V.3 Tribe Group- Mrs Rose Lew and Prof Allan Fels

Day 1 - Monday 12^th August - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at Edinburgh airport you will be met by your expert guide who will also be your private driver throughout your trip. Begin your journey north to your accommodation, the luxurious and decadent Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire.

After you have settled in and taken some rest, you will join your guide for an afternoon visiting Crieff. First stop is a private exploration of Innerpeffray Library with an archivist. The library is nestled in the serene countryside and offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the history of Scotland’s literary and educational heritage. As Scotland’s oldest lending library, founded in 1680, it holds a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts, rare books, and historical records, providing a fascinating journey through time.

Enjoy an early evening private tour and tasting at Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery before making your way back to Gleneagles for a restful evening.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Whisky Suite and Estate Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Tuesday 13^th August - Indulge at Gleneagles

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Whisky Suite and Estate Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Wednesday 14^th August - Explore St Andrews

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Whisky Suite and Estate Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Thursday 15^th August - Private Castle Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland’s storied past with a day centered around a private tour of Glamis Castle, nestled amidst the picturesque Angus countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the imposing towers and turrets of this historic fortress, known for its rich history and royal connections. Step inside for an exclusive private tour, led by knowledgeable guides who will regale you with tales of intrigue and legend as you explore the castle’s opulent rooms, hidden passageways, and magnificent grounds. Marvel at the stunning architecture and exquisite furnishings, and learn about the castle’s association with Scottish royalty, including its ties to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

After your tour, take some time to wander through the castle’s beautiful gardens and grounds, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and breathtaking views. Finally, conclude your day with a relaxing drive back at Gleneagles for your final night in Scotland.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Whisky Suite and Estate Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Friday 16^th August - Welcome to Ireland

This morning you will depart Gleneagles with your guide and travel back to Edinburgh to catch your onward connection to Dublin.

En route to the airport, take one final stop in the heart of Edinburgh to enjoy a private Curator’s Tour of the National Scottish Portrait Gallery. This exclusive tour will provide a deeper understanding of Scotland’s history through its art and portraits.

Following the tour, transfer to Edinburgh Airport for your flight to Dublin.

On arrival at Dublin Airport, you will meet your Ireland guide and transfer directly to your hotel- a magical spot hidden in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains on its private 100o acre estate.

Take time to settle in this afternoon, before joining a tour of the house with one of the butlers. They will take you through the house’s fascinating history, including detail on the ongoing painstaking restoration of this beautiful 1820s mansion.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: Interconnecting Junior Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Saturday 17^th August - Medieval Kilkenny

It’s a short drive to Kilkenny- a fascinating medieval town. Here you will meet a historian and together wander the winding streets. Admire the Medieval architecture and stories of those who built it, and visit all the major Medieval sites, such as Rothe House, the Black Abbey, St. Canice’s Cathedral, St. Francis’ Abbey, the market area and St. Mary’s Church. Learn all about the fascinating stories of the people who lived during these times. Afterward, take some time to wander around Kilkenny’s picturesque streets, lined with colourful buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafes. At the home of Smithwick’s ale, take a 300 year journey back in time with brewer who will talk you through the ale’s evolution and introduce you to the fundamentals of ale and teach you how to pour the perfect pint.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: Interconnecting Junior Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Sunday 18^th August - The Wicklow Mountains National Park

Today you will explore the Wicklow Mountains with your guide. The first stop is the monastic site at Glendalough- this was a major European centre of learning during the middle ages when Ireland was known as a the island of ‘saints and scholars’. There are some beautiful walks that take you into the hills where spectacular views await. You will be introduced to this fascinating period in Irish history. Later we will pop into the Avoca Mill, Ireland’s oldest weaving mill, where generations have been weaving the finest of of Irish wool into soft fabric. You will tour the mill, and learn about this tradition being kept alive with the same passion and personality.

Overnight: Ballyfin | Ballyfin Demesne
Room Type: Interconnecting Junior Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 - Monday 19^th August - Dairy Farm Experience

En route west we will visit a private farm where we will meet the fourth generation owner Teresa to explore the farm and taste the award winning cheese that she produces. Teresa’s story, returning to her family farm after an international nursing career, and the work she does to empower women in agriculture is as interesting as her cheese is delicious.

Later this afternoon, check into the 800 year old Ashford Castle Hotel.  Once owned by the Guinness family, Ashford has a history dating back to the 12th century and has earned its place in Ireland’s history books. Today, Ashford is one of Ireland’s premier hotels offering an unforgettable experience. The next couple of days are a break in driving and activities designed to allow you to relax on site at Ashford Castle, enjoying and absorbing this historic property and recharging after your tour around Ireland.

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: No interconnecting available. We can offer 2 x Staterooms near each other
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Tuesday 20^th August - Historic Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle boasts many outdoor activity pursuits for those wishing to try their hand at being the gentry. There is estate horse riding, woodland walks, boats and bikes, afternoon tea, the library or simply relaxation in the glorious 800 year old castle.

One activity that we do recommend and have included is joining the expert onsite falconer and for a private hawk walk experience at the resident School of Falconry at Ashford. Fly your own Harris hawks under the guidance of your instructor through the magnificent woodlands that surround the castle and meet some of the magnificent birds of prey that call Ashford home.

This evening, we recommend you dine in style in the George V dining room for your final celebration dinner in Ireland.

Please let us know if you would like us to prebook any additional onsite activities or spa reservations for you. 

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: No interconnecting available. We can offer 2 x Staterooms near each other
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Wednesday 21^st August - Depart

A private transfer will today take you from your castle oasis to Dublin or Shannon for your flights home.
We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our green shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast