Star Collector: Scottish and Viking Adventure

This historic city of palaces, canals, and copper spires casts a sense of enchantment upon all who walk its cobbled streets. Little wonder that Copenhagen’s favorite son, Hans Christian Andersen, was inspired to write some of the world’s most beloved fairy tales here. Stroll the 17^th century Nyhavn waterfront where Andersen once lived, complete with colorful row houses and historic tall ships. Enjoy world-class shopping on Strøget, the world's longest pedestrian street. Or find your amusement at world-famous Tivoli Gardens where tree-lined pathways lead to theaters, open air stages, restaurants, cafes, and over 80 attractions.

Haugesund offers the best of Norway with a fjord, waterfall, impressive coastline, city culture, unique Viking history and idyllic islands, all in one place. Situated between Stavanger and Bergen, between the sea and the mountains, this port lies in a scenic area of lush landscape, towering mountains and the energetic sea and is the starting point for exploring the Folgefonna glacier.

At the entrance to spectacular Geirangerfjord, Alesund has been voted the most beautiful town in Norway, and not only because of its location. The town burned to the ground in 1904 and was rebuilt in Art Nouveau style, with a few added elements from Nordic mythology – a longboat here, an image of Thor there.

ANDALSNES, Norway

TRONDHEIM, Norway

Frøya, Norway, is a picturesque island located in the Trøndelag region, known for its stunning coastal landscapes and vibrant fishing communities. The island offers a serene escape with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore charming villages, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience traditional Norwegian culture. Frøya is also a gateway to the beautiful Frøya archipelago, perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.

The pleasant small village of Olden is located at the inner end of the 66-mile long Nordfjord, the sixth longest fjord in Norway.   Long known for tourism and industry, it is now also famous for contemporary design.  With fewer than 500 inhabitants Olden is an ideal destination for people who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, and is the gateway to Jostedal, the largest glacier on the European mainland. If you can, find a bottle of Olden Mineral Water, as close as you will get to a glacier on tap.

Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.

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.