Ireland & Scotland Itinerary

Cliffs of Moher, Clare, Ireland, Photo by Mark Waters

Cliffs of Moher, Clare, Ireland photo by Mark Waters — Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic

Reserve a place now on this extraordinary trip.

Ireland and Scotland loom largely in the poetic imagination. Lush greenery, legendary castles, and a history of chivalry and romance all serve to make Ireland and Scotland two of the most desirable destinations for the adventurous traveler. Experience the natural beauty of the landscape even as you come face-to-face with the region’s rich and storied history.

Read Stuart Katz’ blog post “The First Jews Entered Ireland in 1079″

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Sunday August 15        In Transit
Overnight flight to Shannon airport.

Monday, August 16        Shannon – Killarney
Arrive to a bright and welcoming morning in Shannon. Deluxe Kosher Tours will greet you at the airport, introducing you to the mythical magic of Ireland: a land lauded by poets and writers as a place of mystery and enchantment.

In the afternoon, Deluxe Kosher Tours will give you a chance to experience the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. Rising a majestic 700 feet above the sea, extending nearly five miles, the cliffs will prove an awe-inspiring introduction to this mighty land. Afterwards, catch a glimpse of 19th-century Ireland at Bunratty Castle before ending your exciting day in Killarney. Accommodations for the next three nights will be at the luxurious Brehon Hotel, or a hotel of similarly deluxe standard.

Read the blog post “Experience the Natural Beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, Ireland”

Tuesday August 17        Dingle Peninsula
In the morning, take a guided tour of the 19th-century Muckross house, a fully furnished mansion that will offer you a glimpse into Ireland’s past. Afterwards, spend time in the Dingle Peninsula, which offers panoramic views of the Slieve Mish Mountains. The “Dingle” will reveal ever-changing landscapes: majestic cliffs, white sands, and green mountains. Admire the natural beauty of the area even as you interact with the inhabitants of the villages you pass through for a slice of local color.

Wednesday, August 18    Cork
East is the direction today as you head to County Cork for a visit to Shalom Park, which marks its 20th anniversary this year, and the Cork Trinity Pedestrian Bridge, where you can commemorate its founder, Alderman Gerald Goldberg, Cork’s first Jewish Lord Mayor. Deluxe Kosher Tours will also bring you to Cork’s synagogue, the Old English Market, and University College.

Conclude the day at Blarney Castle, home of the mythical Blarney Stone – those who kiss it are said to receive the “gift of gab.” Wander the village green and castle gardens before an evening return to Killarney.

Thursday, August 19        Waterford-Dublin

In the morning, Deluxe Kosher Tours will escort you to the Medieval town of Waterford, famous for its colored houses and beautiful quay views. You will be given a chance to visit the Waterford Crystal Factory and an opportunity to witness the spectacle of the craftsmen producing this crystal in the factory’s showrooms.

Afterwards, visit Waterford’s Whiskey Distillery for a look at how one of Ireland’s most famous products is distilled, aged, and bottled. After a sample of this “Water of Life,” head onwards to Dublin. You will be staying in the Hilton Hotel or similarly elegant accommodations.

Friday, August 20        Dublin
An ancient city with a distinctly modern feel, Dublin is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. Today’s tour will take you through the elegance and refinement of 18th-century Dublin, a city of Georgian architecture and spacious squares. Visit Trinity College for a look at one of the world’s best collections of ancient books and illuminated manuscripts, including the famous Book of Kells. Afterwards, explore the Irish Jewish Museum, founded by the Irish-born ex-president of Israel, Dr. Chaim Herzog.  Enjoy Shabbat dinner with guests from the local Dublin Jewish Community.

Shabbat, August 21        Dublin
Get to know the locals as you share your Shabbat with the Jewish Community of Dublin.

Sunday, August 22        Dublin-Edinburgh
After a short flight from Ireland to Scotland, arrive in the beautiful Medieval city of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. Jump right in to savor the city’s historical and cultural treasures.  You will be guided through the Old Town, beginning at the magnificent Edinburgh Castle and continuing on through the Royal Mile.

Next, drive to the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, Her Majesty’s official Scottish residence. Finish your tour with a drive through the Georgian facades and tranquil refinement of the new town before an evening drive to Glasgow, which will be your home base for the next four nights. You will stay in the Hotel Sas Radisson or similar.

Monday, August 23        South Highlands
Today embrace the beauty of the celebrated southern Highlands of Scotland. First, drive north to Loch Lomond, famous for the poetic beauty of its shores, lake, and surrounding mountain region. Take a cruise through the loch and take in the spectacular scenery of the region. Spend the early afternoon coming face to face with history at Glen Coe: notorious for the massacre of the Clan Macdonald by the Campells. Return to Glasgow in the early evening.

Read Stuart Katz’s blog post “Festivals in Edinburgh, Scotland, Have Something for Everyone”

Tuesday, August 24        Edinburgh
Wake up bright and early for a visit to St. Andrews, the Medieval birthplace of the game of golf. Continue on to Stirling Castle, overlooking the lush greenery of the Forth River Valley. Once strategically located for military defense, the castle’s elevated position is now ideal for panoramas of the Scottish countryside.

Wednesday, August 25    Glasgow

Today tour the Victorian architecture that earned Glasgow the title of 1999′s “City of Architecture” as well as historical treasures of Glasgow, including Glasgow’s central square — George Square — with its statues of famous Scots Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scot. Deluxe Kosher Tours will also offer you a tour of Scotland’s oldest and most beautiful synagogue, the Garnethill, for a glimpse of 19th-century Judaism in Scotland.

Read Stuart Katz’s blog post “Glasgow, Scotland, Is a Family-Friendly Destination.

Thursday, August 26        In Transit
Bid farewell to your companions and Deluxe Kosher Tours as you head to the airport for your flight home.

COST PER PERSON
$6,995 based on double occupancy (two to a room)
Includes air fare from:   New York, Boston, Washington, Chicago or Miami
Add $200 for Los Angeles or San Francisco
LAND ONLY (no air fare included) – $5,995

ADDITIONAL COSTS
•    Visa fees for non US citizens (if applicable)
•    Snacks or items of a personal nature
•    Single supplement – $1595

HOTELS
Killarney     Killarney Park Hotel
Dublin     Conrad Hotel
Edinburgh     Sheraton Grand Hotel
Glasgow     Radisson Hotel

ITINERARY & HOTELS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
RATES MAY BE ADJUSTED IF THERE’S A FLUCTUATION IN CURRENCY OF MORE THAN 4% FROM JANUARY 1, 2010
RATES MAY BE ADJUSTED IN THE EVENT OF AN INCREASE IN AIRLINE FUEL CHARGES

Reserve a place now on this extraordinary trip.

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