WINTER SAVINGS $200 PER PERSON
Travelling through Ireland and Scotland is an unforgettable experience shaped by breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted culture. From rolling green countryside and misty highlands to rugged coastlines where land and sea collide, the scenery feels dramatic and timeless. Days are filled with exploring historic villages, ancient castles, and winding roads that reveal postcard-worthy views at every turn. Evenings bring the warmth of vibrant local culture – traditional music, friendly conversations and stories shared over food. Throughout it all, folklore and legend seem woven into the land, giving the journey a magical quality that stays with you long after you return home.
DAY 1 – AUGUST 25
Dublin – Killarney
Welcome to Ireland! Depart for Killarney at 8.30 am with our first stop at the National Stud Farm and Japanese Gardens, Co. Kildare which is set on 950 acres or 390 hectares. Since the Irish began telling stories, horses and horse racing have been at the heart of the Irish culture. The farm is owned by the state, but it is operated as an independent corporation entity. It was established in 1946. The Irish Draught horse is the national horse breed of Ireland which was primarily for farm use. We will have a tour of the farm to see some of the quality stallions that are here, some now retired, out on beautifully manicured paddocks, learn about the mares and their fouls that have been born here.
Leaving Co. Kildare and heading southwest we visit the colourful village of Adare, founded in the 13th Century, it’s a tranquil village adorned with charming thatched cottages, historic buildings and churches. Adare will host the 2027 Ryder Cup for those who have an interest in golf.
We make our way to Killarney, nestled at the edge of Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve featuring the serene lakes of Killarney, lush woodlands and the rugged MacGillycuddy Reek Mountain range. The town’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its welcoming pubs and live traditional music sessions.
Join us tonight for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel. (D)
The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney (2 nights)
www.greatsouthernkillarney.com
DAY 2 – AUGUST 26
Step back in time, experiencing Ireland’s traditional mode of transport. Travel through Killarney National park on a ‘jaunting car’ while the local jarveys entertain you with the history, legends and folklore of the area.
Next, we are off to the small town of Dingle, the most westerly point in mainland Europe at the edge of the Dingle Peninsula; Slea Head. The town feels so traditionally Irish because of it being a Gaeltacht region. While English is everywhere, the Gaelic language and culture exists. The Bohemian, artistic town is famed for its hardware pubs (where you can buy a pint and some wellies). Beyond the town, is an incredible 6,000 years of history. Driving the peninsula is like travelling through an open-air museum.
Today we have an opportunity to visit a dairy farmer on this very fertile part of the country and learn how important the agricultural sector is in Ireland.
We return to Killarney with a stop at a local pub for our ‘Pull-your-own-pint’ competition amongst your feller travellers. Prizes for the best pint pulled! Evening is at leisure to relax or an opportunity to visit a pub to hear the music and stories. (B)
DAY 3 – AUGUST 27
Killarney - Galway
Today we bid farewell to the southwest and head north towards the Shannon River estuary and take the ferry boat from Tarbert to Killimer in Co. Clare. As we hug the Atlantic coast for about an hour, we arrive at the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most popular tourist destinations outside of Dublin.
The Cliffs of Moher, stretch out into the mist along the North Clare coastline - jaw-dropping beautiful. Rising slowly from Doolin village they ascent to over 700 feet (213 metres) with stunning views out to the Aran Islands. The sheer drop into the heaving Atlantic Ocean is a well-known haven for sea birds.
We will make a stop for lunch at a local bar as we make our way to Galway. (lunch is on your own)
Galway city dates back to the 12th century when a settlement was established. The settlement was recognized as a major trading centre in 1480 when a fortification wall was built to protect the merchants from attacks by marauding pirates who plundered, ships and areas along the west coast of Ireland. Parts of the walls are still intact and are incorporated into the stores in the city centre. Galway is a bilingual county with the Gaelic language spoken in many areas of the western seaboard. The university of Galway offers its students the opportunity to study and finalize their degrees through the medium of the Gaelic language. Join us for a group dinner tonight. (B, D)
The Park House Hotel, Galway (2 nights)
DAY 4 – AUGUST 28
Galway – Aran Islands
Today we take a ferry to explore the Aran Islands, One of the world’s top Island destinations, according to National Geographic. The Aran Islands are 3 rocky isles guarding the mouth of Galway Bay, in western Ireland. They’re known for their ancient sites. The largest island, Inishmore, is home to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched on top of a high cliff. A true Irish experience awaits, where locals speak Irish as well as English in a setting of Celtic churches of historical significance including World's Heritage site Dun Aonghasa. When we are on the island there is a choice of touring the island on an electric or regular bike, a mini bus, or walking. Return to Galway for an evening of leisure. (B)
DAY 5 – AUGUST 29
Galway – Donegal
Today is a scenic drive through counties Galway, Mayo, and Sligo. In Co. Sligo we stop and visit Martin and Patricia Feeney’s farm which is situated in Streedagh, a small picturesque townland in North Sligo. The location is beautiful with the majestic Benbulben Mountain to the East and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Enjoy one of the best sheep dog demonstrations in Ireland. Learn first-hand the importance of his bond with these beautiful border collies and witness the life of sheep farming on the edge of the world as you see some of the world’s smartest dogs in action as they work in harmony to collect a flock of sheep!
Next, we make our way to Co. Donegal, enjoying some free time in the town before making our way to one of our favourite hotels, Harvey’s Point. This hotel is truly something special, tucked away in the remote region of the Blue Stack mountains of Donegal. Relax and enjoy the total exclusion of this remote property. Join us for a group dinner this evening. (B, D)
Harvey’s Point Hotel, Donegal (2 nights)
DAY 6 – AUGUST 30
Donegal / Ulster
Ireland has seen immigration throughout the centuries, sometimes out of necessity, for employment opportunities, other times because of forced deportation, (the white slave trade) to the West Indies or penal colonies in Australia. Of course the devastation that was the Great Famine between 1845 and 1852 when more than one million people died of hunger and disease, and one and a half million people immigrated to the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and North America and Canada. With these figures still being part of our diaspora worldwide and reference to the 70 million who now claim Irish heritage, we visit the Ulster American Folk Park. The land in this area was once occupied by the Mellon family who migrated to the U.S in the early 1800. Their son Thomas Mellon was the founder of the Mellon Bank, not forgetting his ancestral past he kept a close connection to the area. Through the generations the Mellon family has had a commitment to Ulster and eventually land was purchased to establish the Folk Park. A visit here will consume your inquisitiveness to watch the early stages of living in Ireland and then the enlightenment of sudden realization of better opportunities. (B)
DAY 7 – AUGUST 31
Donegal - Belfast
Today we depart for Belfast City, the capital of Northern Ireland since 1921 when the island of Ireland was partitioned, the six counties of Northern Ireland were to remain as part of the United Kingdom, and the 26 counties of the southern part got free state status. In 1948 the Irish Prime Minister John A Costello announced Irelands intention to leave the Commonwealth at an official state visit in Ottawa, Canada. Our journey to Belfast will take us into the city of Derry and then onto the Giants Causeway, one of the seven wonders of the world.
From here we will head south making our way to Belfast. (B)
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast (1 night)
www.grandcentralhotelbelfast.com
DAY 8 – SEPTEMBER 1
Belfast - Stirling, Scotland
We depart Ireland onboard a ship out of Belfast harbour. The crossing will take approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arriving at the port of Cairnryan we drive the coast road towards Glasgow arriving in Stirling, the southern gateway to the Scottish Highlands. The Clans Chiefs of Scotland held sway over the Highlands, “He who holds Stirling, holds Scotland”. This was the belief of the landowners and Lords of the Isles in the Highlands, peasant farmers rented the land from the nobility and paid them rent, taxes and military services. It was a feudal system where peasants were beneath the nobility and the clergy. As we journey through the highlands we learn the history associated with the regions. The battles between England and Scotland. (B)
Note: As part of your journey between Belfast, Ireland and Cairnryan, Scotland, we’ll enjoy a scenic ferry crossing as foot passengers. Guests will simply need to carry and manage their luggage while boarding and disembarking the vessel. Joe and I will be with you to assist. A coach will be waiting to pick us up in Cairnryan, Scotland and we will continue together to Stirling.
Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling (1 night)
www.stirlinghighlandhotel.co.uk
DAY 9 – SEPTEMBER 2
Stirling – Inverness
The first visit on our journey today is Stirling Castle, one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically and architecturally. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. Not only a strategic military post due to its geographic location in the Highlands but also the home to such important Scottish monarchs like King James VI and Mary Queen of Scots. Experience for yourself as we enter the world of Scotland’s Renaissance kings and queens.
We make our way to Inverness – undoubtedly one of the most wonderful places to visit in Scotland. It has all the benefits of city life but with all the beauty and nature of the Scotland Highlands on its doorstep. Inverness is a Gaelic word meaning “mouth of the River Ness”. A compact, cosmopolitan city with a lot of heart, Inverness still retains a market town feel dating back to its early development located along the River Ness at the northern end of the Great Glen. Group dinner this evening at the hotel. (B, D)
Macdonald New Drumossie Hotel, Inverness (2 nights)
www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/drumossie
DAY 10 – SEPTEMBER 3
Inverness
Today we take a journey by boat on Loch Ness, and experience the home to Scotland’s greatest legends! The mysteries and myths of the famous Loch Ness are revealed as your captain sails to Urquhart Castle, which magnificently sits on the shores of Loch Ness. One of Scotland’s oldest castles, Urquhart has seen great conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, offering glimpses into medieval times and the lives of its noble residents.
Next up, we go to the Culloden Battlefield for a guided tour with one of the experts that will talk us through the history that has taken place on the grounds where the actual battle was fought. The interpretive centre explains the intricacies of planning the defensive lines and attack formations that went into battles fought in the year 1746.
Enjoy some leisure time in Inverness before we make our way to the hotel. (B)
DAY 11 – SEPTEMBER 4
Inverness – Skye
Depart Inverness in the morning and follow the scenic A82 along Loch Ness, enjoying the Highland scenery making our way west through the glens and mountain landscapes towards Kyle of Lochalsh. From there, we make our way to Eilean Donan Castle - Built in the 13th Century Eilean Donan is recognized as one of the most iconic images of Scotland, the castle will take you on a journey through time and history. Crossing the new bridge, and onto the Isle of Skye, the island boasts spectacular scenery shaped by volcanos and glaciers.
Tonight, join your friends for a fabulous group dinner at the Duisdale Hotel. (B, D)
Duisdale House Hotel, Skye (2 nights)
https://sonascollection.com/our-hotels/duisdale
DAY 12 – SEPTEMBER 5
Skye
Enjoy some leisure time in Portree, the largest town on the isle of Skye and the centre of its services. The layout of the town is unique, being a seaport, there’s a picturesque harbour, and the layout of the town square is beautiful.
There are colourful buildings here with a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants, books stores, a pharmacy and even a police station. Streets branch out leading to schools, churches and a doctors clinic; all the amenities needed for an island community. Portree is a wonderful town to simply relax; some like to hike or bike. (B)
DAY 13 – SEPTEMBER 6
Isle of Skye – Fort Williams – Glencoe – Edinburgh
Leave the Isle of Skye in the morning, crossing over the Skye Bridge and driving east towards Fort William, with the dramatic peaks of the Cuillin fading behind you and views opening onto lochs and glens. Continue south through Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most striking landscapes, allowing time for photo stops or a short walk among its steep, mountains. From there we make our way to Edinburgh, Scotland’s cosmopolitan capital city – a city of natural beauty, captivating rich history and universally praised for being truly breathtaking - a city that invites you to discover and explore. (B)
Doubletree by Hilton City Centre, Edinburgh (2 nights)
www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ediccdi-doubletree-edinburgh-city-centre
DAY 14 – SEPTEMBER 7
Edinburgh
Today we’re going to enjoy a leisurely day in Edinburgh city, without any coach driving. In the morning we will take a walk to Edinburgh Castle, the world-famous historic fortress which dominates the skyline of Edinburgh city – recently voted top UK Heritage attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one attraction. The castle is built on an ancient volcanic rock and it stands at 440 feet above sea level.
Afterwards, step into a world where tradition meets innovation and embark on The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience - A Journey of Flavour at The Johnnie Walker Experience. This isn’t just a tour; it's an interactive adventure that brings to life the rich history and craftsmanship behind Johnnie Walker whiskies.
This evening we have a special Farewell Dinner planned at The Grand Café Edinburgh or similar) (B, D)
DAY 15 – SEPTEMBER 8
Bid Farewell. Your tour ends with a transfer to the Edinburgh airport.
JOURNEY SUMMARY
15 Days | 2 Countries | 20 Meals | 14 Nights Deluxe Accommodation + Hotel Porterage | Professional English-Speaking Guide
VALUABLE INCLUSIONS
VALUABLE INCLUSIONS CONTINUED
** Further Afield Travel tour leader with you throughout the itinerary.
** Hotel taxes, porterage and tips for included dining experiences.
Not Included:
International air tickets, travel insurance, driver/guide gratuities, optional pre/post tour nights, items of personal nature or anything not listed. (inquire).
Optional Pre and Post Add-on: We can arrange additional hotel nights at the beginning or end of your trip along with airfare and insurance. Please inquire at time of booking.
Tour Price: Canadian $11,200 per person | Single Room Supplement $4,850 per person
All Booking made by February 28 will receive $200 Savings off the per person price!
Deposit: C$500 per person (credit card accepted)
Add Prepaid Gratuities: C$330 per person
Balance Due: (May 20, 2026) e-transfer or cheque.
Deposit by credit card accepted. Additional deposit and balance payment by e-transfer or cheque. Credit card fees of 2.4% apply when use of a credit card for secondary deposits and balance payments on all groups. Availability is subject to change.
Personalize your Vacation: There is plenty of opportunity to personalize your travel arrangements. Further Afield Travel and Tours can provide group airfare, additional nights at the beginning or end of your tour and prepaid gratuities. Please inquire.
The advertised price is in Canadian Dollars and includes security & local taxes per the itinerary.
Group price is based on minimum of 20 guests. Groups with less than 18 may be subject to cancellation.
We reserve the right to deviate from the tour itinerary, inclusions or hotels should circumstances dictate. If a hotel is not available, we reserve the right to substitute a hotel of similar rating.
Cancellations: 91 days and over prior to departure – loss of per person deposit(s), 90 – 61 days prior to departure – 50% per person of the total trip cost, 60 – 45 days prior to departure 75% per person of the total trip cost, 45 – Day of departure/no show – 100% per person of the total trip cost.
Additional supplier penalties may apply depending on the date of cancellation.
Amendments: An administration fee of $125 per person may apply to any changes made to your booking once confirmed, including but not limited to changes in pre/post trip accommodation and transfers. Please note that name changes are not allowed and flight changes are subject to availability and airline policies. Additional change fees may be charged by suppliers.
Refunds: No refund is available if cancellations occur after the trip has commenced or in respect to any trips, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilized.
Itinerary Changes & Trip Cancellation: Further Afield Travel and Tours reserves the right to vary itineraries should circumstances dictate, as well as cancel or reschedule any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements, or circumstances beyond its control. Hotels listed may be replaced with similar accommodation should the noted hotel not be available at time of confirmation. The advertised tours require minimum numbers to depart. Should these not be met, Further Afield Travel and Tours reserves the right to cancel arrangements.
Trip Membership: Any person less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. The Travel Director may at his/her discretion, require any person to withdraw from any trip if he or she deems the person’s acts or conduct offensive or a nuisance to other passengers, and we shall have no further liability.
Air: Airfare is NOT included and is an additional cost.
Complimentary Group Transfer - one group transfer will be provided at the end of the tour - those arriving or departing at a different time then others in the group, arrangements can be provided at an additional cost. Inquire.
Baggage Allowance & Porterage: Porterage of one suitcase per person is included in the trip price.
We appreciate your business and look forward to working with you again soon.