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Ross Castle Killarney National Park Ireland

Wonders of Ireland & Scotland

(15 days / 14 nights)

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Let yourself be swept away on a Celtic getaway

Come experience the beauty of Ireland and Scotland on a small group tour. Not only will you see the highlights of both countries, but you’ll also enjoy the expert services of local tour guides. Your Irish guide will take you from Dublin to Galway, the Aran Islands and more, while your Scottish guide will drive you into the scenic Highlands. This is the ideal way to see both countries, learn about their culture and history, while meeting fellow world travellers.

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— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Experience more in a small group
  • Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
  • Service from trusted local experts in Scotland
  • Great customer reviews

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— Book With Confidence

  • Optional cancellation insurance
  • Affordable deposits from 10%

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Tour Highlights

  • Explore the historic and vibrant Irish and Scottish capitals, Dublin and Edinburgh
  • Visit local distilleries to taste the flavours of Scotland and Ireland
  • Discover ancient castles like Eilean Donan Castle, Bunratty Castle and Blarney Castle
  • Experience Ireland’s most scenic peninsula, the Ring of Kerry
  • Take in the fresh air of the Cliffs of Moher and its sweeping scenery
  • Immerse yourself in traditional Irish culture and music in Galway
  • See some of Scotland’s top sights on the iconic Isle of Skye
  • Admire the striking natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands
  • Walk along the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness
  • Hassle-free travel experience with local driver-guides in Ireland and Scotland

Travel style

Guided Small Groups i

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Heritage i, Highlands i

Pace level

Level 2/3 (Classic) i

Activity level

Level 2/4 (Moderate) i

Season

Apr - Jun

Max group size

15

Departure

See calendar

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Heritage i, Highlands i

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

  • Day 1: ARRIVAL IN IRELAND

    Upon your arrival in Dublin, make your way to your accommodation in the city centre. You may choose to take a taxi or use public transport, but for a more direct and comfortable ride, we will be happy to organise a private airport transfer for you.

    Then immerse yourself in the eclectic mixture of heritage sites, museums and historic pubs of the Irish capital. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets of the Temple Bar district, grab a pint at the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of the world-famous beer or visit the historic Trinity College to see the ancient Book of Kells.

    You could enjoy an afternoon tea sightseeing tour of the city on a vintage bus or stroll along the characterful O’Connell Street filled with interesting shops and landmark buildings.

    Spend the night at Dylan Hotel or similar.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details See Activities for this day

  • Day 2: INTO THE IRISH COUNTRYSIDE

    Today, your guide will pick you up to start your adventure around Ireland. The tour will start with a drive across the beautiful midlands and towards the west coast. Take in the rolling hills and lush countryside during the journey.

    On the way to Galway, we’ll have the opportunity to learn about Irish history at Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. You will also visit a local whiskey distillery for a tour and tasting.

    Finally, we’ll arrive in Galway, a lively city by the Atlantic Ocean, where we’ll enjoy dinner as a group.

    Spend the night at Park House Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Trim Castle
    • Tour and tasting at local distillery
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Dinner at the hotel restaurant

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 3: EXCURSION TO THE ARAN ISLANDS

    Today we’ll head out on an island excursion. We’ll start the day by taking the ferry to Inis Mór (Inishmore), the largest of the western Aran Islands. These three windswept islands are one of the few places where the Gaelic language, culture and music still truly thrive.

    On the island, we’ll enjoy a guided bus tour so you can learn more about the history and culture of the local community. You’ll also have some free time to explore at your leisure before returning to the mainland.

    Spend another night at Park House Hotel or similar.       

    Included:
    • Aran Islands excursion
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 4: IRELAND’S JEWEL, THE CLIFFS OF MOHER

    Today we’ll continue south along the Galway Bay. The first stop of the day will be Dunguaire Castle, where you’ll have the opportunity to take some scenic photos. Sitting on a rocky outcrop overlooking the bay, it is one of the most photographed castles in Ireland. Then we’ll pass by Pounabrone Dolmen, one of Ireland’s oldest megalithic monuments.

    Finally, we’ll reach the west coast to visit Ireland’s top attraction, the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. This is a true showcase of the country’s iconic coastal scenery. Walk along the paths, try to spot some seabirds and take in the views of the fierce Atlantic Ocean.

    Later, we’ll make a stop at the 15th-century Bunratty Castle. We’ll take some time to visit the castle and learn about its history before arriving in Killarney.

    Spend the night at Randles Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Cliffs of Moher visitor centre
    • Entrance to Bunratty Castle
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Dinner at the hotel restaurant

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 5: THE RING OF KERRY

    Today, we’ll take in the magic of the Ring of Kerry. This is one of Ireland’s most famous routes and a must-see when visiting its countryside. Along the way there’ll be plenty of stops for you to take photos and admire the striking landscape.

    We’ll first take some time to wander around the grounds of Kells Bay House to see its primeval forest of planted giant ferns. Then, if the weather allows, we’ll stop by the charming Derrynane Bay with its striking white sands.  Later, we’ll complete the circular tour ending back inside the Killarney National Park, where we’ll visit the picturesque Torc Waterfall.

    Spend another night at Randles Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Kells Bay House
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 6: BLARNEY CASTLE AND IRISH HERITAGE

    Today, we’ll drive south to explore Blarney Castle, a legendary medieval stronghold. It is well worth visiting because it is home to the Blarney Stone, surrounded by many myths and tales.

    We’ll then spend some time in Cork, Ireland’s second largest city, before driving north to stop for a photo opportunity at the Rock of Cashel. This historic site is a fantastic collection of medieval buildings that span over 1000 years of history. Later, we’ll arrive in Kilkenny. This is a beautiful medieval town nestled around a majestic 12th-century castle.

    Spend the night at Butler House Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Blarney Castle
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Dinner at the hotel restaurant

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 7: RETURN TO DUBLIN

    Today, we have our final day of driving through the majestic Irish countryside.  We’ll pass through the scenic Wicklow Mountains to take in the beautiful views.

    The next stop is at Powerscourt Estate, the home of the restored mansion Powerscourt House. We’ll have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and even catch sight of Ireland’s highest waterfall, which sits on these grounds.

    Later, your guide will then drop you off at your accommodation in Dublin. You can enjoy the rest of the day and evening at your leisure in Ireland’s capital.

    Spend the night at Dylan Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Powerscourt Gardens and Waterfall
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8-9 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 8: FLY OVER TO SCOTLAND

    Today, you travel to Scotland for the second portion of your Celtic adventure. Make your way to Dublin Airport, where you’ll catch your flight to Edinburgh. You can book a private transfer for a swift and easy way to travel to the airport.

    When you arrive in Scotland, make your way into Edinburgh city centre where your hotel will be located. Many travellers opt to take a taxi or use public transport, but for a more direct and comfortable ride, we will be happy to organise a private airport transfer for you. You have the evening at your leisure.

    Spend the night at Nira Caledonia or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Flight between Dublin Airport and Edinburgh Airport

    Attractions Attractions Accommodation details See Activities for this day

  • Day 9: EXPLORE EDINBURGH

    You have the day to spend as you wish in Scotland’s capital. We recommend strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit in the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

    For a spectacular view over the city, we recommend going up Calton Hill. Tonight you can enjoy dinner at one of Edinburgh‘s many gourmet restaurants and spend the evening at your leisure.

    Spend the night at Nira Caledonia or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details See Activities for this day

  • Day 10: INTO THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

    Today, your guide will pick you up to start your epic trip around Scotland. The tour will start with a drive across the Firth of Forth, taking in the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Forth Rail Bridge, before heading north to Inverness.

    On the way, we’ll have the opportunity to go for a forest walk at the picturesque Hermitage, followed by a visit of the nearby Dunkeld. From there we will continue through the Cairngorms National Park where we will stop at the Highland Folk Museum.

    Arriving near Inverness, we will stop to visit the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746. Nearby we will also visit the mysterious Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years. Tonight, we will enjoy dinner at the hotel together.

    Spend the night at Kingsmill Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Highland Folk Museum
    • Entrance to the Battlefield of Culloden
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Dinner at the hotel restaurant

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 Hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 11: LOCH NESS, CASTLES & THE ISLE OF SKYE

    Today we will experience some of Scotland‘s most famous attractions. Our guide will drive us along the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness, where we will have a chance to take photos and see if we can catch a glimpse of Nessie. Next up the guide will make a stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a sight you will surely recognise from films.

    This afternoon we will make our way over to the Isle of Skye and set sail on a Misty Isle boat tour on Loch Coruisk in the heart of the Cuillin Hills. This will be a great photography and sightseeing opportunity for bird watchers and marine lovers, as we may spot marine wildlife such as minke whales, seals and dolphins as well as giant sea eagles which soar above these parts. Tonight, we'll enjoy another dinner as a group.

    Spend the night at Hame on Skye or similar.

    Included:
    • Misty Isle boat tour
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Dinner at the hotel restaurant

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 Hours (including a 1h45min boat tour)

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 12: THE WONDERS OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

    Today we will have a full day to take in the magic of Skye, a haven for nature lovers. Our guide will take us to the northern part of the island, to the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula. This is where so many of the island’s mythical and spectacular landscapes lie.

    Driving over the Quiraing, we will be able to admire some of the jaw-dropping natural sights. We’ll also take a walk to the gorge overlooking Lealt Falls, see waterfalls plunging over the 90-meter Kilt Rock sea cliffs, pass by the iconic “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle, and we’ll even be able to go looking for dinosaur footprints at the An Corran Beach at Staffin. Tonight, we will enjoy dinner at the hotel together.

    Spend another night at the Hame on Skye or similar.

    Included:
    • Guided walk at Lealt Falls (20mins)
    • Breakfast at your hotel
    • Meal at the hotel tonight

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 13: SCOTTISH WILDLIFE & GLENFINNAN

    Today we take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig on mainland Scotland. On the drive down to Loch Lomond, we’ll stop by the stunning Camusdarach Beach where we’ll have some time to admire its white sand and crystal-clear water. We will then drive to Glenfinnan where you can visit the Glenfinnan Monument, overlooking the beautiful Loch Shiel, and admire the Glenfinnan Viaduct high above, which you may recognise from the Harry Potter film series. Later, we will travel through Glen Coe, Scotland’s most famous valley. Here, we will go on a guided 20-minute walk, a perfect chance to take photos.

    Spend the night at The George hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Guided walk at Glen Coe (20mins)
    • Ferry from Armadale to Mallaig
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 hours (including 30-minute ferry crossing)

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 14: THE TROSSACHS, WHISKY AND STIRLING CASTLE

    Today we will explore the impressive Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. In the village of Doune we will enjoy a tour and tasting at Deanston Whisky Distillery. We will also pass by the beautiful city of Stirling, where we'll visit the impressive Stirling Castle sitting atop the hill. Our last stop on this tour will be the Kelpies, two impressive horse-head statues that will capture your attention.

    Your guide will then drop you off at your accommodation in Glasgow. You can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure in Scotland’s largest city. 

    Spend the night at Grand Central Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Tour and tasting at Deanston Whisky Distillery
    • Entrance to Stirling Castle
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details

  • Day 15: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

    On your day of departure, make your way back to the airport. If you would like to add any additional nights to your trip or to arrange a private transfer, you can add the option below. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may have time for some last-minute shopping on Buchanan Street, a visit to one of Glasgow’s museums, or one last stroll through the charming West End.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your hotel

    Attractions See Activities for this day
View full itinerary

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

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Included

Not included

Optional Extras

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Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Day 1

Dylan Hotel

The Dylan is a 5-star boutique hotel located near the city centre of Dublin. The hotel sits in a leafy neighbourhood by the Grand Canal in the south of the capital. Stay at the Dylan Hotel...

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Day 2

Park House Hotel

Park House Hotel is located near the leafy Eyre Square and within the vibrant city centre of Galway. It will remind you of classic hotels with its modern style and luxury bedrooms. In-ro...

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Day 3

Park House Hotel

Park House Hotel is located near the leafy Eyre Square and within the vibrant city centre of Galway. It will remind you of classic hotels with its modern style and luxury bedrooms. In-ro...

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Day 4

Randles Hotel

Randles is a 4-star, family-owned hotel located in Killarney. This scenic town borders the lush national park of the same name. Here you can expect to experience all the charms of the Iris...

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Day 5

Randles Hotel

Randles is a 4-star, family-owned hotel located in Killarney. This scenic town borders the lush national park of the same name. Here you can expect to experience all the charms of the Iris...

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Day 6

Butler House Hotel

Butler House is a unique hotel located in the centre of Kilkenny. You’ll find it just south of the majestic Kilkenny Castle and its lush grounds.  This Georgian home was built...

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Day 7

Dylan Hotel

The Dylan is a 5-star boutique hotel located near the city centre of Dublin. The hotel sits in a leafy neighbourhood by the Grand Canal in the south of the capital. Stay at the Dylan Hotel...

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Day 8

Nira Caledonia Hotel

Situated in the New Town of Edinburgh, the Nira Caledonia is a boutique hotel house in an elegant Georgian townhouse. Its central location, only a short stroll from Princes Street, will be...

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Day 9

Nira Caledonia Hotel

Situated in the New Town of Edinburgh, the Nira Caledonia is a boutique hotel house in an elegant Georgian townhouse. Its central location, only a short stroll from Princes Street, will be...

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Day 10

Kingsmills Hotel

This beautiful 4-star, 18th-century home is located just east of the Inverness city centre. Kingsmills Hotel perfectly combines classic and modern features, providing guests with all the a...

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Day 11

Hame on Skye

Your hotel on the Isle of Skye is located 5 mins south of the western town of Dunvegan, near the shores of Pool Roag by Loch Vatten. Hame on Skye offers an incredible location, amidst the...

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Day 12

Hame on Skye

Your hotel on the Isle of Skye is located 5 mins south of the western town of Dunvegan, near the shores of Pool Roag by Loch Vatten. Hame on Skye offers an incredible location, amidst the...

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Day 13

The George Hotel

The George Hotel is located at the heart of Inveraray, along the mighty Loch Fyne. Set on the main street, the hotel is one of the many beautiful, white-washed buildings of this lakeside t...

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Day 14

Grand Central Hotel

The Grand Central Hotel is located right by the stunning Glasgow Central Station, making up one of the city’s most iconic building. Set at the heart of the city centre, it is a per...

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The hotels mentioned are our first priority for this tour. Please note that although we have included specific accommodations in the tour, these are subject to change in some cases. We reserve the right to substitute a named property in the same locality for one of a similar standard. We will send you the final list of hotels before you arrive for your tour.

Guaranteed departures

Group size: Maximum group size is 15 participants.

Price p.p. from

EUR

Approx 6376 EUR

The amount will be charged in EUR

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  • Arrival
    Price
    Availability
  • Monday 18 September 2023
    6800 EUR

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Monthly price comparison

Our best price per person when booking for two.

2023

Tour Information

We recommend that all Nordic Visitor travellers read through the following information about what the tour includes, the accommodation, and other useful information for your travels.

Please note that this tour is not recommended for families with children under the age of 13. As the legal drinking age is 18, those aged 17 and under will not take part in the distillery tours.

OUR NORDIC VISITOR GUIDES
This tour package includes the professional service of experienced Irish and Scottish tour guides. They will also act as your drivers around Scotland and Ireland. Please note that there will be a change of tour guide between Ireland and Scotland.

Not only will the guides offer their local knowledge and share hidden gems and stories with you, but they will act as the logistical organiser for the group. They will ensure that everything is running smoothly and that you’re having a good time during your holiday.

Both tour guides will be a valuable resource for questions about local customs, language, food and other practical travel information. If you join our guided small group tour, you will get a personal experience of Ireland and Scotland.

ACCOMMODATION
Our team of local travel experts carefully selects hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses around the country based on excellent ratings, personal experience and comfort.

Due to the historic nature of the properties included in the tour, please note that room sizes and views may vary. Many of the rooms are only accessible by stairs and none of the properties have elevators. Triple rooms are not available for this tour, only single and double rooms.

Please contact us for booking assistance if your group contains 3 or more people.

FOOD & DRINK
A daily breakfast buffet is included at the hotels during your stay. You will also enjoy 10 included dinners, as per the package inclusions. They will usually either be a set dinner menu or a dinner buffet with a good variety of local fresh ingredients (drinks not included). Please notify your travel consultant in advance of any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Other meals are not included, but the guide will make sure to stop along the way for you to pick up snacks, drinks and lunch.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TRIP

  • A small backpack to store your daily items on the bus
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
  • Camera with extra batteriess
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • For more information on what to pack, please visit our Online Travel Guide

LUGGAGE
This tour is by mini-bus and so, to ensure comfortable seating for everyone, there is a limit to the size and amount of luggage you can bring. Each guest is allowed 1 large suitcase or bag, which can be stored in the back of the van, and one smaller item (e.g., a small backpack or day bag) for daily essentials.

The guidance size for the larger luggage is no more than 158 cm (when the length, width and height is added together) and should not exceed more than 20 kg. Unfortunately, carry-on suitcases (cabin bags) are too large to store inside the van in the overhead racks.

If you have any questions about luggage, your Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be able to assist you.

FITNESS & ACTIVITY LEVEL
Please note that this tour includes some walking at a few of the sightseeing stops. This means you need to be prepared and able to walk between 1-3 kilometres (0.5 to 2 miles) on certain days. You also need to be able to carry your own luggage when boarding the bus each day.

WEATHER CONDITIONS
Please note that the tour programme is dependent upon weather conditions and may be altered if these are not favourable. In the case of major changes to the itinerary, you will be notified and we will do our best to make sure that your experience is not affected.

DEPARTURE FROM EDINBURGH OR IRELAND
The tour ends in Glasgow, Scotland. If you are planning on departing from Edinburgh, we would be happy to arrange for a private transfer to Edinburgh Airport. You can also reserve an additional night at the end of your stay in Edinburgh if preferred.

Even though this group tour ends in Scotland, you may prefer to purchase a return flight from your home to Ireland. If this is the case, we can assist you in booking your return flight from Glasgow to Dublin.

CURRENCY RATE
All bookings are charged in Euros (EUR). Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. Therefore, conversions from EUR to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

AFTER BOOKING WITH NORDIC VISITOR
After booking your package with Nordic Visitor, you will be contacted within 2 business days by one of our travel consultants who will serve as your dedicated contact person for all your travel needs before, during and even after your holiday. Your travel consultant will provide you with details about your booking and your remaining payment (if not paid in full). You will also receive more information about what to expect during your holiday.

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