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Fit for Royalty: Best Irish Castle Stays
Fit for Royalty: Best Irish Castle Stays
Looking to live like the elite even if it’s just for one day? Well, you can at these Irish castles! Take time to dip in the indoor pool, relax at the spa, hike acres of land, fish, golf, kayak, play tennis, horseback ride, and so much more right on property!
Dromoland Castle
This castle is over 1,000 years old and one of Ireland’s most expensive castles. The property is 500 acres with a slew of activities to attend onsite. While staying, one may attend clay pigeon shooting, fishing, golfing, paddle boarding, go karts, tennis, pickleball, cycling, hiking trails, archery, and falconry. If you’re just looking to relax, you may also indulge in the spa or swimming in the indoor pool. Many celebrities have stayed at this location including John Travolta, Nelson Mandela, Johnny Cash, and Bill Clinton. This castle is in Dromoland, Ireland.
Ashford Castle
If you’re a beer drinker, this castle may be what you’re looking for, Ashford Castle was previously owned by The Guinness Family! If you’re looking for a special place to stay on the property book The Boathouse. The Boathouse was conceived and built when The Guinness Family still owned the estate. It lies solo on the edge of Lough Corrib and is surrounded by the lake and gardens. If you always wanted a private butler, then Ashford Castle has you covered since all guests of The Boathouse receive one! Amenities at Ashford Castle include fresh flowers, Egyptian Cotton bed linen, lakeside views, lakeside dining, plus bathrobes and slippers, bottled mineral water, an expresso machine, fireplace, complimentary movies, and a welcome basket. Activities available at the castle include tennis, golf, hiking, walking tours, the cinema, clay shooting, cycling, archery, falconry, horseback riding, boating, kayaking, lake cruising, and fishing. Ashford Castle resides in Mayo, Ireland.
Lough Eske Castle
When you’re visiting Northern Ireland, you’ll want to stay at Lough Eske Castle. At this property guests can even opt to stay in their own private lodge. The lodge comes with 800 square feet and your own wood burning fire, separate living and dining areas, free internet and more. The castle offers a variety of activities including complimentary history tour, complimentary bikes, spa, horse drawn carriage rides, and fishing on Lough Eske. Stay at this castle in Donegal, Ireland.
Cabra Castle
Looking to pop the question? A castle is such a romantic place to do it! Cabra Castle offers a package experience to make this engagement moment extra special. The “Will You Marry Me Package” comes with all the frills to wow your special someone. You will share a 5-course dinner, chocolate dipped strawberries and a bottle of champagne. You may add extra desserts, flowers, or wine to your package as you see fit. Get engaged at Cabra Castle in Kingscourt, Ireland.
Castle Leslie
Another castle we love due to all the activities is Castle Leslie. If you love equestrianism, this is the castle for you! Castle Leslie features a world class Equestrian Centre on over 1,000 acres of land. Other activities include horse drawn carriages, falconry, hiking, clay shooting, archery, boating and fishing. You may stay at the castle itself, The Lodge, or the Old Castle Mews to feel even closer to the equestrian experience. Once you are done with your daily activities, feel free to relax at the castle spa or pool. Visit this castle in Glaslough, Ireland.
Whether you’re planning to get married, love outdoor activities, need to relax at the spa or spend time with horses, these above castle stays have you covered! If you wish to add a castle stay to your trip to Ireland, Celtic Tours can add any of these options to your tour.
TAP and PAY the Easy Way Overseas!
TAP and PAY the Easy Way Overseas!
April 17, 2024
Our President just returned from Ireland and used the REVOLUT app during her stay in Ireland and Northern Ireland. While we are not an affiliate in any way of REVOLUT, it is a well-known tool in Europe for making foreign currency payments and it is so easy and carefree to use! If you have clients going to Europe, this may be the best way for them to pay as they go, budget and avoid carrying a lot of cash and added fees!
Simply:
1. Download the app from the app store
2. Open a free account
3. Add the desired amount to the account (our President added what she needed on the go, and there was a small $.25 cent fee for this)
4. Use your phone to TAP and PAY throughout Europe (you can also get a free card for the account to use when your phone is not available)
If your funds are in USD, they will be exchanged at the current exchange rate. You can also exchange to the currency of your choice at any time with no fees. Using REVOLUT allows you to avoid carrying large amounts of cash while travelling, and also avoids international withdrawal fees at ATMs, as well as going to the bank or standing in long money exchange lines. You can instantly move more money from your accounts set up on Apple pay or other pay services on your phone without exchange fees. The app also allows you to monitor exchange rates and exchange money with improved rates. Additionally, if you do exchange money from USD to the Currency of the country you are visiting, but don’t spend it all, you can exchange it back!
This is an incredibly useful tool we just wanted to share, which may help your clients who are traveling abroad this year! For more tools to aid your trip visit our Travel Tools recommendations.
Make the Most of 2024!
Make the Most of 2024!
March 21, 2024
2024 is well under way and we appreciate all your business! We've gotten many bookings for Ireland and UK tours so far this year and even a few to Italy and other wonderful destinations! We're delighted to continue offering incredible vacation packages and to help you make the most of your 2024. At this time, hotel availability in Spring and early summer is very slim, but rest assured Celtic Tours has plenty of space available for the fall months. Fall is a wonderful time to travel, with cooler temperatures, less crowds, and a more relaxed pace which allows you to really immerse yourself in your vacation and let your troubles fade away.
Maybe you're interested in experiencing Halloween traditions outside of the US? Our Halloween Spooktacular is the perfect opportunity! Or take advantage of our Irish Tour series and see all Ireland has to offer! Don't forget our myriad of tours throughout Europe for castle lovers, culinary aficionados, and history fans. There's something for everyone!
Browse our Celtic Tours destinations and contact us via phone or email to book today!
Looking Ahead to 2024!
Looking Ahead to 2024!
September 1, 2023
Happy September! Summer is drawing to a close, but don't fret, there's plenty to look forward to! With the change of the season comes the change of available tours and tour dates. We have a wide selection of destinations coming in 2024, and although not all of them have been added to our website yet, many have! Naturally, we have plenty of tours in the UK; Your favorite tours are back for you to enjoy again! Our popular Irish tour series is making a return as well, alongside some itinerary updates to bring you an even better experience! Secure your spot now!
We also have incredible tours available throughout Europe! We offer tons of private tours to Germany with specialized itineraries such as Rivers, Wines and Castles, and independent journeys are also available. From culinary adventures to castle exploration, there's something for everyone.
Escorted Tours
We also have an exciting selection of tours available throughout Northern, Eastern and Central Europe for 2024. Explore places like Croatia, one of the most popular vacation destinations in Europe, as well as underrated gems such as Slovenia, Serbia, or even Baltic States like Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania! Tours range from just a couple of days to two weeks or more. There is lots of culture, history and even culinary reward to experience in these countries, and they make for unforgettable trips. See for yourself and book a vacation!
There are plenty of more 2024 tours coming to the website in the next few weeks, so keep an eye out! The perfect tour is waiting for you, we guarantee it.
Email reservations@celtictours.com or give us a call to plan your trip now.
May The 4th Be With You... In Spain!
May The 4th Be With You... In Spain!
May 4th, 2023
Summer is fast approaching but there's still time to plan your perfect vacation! Consider a visit to Spain on one of our incredible tours!
We have three wonderful journeys by train to choose from, which allow you to experience the very best of Spanish cities and culture, and allow plenty of time for individual exploration! Each of these has daily departures until October 2023. These tours include daily breakfast, first class hotels, relaxed itineraries, and include train tickets and transfers between cities.
Visit:
Our popular escorted Elegance, Culture and Reconquista tour still has spots available for:
- July 8th
- September 23rd
- October 28th
Take advantage of these incredible opportunities now! And keep an eye out for even more amazing destinations this year.
5 Tips For Your Scotland Self Drive
5 Tips For Your Scotland Self Drive
Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned road trip, singing tunes in the car with the windows down, getting a little lost, and discovering the beauty of a new place? Road trips are the perfect vacation option for those travelers who want a little more independence in their vacation, especially if you are budget conscious.
1. Download Your Route on Google Maps and Allow for Extra Time
When renting a car overseas, you should be aware that you are not always going to find a GPS in your vehicle. A GPS does come at an extra cost, and are available on request, which means that it isn’t guaranteed that you will get one. The workaround? Download your route from Google Maps onto your phone before you go, this will allow you to have access to your map, even if you don’t have internet service! It is also worth pointing out that you will want to account for a bit of extra time on your route – keep in mind that the roads are windy and narrower than what we are used to in the U.S.
2. Invest in an Automatic Car
When booking a car in the U.K., a manual car is going to be cheaper. However, if you are uncomfortable with a stick shift, I would highly recommend opting for an automatic vehicle. Not only will you be driving on the “wrong” side of the road, but you will also be in a new place. Save yourself the stress and opt for the automatic if it makes you feel more comfortable.
3. Take the Scenic Route
The beauty of a self-drive vacation is the freedom and flexibility you have in your day-to-day itinerary. Take advantage of this flexibility and discover the more scenic areas within Scotland, maybe even visit some of Scotland’s more remote, harder to reach areas?
4. Watch for Animals
One of the wonderful things about Scotland is the ample wildlife. While in Scotland it isn’t uncommon to see sheep, deer, or even some of the Highland cattle alongside the road. That being said, you just want to be mindful of the wildlife while driving.
5. Stop for Photos and Breaks
This may be one of the most useful tips – if you are driving along and something catches your eye, stop! One of the joys about having your own vehicle is the freedom to stop and stretch whenever you would like. Don’t forget to get out to stretch, grab a bite of food, or simply stop to admire the views as you are driving along – it will make the road trip a lot more enjoyable!
If you want freedom to see the sights on your own time and experience the open road a self-drive tour is for you. Celtic Tours can help you customize your trip today.
Scotland's Highlands
Scotland's Highlands
Scotland’s largest region, the Highlands, is home to hundreds of iconic locations. The Highlands are filled with dramatic landscapes, composed of majestic mountains, and mysterious lochs. It is little wonder that visitors from all over the world are compelled to visit this magical area. Some of the most popular destinations in this area include Glencoe, Inverness, and the Isle of Skye.
Glencoe
Deep valleys and towering mountains create the stunning scenery of Glencoe. The road through Glen Coe takes you through the heart of an ancient volcano. Follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to find out more about how glaciers and fiery explosions carved out the glen's rugged mountain peaks. While in Glencoe, pay a visit to the Glencoe National Nature Reserve, a place full of rare beauty, remarkable landscape, and ample wildlife.
Inverness
If you are looking for a city escape while in the Highlands, Inverness will provide you with a compact, cosmopolitan city with a lot of heart. With a flourishing culinary scene, plentiful retail options, and ample historical places, Inverness will allow visitors to enrich themselves in the Scottish culture.
Isle of Skye
The
Isle of Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit. It’s famous landscapes and scenery will leave you breathless as you wander around one of Scotland’s most scenic natural wonders. Not only does the island itself have a rich, diverse, history from Dinosaur Fossils to Clan Warfare, however, the island is also a great destination for wildlife watching. With ample wildlife, visitors will be able to watch for eagles, otters, seals, whales, and dolphins to name a few.
The Highlands really is the Scotland of your imagination. There is a natural playground which begs to explored, inviting visitors from all over the world to come and wander.
If your heart desires to see the
Scotland tours and the Scotland Highlands we can help you! Explore the highlands along with the rest of Scotland with Celtic Tours.
A Day in Dublin
A Day in Dublin
As the capital of Ireland, Dublin offers visitors an array of attractions, restaurants, and activities for visitors to choose from. With so many options to pick from, sometimes travelers can feel overwhelmed trying to decipher which they should visit. We have put together an itinerary of how we would spend a free day in Dublin.
Trinity College and Book of Kells
The Book of Kells is a must-see attraction for many visitors. Located in the heart of Dublin, the exhibition displays the Book of Kells, a 9th century manuscript that documents the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. The Exhibition also features access to the Long Room, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, which houses 200,000 of Trinity College’s oldest books. While on campus, visitors can also partake in a campus tour – guided by a current Trinity College student. During the tour, you will be able to roam the campus grounds and learn the history behind this popular university. Pro Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance to gain “skip the line” entry and avoid long queue lines.
Grafton Street
Grafton Street is a main shopping street in Dublin, lined with boutiques containing the creations of Ireland’s trendy designers.
Stephen’s Green
The park provides an oasis of green calm in the middle of a bustling city. Its four centuries of history are eventful and complex, involving such important figures as Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, and Countess Constance Markievicz. Visitors can view many historic sculptures, birds, and plants within the park.
St. Patrick’s
Since Saint Patrick baptized Christian converts nearby over 1500 years ago, this holy site has been a place of spiritual encounter for countless generations. Visit to experience the history, the church’s place in the life of the city, and their tradition of worship.
Dublin Castle
Built in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland’s independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government. It is now a major government complex and a key tourist attraction.
Guinness Storehouse
A former fermentation plant at the St. James’s Gate Brewery is transformed into a seven-story interactive experience bringing the story of world-famous stout to life. The Guinness Storehouse opens its doors to the public and becomes the official home of Guinness in the historic heart of Dublin.
Temple Bar
Temple bar is located on the Southbank of the River Liffey. It is one of the oldest areas in Dublin and is home to one of Europe’s oldest built theaters (Smock Alley Theater). Over the years it has maintained its medieval street exterior with narrow cobbled streets. It is famed as being the cultural quarter of Dublin with a number of cultural organizations, artists, and creative professionals based in the area. It is well known for its lively nightlife and attracts a number of tourists with its large variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Dublin is our exact area of expertise. If you need help planning and navigating the city, Celtic Tours has you covered!
Scenic Spotlight: The Ring Of Kerry in Ireland
Scenic Spotlight: The Ring Of Kerry in Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most scenic touring options. Travelers from all over the world flock to see the views that this picturesque area, hidden in the southwest corner of Ireland, has to offer. Visitors are able to discover the authentic wilderness of Ireland while touring this stunning area, as they bypass the white sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Begin your journey in the charming town of Killarney, a vibrant town comprised of history, heritage, and lively festivals. Many travelers are drawn in by the friendly atmosphere of this charming little town. While in the area be sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the many great seafood restaurants within the area and enjoy some of the top attractions Killarney has to offer, such as the Muckross House, Killarney National Park, or Dunloe Castle.
Muckross House
Nestled within the 26,000 acres of Killarney National Park is the Muckross House, a 19
th century Victorian Mansion. Standing along the shores of Muckross Lake, the elegant Victorian house, surrounded by the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, mountains, and woodlands, creates impressive views for guests who are exploring the area.
Killarney National Park
The unique and distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods, and waterfalls, gives the Killarney National Park a special scenic beauty. With ample wildlife and an abundance of greenery, Killarney National Park offers a tranquil, scenic, setting for those looking to take a stroll, go kayaking, or partake in a traditional jaunting car ride.
Killorglin
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From Killarney, you will continue on to Killorglin, famous for its traditional Puck Fair, Ireland’s oldest festival dating back to the 17
th century. This town offers an enjoyable melting pot of pubs, cafes, and galleries to their visitors. Continue your drive along the coastline of the broad Iveragh Peninsula, through the towns of Glenbeigh, Cahirciveen, Waterville, and Sneem.
Glenbeigh
Glenbeigh often referred to as “The Jewel in the Ring of Kerry”, offers six miles of golden, sandy, stunning, beaches. Visitors can escape from the stresses of everyday life and connect with nature with activities such as birdwatching, walking, horseback riding, or simply relaxing on Rossbeigh Beach.
Cahersiveen
Cahersiveen is a quaint town in County Kerry that offers travelers unspoiled landscape, breathtaking beaches, and green forests. While in Cahersiveen, guests can visit the ruins of Ballycarbery Castle, once home to the McCarthy Clan, which dates back to the 15th Century.
Waterville
Waterville is a small coastal village located between the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Currane on the famous Ring of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way routes. Many tourists flock to this scenic coastal town to partake in one of Waterville’s most popular activities, golf. Waterville Golf Links is regularly listed in the top destinations for golfers. Surrounded by sea, challenged and shaped by the elements, this course will require all of the shots you can muster to conquer it.
Sneem
Sneem, a village associated with a remote and relaxed way of living, is nestled between mountains and wild and rugged coast it offers some of the best views in the Emerald Isle. Visitors can unwind and connect with nature by observing the stunning landscapes, the abundance of wildlife, and the remoteness that Sneem has to offer.
To complete this famous touring path, simply circle back to Killarney, your starting location. The
Ring of Kerry is one of our most popular destinations. Join a tour making the Ring of Kerry stop today!
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Like stepping back in time, World Heritage Sites are a portal into the real lives of ancient people. While traveling, go beyond tourist hot spots and discover the cultural riches of an area through its art, architecture, and ancient sites. Not surprisingly,
Italy is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites in the world, with over 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Of course, everyone knows Venice, Rome, Florence, Naples, and Siena. But, among others, Italy is also home to the unique region of Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of centuries-old seaside villages of coral, sage, and egg-plant colored buildings, cliffs mirrored on the Tyrrhenian Sea, vineyards planted on perilously steep slopes, and breaking waves scattering a fine mist over. Cinque Terre reflects the harmonious interaction between man and nature to produce a landscape of exceptional quality that moves the heart like few places in the world. The region of Cinque Terre is composed of five main villages including Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Monterosso
Monterosso is the biggest and the oldest of Cinque Terre’s villages, dominated by the ruins of the castle and characterized by typical narrow, medieval streets, with multi-colored terraced houses, and lined with an extensive sand beach. While in Monterosso, you can fill your time by visiting some of the city’s historical buildings and statues such as the Church of St. John, the “Giant Statue”, Aurora Tower, or Sanctuary Soviore. If you are visiting during the summer months, you can also enjoy the sun and take a dip in the water at Cinque Terre’s best beach. Afterward, enjoy the lively nightlife with some of the ample activities offered within the area.
Vernazza
Vernazza is perhaps the most beautiful and steepest villages of Cinque Terre. Visitors can stroll the scenic waterfront, snap photos of the charming pastel-colored buildings, and explore a medieval castle before heading down to the sandy beach for a refreshing swim in the sea.
Corniglia
Corniglia is the highest and smallest of the Cinque Terre villages. Visitors can step back into time by visiting some of the area’s religious attractions such as the Church of St. Peter, the Chapel of Saint Catherine, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces. Those who are looking for a more laid back, local feel, will love the quietness that Corniglia offers.
Manarola
Wine enthusiasts will love Manarola, as grapevines flourish in this Cinque Terre village. The village is known for its Sciacchetrà, a sweet wine typically paired with desserts or cheese. Not only can visitors discover the beautiful vineyards of Manarola, however, they can also view the rocky harbors and historical monuments that the village has to offer.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the largest of the five Cinque Terre villages and offers stunning views of pastel buildings, a steep ravine, and a tiny harbor. The beautiful town of Riomaggiore rises in between two almost broken hills that slope right into the water. There was once a river that ran through the valley which was “Riomaggiore,” hence the name. The place is very famous to start a trek but has its roots in history with some places of must visit.
Regardless of which villages you decide to visit while in Cinque Terre, you are sure to discover the ample beauty of this unique area from the colorful buildings, scenic cliffs and harbors, and ample vineyards the region has to offer. If you need help planning your village visits we can help at Celtic Tours!
Packing for Your European Vacation
Packing for Your European Vacation
Like many, when I first started planning my trip to Europe, I was imagining all of the cute outfits I would pack, pinning every European Fashion Board that I could find on Pinterest. We were traveling to Switzerland & France, two areas which are known to be fashionable, and I did not want to stick out as a tourist. As I began shoving every item from my closet into my over-sized suitcase, I quickly began to realize that all of my items simply were not going to fit. Bearing this in mind, naturally, I began stowing my items in my husband’s suitcase, hoping that he somehow would not notice the items I had casually slipped in there.
Once we arrived in Switzerland, I immediately began to regret my packing decisions. After taking a bus, a train, and walking for a decent amount of time, we finally made it to our hotel. Not only was lugging all of our items daunting, but we also managed to break a wheel off of a suitcase in the process, making it that much harder to navigate around Geneva. I immediately realized that when packing for Europe, less is more. Not only from a navigation standpoint, but some European hotels often do not have elevators, or large areas to stow luggage in your room, like we are used to in the U.S. Not only had I begun realizing that I had packed a little too much, but I also realized that I hadn’t quite packed the right things.
Adapters
While I had known that I had to bring an adapter to charge my phone in Europe, I had failed to realize that different countries may utilize different outlets. Apparently, we had packed an adapter for France but had failed to realize that we needed a different adapter for Switzerland. After buying two adapters, we finally realized our mistake and bought the correct adapter – third time’s the charm, right?
Beauty & Health Products
In an effort to save some space in my suitcase, I had planned to purchase any small beauty items I may need in Switzerland. I would highly recommend packing any beauty/health items you may need, as the prices in Switzerland are considerably higher than that in the U.S. Bearing this in mind, I would double check that you packed everything on your list, just to ensure there is nothing you forgot! In regards to hair appliances, as with adapters, I would recommend researching to see if the items you are packing will work where you are visiting. Some U.S. appliances, such as hair dryers or straighteners, have a higher voltage then used overseas, requiring a converter for usage in other countries.
Clothing
Regardless of what time of year it may be, or what country you are visiting, I have learned that it is always a good idea to pack some rain gear when traveling to Europe. Even though we had visited during the winter months, we still got caught in the rain during our trip. A hat, umbrella, or rain jacket is never a bad idea!
Currency
My husband and I had decided to not take out any local currency, as the currency differs from Switzerland (Francs) and France (Euros). I would definitely recommend a small amount of local currency, just to be prepared. While all of the stores & restaurants we had visited had taken credit cards, we ran into some instances in wish we had some physical money. In some areas throughout Europe, it is common for you to pay to utilize public bathrooms. While we were able to find some that were free to use, having a few Francs or Euros on hand, would have been a bit of a time saver.
Bearing this in mind, while packing for your first European vacation remember – less is more, and you will be all set. If you're in need of more travel tools, Celtic Tours is here to help!
Hiking Throughout Scotland
Hiking Throughout Scotland
Cairngorm National Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and dramatic scenery of Scotland by foot, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty. With rugged coastlines, tranquil forests, and breathtaking mountains, the scenery of Scotland is truly unmatched. Scotland offers a variety of hikes and walks, catering to people of all abilities
The
Cairngorm National Park, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, has everything from castles to distilleries, providing plenty of attractions and endless fun. As UK’s largest National Park, visitors are provided with ample options for activities when visiting, whether you are looking to explore mountains, water, or greens, there are plenty of activities that suit all visitors. If you choose to stay at the park during the evening, you will be able to discover the natural nighttime beauty of Scotland with stargazing. As the most northernly Dark Sky Park in the world, the dark skies provide clear visibility and endless opportunities for stargazers.
Abernethy Forest and Ryvoan Circuit
The
Abernethy Forest and Ryvoan Circuit provides
paths of magnificent pinewoods, taking
visitors through the heart of the largest area of Natural forest in the U.K. Walking through the Abernethy Natural Reserve provides guests with sights of rich and varied landscapes shaped by underlying rocks, soils, and landforms.
Strathpeffer
Strathpeffer is
an excellent walk through forestry and then along a distinctive ridge with extensive views. This walk follows paths across the hills overlooking Strathpeffer before climbing to the ridge, where you are rewarded with wonderful views. The summit is a wide, grassy square fringed by some strange looking rocks. These are in fact the remains of an extensive iron-age fortress.
Sandwood Bay
A walk to
Sandwood Bay provides one of the best hikes in Scotland as it takes you to one of its best beaches. A 14km walk (round trip) takes you to a beautiful sandy beach where you can watch the huge waves crash in. View wildlife and spectacular scenery as you hike towards the beach, being rewarded when the fabulous views of Sandwood Bay come into view, perhaps the most beautiful beach in Britain. Spend time exploring the mile of golden sand and dunes, with rocky cliffs and a giant sea stack to complete the scene.
Hiking allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of Scotland in a unique way. Book your next
escorted trip to Scotland with Celtic Tours.
Christmas Around the World
Christmas Around The World
As the holidays quickly approach, people from all over the world are preparing to celebrate Christmas. We are taking a look at the different traditions from around the world which make celebrating this special day so unique.
Ireland
In Ireland, the Christmas décor, including Ireland’s
Christmas Markets, comes in full swing December 8th, and celebrations last until January 6th. To celebrate the holiday, the Irish are known to hang up mistletoe in their houses, as the ancient Celts had believed that mistletoe had secret healing powers. More recently, the people of Ireland have also begun to add a Christmas tree to their list of holiday décor. Other ways to celebrate Christmas in Ireland include making “The Winter Warmer”, a hot whiskey to stay warm during the colder months, participating in a “Christmas swim”, and lighting candles in your windows during Christmas Eve.
Italy
Like Ireland, Italy begins their Christmas celebrations on December 8th and continues the festivities until January 6th. If
visiting Italy during the holidays, you will find bagpipe playing shepherds performing tunes in piazzas, normally dressed in traditional sheepskin and wool cloaks. In Rome, crowds will gather in St. Peter’s Square for the pope’s evening mass on Christmas Eve. He will then appear at the basilica’s balcony on Christmas to give his blessing. At midnight on Christmas Eve, you will be sure to hear the ringing of church bells and if staying in Rome, you will also hear the cannons being fired from Castel Sant’Angelo, in celebration of Jesus’ birth.
Scotland
Christmas is a holiday that was once banned in Scotland, from 1640 – 1958 due to religious conflict, which means that Scottish Christmas traditions are relatively new. Some of these newfound traditions include the baking of Yule bread, a delicious treat made with caraway seeds which resembles a rope arranged into a circle. Other Scottish traditions are superstitious, many of which revolve around fire. The most famous practice is the burning of the Cailleach, also known as the Hag of Winter who brought the cold and darkness, in hopes of banishing cold, darkness, and hardships in the future.
Wherever you decide to celebrate the holiday season, we wish you a time of happiness, prosperity, and good health.
Buon Natale! Nollaig Shona Duit! Ablythe Yuletide! Merry Christmas!
Must-See Attractions in Dublin
Must-See Attractions in Dublin
Dublin is known for being a cultural hub in Ireland, with its many museums, historical sites, and literary attractions. Tourists are able to immerse themselves in the Irish culture while learning of the country’s background. This is an ideal location for those who deem themselves a literary or history buff, with many must-see attractions. If you find yourself having a spare day or two in Dublin, here are some places that we think are worth visiting:
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
As the largest cathedral and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Ireland, Saint Patrick’s has been at the heart of Dublin and Ireland’s history and culture for over 800 years. Since Saint Patrick baptized Christian converts nearby over 1,500 years ago, this holy site has been a place of spiritual encounter for countless generations. Visit and experience our history, our place in the life of the city, and our tradition of worship.
Guinness Storehouse
Located in the heart of the St. James's Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse® is Ireland's most popular tourist attraction. It's the home of the Black Stuff, the heart of Dublin and an unforgettable start to your Irish adventure. The journey begins at the bottom of the world's largest pint glass and continues up through seven floors filled with interactive experiences that fuse our long brewing heritage with Ireland's rich history. At the top, you'll be rewarded with a pint of perfection in our world-famous rooftop Gravity Bar.
St. Stephen’s Green
If you find yourself needing a break from the fast-paced atmosphere of a city, venture over to St. Stephen’s green, a public park in Dublin, with a Victorian layout. St. Stephen’s Green is a great place to mix with the locals and rest your legs.
Ha’penny Bridge
Venture over the Ha’penny Bridge, famously known as the first pedestrian bridge to cross the Liffey. While this bridge is known by several names, the name “Ha’penny Bridge” refers to the toll that pedestrians used to pay (a halfpenny) in order to cross.
EPIC Museum
EPIC tells the moving and unforgettable stories of those who left the island of Ireland, and how they influenced and shaped the world. EPIC embraces the past and the future with 1,500 years of Irish history and culture housed in its atmospheric vaults. Watch characters from the past tell one-of-a-kind tales of adventure and perseverance, conflict and discovery, belief and community.
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Trinity College was created in 1592 by a royal charter, at a time when universities were being established throughout Western Europe. The 690-page Book of Kells is the centerpiece of the “Turning Darkness into Light” exhibition which attracts over 500,000 visitors to Trinity College every year. Written around 800 AD, the Book of Kells contains a richly decorated copy of the four gospels in a Latin text, written on vellum (prepared calfskin). The script is embellished by the elaboration of keywords and phrases and by an endlessly inventive range of decorated initials and interlinear drawings.
Every trip needs to start somewhere and we truly hope these attractions help you move forward! If you like to book an
Ireland trip that includes some or even all of these attractions, let us know at Celtic Tours!
Traveling with Techology
Traveling with Technology
Technology can help alleviate some of the frustrations that people tend to experience while traveling. This blog covers a few ways that you can use technology to avoid a stressful situation.
Email Yourself a Scan of your Passport
Scanning a copy of your passport will provide you with key information such as your passport number, issue date, and expiration date in case your passport has been lost or stolen.
Use Google Maps Offline
Google Maps can get you out of a jam if you’re lost or trying to find a place, but it doesn’t help you if you’re traveling out of country and trying to avoid roaming charges from your cellular provider. The fix is to save Google Maps directions offline so you can access the info without using data. Here’s how to do it. (Hint: Do this before you go offline.)
How to Save Google Maps Directions Offline
- On your phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app
- Make sure you’re connected to the Internet and signed in to Google Maps
- Search for a place, like Palm Springs, Madrid-- you get the idea
- At the bottom of the page, tap the name or address of the place (in the white bar)
- If you search for a “place” like a restaurant, tap more
- Select Download
Flight’s Entertainment Options
Make sure that you check your flight’s entertainment options prior to boarding, so you can download any apps necessary to have in-flight entertainment.
Store Power Cords in a Small Case
Storing cords in one place, such as an old sunglasses case, will help alleviate the stress of trying to find them mid-flight!
Bring a Converter
European countries use different outlets then what we have in the U.S. Make sure to have the correct adapter with you when traveling, so you are able to charge your phone. Going to multiple countries? Not every country in Europe requires the same converter, so ensure that you are prepared for each country you will be visiting.
Follow these above tricks and tips and you are sure to have an improved experience why traveling. For more tips and tricks check out the Celtic Tours
Travel Tools.
