REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND REGIONAL TOURING UK & IRELAND WATCH OUR LATEST BRITISH ADVENTURES Youtube.com/statravel #wildcarduk Touch down in London, a non-stop city that’s reinvented itself as a capital of modern-day cool, to kick off your explorations of England, Scotland, Wales and the ‘Emerald Isle’ of Ireland. Choose a fun-packed trip designed exclusively for 18-35 year olds, see the sights on a small group adventure, check out the home of the Beatles, ride a canal boat in Manchester or get active on the West Highland Way. Don’t forget to check out our London, Edinburgh & Dublin city breaks (pages 148-154), UK and Ireland rail and coach transport options (see the ‘On The Road’ section) and cool festivals like Up Helly Aa and Hogmanay. GREAT BRITAIN & IRELAND London 16 DAYS London Highlights See the highlights of London Enjoy a Beatles music tour in Liverpool Walk around York’s old city walls Be inspired by the Lake District Stroll along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Try and spot ‘Nessie’ at Loch Ness Discover Belfast’s turbulent history Sample the perfect pint of Guinness Departures 2015 START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Mar 27 Apr 17 May 01 May 15 May 22 May 29 Jun 05 Jun 12 Apr 11 May 02 May 16 May 30 Jun 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun 19 Jun 26 Jul 03 Jul 10 Jul 17 Jul 24 Jul 31 Aug 07 Jul 04 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25 Aug 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 14 Aug 21 Aug 28 Sep 04 Sep 15 Sep 25 Oct 09 Aug 29 Sep 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 30 Oct 10 Oct 24 Additional departure dates are available, please ask for details. Inclusions Trip Style: In-Depth Explorer Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (15 nts) Transport: Air con coach with power points for charging, ferry crossings Meals: 15 breakfasts, 8 dinners Group Leader: Trip Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 53 Notes: Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges are included Tour Code: COBBUKA Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland This Great Britain & Ireland tour will take you on a whirlwind of sightseeing, history and culture as you hit the highlights of England, Scotland and Ireland. Practice your Liverpudlian accent because you’re going to the birthplace of rock and roll’s original ‘Fab Four’ - The Beatles! Wonder at the beauty of the Lake District National Park, stroll Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, and then grab some binoculars to search for the mysterious Loch Ness Monster. Add to that drinking Guinness, kissing the Blarney Stone and visiting castles and cathedrals in Ireland and you’ve got an all-encompassing awesome experience! DAY ITINERARY 01 02-03 Loch Ness Isle of Skye West Highlands 1 1 Scottish Highlands S COT L A N D St. Andrews Stirling Glasgow Londonderry1 1 2 Gretna Belfast Green 1 Galway 2 Cliffs of Moher Blarney Edinburgh Lake District IRISH SEA Dublin 2 1 Holyhead Kilkenny WA L E S Cork 1 04-05 1 1 York NORTH SEA Liverpool E N G L A N D London ENGLISH CHANNEL 06 London / Liverpool Get together with your group and head off on a London city tour before travelling north to Liverpool, the home of The Beatles. Tonight, get to know your fellow travellers and team over dinner. (D) Liverpool / York / Lake District National Park Make your way to York, where your Trip Manager will show you the sights and point out impressive York Minster. On Day 3, head for Cumbria’s gorgeous Lake District. There are plenty of optional activities to choose from; try a high ropes course, archery or cruise Lake Windermere. (2B, D) Lake District National Park / Edinburgh See Hadrian’s Wall and stop at Gretna Green en route to Edinburgh. Familiarise yourself with sights such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Mile. Spend Day 5 exploring, perhaps visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, and head out on the town to mingle with the locals. (2B, D) Edinburgh / Scottish Highlands / Loch Ness Stop by St. Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university town (where Prince William met Kate Middleton!), and then roll on through the Scottish Highlands packed with wild mountain scenery and the tales of old clans. (B, D) Scottish Highlands / Isle of Skye / West Highlands 07 08-09 Enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness and hunt for the elusive monster! Continue on past the famous 13th Century Eilean Donan Castle. Head over to the stunning Isle of Skye and visit the seaside town of Portree, known for its brightly-coloured houses and charming fishing port. Later, pass by the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and continue through the remote West Highlands. (B) West Highlands / Glasgow / Dublin See Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument en route to Glasgow. Famous for its friendly locals, head into any pub for a lively night out. On Day 9, ferry across to Ireland and head to Dublin. This bustling town has a whole lot of heart so go and mingle with the locals in Temple Bar. (2B, D) Dublin / Belfast / Derry (Londonderry) / Galway 10-12 You might like Scotland and Ireland (13 days, Edinburgh to Dublin) (COBBEDA) page 122 Fr $2,649 Ireland (8 days, Dublin to Dublin) (COBBIR) Fr $1,515 England and Scotland (9 or 10 days, London to Dublin) (COBBBR/COWWBR) page 122 Fr $1,565 13 14 15-16 Head north to Belfast where a local guide will tell you the story behind the city’s troubled history, then opt to learn about Derry’s battles of the past with a local guide and visit the colourful murals at the People’s Gallery. It’s then south to lively Galway to experience some traditional Irish music and share the ‘craic’ with the locals. On Day 12, why not jump on a ferry to the rugged, Gaelic-speaking Aran Islands? It’s like stepping back in time to an Ireland long forgotten. Camera essential! (3B, D) Galway / Blarney / Cork Admire spectacular coastal scenery at the vertical Cliffs of Moher, then head to the medieval Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous stone before arriving into Cork, with its island setting. (B, D) Cork / Cobh / Kilkenny Discover the Heritage Centre in colourful harbour town of Cobh, the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic, which also tells the tragic story of Irish emigration. See the historic Rock of Cashel en route to the lively little city of Kilkenny, where you can visit the Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. (B, D) Kilkenny / Dublin / London Return to Dublin where you can admire the Georgian townhouses lining St. Stephen’s Green, witness the remarkable Book of Kells in Trinity College and enjoy the easy-going hospitality. On Day 16, ferry back across the Irish Sea to Wales, then back to London where the tour ends upon arrival. (2B) 121 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND • • • • • • • • $2,985 FR ENGLAND & SCOTLAND London SCOTLAND $1,565 & IRELAND $2,649 FR 9 DAYS Glasgow Edinburgh FR 13 DAYS Dublin REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Lake District Calton Hill, Edinburgh Hi•gCheck hlightsout Liverpool’s Cavern Club, where the Beatles once played Hi•gStop hlights at the uni town St. Andrews, where Prince William met Kate DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY • Stroll the Royal Mile, linking Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace • Admire the breathtaking and remote scenery of the Isle of Skye • Soak up the buzzing atmosphere of the typically Irish town, Galway • Check your facts on Titanic at the Cobh Heritage Centre Edinburgh London / Liverpool / York Meet up with your fellow travellers this morning for a quick tour of London before travelling north to Liverpool, the home of the worldconquering pop group, The Beatles. On Day 2, travel through rolling hills to historic York, where regional specialities are on offer for dinner and the brave can take an optional ghost tour. (B, 2D) 01-02 Start with a bang in buzzing Edinburgh and raise your glass to your trip with your new travel buddies. Head out the next day to see Edinburgh Castle, perched high on an extinct volcano, retrace royalty’s footsteps and walk the Royal Mile’s jumble of medieval houses, or choose to chill in the exotic Botanical Gardens. (B, D) 01-02 Edinburgh / Scottish Highlands / West Highlands York / Lake District / Edinburgh 03-05 Make your way to the Lake District to visit Bowness on the shores of Lake Windermere. Optional activities such as high ropes and archery will put you in touch with nature. On Day 4, stop at Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans at the outer limit of their Empire, before crossing into Scotland at Gretna Green. See the sights of Edinburgh by coach and spend a day exploring its historic architecture. (3B, D) 03-04 Edinburgh / St. Andrews / Scottish Highlands 05-06 Stop at the university town of St. Andrews, the original home of golf and where Prince William first met his future bride, on your way to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness. (B, D) 06 West Highlands / Glasgow / Dublin 07 07-09 Visit historic Stirling to see the impressive William Wallace Monument before reaching Glasgow, the UK’s third-largest city and home to very happening pubs and music scene. The tour ends here on Day 9, but you can also travel back to London by train for a supplement. (2B) Inclusions Trip Style: In-Depth Explorer Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (8 nts) Transport: Air con coach with power points Meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners Group Leader: Trip Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 53 Notes: Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges included Tour Code: COBBBR/COWWBR Departures 2015 START Mar 27 Apr 17 May 01 May 15 May 22 May 29 Jun 05 Jun 12 FINISH Apr 04 Apr 25 May 09 May 23 May 30 Jun 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 START FINISH Jun 19 Jun 27 Jun 26 Jul 04 Jul 03 Jul 11 Jul 10 Jul 18 Jul 17 Jul 25 Jul 24 Aug 01 Jul 31 Aug 08 Aug 07 Aug 15 START Aug 14 Aug 21 Aug 28 Sep 04 Sep 15 Sep 25 Oct 09 FINISH Aug 22 Aug 29 Sep 05 Sep 12 Sep 23 Oct 03 Oct 17 Winter departures (8 days) also available; tour code COWWBR 122 Slide by Belfast’s iconic political murals and opt to see the striking UNESCO site of the Giant’s Causeway, packed with an unbelievable 40,000 rock columns. Next up is Londonderry before the traditional town of Galway, loaded with Irish soul and lively pubs. Spend Day 9 exploring or opt to visit the rugged cliffs of the Aran Islands. (3B, D) Galway / Cork / Kilkenny / Dublin West Highlands / Stirling / Glasgow 08-09 On to Glasgow, soak up the Victorian architecture and happening live music scene before you ferry across to Northern Ireland on Day 6. Discover Dublin’s 120m high Monument of Light and St. Stephen’s Green, once the site of public hangings. For those night owls, head to Temple Bar, where pubs and bars spill out onto cobbled lanes. (2B, D) Dublin / Londonderry / Galway Scottish Highlands / Isle of Skye / West Highlands Travel over to the incredible scenery of the Isle of Skye, with its moors, mountains, lochs and sea cliffs, and explore the colourful seaside town of Portree. Stop at the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle and, if the weather’s being kind, get a glimpse of the UK’s highest mountain peak, Ben Nevis. (B) Stop by St. Andrews before a cruise along the Loch Ness to discover the legend of the mythical monster. The next day head to the West Highlands, past tiny villages to the seaside town of Portree. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain! (2B, D) Isle of Loch Skye Ness 1 Scottish Highlands S COT L A N D West 1 Highlands St. Andrews Stirling 2 Edinburgh 1 Glasgow Gretna Green 1 Lake District IRISH 1 York SEA 1 Liverpool WA L E S London E N G L A N D ENGLISH CHANNEL Passing Blarney Castle, kiss the magical Blarney Stone then stock up on souvenirs in the bustling markets of colourful Cork. On Day 11, visit the signature sites of Kilkenny then finish up opting for an Irish experience, complete with scrummy food and Irish dancing. (4B, 2D) 10-13 Inclusions Trip Style: In-Depth Explorer Age Group: Exclusively for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (12 nts) Transport: Air con coach with powerpoints Meals: 12 breakfasts, 6 dinners Group Leader: Trip Manager & Driver Group Size: Max 53 Notes: Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges included Tour Code: COBBEDA Departures 2015 NORTH SEA START Mar 30 Apr 20 May 04 May 18 May 25 Jun 01 Jun 08 Jun 15 FINISH Apr 11 May 02 May 16 May 30 Jun 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 27 START Jun 22 Jun 29 Jul 06 Jul 13 Jul 20 Jul 27 Aug 03 Aug 10 FINISH Jul 04 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25 Aug 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 West Highlands Loch Ness S COTLAND Isle of Skye Glasgow START Aug 17 Aug 24 Aug 31 Sep 07 Sep 18 Sep 28 Oct 12 FINISH Aug 29 Sep 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 30 Oct 10 Oct 24 1 1 Stirling Giant’s Causeway 1 1 Additional departure dates are available, please ask for details. VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM Scottish Highlands Londonderry Galway 2 1 Blarney 2 Edinburgh Belfast IRISH SEA 2 I R E L A N D Cliffs of Moher St. Andrews Dublin 1 Kilkenny Cork UK HIGHLIGHTS ROAD TRIP London A TASTE OF ENGLAND $1,449 & SCOTLAND $1,883 FR 7 DAYS London London FR 7 DAYS London Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Hi•gThe hligcastles hts at Edinburgh and Alnwick (Hogwarts in Harry Potter) Hi•gGet hligyour hts feet dancing when visiting The Beatles’ Story DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY • Step back into Roman Britain at Bath and Hadrian’s Wall • Rural Lake District landscape versus the urban city of Liverpool • A full-day tour exploring the Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe • Test your fear factor on the Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour! Stonehenge / Bath / Brecon Beacons Meet your group in central London and head straight for prehistoric Stonehenge before visiting the beautiful city of Bath. Check out the Roman Baths before heading to Wales for your overnight stop. 01 01 Brecon Beacons / Stratford-upon-Avon / Liverpool Spend the morning in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park then move on to Stratford-upon-Avon, before travelling to Liverpool. Experience great nightlife in a city which knows how to party! 02 Discover the story of The Beatles, visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum and explore Liverpool’s Albert Dock before moving on to the Lake District for your overnight stop. Lake District / Hadrian’s Wall / Edinburgh Today, you’ll discover the quaint lakeside town of Bowness-onWindermere before heading north for Hadrian’s Wall, then over the border into bonny Scotland for a two-night stay in Edinburgh. 04 Edinburgh 05 02 03 04 Spend the day in Edinburgh where you can walk the Royal Mile, see the Castle or shop for some souvenirs. Edinburgh / Alnwick / Whitby / York Heading back to England, in the direction of York, you’ll get the chance to check out Alnwick Castle (the location used to film Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films), the giant Angel of the North statue and Captain Cook’s seaside town of Whitby. 06 York / Sherwood Forest / London 07 Discover York before travelling to Sherwood Forest (legendary home of Robin Hood) then back to the meeting point in London. Inclusions Accommodation: Hotels with en suites / good quality hostels (6 nts) Transport: Air con coach with free Wi-Fi, DVD Player and MP3/iPod connection points Meals: 6 breakfasts Group Leader: Tour leader/driver Group Size: Max 15 Notes: Includes Beatles tour & walking tours of Edinburgh, York & Liverpool Tour Code: LONBOB START FINISH Mar 15 Apr 12 May 10 Jun 07 Mar 21 Apr 18 May 16 Jun 13 START FINISH Jul 05 Jul 11 Aug 02 Aug 08 Aug 16 Aug 22 S COT L A N D Edinburgh 2 Hadrian's Wall Lake 1 District Liverpool 1 FINISH Aug 30 Sep 05 Sep 27 Oct 03 Oct 25 Oct 31 Liverpool / Lake District Next stop, Windermere! Explore this stunning Lake District town, with breathtaking views and air fresher than fresh. Enjoy a short lake cruise, or simply dip a toe into England’s largest lake. (B) Lake District Immerse yourself in the world of Beatrix Potter, exploring her life and characters, including Hakwshead, Tarn Hows and Newlands Valley. Visit Wordsworth’s home and take a cruise on Derwentwater. (B) Lake District / Edinburgh Now you’re off to Edinburgh. Start with an open-top sightseeing bus tour, join a startling Ghosts and Ghouls evening walking tour and finish up with a few drinks in a traditional local tavern. (B) Edinburgh / Scottish Highlands / Loch Ness 06-07 Day 6 starts early with an award-winning Scottish Highlands tour, experiencing the breathtaking scenery and seeing Britain’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis. You may even spot the famous Loch Ness Monster! Day 7, head back to London on the train. (2B) Alnwick Whitby 1 Accommodation: Minimum 3* hotels (6 nts) Transport: Train Meals: Daily breakfast Includes: London sightseeing bus, walking tour, Thames river cruise, Magical Mystery Beatles Tour, Beatrix Potter Lakeland & Wordsworth Tour, Ghosts & Ghouls Walking Tour, Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Tour Tour Code: LONTOE York S COT L A N D Loch Ness 1 Scottish Highlands Edinburgh 1 Lake District 2 Liverpool NORTH SEA 1 NORTH SEA Stratford- Sherwood Upon-Avon Forest E N G L A N D 1 WA L E S START 05 Catch the train to Liverpool, home of The Beatles! Join the Magical Mystery Tour of Liverpool, taking in the landmarks of the ‘Fab Four’. Then, head over to The Beatles’ Story and see how four boys from Liverpool went on to become arguably the greatest band of all time. Finish the night with a visit to the famous Cavern Club. (B) Inclusions Brecon Beacons Departures 2015 After checking in to your hotel, armed with your welcome pack, hop on a famous red London double-decker bus for a sightseeing tour, followed by a Thames river cruise and guided walking tour. London / Liverpool Liverpool / Lake District 03 London WA L E S Bath Cardiff Stonehenge London ENGLISH CHANNEL London 1 Departures 2015 Jan - Dec ENGLISH CHANNEL Daily 123 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Angel of the North, Gateshead SHAKESPEARE COUNTRY & CELTIC WALES London ENGLAND $2,133 & WALES TASTER $815 FR 8 DAYS London London FR 4 DAYS London REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Roman Baths, Bath Highlights Highlights • Visit the most stunning sights of England and Wales • Experience Warwick Castle and Shakespeare’s birthplace • Enjoy a guided tour of Cardiff and entrance to Cardiff Museum • Learn about the neolithic stone circles of Avebury • Stroll the Welsh countryside of the Brecon Beacons National Park • Follow the trail of legendary Robin Hood DAY ITINERARY 01-02 DAY ITINERARY London / Avebury / Brecon Beacons / Hay-on-Wye London / Warwick Castle Start your trip with a sightseeing tour of the cosmopolitan capital, followed by a Thames River cruise. Day 2 starts with a train to Leamington Spa and a trip to the famous Warwick Castle. (B) Meet your group in central London, then head straight out to Stonehenge to discover the history of its mysterious stone circles. Next, cross the Severn Bridge into Wales to explore the Brecon Beacons and Hay-on-Wye (the so-called ‘Town of Books’). 01 Stratford-upon-Avon 03 A short train journey takes you to the birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, and several other properties including Hall’s Croft and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Then it’s a sightseeing tour of incredible history around the culturally rich Stratford-upon-Avon. (B) Hay-on-Wye / Llangollen / Lake District Next morning, journey north to visit the picturesque Welsh town of Llangollen and Pontcysyllte Aquaduct before crossing the border back into England and continuing to the Lake District’s scenic Bownesson-Windermere. Whilst there, you may choose to visit the World of Beatrix Potter or take a cruise on Lake Windermere (neither included). 02 Stratford-upon-Avon / Cardiff 04 Today you’re Cardiff-bound! Take a trip to the National Museum of Cardiff, afterwards enjoying a tour of Cardiff Castle and its 2,000 years of history. Why not upgrade and indulge in a banquet evening at the castle, fit for royalty? (B) Cardiff 05 06 07-08 Choose from a variety of tours depending on the day of the week. Go to the deepest depths of a Welsh coal mine, take in the outstanding views of the Brecon Beacons or maybe even visit the majestic Roman fortress towns of Caerleon and Caerwent. (B) Lake District / Yorkshire Dales National Park / York Today, explore the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park with the opportunity to buy a drink and say ‘cheers!’ in Britain’s highest pub, perched on the top of the Moors; the Tan Hill Inn. After, opt to visit the Wensleydale Creamery in the market town of Hawes to see how the namesake’s cheese is made. En route to York, you’ll stop off at Aysgarth Falls, which you may recognise as a film location from ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’. Arriving in York, there’s the option of taking an introductory tour of the town and later on, if you’re brave enough, an evening ghost hunt (not included). 03 Cardiff / Bath Once you’ve settled in Bath, home to the famous Roman Baths and 18th Century Assembly Rooms, you are free to explore the gorgeous city at your own pace, hopping on and off a sightseeing bus. (B) Bath / Stonehenge / London Enjoy the best of historic England. Marvel at Stonehenge and the Avebury stone circles, revel in an 18th Century village and a tranquil setting of weavers’ cottages. Day 8, head back to London. (2B) Inclusions Accommodation: Minimum 3* hotels (7 nts) Transport: Trains Meals: Daily breakfast Includes: Entrance to Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s birthplace, Hall’s Croft, Nash’s House, New Place, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Mary Arden’s Farm, sightseeing tours (London, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cardiff, Bath) Tour Code: LONSHA York / Sherwood Forest / London The morning of your last day is free to spend at your leisure, exploring the Roman, Viking and Medieval heritage of York. Why not see York Minster or visit the Jorvik Viking Centre (not included)? Finally, take a trip to the legendary home of Robin Hood - Sherwood Forest. Amble through the nature reserve, taking time to see the 800 year-old Major Oak, then return to London, where your tour ends. 04 Inclusions Accommodation: Hotels with en suites / good quality hostels (3 nts) Transport: Air con coach with free Wi-Fi, DVD Player and MP3/iPod connection points Meals: 3 breakfasts Group Leader: Tour leader/driver Group Size: Max 15 Notes: Includes guided tour of Avebury & York walking tour Tour Code: LONWAL S COT L A N D S COT L A N D Lake District Yorkshire Dales N.P. York NORTH SEA NORTH SEA Sherwood Forest Llangollen Leamington Spa 2E N G L A N D London WA L E S Cardiff Departures 2015 Jan - Dec 124 Daily 2 1 Caerleon Caerwent 2 Bath Stonehenge ENGLISH CHANNEL WA L E S Departures 2015 START FINISH Mar 22 Mar 25 Apr 19 Apr 22 May 17 May 20 START FINISH Jun 14 Jun 17 Jul 12 Jul 15 Aug 09 Aug 12 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM E N G L A N D Hay-on-Wye Brecon Beacons Avebury START FINISH Sep 06 Oct 04 Sep 09 Oct 07 London ENGLISH CHANNEL WELSH EXPLORER London CORNWALL $499/ $479 CRUSADER FR FR STUDENTS 5 DAYS London London STUDENTS $499/ FR$479 FR 5 DAYS London Highlights • Big Pit - go underground in a real coal mine • Wander Tintern Abbey, the inspiration to William Wordsworth • Hike through the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Park DAY ITINERARY Newquay Highlights • Marvel at the mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge • Explore the tors and wilderness of Dartmoor National Park • Surf the waves with a free surf lesson on Newquay beach DAY ITINERARY London / Stratford-upon-Avon / Tyddyn Bychan 01 02 Leaving London behind, head over the border to wild Wales. If you don’t suffer from vertigo, join the walk along the perilous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct at Llangollen. Visit the ruins of Dinas Bran Castle above the town before an optional barbecue at the idyllic farmhouse, your home for the night! 01 Snowdonia N.P. / West Wales 02 First up today, you’ll visit the ‘Ugly House’ before heading to the medieval Conwy Castle. It’s then back on the road and on to Snowdonia National Park. Absorb the spectacular scenery before visiting the village with the longest place name in the world! Spend the evening on the relaxed west coast after stopping off in Beddelert to visit the ‘Grave of the Dog’. West Wales / Cardiff 03 Enjoy a walk around the Welsh tribal lands of Dolgellau and then on to Aberystwyth, one of Wales’ top university towns. Take a gorge walk at the Devil’s Bridge before travelling through the Elan Valley and arriving in the Welsh capital - Cardiff. A lively city with a youthful vibe, it has some of the best nightlife in the country. Cardiff / Big Pit / Hay-on-Wye / Cardiff 04 05 Visit Caerleon, a Roman amphitheatre before a chance to go down a real Welsh coal mine at the Big Pit. Next, stop off at Hay-onWye, the world famous second-hand book capital of Britain before returning to Cardiff for a final night with a bang! Cardiff / Tintern Abbey / London From London head west to Stonehenge - the UK’s most famous and mysterious stone circle - before heading to historic Salisbury Cathedral and from here south to Exeter. Exeter / Dartmoor / Newquay This morning, explore the wilds of Dartmoor – known for its tors and bogs. It’s then off to Cornwall to the resort of Newquay, the UK’s surfing capital where you’ll get the optional chance to hit the waves in a surf lesson on the beach. Surf’s up! Cornwall 03 Spend the day in Cornwall; enjoy scenic walks, see the mysterious standing stones and visit the Minack Theatre. Drive along the scenic Atlantic Highway to Land’s End with a stop in the sleepy seaside town of St. Ives. Later enjoy a memorable night out, Newquay style! Newquay / Bath 04 Today you’ll visit the beautiful Tintagel and its castle, before travelling through slow-paced Devon and Somerset to the beautiful coastal town of Boscastle. Tonight’s stop is in historic Bath, the cultural trendsetter and fashionable haunt for the cream of British society! Wander Bath’s enchanting flower-filled streets, and opulent Georgian architecture before heading to one of its quirky pubs. Bath / London 05 Take time to explore Cardiff this morning, with its imposing castle and Millennium Stadium. Visit Tintern Abbey, inspiration to Romantic poet, William Wordsworth, before returning to the Big Smoke. Inclusions London / Stonehenge / Exeter This morning, visit the Roman Baths - a natural hot water spring the Romans turned into a bath house! Then it’s on to the historic Wiltshire village of Lacock and the stone circle of Avebury before you’re back in the UK’s dazzling and diverse capital. Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 25 Notes: Includes entry to Big Pit coal mine Tour Code: BU Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Notes: Includes Glastonbury Tor and a visit to Salisbury Cathedral Tour Code: BU Farmhouse 1 ENGL A N D WA LES ENGLAND Stratfordupon-Avon 1 West 2 Wales Cardiff Departures 2015 May - Sep Every Monday London WA L E S Bath London Departures 2015 May - Sep Every Monday Newquay 2 1 1 Stonehenge Exeter Land’s End 125 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Snowdonia National Park REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND LAKE DISTRICT SHORT BREAK Lake Windermere $922 FR Lake Windermere 4 DAY Highlights • Stay in either a traditional guesthouse or a four-star country house • Magnificent scenery of mountains, valleys and lakes • Two top-notch scenic tours included Experience the great outdoors on this scenic four-day package. The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and home to its highest mountain, its deepest lake and thriving communities like Bowness-on-Windermere. Enjoy two fantastic tours: the Ten Lakes Spectacular - a great introduction to the area and its stunning surrounds, and Beatrix Potter’s favourite countryside where you’ll have the chance to go into Beatrix Potter’s house, visit the village of Hawkshead and Tarn Hows, plus enjoy a lake cruise to Brantwood and through the Yewdale Valley. Lake Windermere is easily accessible by train or bus from London and other UK cities. Departs: Daily, end of March - end of October Accommodation: Guesthouse (3 nts) Meals: Daily breakfast Transport: Minibus. Transport to/from Windermere from within the UK is not included Tour Code: LKDWIN CANAL BOAT ADVENTURE Manchester Peak District $388 FR 4 DAYS Highlights • Mix of city, urban, industrial and beautiful countryside landscapes • Work as a team steering the barge through a set of locks each day • Enjoy home-cooked food and moor close to traditional English pubs Starting in Manchester, cruise through the centre of the city and spend a night in the Northern Quarter, home to the city’s best bars. Head past remnants of Manchester’s bygone industrial days and on past Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium. Once out of the city, skirt the Peak District National Park, open lift and swing bridges, work the locks and moor close to pubs frequented only by locals. Onboard, food is cooked from scratch and there’s a series of games and an honesty bar – pull your own pint! The tour ends in Whaley Bridge where there are regular trains to Buxton, gateway to the Peak District, or back to Manchester. Departs: Selected dates May-Sept Accommodation: Canal boat in mixed sex, 4-berth, bunk dorm cabin (3 nts) Transport: Canal boat Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Code: MANADV 126 ULTIMATE BEATLE MANIA Liverpool Liverpool $527 FR 3 DAY Highlights • Discover just how Beatles mania really took over the world! • A river cruise on the iconic Mersey Ferry • You’ll be prepared for any pub quiz on the Fab Four after this tour! Ever wondered how four boys from Liverpool came to be one of the biggest bands of all time? Discover the inspiring story behind the ‘Fab Four’ and their historical rise to fame, with the Hard Day’s Night Hotel, the hub of Beatle mania, as your base! Visits to the multi award-winning Beatles’ Story as well as the Peace and Harmony European Peace Monument, a dedication to John Lennon, create an unbeatable experience. A dynamic ride awaits on the Magical Mystery Tour, culminating in a River Explorer Cruise on the Mersey Ferry. Don’t forget the Museum of Liverpool and the Wondrous Place selection, looking at the band’s social impact. Departs: Daily Accommodation: B&B at Hard Day’s Night Hotel (2 nts) Includes: Admission to The Beatles’ Story, John Lennon Peace Monument, ferry cruise, Magical Mystery Tour, entrance to The Cavern Club & new Museum of Liverpool visit Meals: Daily breakfast Tour Code: LPLBEA CANAL BOAT ESCAPE Marple, Manchester $289 FR Congleton, Cheshire 3 DAYS Highlights • Explore rural English countryside by canal boat • Pub stops and optional hiking, canoeing and fishing • Work the locks and have a go at steering the boat Starting in Marple, a picturesque suburb on the outskirts of Manchester (20 minutes by train), travel through beautiful rural Cheshire countryside, hugging the edge of the Peak District National Park for much of this amazing journey. There’s plenty of time for activities en route; hiking, canoeing or fishing. Or, chill out and find good local pubs - that’s the focus on this tour. Have a go at working some locks and steering the boat, or sit out on deck with a beer. There’ll be plenty of opportunity to immerse yourself in this world and chat to the locals. The tour ends in Congleton with easy train access to Manchester and the rest of the UK. Departs: Selected dates May-Sept Acommodation: Canal boat in mixed sex, 4-berth, bunk dorm cabin (2 nts) Transport: Canal boat Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Tour Code: MANESC VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM SKYE HIGH HIGHLAND $279/ $265 FLING FR Edinburgh STUDENTS FR 3 DAYS Edinburgh Edinburgh STUDENTS $459/ FR$439 FR 5 DAYS Edinburgh Highlights • Discover the magical Isle of Skye, its legends and fairy stories • Sample a wee dram at a Highland whisky distillery visit • View the stunning and beautifully-sited Eilean Donan Castle DAY ITINERARY Heilan’ Coo Highlights • Ride the Jacobite steam train or drive the scenic ‘Road to the Isles’ • Hunt for Nessie, the legendary and fearsome Loch Ness Monster • Head on over to the jaw-droppingly beautiful Isle of Skye DAY ITINERARY Edinburgh / Glencoe / Loch Ness 01 As you set off from charmingly historic Edinburgh, you’ll hear tales of William Wallace as you pass Stirling and into Rob Roy Country where the lowlands dramatically change into the Highlands. Surrounded by a whirlwind of raw Scottish beauty, you’ll pass dramatic Glencoe, besieged by soaring mountains and greenery. This national treasure has been the star of many movies, including Harry Potter. Glencoe also has a blood-thirsty tale behind it as it’s the site of the Glencoe Massacre between rival Highland clans. As you delve deeper into the heartland, you’ll witness the Great Glen and Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness, where you’ll spend the night. Deep, dark and narrow Loch Ness stretches for 23 miles between Inverness and Fort Augustus and its bitterly-cold waters have been extensively explored in search of ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster. Isle of Skye 02 A day exploring the stunning Isle of Skye with its myths, legends and fairy stories. The cloud-shaped Isle is the largest and most northerly of the Inner Hebrides. With its brooding Cuillin Hills, spectacularly rugged cliffs and wonderfully weathered coastline, it’s sure to have you under its alluring spell. Then it’s back to the mainland past effortlessly photogenic Eilean Donan Castle. This little beauty is nestled on an offshore islet, linked to the mainland by an elegant, stone-arched bridge. Edinburgh / Dunkeld / Loch Ness 01 Loch Ness / Isle of Skye 02-03 03 Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 28 Notes: Free visit to a Highland whisky distillery & Dunkeld Cathedral Tour Code: BU Departures 2015 Jan - Apr Every Monday & Friday May - Oct Every Mon, Wed, Fri & Selected Sat Nov - Dec Every Monday & Friday Explore the area around Loch Ness and pass Urquhart Castle on its banks, from where the legendary monster has been seen many times. For the brave amongst you, get out there and do some Nessie spotting! Next up you’ll journey to Culloden Battlefield, famous for the Battle of Culloden which was led by Charles Edward Stuart, also known as Bonnie Prince Charlie. Fancy a wee dram anyone? Head to a local whisky distillery, where you’ll learn about the distilling process. On Day 3, head west to see the glory of Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the bridge to Skye for a day of legends, faerie stories, mountain scenery and dramatic coastlines. Oban / Glencoe / Edinburgh Loch Ness / Culloden / Edinburgh Follow the entire length of Loch Ness and keep your eyes peeled for signs of the phantom monster! See the ruins of Urquhart Castle before visiting Culloden Battlefield. Try a dram of the ‘water of life’ at a whisky distillery then head south through Dunkeld and Macbeth Country, before crossing the iconic Forth Road Bridge to Edinburgh. Leave the cascading craggy beauty of Edinburgh behind you as you pass the Forth Bridges, heading north through Macbeth Country’s flurry of mountains and forests to Dunkeld, a picturesque Highland village. After a visit to the Cathedral your journey takes you through some of the most remote and isolated wilderness in Europe where you’ll enjoy a wee walk in the breathtaking Highlands. You can smell the crisp Scottish air from here! Continue to the awesome Morag’s Lodge, located close to the eerie banks of Loch Ness for the night. 04-05 A day of haunting beauty as you ferry back to the mainland, either for the steam train journey of a lifetime or to drive the stunning ‘Road to the Isles’. View the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct (as seen in the Harry Potter films), before passing in the shadow of Ben Nevis to Oban. Tonight, it’s time to clad yourself with appropriate amounts of tartan and prepare for a spot of Ceilidh dancing! Then, on Day 5, journey through the haunting beauty of Glencoe, used as a backdrop in the movie ‘Skyfall’, and onto Rob Roy Country. Pass Stirling and the Wallace Monument on your return to Edinburgh. Inclusions Isle of Skye Inverness 2 Loch Ness Glencoe Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 28 Notes: Free visit to a Highland whisky distillery, access to Culloden Battlefield Tour Code: BU Isle of Skye 1 Inverness 2 Glencoe Oban Stirling Edinburgh Departures 2015 Jan - Jun Every Monday Jul - Aug Every Monday & Saturday Sep - Dec Every Monday Loch Ness 1 Edinburgh 127 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Eilean Donan Castle ISLAND EXPLORER Edinburgh COMPASS $689/ $659 BUSTER FR FR STUDENTS 7 DAYS Edinburgh Edinburgh STUDENTS $989/ FR$949 FR 10 DAYS Edinburgh REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness Highlights Glenfinnan Viaduct Highlights • Admire the beauty of Isle of Skye and its awe-inspiring scenery • Overnight on the banks of Loch Ness and party in Inverness • Visit Orkney and the incredible Stone Age village of Skara Brae • Explore the infamous Loch Ness - eyes peeled for Nessie spotting! • Uncover the Orkney Islands with over 9,000 years of history • Keep a lookout for dolphins and whales on ferry crossings DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY Edinburgh / Inverness / Orkney 01-03 Leaving the city behind, pass the Forth Bridge and dive right into Scotland’s myriad of enchanting forests and mountains. Make a stop at the quaint old town of St. Andrews, home of golf, then head north for a wee dram of Scotland’s favourite national drink at a whisky distillery before arriving at Inverness, capital of the Highlands. On Day 2, take a ferry to Orkney and visit the local gem, Tomb of the Eagles. Day 3 is yours to explore Skara Brae, a well-preserved Stone Age village inhabited between 3,200BC and 2,200BC. 01 04-05 Skye / Oban / Edinburgh 06-07 A stunning ferry journey back to the mainland allows you to take in the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct (as seen in ‘Harry Potter’), or to take an optional ride on an atmospheric steam train. You’ll have a chance to hike in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Next up is Oban, known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’, and this is your chance for a proper Highland Fling with some traditional ceilidh dancing. On Day 7, travel through the haunting beauty of Glencoe then on to Rob Roy and William Country, before seeing the old capital of Stirling. Scotland, you wild and sexy beast! Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach, ferries Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 28 Notes: Includes visit to a Highland whisky distillery, Ring of Brodgar standing stones, Italian Chapel Tour Code: BU Orkney 2 Kirkwall Loch Ness Inverness Isle of Skye 1 1 1 Kyleakin Ben Nevis S COT L A N D Oban 1 Glencoe Dunkeld St Andrews Bidding farewell to the proud capital you’ll head through Macbeth Country for a stop at Dunkeld. Then on to the Cairngorms National Park and to the far north west for your ferry to the Hebrides. Lewis / Harris / Skye 02-03 Orkney / Loch Ness / Isle of Skye Bid Orkney farewell and cross back to the mainland where you’ll journey south through Scotland’s sparsely-populated wilderness of Sutherland and Caithness, via glens left empty after the Highland Clearances. Pass the ruins of Urquhart Castle before arriving at Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness for some monster spotting. On Day 5, you’ll have a chance to help revive Scotland’s native woodland as you visit HAGGiS Grove (weather permitting) and plant a tree. After, cross the bridge to Skye, the ‘winged isle’, to unveil Viking history, Celtic legends and ancient myths. Edinburgh / Stornoway Today the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, Gaelic settlements and island exploration, including a traditional Hebridean blackhouse and local tweed weavers, are all on the menu. On Day 3, feel Harris’ white sand between your toes before heading to the Isle of Skye. Inverness / John O’Groats / Orkney Islands 04-06 Journey past the stunning Eilean Donan Castle before arriving to Inverness for the night. On Day 5, venture past the Black Isle and to the tip of the British mainland, John O’Groats. Then it’s a short ferry hop to the Viking-influenced Orkney Islands. On Day 6, head to the extraordinary Skara Brae, a well-preserved Stone Age village, then on to the standing stones at the Ring of Brodgar and the Italian chapel. Loch Ness / Isle of Skye 07-08 Back to the mainland and past Urquhart Castle, on the banks of Loch Ness. On Day 8, plant a tree in HAGGiS Grove to help revive Scotland’s native woodland before crossing the bridge to Skye, the ‘winged isle’, full of Viking tales, Celtic legends and ancient myths. Isle of Skye / Oban / Edinburgh 09-10 Visit the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct, as seen in the Harry Potter films. Then, weather permitting, head off into the hills for a hike before arriving to Oban, the ‘Gateway to the Isles’. Bring on the Ceilidh night! On Day 10, pass the haunting beauty of Glencoe and on to Rob Roy Country. Journey through Stirling to view the Wallace Monument on your way back to Edinburgh. Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Not included, but space is held for you at multi-share hostels for approx £20-£25 per person per night - this can be pre-paid or arranged on a ‘pay as you go’ basis Transport: Modern coach, ferries Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 28 Notes: Included entry to Ring of Brodgar and Callanish standing stones, Italian Chapel, Dun Carloway iron age fort, Gearrannan Blackhouse Museum Tour Code: BU Departures 2015 Departures 2015 Apr - Sep May - Sep 128 2 Lewis John O’Groats Stornoway 2 Ullapool Harris Uig 2 1 Inverness Loch Ness S C O T L 1A N D Isle of Skye Oban S COT L A N D Dunkeld 1 Glencoe Stirling Edinburgh Every Saturday Orkney Every Wednesday VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM Edinburgh WEST HIGHLAND WAY ADVENTURE Glasgow HIGHLIGHTS $1,259 OF IRELAND $2,249 FR 6 DAYS Fort William Dublin FR 9 DAYS Cork Highlights • Journey 154kms (96 miles) by foot, bike, canoe and sea kayak • Hike across barren Rannoch Moor to the stunningly scenic Glencoe • Enjoy participation camping and sleep under the stars in a teepee DAY ITINERARY Highlights • Learn how our ancient ancestors lived and died at Newgrange • Stroll the extraordinary limestone karst pavements of The Burren • Take a boat trip to the remote and beautiful Skellig Islands DAY ITINERARY Glasgow / Loch Lomond 01 Your adventure begins with the transfer from the urban excitement of Glasgow and on to the breathtaking and barren landscapes of the West Highland Way. Today you will bike north past lochs and through forests to Loch Lomond before setting up a camp for the night. 01 Loch Lomond 02 Loch Lomond is the largest body of freshwater in mainland Britain, so there is plenty of room for watersports! Spend the day canoeing these spectacular waters and get a unique viewpoint of Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s most popular Munros (mountain peaks over 3,000 feet) before a cosy night in a teepee with camp fire. 02 Loch Lomond / Bridge of Orchy / Glencoe 03-04 Spend a day hiking and biking! Follow the spectacular River Falloch winding through stunning gorges and rocky rapids. This area boasts some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Reach tonight’s hostel for a well-deserved rest. On Day 4, hike through one of Europe’s most remote areas along a military road built in the 1700s. Glencoe Village Today you will tackle a path that crosses the Aonach Eagach range of mountains, known as the ‘Devil’s Staircase’ and reach the stunningly beautiful Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most famous and scenic glens. From here, you will kayak the gorgeous Loch Leven for another night under canvas. 05 Fort William Rise to an amazing day kayaking the peaceful and scenic Loch Linnhe surrounded by a stunning mountain view until you reach your final destination, Fort William, where your adventure comes to an end. 06 Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Mix of camping and hostel (5 nts, multishare) Transport: Bike, hike and kayak Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver Group Size: Avg 8 Notes: Includes bike, canoe, sea kayak hire, safety equipment, tent/teepee and cooking equipment. Bring your own sleeping bag, waterproof clothing and walking boots. Good level of fitness required. Tour Code: BU S COT L A N D Fort William Glencoe 1 Village 2 Glencoe Bridge of Orchy Loch Lomond Ben Lomond FINISH Jul 09 START FINISH Aug 01 Aug 06 Newgrange / Sligo Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the extraordinary Neolithic necropolis of Newgrange, 1,000 years older than Stonehenge and 600 years older than the great pyramids of Egypt. Head to Sligo this afternoon. Galway / The Burren / Cliffs of Moher 03-04 Visit Drumcliff to see the grave of WB Yeats and a remarkable high cross dating back to the 11th Century before heading to Galway for a storytelling tour of its colourful centre. On Day 4, walk through the unique limestone scenery of The Burren, sample homemade cakes on a visit to a farmhouse and admire the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. (L) 05-06 Today will take you to the beautiful Aran Islands where you’ll see the Viking Fortress and admire scenic cliffs, Ruins of Seven Churches and visit a seal colony. On Day 6, hop back to the mainland and on to Killarney where you’ll enjoy an orientation walk. Aran Islands / Killarney Cork 07-08 Travel by public bus to Cork and take an orientation walk before visiting the famous Blarney Castle where you can kiss the Blarney Stone. On Day 8, enjoy free time to see the sights of Cork and opt to visit the Titanic Museum in Cobh. Cork 09 Tour concludes any time on Day 9. Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses (8 nts) Transport: Public bus, private van/bus, boat Meals: 1 lunch Budget: Allow EUR €250-350 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 14, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAEQHI My Own Room Available: Fr $809 Glasgow N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D Sligo START FINISH Aug 29 Sep 03 START FINISH Jun 20 Jun 28 Jul 10 Jun 28 Jul 06 Jul 18 START FINISH Jul 18 Jul 26 Aug 07 Aug 15 Aug 15 Aug 23 1 Galway Aran 1 Islands Dublin 1 2 Cliffs of Moher R E P U B L I C O F I R E L A N D Departures 2015 Departures 2015 START Arrive into Dublin at any time today and get yourself out exploring the many sights and attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, the redeveloped docklands area and the lively Temple Bar nightlife. Inclusions 2 Jul 04 Dublin START FINISH Sep 04 Sep 12 Sep 12 Sep 20 1 Killarney 2 Cork 129 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Puffin, Skellig Islands SOUTHERN ROCKER Dublin CELTIC $359 / $349 ROCKER FR STUDENTS FR 3 DAYS Dublin Dublin STUDENTS $679/ FR$659 FR 5 DAYS Dublin REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Cliffs of Moher Highlights Blarney Castle Highlights • Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone • Drive around the scenic splendour of the Dingle Peninsula • Wander the lunar limestone landscapes of the Burren • Stand 200m above the Atlantic at the Cliffs of Moher • Witness the mysterious lunar landscape of the Burren • Explore the traditional live music bars in youthful Galway DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY Dublin / Galway Dublin / Cashel / Blarney / Killarney 01 Leaving Dublin this morning, you’ll pass through the lush scenery of County Wicklow en route to Cashel. Slap bang in the middle of town lies the famous ‘Rock of Cashel’ where you can marvel at the collection of Celtic art and medieval architecture - castles, cathedrals, chapels and crosses - perched atop its lofty summit. Next, head down into County Cork, known as the ‘Rebel County’, for a visit to Blarney Castle, set in beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to kiss the famous Blarney Stone if you want to be blessed with the gift of the gab! It’s then on to the lakeside town of Killarney, the gateway to some impressive mountain scenery, where you’ll spend the night. 01 Inis Mór or Connemara 02 Killarney / Dingle Peninsula / Ennis 02 Today, you’re headed for the Dingle Peninsula where it’s impossible not to be impressed by its archaeological heritage as well as its beautiful scenery. The peninsula stretches some 48kms into the Atlantic, its interior dominated by a mountain spine and its dramatic coast boasting sea cliffs, sandy beaches and some of the best surfing in Ireland. It’s also home to a thriving Gaelic-speaking community, proud of its language and ancient traditions. From here, you’ll cross the mighty Shannon River and head to the small town of Ennis for a night of traditional Irish music and some good craic. 03 Inclusions 03-04 Hear local legends as you explore the ‘moon surface’ amidst the rocky landscapes of the Burren then gasp when you see the sheer drop from the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most-visited attractions. Tonight you’ll stay at the lively city of Ennis, where pubs are filled with locals playing Irish music. On Day 4, explore the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, admire its dramatic scenery and breathe the fresh Irish air before heading to the lakeside town of Killarney, where you can enjoy a great night out bar hopping. Blarney / Cashel / Dublin 05 Head into beautiful County Cork to visit Blarney Castle, where you have the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone - it’s said that doing so will give you the gift of the gab! Then continue to Cashel, famous for the ‘Rock of Cashel’ where, perched on top of a limestone outcrop, you’ll find a fine collection of medieval buildings. Your trip ends today on arrival to Dublin. Inclusions Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Hostels (2 nts, mixed dorm) Transport: Modern coach Meals: 2 breakfasts Group Leader: Guide/Driver (100% Irish!) Group Size: Avg 25 Notes: Includes entry to Cliffs of Moher Tour Code: BU NO RT H E R N I R E L A N D R E P U B L I C O F I R E L A N D Cliffs of Moher 1 Dingle 1 Departures 2015 Jan - Apr Every Friday Jan - Apr Every Monday May - Sep Every Wednesday & Friday May - Sep Every Monday & Wednesday Oct - Dec Every Friday Oct - Dec Every Monday 130 N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM R E P U B L I C O F I R E L A N D Connemara Inis Mor Ennis Blarney Castle Killarney Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Hostels (4 nts, mixed dorm) Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver (100% Irish!) Group Size: Avg 25 Notes: Includes entry to Cliffs of Moher, transfer and ferry to Inis Mór (Apr-Oct) Tour Code: BU Dublin Galway Departures 2015 During the summer, catch the ferry over to the amazing Gaelicspeaking island of Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands and famed for its endless dry stone walls and strong Irish traditions. During the winter months, a day trip into Connemara is on the cards, where you’ll explore the legendary scenery and visit the magnificent Kylemore Abbey. Return to Galway for another night out on the town. Burren / Ennis / Dingle Peninsula / Killarney Ennis / Cliffs of Moher / Galway / Dublin Hold onto your hats this morning, it can get pretty blustery at the stunning Cliffs of Moher, whose sheer sides rise some 200m high from the Atlantic Ocean. En route to Galway, explore the eerie lunar landscape of the Burren. You’ll have a little free time today to see some of the highlights of the city of Galway, known for its brightly-painted pubs and summertime street entertainers, before returning to Dublin. The tour comes to an end on arrival into Dublin this evening. Bid a fond farewell to Dublin and head west to Tullamore Dew for some whiskey sampling! Later, you’ll pass the legendary peat bogs and Galway Bay before reaching the colourful and vibrant city of Galway. One in four of the city’s population are students, so you’re pretty much guaranteed a good night out. 2 Cliffs of Moher Dingle 1 Galway 1 Ennis Blarney Castle Killarney Dublin GIANT’S ROCKER Dublin ALL IRELAND $679/ $659 ROCKER FR FR STUDENTS 5 DAYS Dublin Dublin STUDENTS $889/ FR$859 FR 7 DAYS Dublin Highlights • Admire the mighty Cliffs of Moher, rising high over the Atlantic • Dare you cross the jaw-dropping Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge? • Listen to the stories behind the ‘Troubles’ in Northern Ireland DAY ITINERARY Carrick-a-Rede Highlights • See the spectacular medieval buildings atop the Rock of Cashel • Kiss the Blarney Stone at County Cork’s famous Blarney Castle • Enjoy traditional live music sessions in Ennis and Galway DAY ITINERARY Dublin / Belfast / Carrick-a-Rede / Ballintoy 01 Head to vibrant Belfast to explore the political murals and the chance to do a Black Cab tour of Belfast City with a local at the wheel. Learn about the ‘Troubles’ or choose to visit the Titanic Quarter, built around a new showpiece museum. The city truly boasts some remarkable history and is a highlight of many travellers’ trips to the North. Then continue to the stunning Antrim coast and Carrick-aRede Rope Bridge stretching high above the Atlantic. Dublin / Belfast / Carrick-a-Rede / Ballintoy 01 Giant’s Causeway / Derry (Londonderry) / Galway Ballintoy / Derry (Londonderry) / Galway 02-03 Follow the footsteps of giants on the amazing natural wonder that is the Giant’s Causeway then it’s on to the walled city of Derry. Prepare to get emotional as you meet Derry’s bloody past on a walk through both past and present. On Day 3, leave the North and travel through the wild, rugged and rural Connemara and legendary Irish scenery of mountains, streams and peat bogs into vibrant Galway for the night. 02-03 04 04-05 Galway / Dublin 05 Head straight to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, looming high over the Atlantic Ocean. Vertigo sufferers beware! After lunch, explore the weird and magical landscape of the Burren, lunar-like in appearance and, it’s reputed, also home to fairies and leprechauns. After listening to the Celtic legends here, travel back to Dublin. It’s time to bid farewells to your travel mates as your adventure concludes on arrival. Inclusions Carrick-a-Rede Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Hostels (4 nts, mixed dorm) Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver (100% Irish!) Group Size: Avg 25 Notes: Includes transfer and ferry to Inis Mór, entry to Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre Tour Code: BU Ballintoy 1 Londonderry 1 NO RT H E R N I R E L A N D Belfast R E P U B L I C O F I R E L A N D Connemara 2 Inis Mor Cliffs of Moher Departures 2015 May - Sep Every Monday & Saturday Galway Witness the spectacular Giant’s Causeway, hexagonal basalt columns formed by a massive underwater eruption before discovering the historic and fascinating walled city of Derry. Test your emotions as you walk through both past and present in this medieval city. On Day 3, cross back into the Republic and explore the rugged and rural Connemara. From here, it’s just a short hop to the city of Galway, hosting a range of buzzing bars. Inis Mór (Aran Islands) / Burren / Cliffs of Moher / Ennis Inis Mór (Aran Islands) The ferry will take you over the Atlantic and on to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór, that has over 3,000 miles of stone walls! Jump on a bike or hire a horse and cart, and spend the day exploring the island or grab a pint and get chatting to Gaelic locals. Return to Galway for the night. Head north to explore the political murals of Belfast in a Black Cab or visit the city’s newly-developed ‘Titanic Quarter’ then it’s on to what has recently been called ‘The Most Mystifyingly Cool Road Ever’ and ‘The Dark Hedges’. Later, dare yourself to walk across the precarious rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede! Today, you have a chance to step back in time, with a ferry crossing over to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. Explore this Gaelicspeaking island by bike or hire a horse and cart. On Day 5, take in the lunar-like landscape of Burren then gasp at the sheer drop into the Atlantic from the Cliffs of Moher. Continue on to the market town of Ennis where you can enjoy an evening of traditional Irish music. Dingle Peninsula / Killarney / Dublin 06-07 Travel along the dramatic Dingle Peninsula and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and fresh Irish air. Your home for the night is the party town of Killarney. On Day 7, enter the ‘Rebel County’ of Cork and head for the Blarney Castle, where you’ll have a chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone before taking in the inspiring Rock of Cashel. Your trip wraps up on arrival to Dublin today. Inclusions Carrick-a-Rede Ballintoy 1 Londonderry 1 Service Level: Basic Age Group: Min 18 Accommodation: Hostel (6 nts, mixed dorm) Transport: Modern coach Meals: None Group Leader: Guide/Driver (100% Irish!) Group Size: Avg 25 Notes: Includes entry to Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, transfer & ferry to Inis Mór Tour Code: BU N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D Belfast R E P U B L I C O F I R E LA N D Connemara Dublin 2 Inis Mor Departures 2015 Apr Every Saturday May - Sep Every Monday & Saturday Oct Every Saturday Cliffs of Moher Galway 1 Dublin Ennis Killarney Dingle 1 Blarney Castle 131 REGIONAL TOURING - UK & IRELAND Giant’s Causeway