10-Nights Taste Of Scotland & Ireland

Bunratty

Bunratty in Clare Ireland is known for the castle of the same name that stands proudly over the town. The site of Bunratty Castle was originally a Viking Trading Camp in 920 and in the centuries that followed, three other structures rose and fell before the castle that stands there now. Learn about the exciting history of the most complete and authentically restored and furnished castle in Ireland on a tour by day. At night, step into the age of lavish food with a cup of mead in hand and attend a banquet in the stately main hall of the castle. Music of the harp and violin will tickle your ears as you enjoy entertainment of the renowned Bunratty singers. Bunratty is also home to the Folk Park, a 20-acre re-creation of a 19th century Irish village, complete with thatched cottages, farmhouses and local shops open to the public. And no trip to Bunratty would be complete without stopping into Durty Nellys for a cup of mead. The 400-year-old pub, one of the most famous in Ireland, is nestled right next to Bunratty Castle.

Nairn

East of Inverness, the hills gradually give way to the narrow and sheltered lowland strip around the edge of the Moray Firth, where the main town is Nairn, a long-established small resort notable for its golf and fine beaches. Overall, this area offers plenty of Scottish strands to follow, with a good range of historic sites and castles, as well as Europe's best preserved 18th-century fort (at Fort George).

Galway

Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely it's own. There is a certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly university city, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all -Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric medieval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows. Galway Bay, immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging. Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the Aran Islands. Connemara, with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital. Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. The mighty Shannon, delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, traditional pubs. Photo used with permission from Joe Desbonnet, www.galway.net

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.

Edinburgh

Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Glasgow

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest city and major tourist destination, possessing some of Britain's finest architecture and hosting a variety of cultural events and attractions. Glasgow has been described as the finest surviving example of a great Victorian city. Of particular interest is George Square - lined by several buildings constructed in the Italian Renaissance style. Few buildings pre-date 18th century. The most prominent of these are Glasgow Cathedral, and Provand's Lordship, which is the city's oldest house (c. 1471) and now a museum. The cathedral, situated on high ground to the east of the city and dating in parts from 12th century, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. The city has numerous parks and ornamental open spaces, including the Botanic Garden and zoological gardens. Glasgow grew around a church built in the 6th century by St Kentigern, who converted Scots to Christianity. The commercial growth of the community dates from the union of Scotland and England in 1707 and the opening up of trade in the 18th century when Glasgow became a major port and shipbuilder.