast
Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of Clew Bay and embraced by the rolling hills of County Mayo, Westport stands as a charming gem along the Wild Atlantic Way. This vibrant town seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, boasting colourful Georgian architecture with a lively atmosphere fuelled by its traditional pubs, artisanal shops, and a bustling market square. Spend some time this morning exploring the town at leisure before you and your guide leave the world behind as you head off to Achill Island for a day of exploration. Achill is the largest island in the country and encompasses dramatic land and seascapes which have provided inspiration for artists and writers for many years. There are many looped walks on the island and you can chat with your guide which one suits you best. Hike to the soothing melody of crashing waves before grabbing lunch at a local, cosy pub.
Overnight: Westport | Knockranny House
Room Type: Grand Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Westport behind this morning its time to make your way into the wild and rugged landscape of Connemara. The hills and mountains of Connemara are defined by the ocean surrounding, and this is particularly evident at the beautiful Killary Fjord. This morning you will visit a family run shellfish farm where you can head out onto the fjord, lift a string of mussels for hauling and harvesting and understand the lifecycle of these delicious shellfish. After, your guide will lead you on a short hike along the shores along the fjord, delving into Irish history at a famine-era abandoned village and bringing to life the rich and ancient histories of the landscape. Your accommodation this evening, 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
Room Type: Classic Riverside
Stick on your hiking boots once again as today you’ll embark on a captivating 7km trail through Connemara National Park as you climb a narrow pathway to the top of Diamond Hill, Connemara’s most iconic hilltop. From the summit, enjoy stunning views from the mountains to the Atlantic. To one side, the silhouette of Connemara’s hills and mountains beckon, rugged and wild. On the other side, the sea glistens in the distance. Look just below, and you can out the turrets and towers of Kylemore Abbey, a gothic-style manor set amongst the slopes. Head back to your hotel via the stunning Abbey and Gardens to tour the grounds and hear the romantic story behind this iconic site. This evening we would recommend dinner at Ballynahinch’s Owenmore Restaurant, which overlooks the salmon river and the wooded estate.
Overnight: Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle
Room Type: Classic Riverside
Meals Included: Breakfast
Heading further south this morning, as soon as you set foot on today’s trail you’ll be immersed in another world where time appears to stand still. You’ll set off for the Mullaghmore Loop Walk in The Burren. Its unique, striated limestone landscape was shaped by ancient seas and is famous for its Mediterranean and alpine wildflowers. The region is steeped in history as well, with over 2,500 historical monuments to be explored. You’ll have lunch at a local tearoom followed by a visit to the adjoining Burren Perfumery where only natural and organic ingredients are used in production. It’s the oldest working perfumery in Ireland! Afterward, it’s a short drive to your first hotel, Gregan’s Castle, a former retreat for poets and authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. You’ll be back in time for a cool pint of Guinness by the fire before dinner at its award-winning restaurant.
Overnight: The Burren | Gregans Castle
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s hard to resist the allure of one of the many islands that dot the Irish coastline and today you 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, medieval 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. The sheltered side of the island has many little beaches and coves, a resident colony of seals and the tiny village of Kilronan. The wilder side has huge limestone cliffs facing the open Atlantic, an ancient fort crumbling over the cliff edge and scores of ancient relics from the Christian and pre-christian era. On the return ferry, admire one of Ireland’s most impressive natural sites, the Cliffs of Moher.
Overnight: The Burren | Gregans Castle
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Co. Clare behind this morning, make your way into the Kingdom of Kerry. Your first stop this morning is into the buzzing village of Adare, where you can stretch your legs with a wander between its traditional thatched-roof cottages, local art galleries, and warming cafes. Continue on after lunch to check in to your accommodation, nestled on a private estate on the edge of Killarney National Park. Enjoy some free time to explore the colourful Killarney town this afternoon, known for its bustling atmosphere and traditional Irish pubs. Finish the day listening to some tunes by an open fire.
Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a day of exploration in Killarney National Park – the jewel in the county’s crown and the largest of Ireland’s National Parks. Today the park encompasses 26,000 acres of mountains, woodlands, lakes, waterfalls and history. Historic manor houses and abbeys make for an interesting visit but Killarney is best explored via the water with a private boat trip across the lake. After your invigorating boat tour, your guide will lead you through the grounds and gardens of Muckross House, a 19th century mansion set upon the shores of the glistening lake. Time and energy levels allowing, it’s only a short walk up to the base of the serpentine Torc Waterfall winding its way from the mountainside and into the lush canopy of trees.
Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, the day ahead is fully dedicated to exploring The Ring of Kerry, a route which covers the perimeter of the Iveragh Peninsula’s stunning coastline, beaches, mountains, and hidden lakes. Your first destination is just up the road at a traditional farming cottage, where the hosts will teach you the long-standing craft of Irish soda bread making and take you on a guided tour of the surrounding farm. Spend the rest of the day stopping along our favourite hidden-gem beaches, visiting the birthplace of Ireland’s most prominent rebel figure, and admiring the dramatic rapidly changing lanscapes.
Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to head over to the east of Ireland today for a tour of the Neolithic historical site, Brú na Bóinne. The World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne is Ireland’s richest archaeological landscape and is situated within a bend in the River Boyne. Brú na Bóinne is famous for the spectacular prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth which were built circa 3200 BC. These ceremonial structures are among the most important Neolithic sites in the world and contain the largest collection of megalithic art in Western Europe. Staying in the city tonight, say goodbye to your guide before enjoying a final dinner at one of the many award winning restaurants Dublin has to offer.
Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, a private transfer will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel and drop you back to Dublin airport. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pricing:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a €12 per person conservation contribution is:
Conservation Contribution
This voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate. If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know.
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April 2025