Compare Spectacular Scotland by SmarTours vs Castles & Kingdoms by Luxury Gold
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 11 days | 21 days |
| Price From | $ 2,799 | $ 14,612 |
| Price Per Day | $ 254 | $ 696 |
| Highlights |
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N/A
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Luxury |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | No |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
15 meals: 9 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners |
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| Description |
Spectacular Scotland features Edinburgh, one of the world’s finest capital cities, the historic Scottish Highlands, the enchanting Isle of Mull, and revitalized Glasgow. The rich history, sheer beauty, and famous Scottish hospitality all combine to create an amazing journey. Whether you’re looking to explore your Scottish roots, catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, or simply drink some fine Scotch, call now to book this trip of a lifetime! Space is limited! |
From London to Edinburgh and over the Irish Sea to Belfast and Killarney this adventure across Ireland and Great Britain pairs iconic sights with once in a lifetime experiences. Join the Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London and bear witness to the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military tradition in the world. In Northern Ireland, join a local ranger to explore the spectacular Giant’s Causeway and in England, journey to the majestic 11th-century Alnwick Castle—known to many from the Harry Potter films. On Founder’s Collection departures, meet her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland for a private tour of the castle gardens followed by a seasonal lunch. The Activity Level of this tour is Balanced, meaning there is 1 to 3 miles of walking per day which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs. |
Day 1: Depart USA.
Your unforgettable journey to Scotland begins as you depart this evening on your overnight flight to Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital.
Day 2: Arrive Edinburgh.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
Arrive in Edinburgh, one of the world’s finest capital cities and one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, where you’ll be greeted at the airport by your tour director. Described as “a dream in masonry and living rock”, Edinburgh is draped across a series of rocky hills overlooking the sea. A highly cultured and artistic city, Edinburgh is also described as the “Athens of the North”, a name inspired by the leaders of the Scottish Enlightenment. After departing the airport, visit the majestic, royal Linlithgow Palace. Despite now being roofless and largely ruined, Linlithgow Palace still inspires a sense of awe as you enter its gates. You’ll then continue to city center and enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent city, exploring the Royal Mile, the Princess Street Gardens, and Calton Hill, where you’ll savor a breathtaking view of the city. Transfer to your upscale, centrally-located hotel and enjoy an included welcome dinner later this evening. Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
Day 3: Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
After a sumptuous breakfast, embark on an exploration of two of Edinburgh’s main attractions. You’ll start with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a word-famous icon with a dominant position overlooking the capital city. Not only will you appreciate its obvious grandeur and marvelous views, but you’ll gain an appreciation for its rich history, as Edinburgh Castle has witnessed many of the defining moments of Scottish history. Continue to another highlight of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland. Blending natural history, art, design, science, and technology, there is truly something for everyone, and you’ll gain a greater appreciation for Scottish history. The rest of the day is at leisure in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Edinburgh.
Day 4: Edinburgh/Optional Castle Excursion to St. Andrews & Glamis.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Edinburgh, or join an optional excursion to two of Scotland’s most historic castles: St. Andrews Castle and Glamis Castle. Begin with a visit to St. Andrews Castle, where you’ll visit the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St. Andrews, dating back to the 13th century. A notable highlight includes the tunnels dug in the 16th century by Protestant reformers after they murdered Cardinal Beaton and took over the castle. A fascinating exhibition in the visitor center also helps bring this historic landmark to life. After enjoying some time at leisure in St. Andrews, you’ll continue to Glamis Castle, with its stunning architecture, beautiful surrounding grounds and gardens, and rich history filled with legends and myths. Home of the Lyon family since the 14th century, Glamis was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Glamis Castle also has a bit of a dark, haunted past as the place of King Malcom II’s murder in the 11th century and of Lady Janet Douglas’s burning at the stake for being a witch in 1540 by James V. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a round of golf in the game’s birthplace (Scotland), you may ask your tour director for tips as to how to secure a tee time. The evening is at leisure, or perhaps you’ll join an optional festive dinner with traditional Scottish entertainment at the Spirit of Scotland Show.
Day 5: Edinburgh/Aberfeldy.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Aberfeldy: Moness Resort
After breakfast, before heading north towards the Scottish Highlands, you’ll pay a visit to Glenkinchie Distillery, the home of “The Edinburgh Malt.” In the late 18th century, the surrounding area had an estimated four hundred illicit distilleries, and once the law was changed to permit licensed distilleries, many farmers jumped at the opportunity to get a license. Today, Glenkinchie is a model distillery, where you’ll see the production area, learn how the Scottish make their ‘water of life’, and then make your way to the bar for a tasting of the Glenkinchie Single Malt Whisky. En route to the Highlands, you’ll visit the Falkirk Wheel, a remarkable feat of modern engineering used to reconnect the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. You have to see it to fully comprehend it, but suffice it to say, it is the only rotating boat lift in the world and recognized as an inspirational 21st-century sculpture. Your next stop will be the magnificent Stirling Castle, which towers over several of Scotland’s most historic battlefields, including Stirling Bridge, the location of William Wallace’s victory over the English in 1297, and Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce also defeated the English in 1314. Stirling Castle is a symbol of Scottish independence and boasts impressive architecture that you’ll surely enjoy. Continue to Aberfeldy, a charming town in the Scottish Highlands set along the banks of the River Tay. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. Moness Resort Hotel
Day 6: The Heart of the Highlands – Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Aberfeldy: Moness Resort
Today, you’ll venture north into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, an awe-inspiring, beautiful region featuring famous battlefields and monuments. Your first stop on this day-long journey is, naturally, the famous Loch Ness, which has received global recognition for its celebrity resident: the sea monster Nessie. Keep an eye out for the elusive Nessie on your boat ride across the Loch Ness to visit Urquhart Castle, one of the largest castles in Scotland with a colorful history. Built in the early 13th century, this magnificent castle changed hands a few times before being abandoned in the late 17th century. The majority of the existing buildings were built in the 14th century and remain a sight to see. Continue to the Highland House of Fraser, located on the banks of the River Ness, where you’ll immerse yourself in the world of highland dress, often characterized by the tartan. Experience an exhibition that documents the fascinating history of the tartan with a bit of Scottish humor, and if you’ve seen the movie Braveheart, you may recognize a display of the highland dress worn by some of the actors. You’ll also get the opportunity to see the master kiltmakers at work. Later, return to Aberfeldy for an included dinner.
Day 7: Aberfeldy/Isle of Mull.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Isle of Mull: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa
After breakfast, depart the Highlands for the spectacular Isle of Mull, known for its rich cultural heritage and its beautiful beaches and bays. En route, visit Stanley Mills, an impressive 18-century water mill and one of the best-preserved relics of the Industrial Revolution. Explore the interactive visitor center that will give you great insight into those who worked at Stanley Mills and the the products they made that were sold around the world. Continue to Oban, where you’ll take a late afternoon ferry to the Isle of Mull. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
Day 8: Isle of Mull/Isle of Iona.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Isle of Mull: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa
This morning, take a short ferry to the enchanting, spiritual Isle of Iona. You’ll follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who have been coming to Iona since St. Columba’s arrival in the 6th century. Proceed to the magnificent, restored Iona Abbey that was founded by St. Columba in 563 AD and houses an impressive collection of over 180 medieval and religious carved stones. Nearby, the remains of the 13th-century Abbey Nunnery is a great place to relish the utter serenity of this special island. After returning to the Isle of Mull, enjoy a visit to Duart Castle, the 13th-century ancestral home of the Clan Maclean guarding the sea cliffs of the Isle of Mull. Perched atop a cliff on a peninsula with a unique view of several neighboring castles, Duart Castle was surrendered by the Macleans in the late 17th century before being repurchased by Sir Fitzroy Maclean in the early 20th century, who shouldered the important task of restoring the castle. Return to your hotel for an included dinner this evening.
Day 9: Isle of Mull/Glasgow.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Glasgow: Grand Central Hotel
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Isle of Mull and board a ferry to mainland Scotland. En route to Glasgow, the cultural capital of Scotland and its largest city, visit Inverawe Smokehouse, Scotland’s smoked food specialists. Here, after seeing how their specialties such as smoked salmon are prepared, you’ll have the opportunity to sample their product and judge for yourself their claim that they produce “the best smoked salmon you will ever taste.” En route to Glasgow, experience the fascinating Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, featuring 38 Birds of Prey. Relish the opportunity to see some rare and endangered species, as well as birds of all sizes, from the Little Owl to the female Golden Eagle. Watch the birds training or simply flying in the aviary compound and learn about the rescue facilities and disabled wild birds. Arrive in Glasgow, which blends art, architecture, nightlife, and shopping, where you’ll check in to your centrally located hotel. The evening is at leisure. Grand Central Hotel
Day 10: Glasgow.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Glasgow: Grand Central Hotel
Formerly an industrial city, Glasgow has undergone an economic and cultural renaissance since the mid 1980s, and today’s panoramic city tour will give you an excellent glimpse into this transformation. You’ll visit the Merchant City, the revamped riverbank (previously a dilapidated industrial area), the bohemian West End, and more. Next up is one of Scotland’s most popular attractions: the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. The architecture alone is a sight to see, and inside the beautiful building, the 22 themed, state-of-the-art galleries display a remarkable 8,000 objects. The art, the natural history, the arms and armour will all provide plenty to marvel at. The balance of the day is at leisure in Glasgow before your festive farewell dinner (with a glass of wine) at the iconic Corinthian Club.
Day 11: Depart Scotland/Arrive USA.
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Glasgow for your return flight to New York. Your memorable journey comes to an end as you arrive back in the USA later today.
Day 1: Welcome to London
Your UK luxury tour begins with a private chauffeur to your five-star hotel, Rubens at the Palace. Here you are welcomed with the royal treatment from their red tail-coated doormen. Tonight, enjoy sumptuous British fare at the English Grill Restaurant.
The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Dinner
Day 2: Traditions and Treasures of London
Hear the bells of Big Ben and admire the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Enter bustling Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus before visiting the Household Cavalry Museum. After the sun sets and London lights up, you’re treated to a private, after-hours tour of the Tower of London and the historic Ceremony of the Keys.
The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Breakfast
Day 3: Stonehenge and Georgian Bath Relaxed Start
Savor a Relaxed Start before standing in awe of mysterious Stonehenge, Britain's best-known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself further into British history as you travel to Bath. Stroll the streets lined with Georgian architecture feeling as though you’ve stepped into a classic English novel.
Francis Hotel, Bath.
Breakfast
Day 4: Explore Bath Relaxed Start
Personalise your day with a visit to the Jane Austen Center or visit the Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room, Britain’s only natural hot springs. Share the highlights of your morning over locally sourced dishes at the Michelin-starred Olive Tree restaurant.
Francis Hotel, Bath.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and York
Travel through a storybook of rolling hills in the Cotswolds toward Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and admire quaint Tudor cottages. Your day concludes in York where cobbled streets, classic tearooms and Gothic buildings lure you further into the past.
The Grand Hotel & Spa, York
Breakfast
Day 6: Medieval Wonders of York Relaxed Start
Step back into the Middle Ages in York joining an expert-led tour of the York Minster or a walk on the 13th-century city walls. Enter the stately Castle Howard through landscaped gardens before sitting down to a traditional English afternoon tea and private tour of the house.
The Grand Hotel & Spa, York
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: The Wild and Poetic Lake District
Let the beauty of the Lake District inspire you as you cruise shimmering Ullswater Lake, taking in some of the best views of this region. Later, check into the lovingly restored country house overlooking Lake Windermere.
Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Alnwick Castle
Discover majestic Alnwick Castle’s magnificent interiors with a Local Expert before exploring Edinburgh's beautiful, walkable city. Should you visit during August, witness The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the most spectacular military concerts and celebration of the history, heritage and colors of Scotland’s regiments.
Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Breakfast
Day 9: Highlights of Beautiful Edinburgh
Explore the grounds of Edinburgh’s “castle on the hill,” as your guide unlocks more than 900-years of history. Personalise your afternoon visiting the 17th-century Mary King's Close or with a stimulating whisky tasting. After a private performance from a former bagpiper to the Royals, a meal of fine dishes such as Scottish Border brisket of beef or poached fillet of sole, rounds off your final day.
Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Edinburgh to Belfast
Journey to your luxurious hotel in Belfast for a relaxing three-night stay in the heart of the city center. Pop up to The Observatory bar where glittering views stretch into the distance. Get to know the tastes of the town at a local restaurant.
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Highlights of Belfast
Visit the world-class Titanic Museum for a vivid picture of the past , before customising your time in Belfast. Step out with Local Expert and explore the City Hall, prestigious Queen's University and Parliament Building at Stormont or meet a local artist to discover Belfast’s progressive street art.
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Breakfast
Day 12: Giant's Causeway and Londonderry
Experience Northern Ireland's most spectacular geological wonder, the UNESCO Listed Giant's Causeway on a private tour with a Local Ranger. On arrival in Londonderry, Local Guide Ronan, one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, will captivate you with his deep knowledge of history and politics.
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Breakfast
Day 13: Strangford Lough and Vibrant Dublin Relaxed Start
Sweet aromas and a slow food ethos await at Tracey's Farmhouse. Explore the organic farm and learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before enjoying a farm-to-table lunch. Continue to Dublin for a tour of the city’s key sights including a tasting experience at the Guinness Storehouse, or tour Pearse Lyons Distillery and enjoy a whiskey tasting.
Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: A Truly Irish Experience
A visit to Trinity College unveils the 9th century Book of Kells. At a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, sip Prosecco with the museum founder Trevor White as he shares his local stories.
Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Glendalough to Kilkenny Relaxed Start
After a Relaxed Start, explore Glendalough, the "glen of two lakes" with a Local Expert. Stroll Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile linking Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. Your own historic residence, Lyrath Estate, is set within sprawling acres of lakes, gardens and woodlands.
Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.
Breakfast
Day 16: Banter in Blarney
See classic Ireland in Cashel, famous for its medieval structures including the spectacular Rock of Cashel. Visit Blarney Castle to take part in the legend of kissing the Blarney Stone. This evening join the locals at a home hosted dinner with entertainment and dancing.
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms)
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17: Scenic Ring of Kerry Relaxed Start
Journey into Killarney National Park, winding along the iconic Ring of Kerry. Travel back in time with a traditional jaunting car ride, enjoying views of Ireland's highest Mountain Range, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks. Explore the town of Kenmare before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the Park Hotel.
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms)
Breakfast
Day 18: Exploring Limerick Relaxed Start
Admire dramatic mountains and windswept sands along Dingle Peninsula. In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, castles and abbeys before continuing to Limerick to see the best of the city including St. Mary's Cathedral and Limerick's Treaty Stone.
The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 19: Regal County Mayo Relaxed Start
Breathtaking views continue through County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Your stay at the 5-star Ashford Castle begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to this estate, once home to the Guinness family. Tonight, savor specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.
Ashford Castle, Cong.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 20: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start
Indulge in another Relaxed Start with the option of breakfast in-bed room service. Get acquainted with elegant birds of prey at the oldest established falconry school in Ireland or delve into the Castle’s history on a guided historical tour. Then treat yourself to a spa or stroll the magnificent castle grounds. End the last full day of your Belfast to Shannon luxury tour dining in style at the esteemed George V Dining Room.
Ashford Castle, Cong.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 21: Depart Shannon
Conclude your travels in Ireland with a private transfer to Shannon Airport.
Breakfast
