Compare 14 Days The Story of Ireland & Scotland - Small Group Tour by STORY Land & Sea vs Wild West and North Tour by Overland Ireland

Day 1: International Flight Day: Bound for Ireland

Today is your flight date from North America, Canada, Australia or New Zealand - Your flight is not included, however we do have an air department that could provide you a quotation. You will cross the Atlantic Ocean tonight en-route to Europe.

Please Note: "Day 1" is the published tour date and is the date you will arrange your air travel to depart your home airport.

Your Small Group Tour will commence on Itinerary Day 2.

The Adventure Begins - The Story of Ireland

Day 2: Welcome to the Pearl of Ireland

Accommodation, 2 Nights

Deluxe: Dromoland Castle Hotel, Adare Manor, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, or Similar

Classic: Four Star Hotel, or Similar

Walking Level: Light, Leisurely Pace. Volume: Light

Upon arrival into Shannon Airport you will make your way to the hotel or opt for our arrival transfer.

Depending on your flight arrival time, you will check in to your hotel no later than 3pm. If you have arrived early, have no fears, you can drop your bags at our complimentary day room and then set off to wander Bunratty Folk Park - inquire with your Story Adventure Specialist for details.

Orientation Walkabout

STORY Exclusive: Welcome Reception

Once everyone is checked in enjoy our orientation walkabout and then enjoy a special experience at our property.

Story Way Dining

Enjoy our signature Welcome Dinner tonight with your Tour Captain (some itineraries will feature dinner in Bunratty).

Our approach to dining is truly unique: We've collected our favorite dishes from the incredible restaurants we visit for each included dinner. No buffets here! Your Tour Captain is there to make sure your dining experience goes smoothly. For the 5 total included dinners, your Tour Captain will select a variety of appetizers, featuring regional cuisine, and will select your wine for the evening ~ a variety of red and white wine from the region you're traveling ~ and yes, there is always an Irish or Scottish Pint available.

Irish Treasures: Cliffs of Moher | The Burren

Day 3: Rugged Coastal Beauty

Cliffs of Moher

After a wonderful Irish breakfast at the hotel, meet our driver and guide in the lobby as we set out to explore and experience the Cliffs of Moher, a sheer precipice that stretches for 5 miles along the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's western edge.

The Cliffs of Moher - The Cliffs of Moher rise to a height of 668 feet above the Atlantic and is one of the most impressive coastlines in Ireland. In nesting season the cliffs are home to a variety of seabirds.

The Burren

What is most realized upon entering The Burren is the silence. Tourism Ireland describes it this way, "It’s a silence as layered as the undulating landscape itself, filled with the riches of Irish history; of aeons of stories, told and untold. All around you is pale grey stone ribboned with crags and crevices; miniature cliffs spread like mosaics as far as the horizon; and a microcosm of Ireland’s wildlife thrives." We agree. Its a special place that makes the Story of Ireland that much more interesting.

We return to our hotel for a free evening. Perhaps join the Tour Captain into Bunratty tonight for an optional dinner or explore at your leisure.

To Killarney

Day 4: Muckross House | Killarney

Accommodation, 3 Nights

Deluxe: Killarney Plaza Hotel or Similar

Classic: 3+ to 4 Star Hotel or Similar

This morning we make our way bound for Killarney, but first we enjoy visiting a stop at a 19th century Victorian mansion by the name of Muckross House.

Muckross House

The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes. Originally built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife, the water-colorist Mary Balfour Herbert. The fourth house in a series of homes that were owned by generations of the Herbert family for almost two hundred years.

Story Way Dining: Join tonight for an included dinner with the Tour Captain in Killarney.

Blarney Castle & Woolen Mills

Day 5: Exploring Blarney Castle & Gardens

Today we head to Dublin with a stop at Blarney Castle, where you will have the chance to kiss the famous Stone of Eloquence (some call the gift of Gab) and time to pillage the adjacent woolen mills.

Situated about 5 miles from Cork City, this historic castle is most famous for its stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it.

In the grounds of the castle, the Rock Close, and its surroundings, is a curious place of ancient trees and far more ancient stones, by legend a garden of druidic origin and a center of worship in pre-Christian days. The place has an aura of magic and mystique with Wishing Steps, Witch's Kitchen, Druid's Cave and many other delights, telling a story of centuries past. Blarney Castle Estate offers visitors the chance to stroll in one of the country's most spectacular gardens. Blarney Castle & House are set in acres of parkland filled with rare and unusual trees and plants. There will be time for lunch and shopping at the nearby Blarney Woolen Mill's, the largest in Ireland.

Sightseeing includes:

Blarney Castle - The word “Blarney” was introduced into the English language by Queen Elizabeth I and is described as pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The stone is set in the wall below the battlements, and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards (grasping an iron railing) from the parapet walk.

Stone of Eloquence - The gift of 'gab' is just a castle's stairwell away from you if you dare!

We return to KIllarney for a night of leisure. Join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or enjoy exploring on your own.

Killarney

Day 6: Enjoy a Day at Leisure

Today, enjoy a complete day at leisure. May we suggest optional touring to the Ring of Kerry?

Tonight, join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or enjoy exploring at your leisure.

Journey to Dublin

Day 7: Welcome to Dublin.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation in Dublin, 2 Nights

Deluxe: Brooks Hotel, The Fitzwilliam or Similar

Classic: Drury Court or Similar

Included Dinner Tonight: Tonight's dinner is included in Dublin.

Today we head to Dublin with a stop at the Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick's Rock, is a historic site located at Cashel, County Tipperary, Irelandwith time for lunch on your own.

Our final destination this afternoon is Dublin. Upon arrival we will check in, freshen up and join the Tour Captain for a guided orientation walkabout of your Dublin surroundings.

Orientation Walkabout

As the capital of the Emerald Isle, Dublin is a beautiful destination filled with coffee shops, museums, and one shop called Peacock Green & Co. known for its specialty in tea. Oh! And don't forget the Queen of Tarts, whose delectable sweets are manifest in the many cakes available! Learn about these sites and more on your Orientation Walk with the Tour Captain. Then later enjoy Dinner in Dublin!

Exploring the Story of Dublin

Day 8: Trinity College, The Book of Kells, St. Patrick's Cathedral

After your full Irish breakfast this morning meet the Tour Captain and our expert local guide in the lobby to commence our walking tour exploring the city center. Enjoy an informed and fun perspective of life and history in Ireland’s capital.

The walking tour will begin at Trinity College Library where we include entrance fees to see the famous Book of Kells.

In the afternoon you may choose to visit Kilmainham Gaol, The Guinness Storehouse, The Dublin Writers Museum or any of the great museums and galleries.

Experience in Dublin Today:

Trinity College Library - Inspiration for movies and more.

Book of Kells

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Included admission and tour with our guide.

Enjoy our guided walking tour of the heart of Dublin.

Brazen Head Pub

Optional dining tonight with your Tour Captain or explore at leisure.

The Adventure Continues - The Story of Scotland

Day 9: Arrive Inverness, Scotland Airport

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation, 2 Nights

Deluxe: Ness Walk or Similar

Classic: Best Western Inverness Palace & Spa or Similar

Walking Level: Light, Leisurely Pace; Volume: Light

Included Dining: Welcome Dinner Tonight, the Story Way! Join your Tour Captain for a Welcome Dinner

We make our way to the airport in Dublin for a non-stop flight to the northern Scottish town of Inverness, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. Considered the 'cultural capital' of the Scottish Highlands, its Old Town features a 19th-century Inverness Cathedral, an 18th-century Old High Church and an indoor Victorian Market.

Upon arrival, enjoy an included lunch before we arrive our first treasure of Scotland: Culloden.

Scottish Treasures: Culloden

Culloden Battlefield

It's described as a "powerfully emotive and atmospheric battlefield where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end." We experience this fascinating site as we explore key areas where the action took place on Culloden Moor. We will also visit the memorial cairn around which lie the graves of 1,500 fallen Jacobite soldiers.

After a fascinating time learning about this amazing history, we make our way to our hotel, check-in and then have some time to relax.

Orientation Walkabout

Later before dinner join your Tour Captain for our Orientation Walkabout of Inverness.

Scottish Treasures: Loch Ness & Eilean Donan Castle

Day 10: The Loch Ness Mystery & Beautiful Castle

Loch Ness & Captain Edwards

This morning we make our way to Loch Ness and board Captain Edwards' craft, the Nessie Hunter, for a proper exploration of the lock. Learn about the mystery and the environment of this amazing loch. Captain Edwards has the deepest part of the loch named after him, Edwards Deep. See stunning Urquhart Castle from our boat before returning to shore.

Eilean Donan Castle

We make our way to a small tidal island where these three sea lochs meet: Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, and get to visit the picturesque castle that has been in photos, film and television shows in popular culture, Eilean Donan Castle. The name Eilean Donan means island of Donan and is likely named after a 6th century Irish Saint by the name of Bishop Donan. Several churches in the area are dedicated to Donan and it is likely that he developed a small community on the island during the late 7th century. A great treasure of Scotland indeed!

We return to Inverness later in the afternoon and then you are invited to our optional dinner in town or enjoy exploring at your leisure.

Tonight, join your Tour Captain for an optional dinner.

Journey to Edinburgh

Day 11: To Edinburgh with Blair Atholl

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation, 3 Nights

Deluxe: Radisson Blu Royal Mile Hotel or Similar

Classic: Ibis North Bridge or Similar

Included Dining: Join your Tour Captain for Welcome Dinner tonight.

This morning we make our way south with a stop at Blair Atholl.

Blair Atholl | Blair Castle

This village in Perthshire, Scotland, was built around the confluence of the Rivers Tilt and Garry in one of the few areas of flat land in the middle of the Grampian Mountains. Blair Castle stands in its grounds near the village of Blair Atholl in Perthshire in Scotland. It is the ancestral home of the Clan Murray, and was historically the seat of their chief, the Duke of Atholl. The current Duke is Bruce Murray who resides in South Africa.

Afterwards we complete today's journey arriving into the enchanting city of Edinburgh, our home for the next three nights.

We arrive our hotels, check in and enjoy some time to relax.

Orientation Walkabout

Later, join your Tour Captain for our Orientation Walk and learn where the major landmarks are located in relation to our hotels, the best ATM machines for exchange rates, and other helpful information for your stay.

Certain itineraries in August may feature the Edinburgh Military Tattoo tonight.

Day 12: Edinburgh and Stirling

After a full Scottish breakfast we enjoy a tour of of Edinburgh's highlights.

Edinburgh

Learn about Edinburgh Castle, the Grass Market area with it many famous pubs and eateries, and learn about the National Museum and National Galleries and the Royal Mile.

Our Tour of Edinburgh Includes:

Edinburgh Castle - Included admission and tour.

Walking Tour of the City - Enjoy our guided walking tour of the heart of Edinburgh.

Stirling Castle

Our visit would not be complete without a tour of Stirling Castle. We make our way to Stirling to enter the world of Scotland’s Renaissance kings and queens and discover a world of splendor. We learn of Sir William Wallace, the Braveheart legend, and Sir Robert the Bruce.

Stirling's strategic position along the River Forth between the lowlands and highlands has meant it's been coveted and fought over since the time of the Romans. Simply amazing!

Return to Edinburgh for a free evening. Join your Tour Captain for an optional dinner tonight or enjoy exploring at leisure.

Certain itineraries in August may feature the Edinburgh Military Tattoo tonight.

Edinburgh As You Wish

Days 13: Edinburgh at Leisure

Meals: Dinner

Included Dining: Enjoy an included farewell dinner tonight with your Tour Captain to top off our great journey together.

Enjoy a full day at leisure.

Optionals while in Edinburgh - Plan your day at leisure in Edinburgh

Included Dining: Enjoy an included farewell dinner tonight with your Tour Captain to top off our great journey together.

Certain itineraries in August may feature the Edinburgh Military Tattoo tonight.

Departure

Day 14: Or Extend in Edinburgh As You Wish!

Tour Ends after breakfast this morning or extend:

Opt for additional experiences or explore more of Edinburgh on your own.

Please inquire with Reservation about extensions and pricing.

Day 1: Sunday – Dublin to Belfast

Titanic Experience Belfast on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

We begin the first day of your adventure with a visit to the magical stone age passage tomb at Newgrange which is richly decorated by megalithic art. After exploring this Neolithic structure we will travel north to Belfast.

Next up this afternoon is the full Titanic experience at Titanic Belfast. This splendid interactive visitor centre was voted the world’s leading tourist attraction in 2016. Prepare to be moved by the wonderful stories told about the world’s most famous ship.

We will finish the day with an enthralling black cab tour of Belfast. This tour is optional but highly recommended. Alternatively, if you just need to take a breath and chill, you can spend some time exploring the city’s coolest pubs, shops and restaurants.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes

The Ultimate Tour of Ireland - Small Groups, Big Experiences on your Overland Ireland Ultimate Small Group Tour

Day 2: Monday – The Giant’s Causeway to Derry

Today will be both a test of mental strength and a celebration for your soul. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most anticipated features of this tour and it never disappoints. The Causeway Coastal Route is breath-taking and while crossing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge you will feel the exhilaration of the air beneath your feet while the anticipation builds.

Game of Thrones fans will have officially landed in their spiritual home as we take a sneak peak of one of its most famous filming locations, The Dark Hedges.

Our next stop is Londonderry, Northern Ireland’s second largest city, steeped in rich history. Explore the city by night and look forward to a tour of the walled city on day 3.

Total driving time: 3 hours

Carrick-a-Rede Bridge on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Traditional Music Sessions and Local Craft Beers on your Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 3: Tuesday – Derry to the Hills of Donegal

Londonderry on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Before leaving Derry, let our friends take you on a walking tour of the city. Understand the struggles of our past and the long road to current peaceful times in the North.

Now it is time to venture into the wild northwest – The hills of Donegal. We continue our exploration of Northern Ireland and embark on a magnificent drive over the Glengesh Pass, on to Maghera Beach and by Assaranca Waterfall.

One of our highlights today will be the stunning views and a walk along one of the highest cliffs in Europe – Slieve League which stands over 600m above the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Our accommodation tonight is in the picturesque village of Ardara, County Donegal.

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Comfortable Accommodation on your Overland Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 4: Wednesday – Westport to Connemara

Today’s road trip will take you through William Butler Yeat’s County – Sligo and down towards Ireland’s favourite town – Westport!

Our time in Westport begins with a wonderful walking tour of the town and a fabulous lunch to set yourself up for an unforgettable journey through Connemara National Park and the famous Famine Trail.

We will arrive at Kylemore Abbey in the heart of Connemara in the afternoon. You will have time to roam the abbey and Victorian Walled Garden on this 1000 acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake and the majestic Connemara National Park.

Stay in Clifden and discover some great bars, restaurants and nightly music and have a chat with the locals over a pint of the Black Stuff!

This year we have added the option of staying in Ballynahinch Castle!

Total driving time: 4 hours

Experience Westport on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

Your Fully Guided Overland Ireland Small Group Tour Lets You Meet Friendly Locals

Day 5: Thursday – The Aran Islands

Aran Islands on your Wild West and North Tour of Ireland

After a short drive cross country to Rossaveal Pier on Galway Bay we take the ferry to the Aran Islands. We will land on rugged Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands.

We explore the Island by bicycle or by special request jaunting. Our route will take in the stone fort of Dún Aonghasa, which lies 100m over the ocean before making our way back to the mainland. While you are there you might pick up a few words of “Gaelic” from the locals and maybe get an original Aran Sweater!

Our departure from Rossaveal is the start of our Galway adventure. We will hug the coastline into bustling bohemian Galway. Expect a great atmosphere, entertaining street performers and plenty of craic in this much celebrated town.

Total driving time: 2 hours

Its Your Holiday, Do It Your Way - Your Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Day 6: Friday – Galway to Dublin

Galway is a city that has its Medieval history at its very heart.

Now that you have a “feel” for Galway, our guide will take you down the narrow medieval streets where you can duck in and out of brightly coloured shops.

Try on Claddagh Rings, Galway shawls and pass through The Spanish Arch to take in the famous Claddagh fishing village.

Transportation is provided with the GoBus, a direct bus from Galway to Dublin city centre or Dublin Airport in case you need to catch a flight home.

Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes