Tour Itinerary

Day 1

Departure from Ottawa – This evening you will depart Ottawa for your flights to Iceland.

Day 2

Arrival in Iceland – Upon your arrival in Iceland you be met by our local guide and taken for breakfast. After breakfast you will go on a sightseeing tour around the Reykjanes Peninsula where you will discover several dormant volcanoes and extensive lava fields. Later in the day you will check into your hotel in Reykjavik. Hotel- Fosshotel Reykjavik (B)

Day 3

VOLCANO CRATER, SEALS, FJORDS & MOUNTAINS

Meet our tour guide and depart from Fosshotel Reykjavík. Travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and climb the Grábrók volcano crater. In the afternoon, visit a natural history & seal museum in a small fishing village in Northwest Iceland and stroll around the local harbor. Further north we stop at the turf church of Víðimýri which has been extensively restored to its original form and is widely considered one of the purest and most beautiful examples of traditional Icelandic architecture. We continue along scenic fjord landscape and over several mountain passes until we reach Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. Hotel- Hotel Akureyri (B,D)

Day 4

THE CAPITAL OF NORTH ICELAND, LAKE MÝVATN & GEOTHERMAL BATHS

In the morning we explore Akureyri, a charming town of 17000 inhabitants, visit the botanical gardenand enjoy the panoramic view over Eyjafjörður fjord. In the afternoon we travel to an important spotin Iceland’s history, Goðafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods. We continue to Lake Mývatn which isknown for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. We stop at the bizarre lavaformations at Kálfaströnd followed by a walk around the many pseudo craters and end an excitingday with a relaxing soak at Mývatn Nature Baths that contains a unique blend of minerals, silicatesand geothermal micro-organisms. The warm soothing waters benefit both skin and spirit alike.Note: Please bring a swimsuit. Hotel- Sel Hotel Myvatn (B,D)

Day 5

LAVA LABYRINTH, HOT SPRINGS & TRAVEL EAST

In the morning we hike in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir “the dark castles”, hoping to get a glimpse of the trolls who are said to live there. After an optional lunch we visit the hot spring area of Námaskarð with bubbling mud pools and teaming solfataras. We head through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surrounding to East Iceland. With some luck we might spot an Arctic fox or see reindeer. Hotel- Fosshotel Eastfjords (B,D)

Day 6

FJORDS, GLACIER AND ICE

It’s a day to admire the dramatic fjord landscape and its tiny fishing villages at the end of twisty roads in the East Fjords and on route we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. In the afternoon we see Vatnajökull – Europe’s biggest glacier that is visible all over Southeast Iceland. Past the town of Höfn, we stop at Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and we explore the extraordinary site and might see seals swimming in arctic waters. You can walk on the black sandy beach where large icebergs get stranded. Depending on the season optional boat trips are available. We travel along the southern part of the glacier Vatnajökull and spend time at Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier. Hotel-Fosshotel Nupar (B,D)

Day 7

SOUTH COAST

A beautiful drive with many natural wonders awaits us today as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. We stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík. In the small village of Skógar there is Skógafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Further west we stop at LAVA center in Hvollsvellir. We continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain. There is an interesting trail that goes behind the fall – if you are prepared to get wet! Hotel- Icelandair Hotel Fludir (B,D)

Day 8

ICELANDIC HORSES & GOLDEN CIRCLE

We explore classics today as we travel the route of the Golden Circle sights. We start the day at Friðheimar, where you learn about the Icelandic horse, its special qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse. Later on, we see steam from the Geysir geothermal fields as we arrive. There is a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. The original geyser is now dormant but has been replaced by Strokkur “the Churn” which erupts at 5-10-minute intervals. We continue to Gullfoss, “the golden falls”, which is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá river and attracts travelers in summer and winter. We travel inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we return to Reykjavík, we take you for a short city tour to show highlights of the world’s northernmost capital. Hotel- Fosshotel Reykjavik (B)

Day 9

Sadly, this afternoon you will bid a fond farewell to Iceland. (B)

Please note that a visit to Iceland entails a fair amount of walking to fully enjoy your holiday experience. You should feel comfortable being able to walk for extended periods of time. Many of the avenues and walk ways are uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

**Itinerary Subject to Change**

Tour Itinerary

Day 1

This afternoon you will depart from Ottawa for your overnight flights to Europe.

Day 2

Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the Danube River. One side of the river is the hilly Buda district while on the other side you’ll find the flat Pest district. Budapest dates all the way back to Roman times. Most of what you will encounter in Budapest however is a product of the middle ages. Its brilliant beauty makes the city one of the most photographed in Central Europe. After checking into the hotel, the balance of you day will be free.

Day 3

After breakfast you will begin your city tour. The tour of Budapest will consist of a walking portion in old Buda, to take in a good part of the city’s rich heritage. Then you will drive to Pest, visiting Heroes’ Square featuring the Millennium Memorial. Your guide will also cover much of the city’s modern history from World War II through the communist era. On your free time this afternoon, you may wish to visit one of the city’s Thermal Pools. (B, D)

Day 4

A free day in Budapest is invigorating. Take time to shop, explore and enjoy the boundless heritage that has made this city so awe inspiring. You may wish to consider an evening cruise on the Danube spoiling you with the view from the river and a chance to see the city lit up. It’s a truly remarkable spectacle. (B)

Day 5

This morning we will depart for Ljubljana in Slovenia. Ljubljana can easily claim to be one of the most picturesque cities in central Europe. It is Slovenia’s capital and is known for its abundance of green space making it so alluring. The curving Ljubljanica River is lined with outdoor cafes dividing the old town from the modern city. Upon our arrival we will meet our tour guide for a short orientation tour of the city. After checking into the hotel the balance of your day is on your own. (B)

Day 6

On your free day in Ljubljana you may wish to visit the city’s Museum of Modern Art or the National Museum of Slovenia. Both are intriguing and well worth the visit. Of course, the side-walk cafes are a must for people watching. (B)

Day 7

Our adventure continues as we travel through Slovenia to the Croatian Riviera and the delightful village of Opatija. Variously known as the “Old Dame”, the “Pearl of the Adriatic” or the “Queen of Tourism” Opatija is a remarkable seaside resort dating back to 1844. The feel of the Victorian era is everywhere amongst the spectacular hotels with their grand facades. The cascading hills remind you of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It is truly a destination of elegance and style. Upon your arrival your Travac Tours Director will take you on a short stroll down the city’s main street and point out some of the town’s highlights. If you are into walking you will certainly enjoy the “Lungomare Promenade” which follows the coastline for 12 kilometers. (B, D)

Day 8

After breakfast we begin our tour with a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre in the ancient town of Pula. While this Amphitheatre is one of many left around Europe by Roman engineers it is certainly one of the best preserved anywhere. We’ll also spend some time in the old town before heading to Rovinj. Rovinj rises dramatically from the Adriatic. Its streets are delightfully twisty and there is indeed something particularly romantic about this old town. You will then return to your Opatija hotel. (B, D)

Day 9

On our last day in this region you are free to relax and enjoy Opatija. Optional experiences will be available to you and will be covered by your tour director. (B, D)

Day 10

This morning we will make our way to Lake Garda. This, the largest lake in Italy is also one of the loveliest. For art and history lovers, Lake Garda offers an attractive leap into the past. Medieval villages clustered between walls and towers along with Veronese and Venetian castles recall memorable battles of the past and great leaders that ruled in the area. (B)

Day 11

After breakfast you embark on a tour of the lake area. You will have the option of taking a lake cruise in the afternoon. (B)

Day 12

A free today to relax and enjoy the scenery of Lake Garda (B)

Day 13

This morning we will make our way to Venice. Venice and the lore surrounding this, the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, brings millions of tourists to this ancient city every year. It is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Venice was one of the most important cities in Central Europe for several hundred years. There are still many representations of its former glory that you could visit during your stay. Upon our arrival we will be met by our local guide for an orientation walking tour of the city. We will depart for our hotel in Mestre later in the afternoon. (B)

Day 14

You are free today to experience Venice on your own. (B, D)

Day 15

Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your departure time for the airport and your return flights to Canada. (B)

Tour Itinerary

Day 1

Today you meet your Travac Tour Director at the Ottawa International Airport for your flights to Memphis. Upon your arrival in Memphis you will be transferred to your hotel. The balance of your day will be free.

Day 2

Your tour of Memphis will focus on Beale Street and the historic district of this town. You will learn about many of the personalities that left their imprint on Memphis from Danny Thomas to Elvis Presley and B.B. King. We will end the tour with a visit to Sun Studio before returning to our hotel.

Day 3

Today we will visit Graceland to explore the Elvis connection to Memphis. Learn how his revolutionary style and unique sound changed the face of popular music and culture forever. The balance of your day will be free.

Day 4

We will be heading to Nashville later this morning.

After arriving in Nashville, the balance of your day will be free. If you wish to go to a performance of the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman during your stay, your Tour Director will be happy to arrange tickets.

Day 5

This morning we’ll be touring Nashville. Besides its musical heritage, Nashville is the state capital and home to Vanderbilt University. It truly is one of the most vibrant cities in the US. Our tour will follow the music scene and will show you some of the famous and not so famous honky-tonks and saloons. The tour will culminate with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B.

Day 6

Today is at your leisure. There are plenty of museums in Nashville that you might consider visiting including the Johnny Cash Museum.

Day 7

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your return flights back to Ottawa.

Itinerary subject to change.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1

Ottawa to Ireland

This afternoon you will depart on your overnight flights from Ottawa to Dublin.

Day 2

Dublin Airport to Belfast

Ceád Mile Fáilte – “One Hundred Thousand Welcomes” to Ireland!

Upon your arrival in Dublin you will be met by your local driver/guide and begin your journey to Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital. Your first stop will be Titanic Belfast. This museum is the world’s largest RMS Titanic visitor attraction, comprising nine interpretive and interactive galleries focused on the short history of the famous ship. Its exhibits fill six floors and includes interactive discovery zones, full-scale reconstructions with special effects and real-life accounts from survivors of the tragic wreck. Highlights include the Ocean Exploration Centre with live links to modern underwater explorations and the luxurious Titanic Banqueting Hall. (D)

Overnight in Belfast

Day 3

Costal Route & Giant’s Causeway

This morning we will follow Northern Ireland’s famous coastal route and Giant’s Causeway. Considered to be one of the top scenic drives in Great Britain, this 212-kilometer route winds along the craggy coast of Northern Ireland. Stretching from Belfast all the way to Derry, the Causeway Coastal Route leads to castles, cliff walks, beaches, waterfalls, Game of Thrones filming locations and other scenic locales. (B)

Overnight in Belfast

Day 4

Londonderry & Donegal

After breakfast we will begin our journey to Sligo. Our first stop en route will be in Londonderry. This town is the only completely walled city left in Ireland. It has also played a big role in Northern Ireland’s troubled past.

Our next stop will be in Donegal. Donegal was voted the coolest place on the planet by National Geographic Traveler in 2017. This is because of its rugged interior, remote mountain passes and shimmering lakes. (B)

Overnight in Sligo

Day 5

Sligo to Galway

Today we will make our way to Galway. While steeped in history, Galway has a unique energy that makes it one of Ireland’s most visited cities. Galway has a thriving and cosmopolitan city centre. It is always a joy to explore with its wonderful cobbled streets, colourful shop facades and its unusual array of coffee shops. Your tour of Galway will encompass all of its major historical sites. (B, D)

Overnight in Galway

Day 6

Connemara Tour

Today you can explore some of the beautiful countryside of Connemara, with its rolling hills, flowing rivers and coastal landscapes. Connemara is a wild and beautiful region of mountains, lakes, tumbling streams, undulating bog, unspoiled beaches and panoramic views. It is a Gaelic- speaking region and has attracted many artisans, who can be visited at work in their studios. The centre of Connemara is composed of mountain peaks, the Twelve Bens or Pins, which culminate in Benbaun. The sharp grey peaks of quartzite rock which is resistant to weathering are too steep and hard to be clothed in blanket bog. The region is now largely uninhabited, although in the past the more fertile lowlands were cultivated and the uplands were used as pasture for cattle and sheep.

Stop and visit Kylemore Abbey & Gardens. Kylemore Abbey is the only home of the Benedictine nuns in Ireland. The Abbey was acquired by the nuns in 1920. Set in the heart of Connemara, this unique Abbey offers the warmth and hospitality of its peaceful environs. Its enchanting history is interpreted in detail in rooms at the Abbey. It was originally built by Mitchell Henry, M.P. for County Galway (a native of Manchester city) as a gift for his wife. The Gothic Church, set in the grounds of the Abbey, is the jewel in the crown of Kylemore. It has been lovingly restored and any visit would not be complete without seeing it. Explore the magical 6 acre Victorian walled garden, where Victorian varieties of flowers and vegetables are grown. Vegetables and herbs from the garden are used in the café where they offer traditional home cooked food made to the recipes of the Benedictine nuns. (B)

Overnight in Galway

Day 7

The Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty

Travel through the Burren – The Burren takes its name from the Irish word ‘bhoireann’ meaning, ‘a stony place’ or ‘a rocky place’, which is a good description for this 350 sq. kilometres limestone plateau in North Clare. The rough, intriguing and attractive landscape was formed 320 million years ago under a tropical sea. Later it was shaped by ice, hard weather and, of course, man and his beasts. The many wedge tombs and megalithic tombs prove that people have been living in the Burren for more than 5000 years.

Then travel to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 600ft above the ground at their highest point and 5 miles long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara.

In the afternoon, visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Bunratty Castle is one of Europe’s finest. Pride of more than 100 castles built by the McNamara chieftains in 15th century Clare, it is faithfully restored and refurnished. Built in 1425, it is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland and contains furnishings, tapestries and works of art from the period. In the shadow of the castle is Bunratty Folk Park set on 26 acres, illustrating 19th century Irish life from grand manor houses to peasant dwelling and from farm activities to cobble-stone village streets. (B, D)

Overnight in Tralee

Day 8

Dingle

Our first stop will be in Dingle. Dingle is a small port town on southwest Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged scenery, trails and sandy beaches. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque parts of Ireland.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Tralee and the rest of the day will be at your leisure. (B)

Overnight in Tralee

Day 9

Blarney & Cork City

This morning we depart for Blarney and the Blarney Stone, which has the traditional power on conferring eloquence on all who kiss it! The word ‘Blarney’ means pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The battlements crowning the castle keep are typically Irish in form. Having climbed more than 100 steps, the famous Stone is set in the wall below the parapet, and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards from the parapet walk of the battlements. You can also visit the Blarney Woolen mills for some fine quality Irish produce.

After lunch, you will enjoy a panoramic tour of Cork and learn the history of Ireland’s third city known as the Rebel City. The city’s origins lie early in the seventh century when St. Finbarr, founder and patron saint, founded a small monastic community close to where Gilabbey Street now stands, and it grew into an extensive and wealthy establishment. It attracted the attention of the Viking sea-pirates who raided and burned the infant city, but returned in later years to settle and trade. The Anglo-Norman invasion in 1172 resulted in both the Danish lords and local MacCarthy chiefs having to submit to Henry II, but Cork has always had a reputation for independence and stubborn resistance – it came to be known as “Rebel Cork”.

The group’s final destination today is Kinsale. The town is renowned for its fresh seafood and gourmet cooking, as well as its numerous ‘cozy’ pubs!!! (B)

Overnight in Kinsale

Day 10

Midleton & Waterford

This morning, visit the Jameson Experience at the Old Midleton Distillery, Co Cork. The original buildings at the Middleton Distillery date back as far as the 1800s, and were used to mature Cork Distillery Whiskey (now known as Paddy Whiskey). Visitors come face to face with original kilns and pot stills from that time and explore warehouses that have matured whiskey for more than 2 centuries. Enjoy a signature drink of Jameson at the end of the tour.

Afterwards, you will travel to Waterford with an included city tour. Waterford is one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic cities. The walled city withstood siege on several occasions in the past but fell to the Normans in 1170 AD. It prospered under the Normans and emerged as the second city of Ireland after Dublin. The city was the chief port of Ireland throughout the middle ages.

Your final destination today is Kilkenny City. Located in the heart if Ireland’s Ancient East, the medieval city of Kilkenny is named after a 6th century monk called Saint Canice. His memory lives on in the beautifully preserved St. Canice’s Cathedral built overlooking the city in the 13th century. (B)

Overnight in Kilkenny

Day 11

Dublin

Visit Kilkenny Castle – The Normans arrived in the 12th century and their legacy remains in the superb and fully restored Kilkenny Castle and in the thriving and cosmopolitan merchant city. The 17th century was a time of great social and political turmoil for Kilkenny. It was the seat of national parliament for a six year period. The famous Oliver Cromwell invaded the city in 1650 and Kilkenny College was attended by such luminaries as Jonathan Swift and Bishop Berkeley.

This afternoon, make our way to Dublin. We will have a city tour of Dublin before being taken to our hotel. (B)

Overnight in Dublin

Day 12

Free day in Dublin- Your Travac Tours Director can assist you with ideas on what to do

Dublin is a lively capital city that’s as intimate as a village and as friendly as your local Irish pub. With its seamless blend of classic visitor sights, excellent social scene and the natural playgrounds of Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains framing it on all sides, this laidback city is an adventure in itself. (B)

Overnight in Dublin

Day 13

Ireland to Ottawa

Alas it is time to depart. The driver will transfer the group to Dublin Airport and depart for return flights to Ottawa. (B)