Legends of Ireland and Scotland 12 Day Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Céad Míle Fáilte – An Introduction to Monks, Music, and the Magic of Galway
2 stops
1
Begin your journey at Dublin Airport, where our welcoming team greets you at the Bus Park, Zone 16, ensuring a smooth start to this legendary 12 day tour of Ireland and Scotland. Settle in as you travel west through ever-changing countryside, passing rolling farmland and timeless rural landscapes enroute to Clonmacnoise Monastery. Founded in the 6th century on the tranquil banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites. Wander among its remarkable round towers, cathedral ruins, and intricately carved Celtic high crosses, each telling stories of faith, learning, and resilience. The serene atmosphere offers a powerful glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual and scholarly heritage, where history and devotion linger in every stone.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
2
Galway
Continue onward to the vibrant City of Tribes—Galway—renowned for its artistic soul and lively Atlantic energy. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour that brings the city’s character to life. Stroll through Eyre Square, admire the historic Spanish Arch, and weave through narrow medieval streets alive with color, creativity, and centuries of stories. From street performers to traditional shopfronts, Galway captures the heart of Ireland’s west coast like nowhere else. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Walk along the Salthill Promenade as the sun sets over Galway Bay, browse independent boutiques and craft shops, or immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Irish music spilling from cozy pubs. After a memorable evening, unwind during a comfortable overnight stay in Galway, refreshed and ready for the adventures ahead.
4 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Connemara’s Wild Beauty and Sligo’s Poetic Charm
2 stops
3
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Leaving Galway we journey into the wild raw beauty of Connemara's misty mountains, shimmering lakes, and winding rivers, with rugged peaks of the Twelve Bens rising on the horizon. Nestled beside a tranquil lake and framed by it's mist-draped hills we arrive at the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Originally built as a romantic 19th-century castle, the estate later became a Benedictine monastery, adding layers of spiritual and cultural significance. Explore the beautifully restored rooms, each revealing insights into its fascinating past, and admire the graceful architecture mirrored in the still waters below. Wander through the Victorian walled gardens, where vibrant flowerbeds, glasshouses, and quiet pathways create a haven of calm and contemplation. The surroundings invite reflection, making Kylemore one of Ireland’s most moving and memorable landmarks.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
4
Continuing north, the scenery grows even more dramatic. Rolling hills, rugged stone walls, sparkling lakes, and timeless villages stretch along your route, each bend in the road offering a new, postcard-perfect view. By early evening, arrive in Sligo, a town of myth, legend, and literary greatness. Known as the inspiration for W.B. Yeats—Nobel Prize winner and widely regarded as one of the most remarkable poets of the 20th century—Sligo’s wild Atlantic coastline and striking mountain landscapes left an indelible mark on his work. Walking in Yeats’ footsteps, you feel the same sense of drama and mystery that shaped his poetry, where windswept beaches, rugged hills, and shimmering lakes become vessels for imagination, reflection, and artistic brilliance. Settle in and unwind, allowing the spirit of Sligo and its poetic legacy to linger as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
The Land of Chieftains, Castles, and Dramatic Cliffs
4 stops
5
Donegal Castle
Depart Sligo and travel north into the dramatic landscapes of County Donegal, one of Ireland’s most remote and unspoiled regions. Step back in time at Donegal Castle, a striking 15th-century stronghold that once served as the seat of the mighty O’Donnell chieftains of the North, rulers renowned for their power, courage, and influence across Ulster. Its walls and towers bear witness to centuries of political intrigue, fierce battles, and Gaelic resilience, standing as a testament to a turbulent era when clan loyalties and dynastic rivalries shaped the destiny of the region. Wander through the castle’s restored rooms and ramparts, imagining the lives of lords and ladies, strategists and warriors, whose decisions here once echoed across the north of Ireland. Every stone tells a story of strength, ambition, and survival—a living monument to the legacy of Ireland’s most formidable chieftains.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
6
Step into the world of Triona Design in Donegal Town, a living celebration of the county’s rich weaving heritage. Here, you’ll witness a weaving demonstration, seeing skilled artisans transform local Donegal wool into exquisite fabrics that have long defined this region. Weaving has been synonymous with Donegal for centuries, with fabrics once exported as far afield as Bellona and Florence in the 11th century, a testament to the enduring quality and global reputation of Irish craftsmanship. Triona Design continues this tradition today, creating contemporary clothing and accessories that blend heritage with modern style. Their designs have attracted a discerning international clientele, including the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker and other fashion icons, making each piece a unique story of culture, craft, and style.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
7
Sliabh Liag Cliff Experience & Visitor Centre
Continue along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal routes, as the scenery grows increasingly rugged and dramatic. Passing through the bustling fishing town of Killybegs, Ireland’s largest port, watch the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and breathe in the salty, pure Atlantic air. The journey reaches its awe-inspiring climax at Sliabh Liag, home to Europe’s highest accessible sea cliffs. Here, sheer rock faces drop dramatically into the roaring Atlantic, sending spray and wind across the cliffs in a sensory spectacle. Stand on the edge and feel the raw power of the ocean, the wind whipping your hair, as waves thunder below and seabirds wheel overhead. It’s a place of sublime beauty and primal energy on the edge of the world —a breathtaking meeting of land, sea, and sky that leaves an unforgettable impression and embodies the wild, untamed spirit of Donegal.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
8
Travel onward into Gweedore, a vibrant Gaeltacht region where Irish is spoken daily and cultural traditions thrive. Surrounded by rugged mountains and open ocean, this area represents the heart of Ireland’s cultural identity. Settle in for an evening enriched by a special dining experience at the renowned Leo’s Tavern, a true icon of Irish music and the legendary birthplace of Clannad and Enya. From this humble Donegal setting emerged pioneers of Celtic and ambient music whose recordings have sold tens of millions of albums worldwide, influencing generations of artists and bringing the sound of Ireland to a global audience. Within these walls, traditional roots met innovation, shaping a musical legacy that redefined Irish music on the world stage. As you dine, soak in an atmosphere where music, heritage, and storytelling still resonate—an unforgettable evening in a place where modern Irish musical history was born.
3 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 4
A Curated Journey of Wild Nature, Complete With Mountain Dew
3 stops
9
Glenveagh National Park
Begin the day immersed in the splendor of Glenveagh National Park, a vast wilderness where rolling mountains, glassy lakes, and wide-open skies stretch endlessly. At the heart of the park stands Glenveagh Castle, a romantic 19th-century retreat set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Stroll through its lush gardens, where vibrant plantings soften the rugged terrain, creating a peaceful sanctuary. Together, castle and countryside capture the raw yet refined beauty that defines Ireland’s wild spirit.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
10
Wild Atlantic Way
Leaving Glenveagh, we travel along the Wild Atlantic Way, passing the coastal villages of Creeslough, Dunfanaghy, Falcarragh, Gortahork, and Magheroarty. Along the route, encounter the Mass Rock, remnants of the old railway line and viaduct, and the stark reminder of the former workhouse. Rugged boglands stretch to the horizon, opening onto dramatic Atlantic views, with Tory Island amongst others visible offshore—a journey through wild landscapes, rich history, and the raw beauty of Donegal’s coast.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Crolly Distillery, Visitors' Experience
We then visit Crolly Distillery, a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of Errigal Mountain. This boutique distillery uses the traditional direct flame method of distillation, a rare and labour-intensive process producing richer, more characterful spirits. Set in a restored historic building, it draws on pure mountain water and generations of craftsmanship. Crolly Distillery also celebrates the origins of uisce beatha, first distilled in Western Europe by Coptic monks associated with St Colmcille in the 6th century. Today, it blends ancient tradition with modern skill, creating spirits deeply rooted in Donegal’s landscape and heritage.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Walk the Walls In the Footstep of Giants
3 stops
12
Today we bid farewell to Donegal, one of Ireland’s most spectacular counties, and journey to Derry, a city where past and present intertwine on every street and stone. Step onto the remarkably preserved city walls, encircling the city like a fortress frozen in time, and enjoy sweeping views of the River Foyle and the streets below. Walking these ancient ramparts, you feel the weight of centuries—each weathered stone whispering stories of resilience, conflict and triumph. Below, Derry’s vibrant streets burst with color and life, from lively markets and a thriving arts scene to the familiar locations made famous by the hit television series Derry Girls, which brought the city’s sharp wit, warmth, and unmistakable spirit to a global audience. As you stroll through the city, you’ll see how history, humour, and creativity have shaped not only Derry’s identity, but the resilient and welcoming spirit of its people.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
Dunluce Castle
Travel along the breathtaking Antrim coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic. Perched dramatically above the crashing waves, Dunluce Castle emerges for a memorable photostop, its weathered ruins standing as a testament to centuries of romance, intrigue, and fierce battles. The castle’s dramatic setting also caught the eye of modern storytellers, featuring in Game of Thrones, where its wild, windswept presence helped bring fantasy to life. With the ocean roaring below, Dunluce is haunting, majestic, and unforgettable—a place where history, legend, and cinematic drama collide.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Giant's Causeway
Continue through the quaint village of Bushmills, home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, before arriving at the Giants Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches thousands of interlocking basalt columns into the sea, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and steeped in legend—said to have been built by the giant Finn McCool. Walk among these natural marvels, feel the power of the earth, and hear whispers of ancient tales carried on the wind. Conclude the day with an evening in Belfast.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Titanic Memories and the Dublin Farewell
3 stops
15
Titanic Belfast
After breakfast, we visit Titanic Belfast, an awe-inspiring monument to ambition, innovation, and human spirit. Rising from the historic docklands, its striking architecture evokes the hulls of the very ships built here. Inside, interactive galleries, evocative exhibitions, and immersive storytelling bring the Titanic’s story to life—from her conception in Belfast’s shipyards to her tragic maiden voyage and enduring legacy. Feel the pulse of innovation, hear the voices of those who built her, and step onto recreated decks where dreams and determination once set sail. Titanic Belfast is more than a museum; it is a journey through history, engineering, and emotion, leaving every visitor inspired.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
16
We then embark on a guided political tour, delving into Belfast’s complex and moving history. Visit the Falls Road and Shankill neighborhoods, adorned with vivid murals that tell stories of struggle, resilience, hope, and community. Learn how ordinary people shaped the city’s narrative, and gain insight into the social, political, and cultural forces that continue to mold Belfast’s vibrant present and hopeful future.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
17
Belfast
You will now have some free time to explore the heart of Belfast City Centre. Take a leisurely stroll along the bustling streets, discover a variety of shops and boutiques, and admire the stunning architecture of the City Hall. Whether you want to stop for a coffee, take photos, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, this is your chance to experience the city at your own pace before having dinner.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
From Ireland to Scotland - We Meet Our Celtic Cousins
3 stops
18
After breakfast we make the short journey to Belfast docks. Here you board the Stena ferry for a 2.5-hour sailing across the Irish Sea — a crossing made for centuries by Irish emigrants, traders, and travellers seeking new beginnings. As the ship glides onward, you follow in the footsteps of those who once journeyed between these shores, linking Ireland and Scotland, Celtic cousins bound by shared history, language, music, and tradition. Stand on deck, breathe in the sea air, and watch Ireland slowly fade behind you as Scotland’s rugged outline appears ahead — not just a crossing of water, but a passage through time, heritage, and story.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
19
Back on land, Scotland begins to unfold in all its charm. Our journey takes you through Ayr, a charming coastal town famed as the birthplace of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. Rolling hills, farmland, and glimpses of the Firth of Clyde hint at the wild beauty ahead as your guide brings the landscape to life with stories, history, and local lore. Short scenic stops give you a chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the crisp Scottish air, and capture your first photos of a country you’ll soon fall in love with.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
20
By evening, you arrive in Dumbarton, set on the edge of the legendary Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where a warm hotel welcome and a hearty Scottish meal await. There’s a shared sense of achievement — borders crossed, seas sailed, and legends begun. With Loch Lomond’s calm waters and storied shores nearby, the spirit of Scotland is already tangible. Rest well tonight… tomorrow, the Highlands truly call.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Into the Highlands: Where Mountain Legends Echo
3 stops
21
Glencoe
After breakfast, the scenery shifts dramatically. Roads narrow, valleys deepen, and mountains rise until suddenly you are in Glencoe — a place that doesn’t just impress, it moves you.Towering peaks loom overhead, mist drifts through the glen, and the silence feels powerful. Carefully chosen photo stops allow you to step out and truly take it in — the scale, the beauty, the emotion. This is one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, and standing here, you’ll understand why it stays with people forever.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
22
At the Glencoe visitor Centre, the mountains truly find their voices. Here, the raw beauty of the landscape is matched by powerful human stories of clan life, loyalty, survival, and loss. Learn about the infamous Massacre of Glencoe, a chilling tale of betrayal carried out under the guise of hospitality—one that forever shaped Highland history. Through evocative exhibits and storytelling, you come to understand the resilience of the people who lived and endured here. It’s emotional, immersive, and unforgettable, adding depth and meaning to every peak and pass you’ve just experienced
2 hours • Admission ticket included
23
The day continues to Fort William, nestled beneath mighty Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain and a commanding presence that defines the landscape. As you arrive, the scale of the Highlands truly sinks in—towering peaks, open skies, and a sense of space that feels both humbling and invigorating. After dinner, the evening is yours to enjoy at an easy pace. Take a gentle stroll through the town as the mountains glow in the fading light, breathe in the cool Highland air, or step into a traditional pub where fires flicker, stories are shared, and friendly locals welcome you like an old friend. It’s a moment to unwind, reflect on the day’s discoveries, and fully embrace the genuine warmth and spirit of Highland life
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Loch Ness, Legends & Highland Cows (COOS!!)
3 stops
24
Loch Ness
This morning brings one of Scotland’s most iconic and unforgettable experiences — a cruise on the legendary Loch Ness. As your boat glides across its deep, mysterious waters, the rugged shoreline reveals ancient, weathered castles standing as silent witnesses to centuries of history. Reflections shimmer across the loch’s dark surface, while the fresh Highland air fills your lungs, carrying the scent of pine and water. The atmosphere is charged with mystery and anticipation, and yes — everyone keeps a hopeful, excited eye out for Nessie, the loch’s most famous resident. Every moment here feels cinematic, timeless, and utterly Scottish.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
25
Then comes a moment of pure Highland charm and joy. At Farm Ness, you’ll meet Scotland’s iconic Highland cows—shaggy, gentle, and impossibly endearing. Their curious eyes and soft, tousled coats invite smiles, laughter, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s one of those lighthearted, shared experiences that instantly bonds a group, leaving everyone with warm memories and stories to tell long after the day ends.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
26
Inverness
In Inverness, often called the gateway to the Highlands, history and modern life blend seamlessly. Explore the Museum and Art Gallery, where fascinating exhibits reveal the stories of local clans, Highland culture, and the people who shaped this rugged region. Stroll along the River Ness, where swans glide past and charming bridges frame the water’s gentle flow, or wander the cobbled streets of the city centre, alive with independent shops, cosy cafés, and traditional pubs brimming with character. Don’t miss the chance to admire Inverness Castle from the riverside or the hilltop vantage points, offering sweeping views across the city and the surrounding Highlands. By evening, the journey continues to Nairn, a charming seaside town, where sandy beaches, rolling waves, and the peaceful Atlantic set the perfect scene for reflection and relaxation.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Castles, Clans & a Dram of Golden Whisky
3 stops
27
In the morning we bring Scotland’s noble past to life at Blair Castle, a remarkable fortress that has been the ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl for over 700 years. Wander through its grand halls and opulent rooms, filled with portraits, tapestries, and treasures that tell stories of powerful clans, royal visits, and historic events. Step outside into the manicured gardens and enchanting woodland paths, where every turn feels like a page from a storybook. Fascinatingly, Blair Castle is also home to the only private army in Europe—the Atholl Highlanders—a living reminder of Scotland’s traditions and enduring spirit. Here, history isn’t just seen; it’s tangible, alive, and unforgettable.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
28
Next, discover Scotland’s most famous creation at a famous local whisky distillery, where centuries of craftsmanship transform crystal-clear Highland water into the famed “water of life.” Learn the fascinating secrets of the distillation process, from hand-selected barley to copper pot stills, and hear stories of generations who perfected their art. Smell the rich aromas of malt and oak, and enjoy a warming taste that captures the spirit, landscape, and history of the Highlands in a single sip. For whisky lovers, it’s not just a tasting—it’s a deep dive into Scotland’s heritage, culture, and passion.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
29
By evening, you arrive in beautiful Perthshire, often called “Big Tree Country” for its lush forests, sparkling rivers, and rolling hills that have inspired artists and writers for centuries. This region is also steeped in history, from ancient castles and stately homes to charming market towns like Perth, known as the “Gateway to the Highlands.” Settle into your hotel for dinner and relaxation, and perhaps take a brief stroll through the surrounding countryside, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the gentle rustle of leaves—a moment to reflect on a day that has perfectly blended culture, flavour, and the serene beauty of Scotland’s heartland.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 11
Icons of Scotland: St Andrews & Edinburgh
3 stops
30
St. Andrews
Walk in legends this morning in St Andrews — a town where history, tradition, and natural beauty collide. Known worldwide as the birthplace of golf and home to one of Scotland’s oldest universities, the streets are alive with centuries of stories. Stroll beside the famed Old Course, imagine champions teeing off where the sport began, explore the majestic ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, or follow the windswept coastal paths where waves crash against the cliffs. It’s a place that feels both timeless and vibrant, full of energy, history, and character.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
31
Edinburgh Castle
Then comes Edinburgh — dramatic, commanding, and utterly captivating. We visit Edinburgh Castle, which rises above the city, a fortress of stone and story that dominates the skyline. From its ramparts, take in sweeping views across rooftops, spires, and rolling hills that stretch toward the horizon. Inside, wander through grand halls and dungeons where tales of kings, queens, battles, and sieges bring Scotland’s turbulent history vividly to life. Fascinatingly, the castle also houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny, the ancient symbol used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs — tangible links to more than a millennium of royal tradition and pageantry.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
32
As twilight descends over the Highlands, the evening comes alive with the unmistakable energy of Scotland. The haunting wail of the bagpipes stirs your soul, while lively reels and jigs set your feet tapping and your heart racing. Dancers whirl in a blur of tartan and tradition, and the air hums with laughter, music, and the warmth of shared celebration. Every note, every step, every cheer tells a story of the Highlands—its history, its spirit, and its people. Raise a toast, join the revelry, and let the Spirit of Scotland Show sweep you into a magical night where culture, camaraderie, and Scottish pride come alive. It’s not just a farewell—it’s a jubilant send-off into the heart of Scotland itself.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 12
Morning in Edinburgh & Scottish Goodbyes
2 stops
33
Edinburgh
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a morning of discovery in Scotland’s vibrant capital. Wander the Royal Mile, where centuries of history line every street, from medieval closes to stately townhouses. Browse artisan shops, filled with handcrafted treasures, or pause in Princes Street Gardens beneath the imposing castle, taking in the contrast of manicured green spaces against the rugged skyline. This is your moment to immerse yourself in Edinburgh, explore at your own pace, and savor the city’s unique blend of history, culture, and charm.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
34
Ireland
Your journey concludes in Edinburgh, with the option to continue back to Ireland. Departing your Edinburgh hotel in the mid-afternoon, travel by coach to the ferry crossing, leaving Scotland’s dramatic landscapes behind as you glide across the sea to Belfast, before continuing onward to Dublin. This journey is the perfect opportunity to reflect on twelve extraordinary days of sweeping Highlands, legendary lochs, ancient castles, vibrant cities, and rich culture. This tour hasn’t just shown you Scotland — it’s allowed you to experience its spirit, meet new friends, and create memories on this epic trip with Chieftain Tours.
5 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Not recommended for travelers who have mobility restrictions and cannot access stairs

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