Ireland's Ancient East Day Tour

Blarney Castle, built by the McCarthy clan over 600 years ago, still retains its old world charm with its towers, battlements and gated entrance built on a rocky outcrop. Kiss the Blarney stone, situated on the parapets of the castle, to gain the gift of eloquence - that is the ability to persuade people and being able to talk yourself out of trouble… Discovery Travel Channel lists kissing the Blarney Stone amongst its 99 things to do before you die! Rock close is a magical garden filled with enchanting druidic rock formations, water features and exotic plants. The grand Scottish baronial style Blarney House is reflects a bygone era of wealth and statesmanship. The Rock of Cashel is a multi-period monastic site, which was a fortress before it became the seat of the bishop of the diocese of Cashel, and venue where the historical Synod of Cashel was held. Visit the Great Cathedral, the Hall of Vicars Choral, Cormack's Chapel (with one of Ireland's best preserved Irish frescoes and Romanesque architecture) and a Round tower, all perched on a solid rock ringed by a curtain wall- most of it dating back from before the Cambro-Norman conquerors came to Ireland in the late 12th Century. Cahair Castle was once the stronghold of the powerful Butler family, the castle retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. It is one of Ireland's largest and best preserved castles. It is situated on a rocky island on the River Suir. ITINERARY: 06:50  - Depart Dublin from Suffolk Street by the Molly Malone statue 09:00  - The Rock Of Cashel (1hr) 11:30  - Blarney Castle + lunch break  (3hrs - lunch not included) 15:30  - Cahair Castle (1hr) 19:00  - Arrive Dublin.    

Vehicles: Buses used for excursions are of the highest standard available. All buses are air-conditioned and equipped with a microphone. Dress Code: The United Arab Emirates has conservative dress traditions. Men and women should ensure shoulders and knees are covered when in public, especially in souks, shops and villages. Photography: Normal tourist photography is acceptable, but it is considered offensive to photograph Arab women. It is also courteous to ask permission before photographing men. Photographs of government buildings or military installations are not allowed. Conditions: The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any part of this tour for reasons of government decisions, public holidays, weather conditions, or similar.

Take a barrel ride as you actually become part of the whisky making process. Journey through gently swaying fields of barley and on to the warmth of the Malt Kiln with its lingering smell of burning peat. Take great care to avoid being ground through the Malt Mill before being spun and mashed in the Mash Tun. Then it’s off to the turbulent wooden Washback with the sound of the sloshing Wash before the steaming and bubbling Pot Still. Breathe in the restful smell of the Oak Casks and the process slows down to the tick-tock of the passing years of maturation. You may spot one of our mischievous angels taking their “share” before your journey ends. Discover the stories behind the secret and magical ingredient of time. As the years pass by preserving forever the stories and character of the people who made it, the whisky now begins to take on its amber hue, developing its complexity and taking on a smooth and lingering character. Explore Scotland’s diverse whisky regions and the flavours that the countryside imparts to its whiskies. Experience for yourself the varying aromas and whether you like fruity, sweet or smoky flavours our experts will help you select your perfect dram. Your guide will then allow you access to our vault containing the Diageo Claive Vidiz Scotch Whisky Collection; the world’s largest collection of Scotch Whiskies, where you can enjoy a special tutored nosing and tasting of your dram. Marvel at the stunning array of some of the most rare and exclusive whiskies in the world representing a lifetime’s collection. Conclude your visit in our exhibition area of Scotland’s whisky history taking visitors from the very beginnings of a cottage industry through to the global success of today.   Here you can discover more about the people and history behind the drink. End your visit relaxing over a whisky in our bar where you can choose from over 300 Single Malts, Blends, Scotch Whisky Liqueurs and Cocktails. Experience for everyone 18 Languages, Child-friendly exhibits and tailored tours, fully wheelchair accessible, Expert tour guides and whisky advisors are on hand throughout the experience to tailor make your visit and ensure the enjoyment of every member of your party. The experience blows away the myths about Scotch Whisky making it accessible to everyone.

Depart Edinburgh 09.15 and travel northwest through the historic area of Linlithgowshire, close to the historic palace. The tragic Mary Queen of Scots was born at Linlithgow palace, and became Queen when she was only 6 days old. According to legend her father James V died of a broken heart when he discovered his wife had given birth to a daughter and not the son he was hoping for! Your route along the Forth Valley is one which has been used for thousands of years by invading armies, it was the northernmost frontier of the Roman empire and was later used by the English King Edward I as he marched proudly towards Stirling (only to be sent homewards to think again!). Nowadays it’s at the centre of one of Scotland’s most important industries with huge oil refineries dominating the area. As you approach Stirling the magnificent castle dominates your view and you make your way up towards the high volcanic rock where it imposes itself upon the surrounding land. Known as the ‘Key to Scotland’, for centuries this was the most important castle in Scotland and the views from the top make it easy to see why. To the north is the 220ft high tower of the National Wallace Monument commemorating Scotland’s great hero William Wallace, played by Mel Gibson in the Oscar-winning movie Braveheart. From the castle you can look down over the scene of Wallace’s greatest triumph, the battle of Stirling Bridge, where he defeated the English army in 1297. To the south is Bannockburn where, in 1314, the great Scottish warrior-king Robert the Bruce defeated the English army of Edward II. The battle was fought for possession of Stirling Castle but eventually led to a far greater prize for Scotland – the restoration of independence. It’s an area alive with history and you stop at the castle to give you time to soak up the history and heritage of this great site. From Stirling you head into the Highlands and an area known as the Trossachs. Known as ‘The Highlands in Miniature’, it marks the point where the Lowlands meet the Highlands and entering this beautifully picturesque area feels like going into a different country. With its shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops and forest-filled glens it’s easy to forget that this was once thought of as a dangerous frontier fought over by the fiercely territorial Highland clans. You stop here for lunch in the village of Aberfoyle, made popular in Victorian times due to its great location. After lunch you ‘take the high road’ or back-road to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest lochs at over 22 miles long, passing Lochs Ard, Chon and Arklet along the way as you travel through the protected lands of Scotland’s first National Park. The route you take was described by the famous Scots comedian Billy Connolly as his favourite road in Scotland, and you can discover why – it’s stunning!! You stop at Inversnaid on the secluded north-east of the loch, making it the perfect place to enjoy a walk along the ‘bonny banks’, up to a viewpoint for a fantastic view of the loch and the mountain it’s named after, Ben Lomond. This tranquil setting was once the home of Scotland’s famous highland folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. Made popular by many books and films Rob Roy lived an incredible life as a soldier, businessman, cattle-rustler and outlaw. By spending time on the trails by the loch you will undoubtedly be walking in the footsteps of one of Scotland’s great legends. There is also an alternative option to take a boat cruise around the north of the loch (Summer only) or merely enjoy a drink at the local hotel and sample the views. Leaving Loch Lomond you return to Edinburgh passing Scotland’s only lake – the Lake of Mentieth (although we have around 3000 freshwater lochs!). The legend states that after William Wallace was betrayed by his great friend the Earl of Mentieth and executed in London the name was changed from the Loch of Mentieth to the Lake of Mentieth so that nobody would ever forget the traitorous part the Earl played in his death.

As you climb aboard the world's largest rotating tramcars, be prepared to rise from the floor of the Sonoran Desert, where temperatures frequently reach as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48C) to the cool alpine air at 8,516 feet (2,838 meters). When you reach Mountain Station, disembark to explore the facilities, which include observation decks, a cocktail lounge and dining facilities. Pause to watch a short film on the construction of the Tramway, then head out into the 14,000-acre (5,665-hectare) Mt San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area. Make use of the 54 miles (87 km) of hiking trails on foot in the summer or by snowshoe or cross-country skis in the winter. At the top Peaks Restaurant is a culinary experience above the clouds. Spectacular views combined with delectable food provide the perfect dining experience. There are two dining options at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Peaks, a fine dining experience with a breathtaking view of the Coachella Valley and Pines Café, a cafeteria-style restaurant. Both restaurants are open for lunch and dinner. If you are looking for something more casual, you will like Pines Café or The Lookout Lounge. Pines Café is a cafeteria-style restaurant and is open daily from 11:00 to 20:30. The Lookout Lounge if a full cocktail bar offering a variety of alcoholic beverages and appetizers, and is located on the same level as the restaurants. Also at the top there are observation decks, a small natural history museum, two theaters showing State Park and tram construction videos, a gift shop, Magic Memories for photo viewing, and over 50 miles of hiking trails along with other nature activities. Hiking Mt. San Jacinto State Park offers 54 miles of hiking trails located within a 14,000 acre pristine wilderness, one of the last in California. All trails are accessed by exiting the Tram's Mountain Station and descending a concrete pathway approximately .3 miles to Long Valley. In Long Valley there are picnic tables, water, Ranger Station, flush toilets and some easy trails. Winter Adventure Center The Adventure Center has available cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment for rent. The Center is seasonal, please check season dates. Guided Nature Walks Our guided nature walks which are available in the summer months are a wonderful way to learn about the natural environment at the Top of the Tram. There is no charge for this one-of-a kind experience. Cross-Country Skiing Cross-country ski enthusiasts have found the State Park to be unsurpassed in its challenging terrain. You can bring your own equipment or you can rent skis, boots and poles at the Adventure Center. Family Snow Fun People of all ages can enjoy fun in the snow, and only a few inches of snow are necessary. Sleds and cold weather apparel are available for purchase in the Mountain Gift shop. SnowShoeing For those wanting to take a walk during the winter into the back country, snowshoe rentals are available. Wilderness permits are required for anyone venturing outside of Long Valley, and may be obtained from the Ranger Station in Long Valley. Dining Spectacular views combined with delectable food provide the perfect dining experience. There are two dining options at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Peaks - a fine dining experience with a breathtaking view of the Coachella Valley. and Pines - a casual cafe. Both restaurants are open for lunch and dinner. The Lookout Lounge is a full cocktail bar offering a variety of alcoholic beverages and appetizers and is located on the same level as the restaurants. Come and enjoy the breathtaking view riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It will be one that will be hard to forget! Reservation Notes: Reservations are NOT needed or accepted. Tickets can be used on any operating day within 6 months of the purchase date. Duration: Varies Booth Location: 1 Tramway Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Nearest Intersection: Tramway Rd. and N. Palm Canyon Dr. (Hwy 111) Parking: Parking is available at the Valley Station The parking fee for cars and vans is $8.00 per car/van. The parking fee will be waived for busses and customers with local ID . Please prepare to stop and pay at the security gate. Age Requirements: Child Ticket: 3 - 12 yrs old. Children under 3 are free but require a boarding pass . Notes: The Valley Station, Mountain Station and Tram Cars are handicap accessible. Your e-ticket voucher will be exchanged for a timed ticket upon arrival. Reminder: Be sure to download your ticket before arrival, as there is no cell service at the tram.

Bateau Bus This stop is located on the North quay of the Port Hercule, opposite the large yachts. During the Monaco Grand Prix, you will find yourself exactly within the famous chicane where the formula 1 cars have to brake hard, having reached 250 kmph when leaving the tunnel. From this stop you can take the boat bus that takes you from the other side of the port, to the foot of the old town, very close to the cruise terminal. A few hundred metres from here you can also walk to the magnificent terraces of the Casino, taking the lifts located at the entrance to the tunnel. Jardin Japonais Located close the Portier car park, from this stop you can visit the Japanese Garden and the Grimaldi Forum. Sporting On the boundary between MONACO and Beausoleil, from this stop you can visit the beaches, the Sporting or the hotel Monte-Carlo Bay. Villa Sauber NEW NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MONACO Open every day from 11.00 to 19.00 (summer) and from 10.00 to 18.00 (winter). Monte-Carlo Casino You have now arrived in the Monte-Carlo district. Stop here to visit the Place du casino, where you can admire the luxury cars or have a glass of something at the Café de Paris. Grimaldi / SNCF Nearby attraction and points of interest: SNCF railway station, Condamine Market. Useful information: If you arrive in Monaco by train, you can join the bus at this Stop. Place du Palais This is the first stop on the famous Rocher [Rock]. This is where there is the changing of the Guard every day at 12.00 . Spend some time strolling through the alleys and backstreets of Monaco-Ville and discover the magnificent views it will offer you. Musée océanographique A monumental jewel that was the concept of this visionary Prince who saw it in his own terms as a “Palace”, The oceanographic museum is one of the showpieces of the identity of the country. With world-renowned expertise, the Museum presents over 6000 species of fish in their faithfully constructed natural setting. All collected in one place, you can discover the fantastic species of the Mediterranean, the incredible diversity of the inhabitants of a living coral reef, and the monumental 400,000 litre shark lagoon. Roseraie Princesse Grace The landscaped park and Princess Grace rose garden. Palm trees, olive trees and plant species from throughout the world border a small lake offering pedestrians four hectares of walks in an environment of exquisite calm, fragrant with the four thousand rose plants in the Roseraie Princesse Grace whose 150 varieties rival each other in colours and perfumes. Stade Louis II The Fontvieille district, part of which is built over the sea, is home to the Stade Louis II / Louis II Stadium. This magnificent sports complex stands out with its elegant and bold architecture. Its multiple installations and the quality of its equipment make it a special venue for international competitions. Princesse Stéphanie (Rascasse) It is in the boulevard Albert 1er that the Formula 1 starting line sees off the racing cars in the Monaco Grand Prix. Digue Croisières If you arrive in the Principality of Monaco by sea, we have a stop at the cruise terminal, immediately upon disembarking from the boat.