Compare Stepping Stones in the Atlantic: The Hebrides, Faroes, Shetland & Orkney Islands by Road Scholar vs Ireland, Scotland & England in 18 days - Emerald Isle, Highland Discovery & London - CHARM by Exoticca

Day One: Flights Depart

Evening: Flights to Edinburgh, Scotland depart North America.

Day Two: Arrivals / Edinburgh, Scotland               

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor (or similar)

Arrive To: Flights arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland. Transfer to the program hotel. Check-in time at the hotel is at 3:00. Although we will try to secure an early check-in for participants arriving before 3:00, we cannot guarantee that there will be availability. Luggage storage will be available.

Afternoon: Gather for a warm welcome and introductions, followed by an orientation to the program. Review the schedule and any changes; discuss responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures and contact numbers for key staff; and answer any questions you may have.

Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel

Day Three: Edinburgh, Scotland - The Royal Mile             

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor (or similar)

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Depart the hotel this morning for an exploration of Edinburgh. Start the morning at Edinburgh Castle, perched above the city on Castle Rock. Continue exploring the sites along the Royal Mile ending at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore the local fare.

Afternoon: After lunch you will have some free time to independently explore the shops, restaurants, and sites of interest along the Royal Mile.

Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day Four: Edinburgh / Oban / Embark MV Sea Explorer

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Transfer by coach from Edinburgh to Oban. The driving time is approximately 3 hours, but the views through the Scottish highlands will be well worth it. There will also be rest stops along the way. Upon arrival in Oban visit Oban Distillery, to learn how traditional Scotch whiskey is produced from one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. Next, drive to the top of Battery Hill to McCraig's tower, with beautiful views of Oban Bay.

Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Arrive at the MV Sea Explorer. Embarkation begins at 4:00 PM.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Five: Migulay & Pabbay, Outer Hebrides    

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Explore the remote islands at the tip of the South Uist including Mingulay and Pabbay. Zodiacs will be used to explore and we hope to make some beach landings. Despite there being a continuous population on Mingulay for at least two thousand years, evacuation began in 1907 and the island was completely abandoned by its residents in 1912 and has remained abandoned ever since. The islands are also a nature reserve with important breeding populations of razorbills, guillemots, black guillemots, puffins, fulmars and shags.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Continue exploring Migulay and Pabbay.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Six: St. Kilda, Outer Hebrides           

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Arrive at first light in St. Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some fifty miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. The largest island, Hirta, once supported a population of over 200, but the last islanders left in the 1930s. The Medieval village has been restored by the National Trust for Scotland and offers a marvellous link with the past.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Borecay and Stac Lee as you sail to North Rona.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Seven: North Rona, Outer Hebrides              

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Spend the day around North Rona, an isolated island some fifty miles north of Cape Wrath. The last islanders left North Rona in 1844 and today it is home to thirteen species of breeding seabirds including large colonies of great black-backed gulls, great skuas and puffins. There is also a large population of grey seals which we hope to observe during a Zodiac cruise.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Continue exploring North Rona.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Eight: Torshavn, Faroe Islands          

Meals: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Enjoy a morning at sea before we arrive in the Faroe Islands at lunch time.

Brunch: Lunch on board the ship

Afternoon: From the berth in Torshavn, join a guided exploration over the hills to Kirkjubour the islands oldest cultural center where you will see the ruins of the 13th century St Magnus Cathedral and the 11th century church, still in use. Also visit the 900-year old "Roykstovan", the old bishopric, considered to be the oldest wooden house in Europe.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship

Day Nine: Mykines, Faroe Islands           

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Today we will use the Zodacis to explore the westernmost islands of the Faroes. One of the loveliest of the archipelago, Mykines is wonderfully green and its single village with bright turf roofed houses and turf streets is a delight. One of the best walks in the Faroes can be found here at "Lundaland" (land of the puffin) on the islet of Mtkinesholmur, which is connected to Mykines by a small bridge.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: This afternoon we hope to explore the huge caves of Vagar that have been created by the Atlantic Ocean as you sail back to Scotland.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship

Day Ten: Papa Stour & Foula, Scotland 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: This morning you will board Zodiacs to explore the stunning cliff scenery, sea stacks, arches, blowholes, and coastal cavers of Papa Stour.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship as you sail to Foula, one of Britain's most remote inhabited islands.

Afternoon: Apart from a narrow coastal strip of more fertile croftland, Foula is an expanse of peat and moorland rising steeply to five dramatic peaks. In the long midsummer days, Foula's wildflowers provide a glorious burst of color. The world's largest colony of Great Skuas compete fiercely with many Parasitic Jaegers for breeding territories.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Eleven: Lerwick & Mousa, Shetland Islands               

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: After breakfast discover the Shetland capital and begin your exploration of this historic port. Wander through the narrow stone lanes, and visit the excellent Shetland Museum, containing artifacts from shipwrecks and the whaling era.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Explore Mousa to see the forty-foot defensive tower built by the Picts more than 2000 years ago, and the tallest, best preserved example of an Iron Age broch (tower) in Britain.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Twelve: Fair Isle & North Ronaldsay, Orkney Islands             

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: This morning Sea Explorer will call at Fair Isle where you will be met with a warm welcome by the tiny population of sixty or so islanders. Enjoy a walk across the island, perhaps visiting the Bird Observatory, searching out the puffin slopes.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship

Afternoon: North Ronaldsay supports a rich and diverse population of wild flowers, mammals and birds. It lies on the migration crossroads with birds heading north towards Iceland, Greenland and Scandinavia whilst common and grey seals are numerous. Join the naturalists for guided walks cross the island including the lighthouse.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Thirteen: Kirkwall, Orkney Islands 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Explorer

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: This morning, head into the west of Mainland, Orkney's largest island. Pass through the gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. See the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years. Continue to the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae and see the remarkable dwellings revealed from beneath the sand dunes by storms only 150 years ago.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Continue exploring Kirkwall.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Day Fourteen: Aberdeen, Scotland / Disembark              

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Aberdeen City Centre (or similar)

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Disembark the ship this morning. Enjoy a morning exploration of Aberdeen

Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore the local fare.

Afternoon: Enjoy some free time to explore Aberdeen.

Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.

Day Fifteen: Departures              

Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Transfer to the airport for flights returning to North America.

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 - Connemara - 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 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.

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 - London

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the Waverly Station to take the train to London. Arrive in London and self-transfer* to the hotel. London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London has been an important human settlement since it was founded by the Romans originally named Londinium almost two millennia ago. London is a global city, one of the nerve centers in the arts, commerce, education, maintenance, fashion, finance, media, research, tourism and transport. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in London. *you will have the possibility to add a transfer from the train station to your hotel in the next step of the booking process.

Day 17: London

Breakfast at the hotel. See London from a different perspective today, with a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames! Take in the views of several of the capital's most emblematic riverside landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, Southbank and the London Eye and enjoy the fully-stocked bar to buy drinks and snacks as you listen to the entertaining onboard commentary! Afternoon free to enjoy the capital at your leisure. Overnight stay in London.

Day 18: London

Breakfast at the hotel. A free day to continue exploring the wonderful city of London at your leisure! Trend-setting visitors might enjoy a stroll through Shoreditch, home to art galleries, urban culture and unique boutique shops and eateries. On the other hand, Notting Hill is a must-visit, home to pretty pastel-coloured houses and antique shops. Art lovers will relish a visit to the Tate Modern whilst history buffs cannot miss out on a tour of the Tower of London! Overnight stay in London.

Day 19: London - 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 from your hotel to the airport in the next step of the booking process. Please contact our customer service if you require a transfer from an airport other than LGW or LHR. *** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in the US the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 20 days.