The Emerald Isle & Scottish Highlands
£4,565pp
Itinerary
Emerald glades, quaint stone villages, and placid canals inspire curiosity and induce relaxation during this 10-day voyage from the Netherlands to Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Roll out on a cycling tour past windmills, waterways, and flowerbeds outside Amsterdam, then stay out late at local eateries munching on Bitterballen—battered and deep-fried meatballs perfectly paired with mustard—during an overnight port stay. Savor red Irish ales in Kilkenny, Ireland’s medieval capital, walk on basalt shoreline stones in the steps of mythical giants and sip Irish whiskey at the world’s oldest distillery outside Portrush. Touch ancient cairns and megaliths on the windswept expanses of Kilmartin Glen outside Oban, Scotland. Meet the Earl of Cromarty and sip a dram of malt in his kitchen during a tour of Castle Leod, one of the few remaining Scotland castles occupied by a founding family.
Day to Day Itinerary
| Date | Country | Port | |
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| Day 1 | Scotland | Leith | |
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From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe's best-preserved castles to the world's longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you'll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty |
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| Day 3 | Scotland | Ullapool | |
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The scenic fishing town of Ullapool is nestled on the shores of Loch Broom and is the gateway to the Northern Highlands. The North Atlantic Drift passes by here bringing moderate temperatures. Described as an outdoor paradise, Ullapool was voted one of the UK's top 10 outdoor destinations. It offers a delightful choice of varied walks and footpaths. Nearby is the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve, home to pine martens, wildcats, and golden eagles and one of the most photographed hills in the area, Stac Pollaidh, with its unique shape. |
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| Day 4 | Scotland | Oban | |
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Oban has developed into Scotland's most popular West-Coast holiday town. Just outside the town stands Dunollie Castle, on a site that overlooks the bay and has been fortified since the Bronze Age. The charm of its Victorian harbor offers an excellent seafood scene, and is also a major gateway to the Hebrides. |
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| Day 5 | Northern Ireland | Belfast | |
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Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic's construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars. |
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| Day 6 | Ireland | Dun Laoghaire | |
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Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha'Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. |
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| Day 9 | Netherlands | Amsterdam | |
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Amsterdam, the Venice of the North, where more than 1,500 bridges arch gracefully over scenic canals. The stately 17th century homes of Dutch merchants line the canals and museums are everywhere, filled with masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Most of the sightseeing essentials are conveniently collected in the Canal Ring, the central area of the city which is designated as a UNESCO site. Here you'll find the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, and most of the museums. Mind all the bicycles! |
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| Day 10 | Netherlands | Amsterdam | |
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Amsterdam, the Venice of the North, where more than 1,500 bridges arch gracefully over scenic canals. The stately 17th century homes of Dutch merchants line the canals and museums are everywhere, filled with masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Most of the sightseeing essentials are conveniently collected in the Canal Ring, the central area of the city which is designated as a UNESCO site. Here you'll find the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, and most of the museums. Mind all the bicycles! |
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