Star Collector: Luck and Legends - Ireland and Scotland

From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe’s best-preserved castles to the world’s longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you’ll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty

Here is your entry to Scotland’s spectacular Highlands. In Inverness, listen for the song of the Highlands in the sparkling gurgle of the River Ness as it winds through the town’s center. Look for a glimpse of the elusive Nessie in Loch Ness. And wait for whispers of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in the fairytale setting of Cawdor Castle.

Everything about Orkney is olde, from the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae (the “Scottish Pompeii”) to the peat-distilled whisky at Highland Park to the UNESCO site of the Ring of Brodgar, dating back to 2700 B.C. Even the local brogue hints at times past, accented by the area’s Viking legacy.

Watch for sea eagles as we approach Skye’s picturesque capital. The rare bird with an 8-foot wingspan was re-introduced here in 1975 and several pairs nest at Portree Bay. The pastel buildings along the waterfront and Cuillin Ridges beyond promise a day of Hebrides-style adventure. Visit stately Dunvegan Castle, or shop for naturally dyed yarns in Skye colors.

Oban has developed into Scotland's most popular West-Coast holiday town. Just outside the town stands Dunollie Castle, on a site that overlooks the  bay and has been fortified since the Bronze Age. The charm of its Victorian harbor offers an excellent seafood scene, and is also a major gateway to the Hebrides.

Enjoy this beautiful Northern Ireland resort town, graced by sandy beaches and wonderful tide pools. You may also want to visit Belfast from here, with its superb gardens and architecture. Or arrange a side trip to the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO site. A visit to Mussenden Temple at Downhill Demesne will heighten your appreciation for the builder’s art.

From the Manx Grand Prix to the 14th century castle at Peel. From Rushen Abbey to the island’s own breed of cats and sheep. The Isle of Man stands on its own. Here you can enjoy one of our most exciting optional excursions – experience the motorcycle course that draws fans from all over the world on our own specially designed 3-seater Trike. And enjoy beautiful scenery of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve while you ride.

Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic’s construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars.

Located on the River Foyle, Londonderry is known for its intact 17^th century Derry’s Walls with 7 gates that surrounds St. Columb’s Cathedral with artifacts dating from 1688. The landmark Peace Bridge spans the river and the Tower Museum has local history exhibits.

Friendly Killybegs is the largest fishing port in County Donegal located at the head of a scenic harbor with mountains as a backdrop. It is famous for its tapestries and carpets and sites to see here include Killybegs International Carpet Making, Cyndi Graham Handweaving, Glencolmcille Folk Village and expansive white-sand Fintragh Blue Flag Beach. Visit the nearby Slieve League Cliffs, which rise almost 2,000 feet from the Atlantic and are the highest cliffs in Europe.

Galway’s popularity is its food scene that boasts the very best local ingredients and innovative techniques even with traditional favorites like fish and chips. It has one of the liveliest pub scenes including Galway craft beer. Check out the weekend market set in the shadow of St. Nicholas’ Medieval Church. Galway is also gateway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, rising over 700 feet from the sea with views of the Aran Islands. These are one of Ireland's most famous tourist attractions.

SCENIC CRUISING CLIFFS OF MOHER

Located on Ireland's stunning west coast, Dingle enchants with its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and quiet sea shores. The town's colorful buildings frame bustling streets brimming with traditional pubs and artisanal shops. Surrounded by the wild beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, visitors can explore ancient ruins, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Located on an island in the middle of the River Lee, Cork is a compact, friendly, laidback city with unique museums, like the Butter Museum, eclectic pubs and aroma-filled coffee houses all easily accessible by walking.  The recognizable icon of Cork, St. Anne’s Church and Shandon Steeple offers visitors the unique opportunity to ring the church bells.

Explore Ireland’s oldest city from the Viking Triangle, surrounded by 10th century fortifications, to the sparkling House of Waterford Crystal, home to the largest collection of the landmark cut crystal in the world. Take time to raise a glass at T&H Doolans’ Pub, where visitors have been heartily welcomed for more than 300 years.

Located off the southwestern coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are a popular holiday destination in the United Kingdom. This stunning archipelago is usually only accessible by ferry or helicopter.  With pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, the Isles of Scilly offer a true escape into natural beauty and serenity. Depending on the weather conditions, you will be able to visit up to 3 different islands, each offering something unique.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.