Your location See the beauty of Ireland and Scotland with this luxury chauffeur driven trip over twelve days. Internationally acclaimed properties include impressive castles and regal, regency residences. Private visits and exclusive experiences will take you to some of the most famed locations of these two countries. Day One: Arrive on the Emerald Isle, Shannon International Airport Arrive on the west coast of Ireland and be welcomed by local chauffeur/guide who will accompany you on your trip. Head south to what can only be described as the picture postcard perfect place of Adare - thatched roof cottages, Tudor style houses, beautiful gardens and ivy clad medieval churches flank the river banks. Check into your accommodation for two nights, an 18 th century Manor House that was once once the family seat of the Earl of Dunraven. It is an architectural masterpiece of towers, turrets and stonework ornamentation surrounded by 840 acres of breathtaking gardens, majestic trees and fascinating ruins. Your State Room is spacious, elegant and truly luxurious. Take time to rest and later visit Limerick; this bustling modern city has a rich medieval past, which resounds around its ancient streets. Enjoy a guided visit at the renowned Hunt Museum, home to a diverse collection of antiquities and fine and decorative art; it is perhaps best known with its exceptional art collection including works from Picasso and Renoir. Enjoy drinks and a casual dinner in town before returning for overnight at Adare.
The Cliffs of Moher Day Two: Spectacular Scenery Cliffs and Crevices See two Special Protection Areas with private visits led by the Conservation Team. First see the giant lunar landscape of the Burren, famed for its ecological diversity, and nestled between the crevices, a remarkable collection of alpine, sub-tropical and arctic plants thrive. To follow, head to the Cliffs of Moher they are the crowning glory of the Co Clare coastline. Like a viewing platform for prehistoric giants who wish to peer over the edge of Europe, they provide an unrivalled view across the vast boiling wildness of the Atlantic Ocean: West: see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay North: see the Twelve Pins and the Maam Turk Mountains in Co Connemara South: see Loop Head and beyond to the Kerry mountains Learn of the history, geography and wildlife of this renowned stretch of coast that is best viewed as the light changes towards the end of the day before returning to Adare for second and final evening.
The Dingle Peninsula Day Three: Dolphins off the Dingle Peninsula An early departure recommended this morning as you head to town of Dingle on the peninsula of the same name. Thrust 30 miles into the Atlantic, it claims Ireland s most westerly point. This area has been voted by the National Geographic as 'the most beautiful place on earth'. The coastline consists of steep sea-cliffs broken by sandy beaches. It is also renowned for its wonderful wildlife; step on board your privately reserved boat for an eco-marine tour specialising in whale and dolphin watching. En-route travelling companions are likely to include Porpoises, Bottlenose Dolphins and both Minke and Orca Whales and beneath the breath-taking cliffs giant Basking Sharks are regularly spotted. Continue to your home for two evenings; a privately owned country house which is fortunate to be located in one of the most beautiful places in the world, situated in the bay of Kenmare, which is often said to be the Jewel on the Ring of Kerry. Condé Nast awardwinning property offers fine views of cascading waterfalls and also the magnificent McGillicuddy Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland. Dine in either the elegant La Cascade Restaurant or the more casual Oscar's Bistro and perhaps to follow, head to the Cocktail Bar, which radiates a warm club like atmosphere. Here, sample one of their fine whiskies they boast one of the most comprehensive lists in the country.
Relax at Muckross Day Four: The Iveragh Peninsula and Killarney National Park Today see one of Ireland s most noted sites as you follow the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula or the Ring of Kerry as it s more commonly known rugged coastal scenery, offering spectacular photo opportunities and the chance to visit many picturesque villages along the way. Visit the 25,000 acre Killarney National Park; a bewitching place of intense beauty mountains raise a jagged edge to the sky while at their feet rest three still lakes. Explore magnificent Muckross House with a private guided visit and learn of the how the landed gentry lived upstairs in the elegantly furnished rooms, while downstairs in the basement tells the story of the working conditions of the servants. The gardens are renowned, with much work having been done in preparation for the visit of Queen Victoria in 1861. Get a different view of the Park as you sit back and relax in a cart, pulled by a pony. Return for second and final evening at Sheen Falls.
Colourful Cobh Day Five: Cork and the Coast Head to Cork and see the harbour with the three islands joined by bridges and Cobh (pronounced cove, which is simply the Irish for haven) on Great Island. See Saint Fin Barres Cathedral, designed by William Burgess in 1862 it is described as the most complete example of neo-gothic architecture in Western Europe and also the English Market, which has been trading since 1788. Visit the authentic Jameson s Whiskey Distillery and enjoy a guided tour and learn the art of triple-distilling, one of Ireland s most popular exports before a tasting, prior to departure. Onto your home for one evening; Mount Juliet, where the style is best described as 18 th century, classical Georgian. Fine pieces of furniture, architecture and art are evident throughout, reflecting this quite glorious period in history. For exceptional Irish cuisine, dine in the grand setting of Lady Helen s, the signature restaurant.
The Regency Splendour of Ballyfin Day Six: Regency Splendour at Ballyfin Travel direct to your final stop, which only opened its doors last year 2011 following eight years of restoration and today, it is certainly the most lavish of properties in the country. A regency mansion house with classical grandeur, set in sprawling grounds of lakes and rolling hills and staying here is like staying in a private home on a fully inclusive basis the property only has fifteen rooms, each impeccably furnished. Start with a leisurely lunch and thereafter try one of the recreational pursuits on offer. Enjoy a leisurely boat trip or meet with the Estate Ghillie and try your hand at coarse fishing. Take aim and try clay pigeon shooting. See some of the estate from either horseback or take a step back in time and sit back as a pony and trap takes you around or experience the beauty and elegance of majestic birds of prey which often include Eagles, Hawks, Falcons and Owls in full flight they are spectacular. Head to the cellar accompanied by the Resident Sommelier and select your wine so that your wine so that is perfectly decanted and ready for dinner served in the State Dining Room. They even offer a laundry and pressing service, ideal before you head to Scotland for the second phase of your trip.
Your Highland location Day Seven: Country to Country Head to Dublin for city tour - visit Trinity College, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1. It houses the Book of Kells, possibly one of the most priceless manuscripts and certainly the most richly decorated of Ireland s medieval manuscripts. See the splendour of the Georgian architecture and also See St Patricks Cathedral, which is also Ireland s largest church. Take the short flight to Glasgow and be welcomed by chauffeur/guide who will accompany you around Scotland. Travel along the shores of Loch Lomond heading north to your first property which is perfectly positioned in the foothills of mighty and spectacular Ben Nevis, Scotland s highest mountain. Indeed in 1873, Queen Victoria spent a week here sketching and painting where she wrote in her diaries 'I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot'. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Drawing Room before dinner the menu features modern British cuisine which is internationally recognised and has been awarded 3AA rosettes and a respected Michelin star. Without a doubt, a most fitting start to your trip in Scotland. This evening, dine in the Balmorals Number One for an exceptional culinary experience. Head Chef, Jeff Bland is described as being a trendsetter and offers clients the very best of inventive gourmet food.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Day Eight: Steam to Skye Step on board what has justifiably been described as one of the world s great train journeys. Travel over the arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, following a route along one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline, called the Silver Sands of Morar. On a clear day, you can see the enchanting Small Isles of Muck, Eigg and Rum. Take the short ferry crossing and arrive on the Isle of Skye, unquestionably the most popular isle of the Inner Hebrides it was voted by the National Geographic as one of the world s top five islands. Rich in its history and romance, it is famed for its natural beauty, traditional charm, breath-taking scenery and wildlife. A short journey to what is affectionately called Lady Claire MacDonald s, which was cited as one of the world's top 25 small hotels in Condé Nast Traveller magazine. Charming, cosy and discreetly luxurious - stay nights in a spacious King Double, with views across the water.
The Storr Day Nine: Simply Spectacular Skye Your Way Spend the day your way; visit the capital which was the setting for Bonnie Price Charlie s last days in Scotland. The harbour is particularly pretty with colourful buildings and boats. See The Storr; a rocky hill on the Trotternish peninsula, overlooking the Sound of Rassay; a walk around the gentler grassy slopes is well worth it. Visit the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, which is also the stronghold of the Chiefs of Macleod for nearly 800 years. Enjoy lunch housed within the bare stone walls of an original crofter s cottage around 120 years old. Perhaps, winner of more accolades than it s possible to mention, they offer the very best dining experience. Visit the home and the 20,000 Highland Estate of the Clan Donald, which is one of the most romantic places in Scotland. Situated on the banks of Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins in the background, head to the only Distillery on the island and enjoy tour and tasting of what we affectionately call the water of life. Since 1831, they have been producing a peaty malt today the 10YRO is described as brilliant gold in colour with a rich dried-fruit sweetness and strong barley-malt flavours on the palate. See the famed Red and Black Cuillins, the mountainous jagged peaks that dominate so much of the landscape and along the coast, Seals, Otters, Porpoises, Basking Sharks are commonly spotted with diving birds such as Sea Eagles, Greylag Geese, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Cormorants all likely to make a splash. Return for final night at Lady Claire s.
Loch Ness Day Ten: Return to the mainland Travel over the might bridge and return to the mainland. Stop at Eilean Donan Castlesituated on a small island, where three great sea lochs meet, it is now very much an iconic image of Scotland. Head east and arrive on the shores of perhaps Scotland s most famous stretch of water, Loch Ness which is an impressive 23 miles in length and a mile in width. With a seafood buffet lunch included, there can be no better way to see the water than from on board a luxury motor cruiser, which with a capacity for just 6 guests, would be reserved exclusively for your guests. See the hugely photogenic remains of Castle Urquhart. Dating back to the 13 th century it was a critical stronghold in the highlands, however its chequered history came to a dramatic end in 1692 when it was blown up to stop it falling into Jacobite hands. Maybe during your trip, you may even get a glance of the elusive resident Take a brief walk on the emotive battlefields at Culloden the site of the infamous battle in 1746, where in less than 60 minutes, the Jacobites of Scotland lost to the armies of the English throne. Check into your accommodation for one evening, described as the most beautiful Regency House in Scotland. It is a winner of many accolades in particular for dining. The Chef has a highly coveted Michelin Star and 4 AA Rosettes, which puts him firmly in the top four restaurants in Scotland and one of the most notable in Britain.
The ancient seat of the Dukes of Atholl Day Eleven: The Highlands to the Lowlands and the Capital Head south and stop at the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl and here enjoy a private guided visit in particular learning more in particular of Queen Victoria s fondness for house and her firm friendship with Duchess Anne. Thereafter, to Scotland s highest working distillery, for a VIP Visit; following a guided tour, enjoy a Taste of Dalwhinnie Experience reserved privately for your guests - three specially selected whiskies such as the Distiller s Edition, Single Cask and the 15YRO, which is described as elegant, smooth and medium-bodied will all be appraised, under the guidance of the Distillery Curator. Continue south seeing the change as the Highlands give way to the Lowlands and arrive in Scotland s capital city, Edinburgh. Take in a panoramic tour and see in particular the Georgian New Town characterised by its striking architecture. It is restrained, elegant and ordered with formal gardens and statues and thus provides a splendid foil to the famed Old Town. Check into the stylish and contemporary 5* Balmoral, perhaps the flagship property of the luxury Rocco Forte Collection. While many Edinburgh hotels claim to have Edinburgh's landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their doorstep is a landmark.
Former Royal Yacht Britannia Day Twelve: Iconic Edinburgh Spend your final day accompanied by local guide - Edinburgh s Old Town - a UNESCO World Heritage Site is best explored on foot. Visit the Castle, sitting high above the city on its volcanic rock with highlights starting as soon as you step on the Esplanade. Perhaps take lunch in what is often said to be the most atmospheric and wonderful dining destination in the city, located in an historic 16 th century building. Now in its fourth decade, it is a dining landmark, much loved by loyal locals, its celebrity fans and visitors alike. See the narrow closes and cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, arguably one of the most famous streets in the world and at the foot, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, HM The Queen s official residence when in Scotland. A short journey takes you to the water front, home to the former Royal Yacht Britannia, who served the Royal Family for over 40 years. Furnished to HM, The Queen s personal taste, each room was filled with photographs of her children, treasured family heirlooms, much-loved personal possessions and gifts from across the globe. Even with its full complement of around 300 Royal Yachtsmen and Royal Household staff, HM, the Queen named as the one place where she could truly relax. Day Thirteen: Homeward bound Spend time final sight-seeing or shopping for souvenirs and gifts before departing with chauffeur for Edinburgh Airport and onward journey. End of Services