Sláinte! Brendan Vacations Toasts to 2024 with New Experiences in Ireland and Scotland

by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:25 AM ET, Thu January 4, 2024

WHY IT RATES: Brendan Vacations is expanding its offerings for travel in Ireland and Scotland this year. — Lacey Pfalz, Associate Writer, TravelPulse

Brendan Vacations, the leading expert in Celtic travel, has launched its 2024 Ireland and Scotland offerings including new experiences and properties for 2024. From luxury castle stays and charming B&Bs to river adventures and cliff walks, Brendan Vacations’ new partners and regions bring dynamic options for Celtic travelers.

"The beauty of returning to Ireland and Scotland is the chance to discover something new. Our story is long and for 2024, we’re making it easy to go deeper, discovering new regions, riverways, and encounters with locals that bring our magical part of the world to life," says Catherine Reilly, Managing Director of Brendan Vacations. "Forging meaningful connections through immersive travel is what Brendan is all about. Whether visiting for the first time or coming back home, we look forward to welcoming travelers to Ireland and Scotland in 2024, weaving our legendary story with their own.”

lighthouses, Brendan Vacations, Ireland, Irish coast, Irish landscapes

A top addition to the Brendan Vacations collection is the luxurious private chauffeur vacation titled 'Legendary Castle Stays’. This exclusive program brings together two of Ireland's most iconic castle properties, Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle, into a single, unparalleled luxury experience. Located in two dynamic Ireland locations from the Shannon Region to County Mayo, the castles offer a unique history and on-site activities like falconry, archery, and a spa in addition to exclusive treats for Brendan Vacations’ visitors on the nine-day tour.

Inspired by customer demand, other new itineraries, and revamped trips include fresh experiences that go beyond the main hubs and add convenient options for Celtic travelers to curate their trips:

NEW Regions: Based on interest for more remote destinations, trips now venture to Scotland’s South as well as areas north of Inverness. Brendan Vacations has partnered with properties such as the elegant beachside Marine North Berwick on the South coast and Link Dornoch, near the North coast, which features a top-rated gastronomic restaurant plus the Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
NEW Rail Route: A common journey for many Brendan Vacations travelers, a rail route from London to Edinburgh is now available for more convenient travel.
NEW Itinerary: Join the new 15-day journey visiting both Celtic countries from Dublin to Glasgow on the Ireland & Scotland's Gems tour. Highlights include a Scottish whisky cocktail lesson, an exploration of the Isle of Skye, and a discovery of the hidden history of Edinburgh on the Secrets of the Royal Mile walking tour with a Local Specialist.
NEW Extensions: On the Locally Hosted Rail tour, Scotland's Cities & Natural Landscapes, guests can now choose from three optional 2-night stay extensions including Rusacks St. Andrews with a city walking tour, the Loch Lomond Arms Hotel with a memorable Loch Lomond Cruise or a stay at the Marine North Berwick with a seabird cruise around the island of Craigleith and the Bass Rock.

In Ireland, new partners, including Boyne Boat Experiences and Waterford Camino Experiences, will offer Brendan Vacations guests new and exciting experiences on their independent travel itineraries. Boyne Boat Experiences in Co. Meath offers guests an immersive adventure on the ancient river highway while Waterford Camino Experiences offer three new exclusive journeys with an emphasis on mindfulness, led by locals Phil and Elaine Brennan.

Ancient Boyne River and Artisan Food Experience: Explore the Bend of the Boyne in a traditional Irish currach boat with local guide Ross, learning about Irish history, mythology, and Brú na Bóinne while enjoying local produce from the Boyne Valley.
Historic Boyne Canal Experience: Discover the Boyne Canal with the boatmaker for the boats used in Game of Thrones and learn the secrets of the show while exploring Fairyland, Meath, and Battle of the Boyne landmarks.
Greenway to the Falls: This outdoor adventure starts on the Waterford Greenway with a stroll to Mahon Falls, lunch at a traditional Irish pub, and a scenic cycle through Durrow tunnel.
To the Waters and the Wild: Enjoy the beautiful Dunmore East cliff walk, then board the "Keltoi Warrior" fishing boat for fishing and storytelling by a local fisherman along with a picnic lunch with local goods.
Our Celtic Story in Song: Join a private tour of Waterford Treasures with a local historian followed by a private concert by The Celtic Sings in the 13th Century Choristers Hall.

In Scotland, new MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences that give back to the planet, people and wildlife, give travelers fresh opportunities to explore the country with expertly crafted and meaningful local experiences:

Highland Chocolatier: Indulge in an exclusive chocolate-tasting experience along the River Tay in Scotland, savor award-winning Velvet Truffles crafted by Master Chocolatier Iain Burnett, while learning about the artisanal craftsmanship behind these globally acclaimed chocolates.
Sea Flower Half Day Rhone Cruise: Embark on a leisurely cruise to the picturesque Rona Harbour, where travelers can soak in views of the Storr and Cuillins, encounter diverse wildlife, including a resident seal colony, and enjoy a seafood lunch.

New exceptional properties have been added to Catherine’s Collection, a special selection of top accommodations, available for stays on private chauffeur, luxury self-drive, or self-drive itineraries including:

Castlemartyr Resort - A 5-star luxury property in County Cork on a 220-acre estate featuring a 17th-century country house and 800-year-old castle ruins. Guests can enjoy a Michelin-star dining experience at Terre, with a Tasting Menu designed by Chef Patron Vincent Crepel, blending contemporary French and Asian flavors with local, seasonal produce.
Ardtorna - Travelers can discover eco-friendly luxury at Ardtorna, a modern B&B nestled between Glencoe and Oban in Scotland. The property features a unique Salt Station at breakfast, offering 8 unique salts, and a Pillow Mist Menu for a personalized sleeping experience.
Greystones - Guests can enjoy boutique luxury with stunning bay views at Greystones, a stylish B&B in the heart of Oban, Scotland, combining period charm with contemporary art.
Virgin Hotel Edinburgh and Virgin Hotel Glasgow - New 5-star hotels in Scotland's vibrant cities include Virgin Hotel Edinburgh blending contemporary design with historic architecture in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town and Virgin Hotel Glasgow offering modern style and a riverside location in Glasgow.
Kinloch Lodge - In Sleath, Skye, this dinner, bed and breakfast property has a rich history dating back to the 1600s, evolving from a farmhouse to a shooting lodge. Established as lodging in 1972, it offers comfy beds, warm service, and delightful cuisine.
Glenmorangie Distillery & House - In the heart of the Highlands, this boutique hotel blends luxury with the essence of Glenmorangie whiskies with 9 unique rooms, fine dining, and exclusive tastings.

All travel styles including Private Chauffeur, Lux Self-Drive, Self-Drive, Locally Hosted Rail and Guided Vacations are now available to book for 2024. See more information on Ireland and Scotland offers here.

SOURCE: Brendan Vacations press release.

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