Laurie Becht Ireland and UK Adventure - V6

Laurie Becht

Saturday 2nd November – Thursday 5th December 2024

Number of Travellers: 1
Duration: 34 Days / 33 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day by Day

Day 1 - Saturday 2nd November - Welcome to Wales

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

Day 2 - Sunday 3rd November - Welsh Mining and Abergavenney

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: Executive Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Monday 4th November - Brecon Beacons Hike

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: Executive Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Tuesday 5th November - Pembrokeshire Coast

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: St Brides or Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Wednesday 6th November - Pembroke Castle and Stackpole Wildlife

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: St Brides or Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Thursday 7th November - Ramsey Island

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: St Brides or Nest
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Friday 8th November - St Davids

Head out with your guide to explore St Davids. 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. As a place of pilgrimage for centuries, there are hidden gems round every corner.

Later this afternoon, your guide will transfer you to your accommodation nestled in mountainous Snowdonia for a day exploring tomorrow.

Overnight: Snowdonia | Ty'n Y Cornel Hotel
Room Type: Compact Double, Lake View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Saturday 9th November - Eryri National Park

Today, exploring Snowdonia offers awe-inspiring landscapes and outdoor adventures. Begin with a mountain hike, relishing panoramic views of the range and moorlands from the summit, as your guide tells you stories about the myths and legends of the area. Enjoy a picnic amidst the park’s natural beauty before your descent.

Spend the afternoon exploring serene lakes or tackling shorter trails for a different perspective. Perhaps wind down with a traditional Welsh meal at a local pub, watching the sunset over the mountains, before retiring to your hotel amongst Snowdonia’s wilderness, for your final night in Wales.

Overnight: Snowdonia | Ty'n Y Cornel Hotel
Room Type: Compact Double, Lake View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Sunday 10th November - Welcome to Scotland! Explore The Heart Of Edinburgh

Your Wales guide will drop you at Birmingham 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 acquaint yourself with this unique capital city.

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 hidden down the winding ‘closes’ (alleyways) branching off the ancient main street. Your guide will share all the tales and secrets of lives once lived here. The evening is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Virgin Edinburgh
Room Type: Chamber
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Monday 11th November - Another Side Of Edinburgh & Discover The Vibrant Art Scene

This morning your expert local guide will meet you at your hotel and you will head out to take in the Georgian elegance of ‘The New Town’. This planned layout has a completely different feel to the older historic streets, but bags of charm and many layers to explore. Visit the tranquil Village of Dean, a quaint hamlet once home to 11 mills running off of the local river. The river, the Water of Leith, is one of Edinburgh’s hidden natural assets with a diversity of flora and fauna that you will have time to discover as you stroll along the walkway at the river’s edge. Discover a thriving art scene and finish the day at The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art to finish the day with fresh inspirations.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Virgin Edinburgh
Room Type: Chamber
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Tuesday 12th November - North To The Highlands & Woodcarving Workshop

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

Day 12 - Wednesday 13th November - Cawdor Castle & Over The Sea To Skye

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: Standard Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Thursday 14th November - Exploring the Isle of Skye

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: Standard Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Friday 15th November - Return To The Mainland & 'The Road To The Isles'

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: Small Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 15 - Saturday 16th November - South to Glasgow via Glencoe

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

Day 16 - Sunday 17th November - Discover the Thriving Art Scene of Glasgow

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

Day 17 - Monday 18th November - Scotland to Belfast - Black Cab Experience

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

Day 18 - Tuesday 19th November - Irish Dancing in Co. Down

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

Day 19 - Wednesday 20th November - The Causeway Coastal Route

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

Day 20 - Thursday 21st November - Traditional Sheep Farm

This morning you’ll visit Dunluce Castle, one of the most picturesque and romantic of Irish Castles. With evidence of settlement from the first millennium, the present castle ruins date mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. It was inhabited by both the feuding McQuillan and MacDonnell clans. 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

Day 21 - Friday 22nd November - Derry Walls and Market Tour

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

Day 22 - Saturday 23rd November - Malin Head - Ireland's Northernmost Point

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

Day 23 - Sunday 24th November - Foraging the North West Shores

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: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 24 - Monday 25th November - Westport & Achill Island

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: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 25 - Tuesday 26th November - Connemara - Local Shellfish Farm

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

Day 26 - Wednesday 27th November - Connemara National Park - Diamond Hill

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

Day 27 - Thursday 28th November - The Burren

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: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 28 - Friday 29th November - Aran islands

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: Classic
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 29 - Saturday 30th November - Adare and Killareny

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: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 30 - Sunday 1st December - Killarney National Park

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: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 31 - Monday 2nd December - The Ring of Kerry

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: Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 32 - Tuesday 3rd December - Kerry to Dublin - Newgrange

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 dinner at one of the many award winning restaurants Dublin has to offer.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion
Room Type: Queen
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 33 - Wednesday 4th December - Historical Walking Tour of Dublin

Spend the morning at leisure before heading out in the afternoon to enjoy a walking tour with a local private guide through this vibrant capital city, with its mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the mediaeval to Georgian to modern. See the Georgian style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, as well as O’Connell Street, the site of the ‘1916 Uprising’ that led to Ireland’s independence in 1922. Your guide is also a historian who will bring the city to life with colourful tales of life in the city in times gone by. Afterwards, take a guided tour of Trinity College Dublin & The Book of Kells

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion
Room Type: Queen
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 34 - Thursday 5th December - Depart

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

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 33 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Breakfast each morning
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide in Wales from Day 1 to Day 9
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide in Scotland from Day 9 to Day 13
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide in Ireland from Day 16 to Day 31
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your in-country guides on guided days
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival Day in Wales, includes Meet & Greet
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival Day in Scotland, includes Meet & Greet
  • Airport Transfer on Departure Day from Scotland – Hotel to Glasgow Airport
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival in Belfast
  • Airport Transfer on Departure from Dublin – Airport
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to Cardiff Castle
    • Welsh Mining Experience Tour
    • Entry to Pembroke Castle
    • Private boat trip to Ramsey Island
    • Entry to St Davids Bishop’s Palace
    • Entry to St Davids Cathedral
    • Half Day Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh Historic Centre with Expert Local City Guide
      • Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle
    • Full Day Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh with Expert Local City Guide
      • Includes entry to 2 Attractions of interest & Edinburgh Modern Art Gallery Exhibition if applicable
    • Private Woodcarving Workshop
    • Entry to Cawdor Castle
    • Entry to Eilean Donan Castle
    • Max 3 Entry Fees. on Skye, as per client interest
    • Donation for entry to Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
    • Private Walking Tour of Glasgow with Expert Local City Guide
      • Includes max 2 entry fees as per interest
    • Belfast Black Cab experience
    • Private Irish Dancing experience
    • Entry to the Gobbins Cliff Path
    • Traditional Sheep Farm Visit
    • Private Walking Tour of Derry
    • Private Foraging experience
    • Local Shellfish experience
    • Boat Tour on the Lakes of Killarney
    • Traditional Soda Bread experience
    • Entry to Bru Na Boinne
    • Historical Walking Tour of Dublin
    • Entry to the Book of Kells & Trinity College
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • All Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for main driver guides
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision
  • Activities are only Private if specified as such
Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades may be available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £13,010 GBP for Wales

The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £12,975 GBP for Scotland

The NET price for this itinerary, based on one solo traveller, and including a €12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • 29,756 EUR for Ireland

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.

Click here for more information.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.