Zhuo Family Irish & Scottish Adventure

Day 1 - Tuesday 16^th July - Welcome to Scotland

Your private transfer driver will take you to the airport this morning for your flight to Edinburgh where the VIP team will meet you and escort you out to your awaiting host and driver.  Sit back as the car whisks you through the labyrinth of streets to your iconic city centre hotel that sit proudly overlooking the Old Town.  Settle back and relax as you drink in the views from your luxurious suite before perhaps indulging in some spa treatments or head out to start exploring this vibrant city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Wednesday 17^th July - Palaces and Bagpipers

It’s an early start today as you head to the King’s official residence for a private pre opening tour of the Palace of Holyrood.  Explore the magnificent hallways and decadent rooms before it is opened to the general public   You will also get to go ‘behind the ropes’ of the West Drawing Room which is used as a private sitting room by the Royal Family – a truly unique experience.

After enjoying some light refreshments in the cafe, you will set out to explore the Royal Mile with it’s private closes and intriguing stories with an expert guide.  Hear stories of how people used to live and seek out the hidden gems that are only a stones throw away from the tourist trail but never seen.

To end your day of exploring Edinburgh, you will meet up with a local bagpiper who will give you a taster session of the national insturment.  Learn some tunes on the chanter before taking a turn on the pipes themselves and maybe even learn a reel of two of Scottish Dancing – what a way to end your second day on Scottish soil.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Thursday 18^th July - Music Museums and Ancient Chapels

St Cecilia’s Music Hall & Museum is the oldest concert hall in Scotland (and the second oldest in the British Isles) and is a must see for music fans when they come to Scotland.  Spend the morning exploring this hallowed place hearing stories about the people and the history of the building that dates back to the Scottish Enlightenment – a period in the 18th and early 19th century that was marked by the outpouring of intellectual and scientific accomplishments.

After enjoying some lunch, this afternoon you will head out of the city to the tranquility of Rosslyn Chapel – one of the most stunning and beautiful churches in the country.  This private chapel has been in the same family for generations and your private guide will take you around the building, immersing you in stories of the incredible stone work and the famous links this chapel has.

Tonight you may wish to enjoy some music at the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival or simply relax at your hotel for your final night in the city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Friday 19^th July - To the Cairngorms

It is time to leave the bright lights of the city behind today as you head north with your driver guide.  On your way to your exclusive lodge in the heart of the forest, you will stop off at the Highland Folk Museum that depicts what life was life for Highlanders who used to live and work in here right up until the 1950s.  Visit the replica village with it’s black houses, so called due to the blackness of the insides walls due to the smoke and perhaps try and dress up as a highlander as they head into battle!

Carry on down the winding roads under the canopy of towering Scots Pines until you come upon your stunning lodge, deep in the heart of the forest.  With beautiful surroundings and opulent rooms, this is the very height of decadence and the perfect place to spend time as a family as you explore the largest National Park in the UK.  As you enjoy some afternoon sweet snacks, you will meet a local harpist who plays the Clarsach – a small traditional Scottish harp.  She will tell you all about the history of this instrument and about the trad music that is such a huge part of the fabric of life here before letting you have a go yourselves – you may even learn a tune or two to take home with you!

Overnight: Cairngorms | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Saturday 20^th July - Wood Whittling and Canoeing

The ancient craft of wood whittling is one of the forgotten arts which local craftsmen are resurrecting across the country.  Meet a local woodman this morning at your estate who will show you how to carve your very own butter knife from a bit of green wood. Listen to his stories about life in the Cairngorms as you work, with just the sound of the birds and the breeze in the trees for company.

This afternoon, you will take to the waters of a local tranquil loch where you can glide along in your canoe under the watchful eye of your expert guide.  Paddle along the shore line or out into the open as the sound of the paddle cutting through the water echos around you.  With one of tallest mountains in Scotland as your backdrop, you can enjoy floating along as you see the countryside from a different point of view before retuning to your accommodation for a hearty dinner this evening.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Sunday 21^st July - The History of Scotland

After a couple of days in the Cairngorms, you will head north towards Inverness to explore some of the history of the country.  The first stop is at Culloden battlefield where one of the bloodiest battles in Scotland took place.  Meet one of their expert guides as you explore the visitor centre with it’s 3D imagery which brings the battle to life.  Imagine what it was like for Bonny Prince Charlie’s men on that fateful April morning as they faced the British Army and discover the forgotten background to this life changing event.

After an immersive morning, this afternoon you will head to Brodie Castle, which has been in the same family for over 400 years.  Discover the history of the castle and explore the Playful Garden, which is home to a fascinating collection of characters inspired by the castles history.  There is also a wonderful art collection here from Dutch Old Masters to modern watercolours so spend time studying these wonderful pieces with no rush to be anywhere else.

You’ll return to your lodge this evening after a wonderful day to enjoy one last night together on Scottish soil.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Monday 22^nd July - Arrival in Ireland

Arriving into Shannon airport, your guide will meet you at arrivals hall and after a few introductions you will make your way to your first stop, Bunratty Castle. The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. Head to the folk park where you can experience village life in 19th century Ireland – the sweet sounds of traditional Irish music are carried through the air, and the village characters, including the schoolteacher, policeman and village doctor are on hand to entertain and enthral all who visit. Afterwards, you’ll drive 30 minutes to Adare, voted the “prettiest village in Ireland” for a bite to eat. The village is beloved for its delightful thatched roof cottages, lively pubs, and antique shops. For the next four nights you are staying in the Adare Manor Lodges at Adare Manor, a breathtaking 19th century Neo-Gothic manor set amidst manicured gardens and rolling parklands. Check in and get settled and tonight your guide will join you for a welcome dinner.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor
Room Type: x2 2 Bedroom Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 - Tuesday 23^rd July - Beaches, Storytelling & Songs

This morning you will drive to the north coast of Kerry for a delightful beach walk on Ballybunion’s sandy shores. Known for its beaches, panoramic cliff walks and surrounding wildlife, Ballybunion offers breathtaking views out over Loop Head and the Virgin Rock. As you stroll along the rugged coastline, the salty breeze kisses your cheeks while the sound of crashing waves fills the air, creating a soothing symphony of nature. Take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon, dotted with surfers riding the waves and seabirds gliding gracefully overhead. After a lovely lunch head back to Adare Manor where this evening you will delve into the magical world of Irish folklore, with tales of the Leprechaun, the Fairy Folk and spooky Irish ghost stories. Your storyteller interweaves Irish history & culture, tales of the Other World, the mysterious Fairy Folk, & Irish ghost stories, with traditional Irish songs and wonderful insights into the Irish life of days gone by. This experience will awaken your imagination & carry you back to the fireside in an Ireland of times past.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor
Room Type: x2 2 Bedroom Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Wednesday 24^th July - Cliffs of Moher & Smokehouse Experience

This morning you will transfer 1 hour to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most impressive natural sites. The area is teeming with wildlife and 20 different species of birds, including puffins, make this area their home. You’ll stop at a little gem of a cottage on an Irish farm and meet passionate owner Caitriona, who will take time to welcome you, share the local history of the Cliffs of Moher and treat you to the rich flavours of handmade fudge made by Caitriona herself. Sip a coffee or tea as you soak up the unrivalled views and enjoy the moment. Continue on to a local, family-run smokehouse for a master class in smoking salmon, learning the unique smoking processes and techniques that go into creating the company’s award winning products as you go. Meet Peter Curtin, master smoker and third generation owner of the smokehouse and pub and after shucking some oysters, you’ll enjoy authentic Irish seafood for lunch onsite. You’re in for a treat this evening as we have organised a private dinner in the cinema room at Adare Manor. Pick your favourite movie and enjoy the whole experience to yourselves.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor
Room Type: x2 2 Bedroom Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Thursday 25^th July - Falconry & Irish Dancing

This morning you will get up close and personal with the world’s most majestic birds of prey. During your falconry experience, you will meet several owls, a Falcon and a Hawk, which will fly free from your gloved hand. This afternoon, the kids can enjoy The Padel Club, Adare Manor’s new activity centre nestled deep within the estate’s peaceful woodlands. Choose from a range of activities to experience in this beautiful space including Padel tennis, a virtual round of golf or a virtual games session in the sports simulation room. This evening your guide will join you for dinner and we have organised the grande finale to your stay as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of Irish dance with a private performance at Adare Manor. Irish dancing is a spirited and rhythmic form of dance that has deep roots in Irish culture and tradition. Characterised by quick footwork, precise movements, and vibrant costumes, Irish dance is a unique display of skill, agility and grace. Enjoy and embrace the intricate choreography that highlight the rich heritage of Ireland’s music and dance.

Overnight: Adare | Adare Manor
Room Type: x2 2 Bedroom Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 - Friday 26^th July - Irish National Stud & Dublin

This morning, it’s time to check out of Adare Manor and head east to Ireland’s “fair city” and capital, Dublin. You will stop en route for an exclusive experience at the Irish National Stud & Gardens – you will travel through the entire farm and learn how these majestic animals are managed from birth until retirement. You’ll be introduced to the Stallion’s and treated to a private stallion parade where you will see the champions up close. After a delicious lunch, it’s on to the Japanese Gardens where you will enjoy a private tour. By the time you reach Dublin it will be time to check in and enjoy the city for your last night in Ireland.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: x1 sig suite, x1 king room, x2 classic king rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Saturday 27^th July - Depart

This morning, your guide will drop you to Dublin airport for your flight home. We hope your time in Ireland and Scotland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast