Private Tour Of Ireland And Scotland

Accommodation – Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Your private tour is underway drive through Edinburgh, viewing the Scott Monument, North Bridge, The Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat

Upon your arrival at Edinburgh airport, you will be met by your private chauffeur, who will help with your bags and show you to your executive vehicle. From the airport, you will drive into the heart of Edinburgh, passing many historical sites, architectural wonders and inspiring scenery, including the Scott Monument, North Bridge, The Scottish Parliament, Arthur’s Seat, and Edinburgh Castle.

After a brief driving tour of the city centre, you will be dropped off at The Balmoral Hotel on Edinburgh’s world-famous Princes Street. Your location could not be more central, with many of Edinburgh’s best attractions and streets just minutes away. Rose Street is a particularly lovely street to amble down, checking out the numerous pubs and cafes on the way. The Balmoral also boasts one of the best spa’s in the country and promises the ultimate relaxing experience.

In the evening you will be dining in the unrivalled Number One restaurant. With exceptional modern artwork on the walls, seasonal ingredients from Scottish suppliers, and 4 (yes 4) AA Rosettes, the Number One will provide a dining experience you are unlikely to forget in a hurry.

Accommodation – The Balmoral, Edinburgh
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Guided Walking Tour: The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, St Giles Cathedral, Scottish Parliament, Holyrood Palace.

After a relaxing breakfast, you will be met by a private guide who will take you on a walking tour of Edinburgh. Your first stop of the day will be Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle was voted Scotland’s best paid tourist attraction and for good reason. The castle is steeped in history with the oldest part of the building dating back to the 12th century. The castle houses the famous Crown Jewels, The Stone of Destiny, and Mons Meg — the huge cannon which could fire a 150kg stone.

From Edinburgh castle you will stroll down the historic Royal Mile, passing traditional pubs, souvenir shops, and street performers. If you fancy something to drink, we recommend visiting the Jolly Judge, a little hidden gem which provides a warm Scottish welcome and a cold pint to cure your thirst. Your next stop will be St Giles Cathedral. The church was formed in the 1120’s and is known as the ‘Cradle of Presbyterianism’. The architecture and design are breath-taking, though the highlight has to be the beautiful stained-glass windows.

For lunch you will be sampling the delightful menu of Holyrood 9a, a cosy little pub in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town offering a huge range of salads, burgers, steaks, venison, and, since you’re in Scotland, a haggis burger.

Your tour continues down the Royal Mile before reaching the Scottish Parliament at the Canongate. If time permits, you can visit the debating chamber and see Scottish democracy in full flow. The tour lasts about an hour and you will learn about the architecture of the building, parliamentary procedure, and see an art collection.
Your final stop of the day will be Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. Just a short walk from the Parliament, you can tour this grand castle and gardens. This multimedia tour explores 14 state apartments, the royal gardens, and Holyrood Abbey.

After a great day touring the old town, you will return to The Balmoral for a chance to chill out before heading for dinner at The Witchery, which is located just by Edinburgh Castle. The blood-red gothic interior creates a fabulous ambience and has been described as the prettiest restaurant ever by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The food is to die for, with the menu including a seafood platter, Isle of Mull scallops, Balmoral Estate partridge, and Glenfeshie venison.

Accommodation – Fonab Castle, Pitlochry
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Scone Palace, Highland Chocolatier

After a hearty breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting and the journey north will begin. You will weave through the Perthshire countryside and the scenery is truly beautiful here and this is a paradise for keen photographers. Your first stop of the day will be Scone Palace, an elegant, Gothic castle which used to be the crowning place for Scottish Kings. You can also explore the gardens which are home to some of the biggest and most beautiful oak trees in the UK, as well as the Murray Star Maze and a kitchen garden.

From Scone you will head towards Pitlochry for some lunch at Victoria’s Restaurant, a traditional, family-owned spot offering delicious sandwiches, ciabattas, and soup, as well as battered fish, ribeye steak, and chickpea and lentil dahl.

By all means have a dessert with your lunch, but we recommend leaving a little room for something extra as you’re in for a treat at the next stop, The Highland Chocolatier. Master Chocolatier Iain Burnett crafts premium chocolates that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Only the finest and freshest natural ingredients are used, such as the single-origin cocoa sourced from São Tomé, an island in the South Atlantic. If you have a special someone you want to buy a gift for, this is the spot as Iain’s truffles have not once but twice been voted the best in world.

Having no doubt stocked up on chocolates, you will be driven to your accommodation for the night, Fonab Castle. This 5 star hotel and spa has been restored to the highest standards and enjoys picture perfect views across the Perthshire countryside and the river Tummel. In the evening you will enjoy exquisite fine dining in the 3 AA Rosette Sandeman’s Restaurant. Surrounded by wood-panelled walls and ornate furniture, tuck into the seven-course tasting menu full of classic dishes with an extra twist.

Accommodation – Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Cairngorms National Park, Dalwhinnie Distillery, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield

After a luxurious breakfast, your chauffeur waiting and your private tour will continue through the magnificent Cairngorms National Park. There aren’t many wilder places in the UK than the Cairngorms, which is a truly beautiful and utterly rugged part of Scotland. Spectacular mountains and vast moorland combine, providing a wonderful sense of seclusion from the hustle and bustle of the world. Keep an eye out for some of the wildlife who call this home, including capercaillies, golden eagles, red deer, and red squirrel.

You will continue to weave through the Cairngorms until you reach Dalwhinnie Distillery. Surrounded by the freshest spring water and peat from local bogs, Dalwhinnie is a whisky making mecca. The single malt crafted at Dalwhinnie has many of the classic traits of a Speyside malt: sweet, slightly tangy, and notes of vanilla. You will tour the distillery and learn about the art of scotch whisky production. At the end of the tour, you will be treated to a complimentary whisky and chocolate tasting.

You will then make your way to Cawdor Castle. This fairy-tale castle has strong links to Shakespeare’s play ‘Macbeth’. Dating back to the 14^th century, you will explore this archaic castle and gardens that sit perfectly within the surrounding highland countryside.

You will have no doubt worked up an appetite by now so you will be heading to The Sun Dancer in Nairn for some lunch. Choose from seafood chowder, Isle of Barra king scallops, or choose from the recently launched Street Food menu.

After filling up, the next stop of the day will be Culloden Battlefield. You will learn about the fall of the Jacobites, who were outwitted by British forces, leading to the brutal slaughter of over 1000 men.

From there it’s on to the 5-star Ness Walk Hotel, which sits right on the banks of the River Ness and enjoys an oasis of calm in an otherwise busy city as it is surrounded by a huge canopy of trees. Here, beautiful period features combine with sleek modern features to deliver an ambiance that oozes sophistication. You will dine in the luxurious Torrish Restaurant this evening, where you will be warmly welcomed and have the chance to try some Isle of Lewis mussels, Orkney hand-dived scallops, Speyside lamb, as well as many other delicious dishes. There is also a vegan à la carte menu, so there will be something for everyone.

Accommodation – Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, Plockton, Isle of Skye

Make sure you have a hearty breakfast, as today you will be seeing some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. Your private chauffeur will take you north to the banks of Loch Ness. Touring around the banks of Loch Ness, you will stop at the town of Drumnadrochit. You will then take a private boat tour of the loch and your captain will tell you about all the legends that surround this mighty loch, the largest by volume in the UK. Make sure you have your camera at the ready, as the glistening water and panoramic highland backdrop will take your breath away. You might even catch a glimpse of “Nessie” the world-famous Loch Ness monster.

After your Loch Ness adventure, you will stop at Eilean Donan Castle, surely one of the most picturesque castles in the world, with its old stone bridge leading over the water, mighty walls, and mountainous backdrop.

From there you will head for lunch at The Shores Seafood Restaurant in Plockton. If you’re a lover of seafood, you’re in for a special treat today. The menu offers such treats as a langoustine and mussel combo, mussels and scallops, however the standout meal is the king scallops served on Stornoway black pudding with fried lemon. You will then have the chance to explore the delightful village of Plockton, lovingly known as the “the jewel of the highlands”. A peaceful walk around the bay, looking out over the views of Loch Carron, will hit the spot after lunch.

After waving goodbye to Plockton your driver will take you to Kinloch Lodge where you will be spending the evening. You will also enjoy dinner here where the kitchen staff really go the extra mile to provide you with the very best local produce Scotland has to offer. From Perthshire partridge to Skye venison, and a range of Scottish cheeses, Kinloch Lodge always delivers a first-rate dining experience.

Accommodation – Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Fairy Pools, Dunvegan Castle, Fairy Glen, Trotternish, Portree

After breakfast. your private tour will commence and your driver will take you to one of the most special places in the world, the Fairy Pools in Skye. This magnificent series of huge rock pools and waterfalls attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. From the car park you look down and out across the valley, taking in the intimidating sight of the Black Cuillin mountains behind, and are just blown away by the natural beauty of this wonderous scene. The water forms gorgeous crystal clear blue pools that look inviting to swim in and while some pools are perfectly safe, the Fairy Pools do require some caution.

From there it’s on to Dunvegan Castle. Dating back to the 13^th century, this castle has had many additions over the centuries and is now listed as a category A listed building. There are also five acres of gardens for you to explore, including the Water Garden, Rose Garden, and Walled Garden, as well as woodland walks and nearby waterfalls.

You will then enjoy some lunch at The Three Chimneys which sits on the shores of Loch Dunvegan and takes pride in providing the best Skye and Scotland has to offer, including cured salmon, scorched langoustine, Black Isle beef, and Gigha halibut.

If one visit to a Fairy inspired setting isn’t enough for one day, you’re in luck, because the next stop is the Fairy Glen. This truly remarkable landscape was formed millions of years ago when a landslide and the subsequent movement of glaciers over thousands of years carved what looks like a man-made miniature wonderland of round-topped grassy hills, tiny little lochs, and dramatic rock pinnacles. This is simply a place like no other.

After the miniature delights of the Fairy Glen you will be take in the very much massive delights of Trotternish, Skye’s most northerly peninsula and home to some of the most dramatic scenery the island has to offer. A case in the point is the Trotternish Landslip which runs for 30 kilometres along almost the entire peninsula.

From there you will get a chance to wander round the charming streets of Portree, the capital town of Skye. Or, rather than wandering, take the chance to take the weight off your feet and nip into one of the many cafes and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea.

After such an eventful day, you will be glad of yet another relaxing evening in Kinloch Lodge, sampling more of their mouth-watering food, before a restful and well-earned nights sleep.

Accommodation – Isle of Eriska Hotel, Near Oban
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Glenfinnan, Fort William, Nevis Range Mountain Gondola, Crannog, Glencoe, Eriska

Today your first expedition will be a short ferry trip from Armadale to Mallaig, before heading to the remarkable Glenfinnan. Harry Potter fans will be excited to get the chance to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the bridge that carries the Hogwarts Express on it’s way to that world-famous school of witchcraft and wizardry. There is also the Glenfinnan Monument, a huge tower overlooking Loch Shiel which stands in memory of those who died for the Jacobite cause.

Your next stop will be in Fort William, a charming highland town which sits in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland. While you won’t have time to climb it on this trip, simply witnessing the majesty of this imposing mountain is enough to put a smile on your face.

There are other ways to reach up into the mountains, however, such as the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola, your next stop. This impressive feat of engineering transports you 650 metres up the side of Aonach Mòr, the 8^th highest mountain in the UK, all the while enjoying the unbeatable scenery of the Scottish Highlands.

Back down on flat ground, your lunch stop for today will be at Crannog, a pretty, red-roofed seafood restaurant serving fresh seafood and allowing views over Loch Linnhe.

After lunch your driver will take you to Glencoe which really defies adequate description. Words simply cannot do justice to how impressive Glencoe is. If you drive through it at any time of year, the car parks will always be full of locals and tourists alike soaking up the curious mix of feelings of magnificent grandeur and peaceful tranquillity that washes over you as you stand within the massive Glencoe. Of course you will take pictures, but more than that we recommend taking a few moments to lock your time here in your memory, as we’re sure you will treasure it forevermore.

Your driver will then take you to the Isle of Eriska Hotel which sits at the start of Loch Creran and boasts views over the Morvern Mountains. Here you can relax for the evening, making use of the fantastic spa facilities before enjoying some fine dining in the hotel restaurant where more of Scotland’s finest fish are on offer, such as Loch Melfort Steelhead Trout.

Accommodation – Culloden Estate and Spa, Belfast
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Drive through Loch Lomond, Culzean Castle, Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast

Today is the day your tour of Scotland ends , next stop Ireland. However, there are a few special treats for you before you go. The first activity of the day will be to drive through the “bonnie bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond. There is something about Loch Lomond that is just special, you can feel it in the air as you drive along the side of this magnificent loch, looking out over the water to the steep, tree-covered slopes on the other side; it’s almost as if you feel you’ve been carried back in time.

Since there have been some exquisite castle visits along your Scottish journey thus far, we thought it fitting that your final Scottish activity be a visit to Culzean Castle; talk about saving the best until last. This vast, majestic castle was built in 1792, which is fairly recent as far as castles go, and it just shouts opulence and grandeur. An element of drama is added by the castle being perched right on the cliff-face overlooking the sea, however, the showpiece is the grand oval staircase which is not to be missed. There arse also extensive grounds for you to explore while taking in the refreshing sea air.

You will then be driven down the South Ayrshire coastline until you reach the village of Cairnryan. Here you will board your ferry and take a quick 2 hour trip across the Irish Sea to the port at Larne. Your driver will then take you onwards to your accommodation for the night, Culloden Estate and Spa in Belfast. Here, you will be dining in the exquisite Vesper’s Restaurant. Your eyes will be spoiled for choice, between the views outside, the incredible gothic décor inside, and the wonderful food, including pan fried halibut, rump of Mourne lamb, and roast Irish beef.

Accommodation – Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Belfast walking tour, Titanic experience

Make sure to have a big breakfast as you will be off on a walking tour of Belfast. Your experienced private guide will tell you all you need to know about one of Ireland’s mostly richly historic, yet troubled, cities. And even if you’re not that into history, simply walking around Belfast is a sight to behold, with so many landmarks and stunning buildings, this tour is a treat for everyone.

After your private tour it’s time for lunch and then you will visit the world’s largest Titanic experience. There are 9 interactive galleries in total which include walking the decks, exploring the shipyard and uncovering the slipways where the titanic was built. We promise this is one of the best visitor attractions in the world.

After spending the day taking in the beautiful Belfast city, hearing about it’s history and learning a bit more about the tragedy of the Titanic, you will return to Culloden for the evening. Why not make use of the excellent spa facilities to relax and unwind. This evening you will be dining in The Cultra Inn, a relaxed, traditional Irish pub and bistro complete with log fire and serving up the freshest ingredients available for a true taste of Ireland.

Accommodation – Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Dark Hedges, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle

After a luxurious breakfast, your chauffeur will first of all drive you to ‘The Dark Hedges’ a double row of beech trees which are magnificent in their own right, but you may be more familiar with them as the scene of the “Kingsroad” in Game of Thrones. 

No visit to Ireland, never mind this part of Ireland, would be complete without exploring the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. The best way to the describe The Giant’s Causeway is basalt columns piled up vertically that jut out into the Atlantic Ocean. There are over 40,000 of these basalt, hexagonal-shaped rocks which date back over 60 million years. Make sure to have your camera at the ready, as many argue the Giant’s Causeway is the 8^th wonder of the world. If time permits, you can explore the visitor centre and enjoy an audio tour.

Your next stop will be an adventure to Dunluce Castle. This archaic castle was built in the 1500’s by the MacQuillan family. Dunluce Castle has a turbulent history, and you will hear of legendary tales about the banshee and the night that part of the kitchen collapsed into the sea.

After another long day of exploring, your driver will take you to Bishop’s Gate Hotel, a Grade B1 listed building which sits within the historic city walls in the Cathedral Quarter. Beautiful Edwardian architecture is matched by an interior which will blow you away. You will be dining in the Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant which offers premium quality dining in a relaxed, informal setting. The menu changes with the seasons so you will always be served local produce that is bursting with flavour. And if you’re a fan of fish, nothing could be fresher than the catch of the day.

Accommodation – The Ice Hotel, Ballina
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Fairy Bridges, Sligo, Enniscrone

After lunch you will pay a visit to the Fairy Bridges, sea stacks which are thousands of years old and form a delightful little bridge over the Atlantic below. If you’re feeling out of luck, make sure to visit Bundoran’s Wishing Chair. Simply sit, make your wish, and you will be blessed.

You will then visit the seaside town of Sligo, which has a rich history dating back to the medieval period, with some of the streets in the centre of the town following the ancient layout. There are many impressive buildings to admire in Sligo, but none older than the remnants of Sligo Abbey, built in 1252.

Having explored Sligo, you will head for some lunch at Hooked, the home of artisan food in Sligo. Using local and fresh produce from a range of Irish producers is at the very heart of everything they do at Hooked, so be prepared to sample some of the finest ingredients Ireland has to offer. Your driver will take you to the beautiful and picturesque Enniscrone Beach, where you can get some snaps or take a stroll through the picturesque town.

This evening you will be staying in the Ice House Hotel. Located on the banks of the Moy, with stunning views across the river, your accommodation this evening will offer a relaxing retreat. A place of unhurried peace and easy natural beauty, the perfect setting to reflect on your journey so far. Dining in their 54° 9° Restaurant, the ambience here will encourage you to forget the time and stay a while.

Accommodation – Glenlo Abbey, Galway
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Connemara National Park, Clifden, Galway

After a scrumptious breakfast, you will travel west until you reach Connemara National Park. The park consists of natural heathlands and glinting lakes. You will enjoy a wonderful scenic hike through the Roundstone Boglands, where you might catch a glimpse of wild ponies.

You will then stop off for a spot of lunch at Mitchell’s Restaurant in Clifden, a quaint marketplace town. Don’t worry if it’s a cold day, two open fires will be on hand to warm you up while you tuck into a nice bowl of fresh homemade soup and a range of delicious sandwiches.

Your chauffeur will then take you to the delightful town of Galway. As you take a stroll through this traditional Irish town, we highly recommend visiting some of the pubs and cafes that serve traditional local cuisine. You could also visit the Galway City Museum, view the Spanish Arch, or check out the local market that sits in the shadow of the wonderful St Nicholas’ Medieval Church.

Your journey will continue until you reach your accommodation for the evening, Glenlo Abbey. This magnificent hotel sits within a 138 acre estate of glorious natural landscape, allowing for perfect peace and tranquillity as you admire the shores of Lough Corrib. You may only be 5 minutes away from Galway City, but you will feel like you’re in a different world as the rugged beauty surrounds you. There is a spa and numerous estate activities, including golfing, falconry, a movie theatre, fishing, cycling, and horse riding.

For dinner, you will be eating in the internationally acclaimed Pullman Restaurant. A dining experience like no other in Ireland, the restaurant is actually two of the original carriages from the Orient Express which have been lovingly restored and simply ooze grandeur. With a menu to match, this is one dinner you will be bragging about to your friends for years to come.

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel, Killarney
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, Afternoon Tea at Adare Manor

After breakfast, your driver will be waiting to take you to the imposing Cliffs of Moher, voted Irelands favourite tourist destination in 2019 and 2020. The cliffs tower above the Atlantic Ocean at over 700 feet high and span 5 miles. For bird watchers, the cliffs are a paradise, with over 20 species of seabirds. Take a deep breath, listen to the waves crashing below, and bask in the ambiance of Ireland’s most famous beauty spot. In the morning you will also drop by Bunratty Castle & Folk Park for a look around the magnificent old fortress, the site of which was once a Viking trading camp. An idyllic little stone bridge leads the way to one of the most impressive castles in Ireland.

You will then visit the splendid Adare Manor and a trip to such a majestic place as this would not be complete without an afternoon tea, served in the splendid Manor House Gallery. Executive pastry chef Xavier Torne has crafted a range of delicious delicacies, accompanied of course by a glass of champagne.

Finally, you will be dropped off at The Europe Hotel. This luxurious 5-star hotel enjoys splendid vistas over the Lakes of Killarney. Enjoy some of Europe’s best spa’s, a warm Irish welcome, and phenomenal views while enjoying dinner at the Panorama Restaurant. Look out for the oysters, wild seabass, and lamb reared on the hotels own farm.

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel, Killarney
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Ring of Kerry

After breakfast, you will begin your journey around the famous Ring of Kerry. You will weave through Killorglin and Glenbeigh, stopping off to view the breath-taking Rossbeigh Beach. Enjoy the sandy beach, fresh sea breeze, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. You will then continue down the coastline until you reach Cahersiveen. This authentic Irish town is a great stop for lunch and the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most revered political figures.

You will then snake your way down the coast until you can see Valentina Island. If you are a Star Wars fan, make sure to have your camera at the ready. You will pass the famous Skellig Island, which featured in “The Force Awakens”. You will continue to journey around the awe-inspiring coast until reaching Sneem Village. This charming, quaint town is nicknamed “The Way the Fairies Went”, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled. While you might not see any fairies, the views are certainly exceptional on this stretch of the Ring of Kerry known as the “knot” as it ties together where the mountains and water meet.

You will continue north until reaching Moll’s Gap. This famous mountain pass cuts through the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains and is one of the most popular photo stops in Ireland.

Having seen so many wonderful sights, you will be hungry for a spot of lunch at Camo’s, a charming little restaurant and wine bar offering a wide range of food, including the crispy battered fresh fish of the day. From there you will wind through Killarney National Park and make the short trip back to The Europe Hotel, where you can relax for a while before heading to dinner at The Porterhouse. This cosy spot offers it all, with delicious food, a wonderful ambience, and a huge selection of drinks on offer, including specialised whisky and gin.

Accommodation – Hayfield Manor, Cork
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Bantry Bay, Blarney Castle, Cork, English Market

Your driver will firstly take you to the breath-taking Bantry Bay. The bay stretches for 35km and looks out towards the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re a keen photographer, we promise you will not be disappointed as there is picture perfect view after picture perfect view on this incredible stretch of shoreline.

You will then head onwards until you reach Blarney Castle. Situated by the idyllic River Martin, the castle dates back to the 12^th century but was re-constructed in the 15^th century by the influential McCarthy family. The castle is best known for the Blarney Stone and legend has it that if you kiss the stone you will inherit the “gift of the gab”. You will also enjoy a tour of the archaic castle and the pristine gardens.

Next on offer is a visit to the second largest city in Ireland, Cork, a trendy city which enjoys a refreshing blend of cosmopolitan bars and traditional Irish pubs. Why not stop off and enjoy a well-earned pint of Guinness before heading to Liberty Grill for lunch where you can choose from nova scotia fish cake, chicken burger, and open steak sandwich, among many other delicious delights. Cork has some very impressive architecture, the standout of which is probably the Church of St. Anne, Shandon, which was built all the way back in the 1720’s. Here you will also get a chance to browse the internationally renowned English Market, so named to distinguish it from the Irish market which was nearby in the 19^th century. An iron fountain, huge archways, and stained glass windows are sure to leave you in awe as you sample fresh local produce from a huge range of market traders.

After an eventful day of exploring, you will be chauffeured to the award-winning Hayfield Manor in Cork. This luxurious 5-star hotel sits just on the edge of the city centre, 15 minutes from the city’s many attractions. Hayfield Manor is a family owned and run hotel, so you will receive the warmest Irish welcome and be treated to service which is second to none. The Beautique Spa offers a chance to unwind, with a range of treatments available, as well as an indoor heated pool, outdoor jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna. To round off the evening you will dine in the 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Perrotts Garden Bistro. Offering a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere, glorious surroundings, and Mediterranean and international speciality dishes, Perrotts is a true gem.

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle and Kilkenny

After a relaxing breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting to take you to your first stop of the day which will be The Rock of Cashel, a fascinating group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of land in the Golden Vale. You will visit the 12^th century round tower, which is the oldest building on the outcrop. Other highlights include the 13^th century gothic cathedral and the 15^th century castle.

From there you will pay a visit to Kilkenny Castle, which dates all the way back to the Norman conquest of Ireland. Kilkenny castle has a colourful history; it has constantly been adapted over the years, with many different uses and occupants. It nestles within some glorious scenery, including parkland, woodlands, rose gardens, and a lake.

You will then have the chance to explore the lovely Kilkenny. You can wander through the medieval streets, before paying a visit to the cathedral church of St Canice which is a must see attraction. Founded in the 6^th century, the round tower is the oldest building in Kilkenny. You can learn all about the rich history of this ancient cathedral.

For lunch you will be visiting The Fig Tree Restaurant where you are guaranteed to enjoy a marvellous meal and be looked after by a staff who take the utmost pride in ensuring you leave with a smile on your face.

After getting a tantalising taste for this magnificent city, you will be taken to The Merrion Hotel. Perfectly positioned in the heart of Dublin, this luxurious 5-star hotel is within walking distance of The National Gallery and National Museum of Ireland, as well as the Golden Mile of bars, shops, and cafes. Timeless luxury and elegant décor are wrapped in Irish charm. The hotel has a fine array of services on offer, such as fitness suites, swimming pool, spa, not one but two period gardens, and numerous restaurants and bars, including the renowned, 2-Michelin star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud where you will be served food of the utmost quality. We promise you will not be disappointed.

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Activities – Walking Tour of Dublin, Guinness Storehouse

After a luxurious breakfast, you will embark on a morning walking tour of Dublin. Your walking guide will meet you at reception before heading to the first stop of the day which will be Dublin Castle. The castle was originally built in the 13^th century and was a headquarters for the English in Ireland. Following Irish independence, Dublin Castle passed over to the Irish Government. This grand building is steeped in history and your guide will explain all the juicy details of the buildings captivating past.

Your next stop will be Trinity College Library. The college was opened in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth and is the oldest university in Ireland. The old library was constructed in the 18^th century and to this day is home to many ancient manuscripts. You will get the chance to visit the Book of Kells exhibition. The world-famous Book of Kells was written over 1000 years ago and is a hand-decorated copy of the 4 gospels.

You will then stop off for a well-earned lunch at Trocadero. This prestigious Irish restaurant is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Famous as a treasured spot of stars of the stage and screen, the relaxed atmosphere of the “Troc” is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their menu boasts confit duck, 28-day dry aged Irish Angus beef, and Wicklow Lamb.

After lunch, you will head back to The Merrion to freshen up before being escorted by your driver to the Guinness Storehouse. Your driver will provide your “skip the queue” tickets and you will explore the 7 floors of Guinness history. On the ground and first floor you will learn about the Guinness brewing process, the key ingredients, and barrelling process. The following floors tell the Guinness story through virtual and interactive displays. Finally, you will reach the gravity bar, where the glass walls allow for panoramic views of the city, and you will be treated to a refreshing free pint of Guinness.

You will then return to The Merrion for an evening of relaxed dining, sampling more of the delights on offer at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud.

Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer

After an private tour around Scotland and Ireland, you have reached the end of the tour. Your chauffeur will escort you to Dublin Airport and you can wave farewell with memories that will last a lifetime.