For 8 days and 7 nights, your knowledgeable guide chauffeurs you and your group through Ireland in a spacious, comfortable Mercedes. Your escort relates tales of the fascinating history of each castle you visit. Most of Ireland's castles have been standing since medieval days when a castle was not only a place to live but a form of protection. Perhaps you have imagined what these mighty stone structures were like in tales told to you as a child. Each evening, you arrive at a castle hotel to sleep in a luxurious room. The staff's only purpose is to indulge your every whim. Castles like Dromoland Castle, a favorite of several American presidents, will be among your respites. During the day, you will tour Blarney's famous castle and many others. Kiss the Blarney Stone and leave with your "gift of eloquence". Waterford, Bunratty and Ashford Castles are also on your itinerary.
Small Escorted Tours of Ireland
Danesfort, Kilkenny
Ireland
+353-56-7727322
irelandescorted.com
When you arrive at the Manchester airport, your tour of Wales' castles begins. As you leave England, you decide which castles you want to visit. The suggested route leads you to Ewloe Castle located within a serene woodland setting. Another castle on the itinerary is Denbigh Castle, one of the most immense castles in Wales.
You can stop at Beaumaris Castle that has a moat. Construction was abandoned before completion but it is still celebrated as an amazing technical achievement for 1295. If you are a lover of the fine arts, you will appreciate Tenby Castle, now an art gallery and museum. Fans of Tennyson must visit Caerphilly Castle, spread over 30 acres of land, which inspired the poet to write, "it isn't a castle -- it's a town in ruins".
Travel in your car or use your complimentary British Rails pass to pursue your chosen destinations. After 8 nights at various bed and breakfast establishments, you will have seen many Welsh castles and absorbed centuries of history.
Best of Scotland Holidays
6A Main Street
Upper Largo, Fife, KY8 6EJ
Scotland
+44-1333-360395
golfvacations.co.uk
The castles in Ireland are not all haunted but the magical country certainly has its share of establishments associated with legendary earthbound spirits. This tour offers rich history, tales of ghosts, a rental car and breakfast daily at a luxury castle hotel. Begin your self-drive tour in Kildare at the Kilkea Castle built in 1180 which remains the oldest inhabited Castle in Ireland. The locals insist that Earl "the Wizard" Gerald's ghost haunts the abode. Folklore also says that there is a presence of "evil" there. You can even see the "Evil Eye Stone" residing on the property.
When you enter Glin Castle, your luxury hotel for four nights, be aware of apparitions. If you are brave enough, investigate the shrieks and bumps you might hear at night. You may possibly see an unearthly visitor. On this self drive tour, travel to Leap Castle purported to be the "most haunted castle in Ireland" because of its bloody history. Dark and spooky catacombs tend to attract curious visitors to Charleville Forest Castle. Summon your courage, and enter the castle housing the ghost of Charles Bury, the first Earl of Charleville. Apart from the ghosts, this adventure also includes gorgeous scenery, historic landmarks and many stories to share when you get home.
British Isles Touring
455 E. Paces Ferry Road NE
Suite 302
Atlanta, GA 30305
800-863-9067
britishislestouring.com
