Compare The Irish Isle: Intergenerational Enchantment by Road Scholar vs Ireland & Scotland in 15 days - Stunning Ireland & The Highlands - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1: Overnight on board plane

Overnight in Flight

Day 2: Arrive at Shannon Airport, Cork

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Imperial Hotel

Lunch: Excluded

Afternoon: Check in at hotel. Welcome meeting and orientation at 5:00pm.

Dinner: At Hotel.

Evening: Free Evening

Day 3: Mythology & music with Irish dancing & tin whistle workshop, Cork

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Imperial Hotel

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Lecture: Irish Music and Mythology. Tea / Coffee. Followed by an Irish dancing lesson and a workshop showing how to learn a traditional Irish tune on the tin whistle.

Lunch: In the hotel.

Afternoon: Depart by coach on a guided field trip of Cork city including St Fin Barre's Cathedral and Cork city gaol.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4: Cobh/Cork

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Imperial Hotel

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Lecture: Irish Folklore & Traditions: Celtic Gods, rituals and customs, curses and cures’. Depart on a field trip to Cobh: the Queenstown Story to learn at first hand about emigration from Ireland to America

Lunch: Lunch in Cobh at the Queenstown Centre.

Afternoon: Meet your guide Michael Martin to take the ‘Titanic Trail’: Follow in the footsteps of the passengers who boarded the doomed ‘Titanic’. Return to Cork via St. Colman’s Cathedral .

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Grandchildren ‘interview’ their grandparents in order to complete their family tree. Special prize for the grandchild with the most ancestral information!

Day 5: Blarney, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: International Hotel Killarney

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Depart for Blarney Castle. Climb the steps to the top of the castle for spectacular views and kiss the Blarney Stone to get the ‘gift of gab’.

Lunch: Lunch at Blarney Woollen Mills hotel.

Afternoon: Transfer to the hotel in Killarney in Co Kerry.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6: Outdoor Adventure Centre, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: International Hotel Killarney

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Depart for a full day's field trip to an Outdoor Adventure Centre.

Lunch: Lunch at centre

Afternoon: Enjoy an afternoon of activities at the Centre, including fun team building activities and water activities.

Dinner: Dinner at the Centre

Evening: Grandchildren: Supervised activities with leader

Day 7: Storytelling, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: International Hotel Killarney

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Adventures and Heroes of Irish mythology; a morning of storytelling. Our story teller weaves worlds of mythic Irish lore, shrouding us in the mythological knowledge that has shaped this land. Tea/coffee. The Art of Storytelling, the traits of the craft: Release the storyteller within!. This involves the use of drama games, enactment, telling and retelling of tales both familiar and new. All the morning's activities work towards opening up the storytelling skills of each member.

Lunch: Lunch allowance given.

Afternoon: Free afternoon.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8: Ring of Kerry. Kissane, Killarney

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: International Hotel Killarney

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Hear a lecutre on "Growing up in Kerry: A Ramble Down The Ol' Botharin" before embarking on a full day field trip around the Iveragh Peninsula: the world renowned ‘Ring of Kerry’ including a visit to the Kissane family Sheep Farm, located in the scenic area of Moll's Gap. The goal of this family run farm is to preserve the Irish heritage of mountain sheep farming and the mountain sheep that have been in the hills and on the roads of Kerry for over one hundred years. In doing so, the heritage of a traditional family farm in this Special Area of Conservation is saved for future generations. You will have the opportunity to learn about the work of the sheepdogs and see them in action on this mountainous terrain, to catch a sheep in the farmyard and try to shear it yourself and to bottle feed some of the orphan lambs!

Lunch: Taken en route.

Afternoon: The field trip continues.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 9: Lakes of Killarney.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: International Hotel Killarney

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Experience the most beautiful part of Ireland in the most memorable way; on board a traditional jaunting car where you will explore the famous Lakes of Killarney on a boat with your grandchildren. This spectacular tour will inform you on the history, legends & folklore of the area, and if you are lucky enough you might just bump into the odd 1 or 2 Leprechauns!!!

Lunch: At the Muckross Garden Restaurant.

Afternoon: Children depart by mini bus with leader to attend an afternoon of discovery with Irish young people their own age at Killarney National Park Education Centre, whose ethos is based on a hands-on approach to learning about nature. Activities include live capture and release of small mammals, scavenger hunts, food chain games, quizzes, pond dipping, moth trapping, and use of microscopes. It is hoped that through this the participant will become more aware of the value of an unspoilt environment and the need for conservation. Grandparents have a guided visit of Muckross House, a magnificent Victorian mansion in the beautiful surroundings of Killarney National Park.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Depart hotel for a spectacular evening of Irish music, song and dance.

Day 10: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Ennis

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Old Ground Hotel

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Depart for Ennis in County Clare. Stopping at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

Lunch: Lunch in Bunratty.

Afternoon: Look around the model village of traditional farm houses and cottages at Bunratty Folk Park.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Evening of Limericks. Learn how to put together your very own Limerick!.

Day 11: The Medieval City of Galway, Ennis

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Old Ground Hotel

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Depart for the medieval city of Galway. Talk and Introduction to the City of the Tribesfollowed by a walking tour of this medieval city.

Lunch: Enroute

Afternoon: Grandparents enjoy free time in Galway while the children visit an Atlantic Ocean Aquatic Centre and Swimming Pool.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Day 12: Cliffs of Moher & the Burren, Banquet at Knappogue Castle, Ennis

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Old Ground Hotel

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Depart for an excursion to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Explore the Burren, a magnificent moonscape type terrain renowned all over the world for its rare flora and fauna. via the Poulnabrone Dolmen. Dating from between 3800 and 3200 B.C., Poulnabone is one of the finest examples of a portal dolmen in Ireland. Depart for the village of Bealaclugga

Lunch: En route.

Afternoon: Take a Ramble through the foothills of the Burren with an expert guide and storyteller. See the landscape and terrain of the Fairies. Learn about Fairy Forts, scary banshees and ancient Celtic customs .

Dinner: At Knappogue Castle you will be taken back in time to medieval Ireland, where you will enjoy an authentic medieval banquet with court jesters and entertainers!

Day 13: Ennis

Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Transfers to Shannon Airport for departure.

Day 1: US - Night on board

Arrive at your US departure airport ready to board a flight to Dublin, the Irish capital. Night on board.* * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Dublin

Arrive at Dublin airport, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel. Once settled, spend the rest of the day exploring the Irish capital at your leisure. Why not take a stroll along the banks of the River Liffey to admire the city's diverse architecture or head straight to the vibrant Temple Bar area to enjoy the cosy atmosphere of Dublin's best pubs and eateries. A number of venues in the area hold regular live music performances so be sure to catch one of these for an unforgettable start to your journey through Ireland. Overnight stay in Dublin.

Day 3: Dublin

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy a walking tour of Dublin. Explore the most emblematic sights and get to know the history of this wonderful capital. Pass by famous Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland and whose library is home to the legendary Book of Kells. Continue to the Temple Bar area, the cultural center of Dublin and home to colorful pubs which host live Irish music and dance performances. Learn the legend of the Ha’Penny Bridge over the River Liffey and stroll past Dublin Castle, the seat of British Rule in Ireland for over 700 years. Continue past Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland's largest church and named after the beloved patron Saint of Ireland. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy your last moments in Dublin at your leisure. Why not pay a visit to the Jameson Whiskey Distillery, or the famous Guinness Storehouse to learn all about the "black stuff". Overnight stay in Dublin.

Day 4: Dublin - Athlone - Galway

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the capital behind today as you travel to the town of Athlone, which sits on the River Shannon in the center of the county. Take a panoramic tour of Athlone to see its impressive 13th-century castle and historic streets. After some time at your leisure, continue to Galway a port city on Ireland’s west coast, where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the city center, learn about its history and explore Eyre Square, a popular meeting spot surrounded by shops and traditional pubs, many of which still offer traditional Irish folk music shows. Overnight stay in Galway.

Day 5: Galway - Connemmara - Galway

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart towards Connemara National Park, a beautiful cultural region, situated in County Galway. Connemara is known for its strong connection to traditional Irish culture and immaculate landscapes. Admire the rolling countryside, home to wild Connemara ponies. After a day of exploring the rich landscapes of rural Ireland, return to your hotel in Galway and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Galway.

Day 6: Galway - Limerick - Killarney

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover one of the most iconic landscapes in Ireland: the stunning Cliffs of Moher! Stretching along the coastline for around 14-kilometers, these dramatic sea cliffs overlook the wild waters of the Atlantic. Set off towards Country Kerry, stopping along the way in Limerick, one of the oldest and most important cities in Ireland, dating back to the 12th-century. Afterwards, continue to the southwest of Ireland and into County Kerry, home to the beautiful scenery of the Killarney National Park. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Kerry.

Day 7: Killarney - Ring of Kerry - County Cork

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the Ring of Kerry today, an area of immense natural beauty, glistening lakes and dramatic coastlines, home to incredible beaches and charming seaside villages. In the afternoon, head towards Cork, known as the culinary capital of Ireland and famed for its fantastic food market. It's also home to brilliant museums and art galleries and the legendary Shandon Bells. Overnight stay in County Cork.

Day 8: Cork - Kilkenny - Dublin

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the journey back to Dublin, stopping along the way at the medieval town of Kilkenny with its cobblestoned streets and imposing St. Canices Cathedral. After some time at your leisure, continue towards the capital. Arrive in Dublin and enjoy the evening at your leisure, hitting the bars or revisiting your favorite sights. Overnight stay in Dublin.

Day 9: Dublin - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight to Edinburgh. Arrive in Edinburgh and self-transfer* to the hotel. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is famed for its charming medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with neoclassical gardens and buildings. The rest of the day is free at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in Edinburgh. Please note: During the winter season, the itinerary may be affected. In this case, it is important to review the notes section before your departure. * You will have the option to add a transfer from the airport to your hotel in the next step of the booking process.

Day 10: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments on a panoramic walking tour of Edinburgh with a professional English-speaking guide, visiting the Grassmarket area of the city, the elegant Georgian New Town and the historic Old Town. Among its main attractions, there is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, St Giles Cathedral and The National Gallery of Scotland. Stroll along the majestic Royal Mile and visit Canongate. Take some free time in the afternoon to wander through the city's atmospheric streets at your leisure, browsing the shops or stopping for a warming 'dram' of whiskey in one of the local bars. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 11: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a full day at your leisure to continue discovering this amazing city. Why not take in the views from Carlton Hill or, if the weather is good, take a hike up Arthur's Seat for an unforgettable panorama of Edinburgh and beyond. Alternatively, Edinburgh is a paradise for shoppers, with plenty of quirky boutiques to explore. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 12: Edinburgh - Stirling - St Andrews - Aberdeen

After breakfast, meet your guide and depart towards Stirling. The castle played an important role during the Scottish independence wars and many will recognise it as it is featured in the 1995 film, Braveheart. Continue to St Andrews where to visit this picturesque town, known as the home of golf. Enjoy some free time to take in the sea views before continuing towards Aberdeen, stopping on the way to take pictures of beautiful Dunnottar Castle. Overnight stay in Aberdeen.

Day 13: Aberdeen - Castle Fraser - Cairngorms National Park - Aberdeen

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the city of Aberdeen on a guided Panoramic coach tour. Visit the area surrounding the Cairngorm Mountains, home to breathtaking scenery, typical of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy some free time at your disposal at lunchtime. In the afternoon, head to Speyside, famous for the whisky distilleries. Here, pay a visit to a local whisky distillery for a fascinating tour and tasting session. Afterwards, return to Aberdeen for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Aberdeen - Inverness - Aviemore

Breakfast at the hotel. Head west today as you depart on a guided coach journey towards Inverness. Along the route, admire the wild nature of the Highlands as you pass by spectacular landscapes of moorlands and glens. Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and enjoy a city tour. Afterwards, leave the city behind as you head to your hotel in the beautiful area of Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park. Overnight stay in the Aviemore area.

Day 15: Aviemore - Trossachs - Glasgow - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, depart south towards Glasgow via the beautiful Trossachs where you can admire the scenery and see the largest Loch in Scotland, Loch Lomond. On arrival in Glasgow, the second most important and largest city in Scotland, enjoy a panoramic tour and some free time to explore the city at your leisure. In the evening, return to Edinburgh to enjoy your final night in Scotland at your leisure. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 16: Edinburgh - US

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer** to the airport for a flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. ** You will have the option to add a transfer to the airport in the next step of the booking process.