Mystic Highlands and Emerald Isle

Welcome to Glasgow!

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions at 6 pm for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Sculpted Horses & Scottish Heroines

Your grand tour of Scotland starts with a visit to The Kelpies, the world's largest equine sculptures. Discover two prominent sites featured in the popular TV series Outlander. Follow your Local Guide through the cobbled streets of the Royal Burgh of Culross, and then visit the stunning ruins of Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. Arrive in Edinburgh, your base for the next three nights. (B) 72 mi / 116 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: The Royal Burgh of Culross is considered one of Scotland's most picturesque examples of life in the 17th and 18th centuries. No wonder it is the filming location for many film and television productions, as well as an inspiring destination for history lovers. Its well-preserved buildings with red-tiled roofs line steep cobblestone streets from the market cross to the hilltop abbey.

Traditions & Treasures

Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland's Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, rules with a 1,100-year history as “the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, you'll find the royal regalia and Scotland's Crown Jewels.

Regal Manors & Royal Music

Today's excursion introduces you to parts of the Scottish Lowlands and Border Counties. Head to Abbotsford House to enjoy a guided tour of the home of novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. It contains an impressive collection of historic relics, weapons, and armor, as well as an extensive library with over 9,000 rare volumes. Return to Edinburgh via Melrose. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDARY LIVES: The 19th century comes alive with echoes of triumph and tragedy at Abbotsford House, where Scottish legend Sir Walter Scott became the biggest-selling author of his day and the fashion for Scots baronial architecture began. Learn how the “Great Scott” popularized tartan, saved the Scottish banknote, and reclaimed his country's Crown Jewels.

Scottish Highlands & Scenic Drives

Continue your Scottish adventure by traveling over the elegant Forth Road Bridge and on to the university town of St. Andrews, famous also as the home of golf. From there, on to the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Enjoy time in the picturesque town before a visit to the Blair Athol whisky distillery. A scenic drive through the Grampian Mountains and Cairngorms National Park brings you to Inverness. (B/D) 200 mi / 325 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ICONIC FOOTSTEPS: See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.

Spend your day your way in Inverness

Explore the Highlands this morning with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.

• SCOTTISH STORIES & LORE - See the Bronze-Age chamber tomb site of Clava Cairns, the 4,000-year-old prehistoric cemetery familiar to fans of the Outlander series. Visit the romantic Cawdor Castle, the ancestral home of the Campbells of Cawdor but better known for its literary connection to Shakespeare's "Macbeth."
• HIGHLAND HAUNTS - Join your Local Guide for a walking tour of Inverness, known as the Highland Capital. Stroll along the banks of the River Ness and past historical buildings and monuments to hear fascinating historical stories of legends and lore.

Gardens & Grandeur

Continuing further north following the coast road to the magnificently situated Dunrobin Castle, one of the great houses of the Highlands. On arrival in Thurso, the most northerly town on Britain's mainland, enjoy some free time before dinner. (B/D) 109 mi / 176 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Perched in the Northern Highlands overlooking the Moray Firth is Dunrobin Castle, the historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. One of the oldest continuously inhabited “Scottish great houses,” the castle evokes images of a French château with towering spires and grand gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles.

Breathtaking Views & Brews

A fascinating day full of adventure. Head by ferry to the Orkney Islands for a day's sightseeing including the Old Man of Hoy, Skara Brae and Skaill House, the Ring of Brodgar and Kirkwall. Enjoy a guided tour of the Orkney Brewery with a light lunch at the Tasting Hall café, before taking the return ferry back to the mainland in the late afternoon. (B/L/D) 47 mi / 76 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - LEGENDS & LORE: Orcadian water, the best malt, hops, and yeast are the only four ingredients of hand-crafted ales such as Orkney Dark Island, Northern Light and the world-famous Skull Splitter named after a vicious Orkney Earl. Join a guided tour of the brewery and learn the traditions of beer making and a long, long history of brewing quality ales.

Scottish Fish Stories

A day to sit back and enjoy breathtakingly wild and unspoiled scenery, some of the finest in Britain. The northern coast is lined with miles of yellow-sand beaches and pristine estuaries, and the hills and mountains take on a purple hue as the summer progresses. This is Scotland at its best! Drive to the fishing port of Ullapool, where you enjoy a traditional fish & chips lunch at a local restaurant. Late-afternoon arrival on the Inner Hebridean Isle of Skye. (B/L/D) 219 mi / 353 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Walk along the whitewashed cottages with views of lovely Loch Broom in the charming harbor town of Ullapool. Feast on traditional fish and chips, a Scottish specialty that never fails to satisfy.

Sea & Skye

Striking landscapes, unusual rock formations, and dramatic waterfalls will capture your attention on your drive around the Trotternish Peninsula. Visit the thatch-roofed cottages at the Museum of Island Life, close to the last resting place of Highland heroine Flora MacDonald. Follow the spectacular coast route, before stopping for free time in the picturesque island capital of Portree. Take in the views of the Cuillin Hills as you return to your hotel. (B/D) 100 mi / 161 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Magic abounds on the Isle of Skye, home to some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes to enchant the senses. With magnificent mountain ranges, miles of captivating coastline, and heroic history, Skye casts a spell with its breathtaking beauty and sense of island adventure.

Brave Lads & Bonnie Lands

Start today with a visit to the Museum of the Isles and discover the story of Clan Donald, Scotland's most powerful clan, before returning by ferry across the Sound of Sleat to the mainland. At Glenfinnan, see the monument to the fallen Jacobite clansmen and the famous viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films. A scenic drive via Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak and Glen Coe, takes you to Oban. (B/D) 109 mi / 175 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Long before it was made famous by the Harry Potter films, the Glenfinnan Viaduct was hailed one of the most visually stunning railways in Scotland. Flanked by rolling green hills that are home to the iconic Scottish red deer, the elevated curves of the longest concrete railway in Scotland traverses through a world of adventure and history.

Highland Isles & Miles

A day's excursion to the best of Scotland's western isles. Take a ferry to the Isle of Mull for a scenic drive across the island before another crossing to the fascinating Isle of Iona, and a visit to Iona Abbey before returning to the mainland. (B/D) 75 mi / 121 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Called “Eagle Island” by wildlife watchers, the Isle of Mull is a paradise for birds of prey keeping a watchful eye on the wonderful wild landscapes below. Watch for Scottish red deer, iconic Highland cattle, and rolling hills that paint a picture of quintessential Scotland.

Glasgow Sights & Grand Heights

Take a scenic drive over the mountainous Pass of Brander, then travel from Inveraray to the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond where there will be the opportunity for a photo stop. Head back to Glasgow and enjoy an orientation drive including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings, and Georgian Squares. There's free time before a farewell dinner at your hotel. (B/D) 108 mi / 174 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOTS: In Scotland's most populous city, Glasgow's uniquely rich architectural heritage ranges from 19th-century masterpieces to the modern designs of the unique style of Glasgow-born Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Discover exciting experiences around every corner!

Céad mile fáilte—a hundred-thousand welcomes!

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: “In Dublin's fair city where girls are so pretty,” you'll also find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and the bounty of pubs here is matched only by the gorgeous Georgian Squares, 12th-century St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Trinity College.

*Tour Director and travel companions will change for the second part of the itinerary.

Triumphs & Tragedies

Hit your stride this morning with a trip to Ireland's horse-racing country! Drive across the Curragh to visit the Irish National Stud at Kildare. Continue to Longford for a guided tour of Strokestown House, the 1740s mansion and the Famine Museum. Then, on to Castlebar for your overnight stay. (B/D) 209 mi / 337 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Relive history at Strokestown Park House, a stunning Georgian Palladian Mansion, with its original furnishings, and stroll the walled gardens in this historic site. Get a glimpse into the lives of generations of people who lived and worked here over the centuries, each adding their own chapter to the story and leaving their mark. Witness the history of the Great Irish Famine with a visit to the National Famine Museum to learn about the most devastating and tragic event in Irish history.

Wild Atlantic Way and Irish Roses

Start the day with a visit to Kylemore Abbey, home to the order of Benedictine nuns. Visit Galway, a popular seaside destination with a buzzing center of colorful shops and a busy café and bar culture. Enjoy free time this afternoon in this vibrant city. (B) 89 mi / 143 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: Nestled between the woodlands and lakeshore near Galway City, Kylemore Abbey is home to the Benedictine Sisters who have been in residence since 1920 in a life of prayer, work, and community. The history of this stunning abbey reaches back to the 1800s as the estate of Irish patriot Mitchell Henry. Visit the abbey where handmade chocolates, wild Irish honey and traditional fuchsia pottery are sold. Stroll the lovely grounds of Ireland's largest walled garden in the heart of the Connemara countryside.

Islands of Saints & Scholars

Your full day excursion begins with a ferry crossing to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Stop for a light lunch at Joe Watty's pub and hear from a local who shares stories about life on Inishmore Island. A minibus tour with a Local Guide-driver includes a visit to the prehistoric clifftop fort of Dun Aengus. The ferry returns you to the mainland to enjoy the remainder of your stay in Galway.
(B/L) 45 mi / 72 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - TRADITION & CULTURE: Joe Watty's Bar & Seafood Restaurant on Inishmore Island is the place for good food, Gaelic music, and craic (good company). Unwind beside the fire or enjoy a Guinness in the beer garden to watch the world go by and learn a cúpla focal (few words of Irish) from some of the locals.

Sheep, Scones & Ancient Stones

Experience a true Irish farm experience this morning with a visit to Rathbaun Farm. Try your hand at scone baking and learn about sheep shearing and herding from the farmer before enjoying coffee and your homemade scones. A scenic drive across the limestone plateau of The Burren features a photo stop at prehistoric Poulnabrone Dolmen before continuing on to the 668-foot-high Cliffs of Moher, which rise majestically above the Atlantic Ocean. Relax with some free time in Limerick this evening. (B) 115 mi / 185 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Someone's in the kitchen in Rathbaun Farm, just outside of Galway. You can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. Learn about the longtime tradition of sheep farming in this beautiful Irish landscape.

Daring Young Men & Flying Machines

This morning, make your way to Foynes for a guided tour of the Flying Boat Museum. Afterwards, experience an Irish coffee demonstration, followed by a taste of the classic drink. Enjoy the wonderful views during the Slea Head drive on the Dingle Peninsula before arriving at the vibrant town of Killarney. (B/D) 159 mi / 255 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDS & LORE: Experience the era of transatlantic passenger flights, and the maritime legends of the River Shannon with a visit to the fantastic Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in Foynes, home to the world's only full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, commemorating this Irish town's role in early passenger flights across the Atlantic and the legendary flying boats that carried celebrities, royals, and refugees alike. Learn about the daring history and folklore of Ireland's longest river.

A Jaunting Good Time

Join the famous Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile panoramic drive around the Ireland's southwestern tip. Take advantage of spectacular photo opportunities thanks to sparkling seascapes and mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses. Head back to Killarney and experience a jaunting-car ride through the national park enjoying fabulous views of the Lakes of Killarney and ancient Ross Castle. (B) 99 mi / 159 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: County Kerry is home to the exquisite natural beauty of a rugged and mountainous expanse in Killarney National Park. A horse-drawn jaunting car ride is a great way to experience this natural wonderland, including the 3,300-foot MacGillycuddy's Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland. Nestled at the foot of these mountains, the Lakes of Killarney's shores and woodlands share this magical place with waterfalls and dramatic skies above Ross Castle.

Spend your day your way in Waterford

Your Irish luck continues across the Kerry Mountains and through County Cork to Blarney, renowned for its magical Kissing Stone. Take the opportunity to walk up to the castle, or to shop for traditional Irish handicrafts. In the afternoon, continue to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings.

Explore more of Waterford with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.

• CRYSTAL CLEAR - The city of Waterford is synonymous with the luxury crystal manufacture that bears its name. Visit the House of Waterford Crystal for a fascinating tour featuring the molding room, and glass-blowing, cutting, and engraving departments to witness the highly skilled master craftsmen creating exquisite Waterford Crystal.
• THE VIKING TRIANGLE - Join a Local Guide in Waterford for a walk through Ireland's oldest city where two cathedrals, four national monuments, and eleven centuries of rogues and rascals add up to a trifecta of tales in the Viking Triangle. Hear engaging stories of extraordinary characters, delivered in witty, entertaining style by a master storyteller.

Enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D) 126 mi / 203 km.

Medieval & Modern Irish Capitals

Head to the “Marble City” of Kilkenny to enjoy one of Ireland's most quaint towns and consider a visit to its 800-year-old castle. Return to Dublin, Ireland's capital city, and enjoy some free time. (B) 111 mi / 179 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Explore the city of Kilkenny, referred to as the 'Marble City' because of the widespread use of local black limestone to construct many local buildings. The 'Medieval Mile' is the city's main thoroughfare and is lined with medieval landmarks, quaint shops, and charming pubs. Today, Kilkenny is renowned for its active arts and crafts scene.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)