Sober Curious | Scotland & Ireland | 2025
Sober Curious | Scotland & Ireland | 2025
St Andrews, Scotland
Scottish Highlands
Loch Ness, Scotland
The University of Glasgow, Scotland
Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland
Kilkenny, Ireland
Blarney, Ireland
Salmon Weir Bridge, Galway City, Ireland
Giant's Causeway
Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland
$3355
Sober Curious | Scotland & Ireland | 2025
13 Days Starting in Edinburgh, United Kingdom and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, Dundreggan, Glasgow, Stirling, Larne, Dublin, Wexford, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBEDS20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on a unique journey with the "Sober Curious" tour through Scotland and Ireland in 2025. This limited edition adventure begins in Edinburgh, where you'll experience the vibrant Edinburgh Fringe Festival and explore the historic city. Journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, visit the legendary Loch Ness, and immerse yourself in Glasgow's lively culture. Cross the Irish Sea to discover the rich heritage of Dublin, the medieval charm of Kilkenny, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher. In Galway, enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and explore the Aran Islands. Continue to Derry/Londonderry and marvel at the Giant's Causeway before concluding your trip in Belfast. This tour offers a refreshing take on travel, focusing on cultural experiences and natural beauty, perfect for those looking to explore without the hangover.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)
Royal mile, old Castle, home of the brave, Edinburgh is going to turn it on from start to end. And to get everyone grinning from the get-go, we've scored tickets to a comedy show at world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival!
Day 2: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to roam free - but if you want to get the low down on the history of this city why not join our local guide for an optional tour of Edinburgh Castle (which is resting on an extinct volcano!). Or maybe you'll do a spot of tartan shopping on Princes Street. Up for a mini adventure? Then join us this afternoon for a hike to Arthur’s Seat - one of the city’s most famous spots.
Day 3: Edinburgh To Scottish Highlands
Location: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands
Accommodation Name: Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's time to blaze a trail out of Edinburgh & head for the Scottish Highlands. On the way to the main affair of the day we'll stop by St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, would you believe? As well as Scotland’s oldest university town. Already blown away by the beauty of the rugged mountain scenery en route, we'll arrive in the Scottish Highlands amped up for mystical tales and a to compete in some optional traditional Highland games.
Day 4: Scottish Highlands To Glasgow Via Loch Ness And Dundreggan
Location: Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, Dundreggan, Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We might be coming down from a high (geographically speaking) this morning, but as we seek out the stunning Loch Ness, the mood will only be rising. We'll stop to see lovely Loch Ness and hop on board for a cruise of the most voluminous lake in the UK - containing more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined! It's also rumoured to contain something else, something far more legendary which you're sure to have heard of... Small pitstop! We'll check out the lush, hilly rewilding centre here to learn about how Scotland's native animal species are reintroduced in the wild. We'll arrive into Glasgow, drop our bags and dive straight into all that makes this city glow. Think live music on every corner, a gothic cathedral & a chance to savour a home-cooked meal too.
Day 5: Glasgow
Location: Glasgow, Stirling
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wakey wakey everyone. We're up bright and early today, and this city's all yours to explore. Plus, you've got the option to check out the nearby Stirling castle (and the town where William Wallace took on the English and yelled "Freeedom!"). And even learn & eat all about Scotland's national Dish - Haggis.
Day 6: Glasgow To Dublin Via Larne
Location: Glasgow, Larne, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Scotland, you've been unreal. If Ireland puts on half the show you did, we have many happy days ahead of us. We arrive in the port town of Larne, your first steps on Northern Irish soil, but not for long... So much more than the capital city, Dublin is a place of heritage and character. Tonight, and your Trip Manager will take you on a stroll through town to tick off some of the most iconic locations in Irish history.
Day 7: Dublin To Clonmel Via County Wexford And Kilkenny
Location: Dublin, Wexford, Kilkenny, Clonmel
Accommodation Name: Talbot Hotel Clonmel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
That's us done with Dublin…for now. But fear not Dub-lovers, we'll get another taste of this fine place before our trip comes to an end. It’s been a few days of city hustle & bustle. But now it’s time to relax. Join us for a gentle yoga class before we grab lunch at a beautiful folklorish barn (with fairy lights and all…). One bicycle ride in this city, and you’ll be wishing you had Irish blood! We’ll explore the castle, a cathedral and take in all of the medieval charm that Kilkenny has to offer before we hit the road again. Guess what? Dinner’s on us tonight. And later in the evening, we’ll head off into town together and explore the cute little town of Clonmel.
Day 8: Clonmel To Galway Via Blarney And Cliffs Of Moher
Location: Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Clonmel, it's been fun, but we have to leave you now. Tonight, we're off to an Irish city that was propelled into the pop culture stratosphere by none other than Ed Sheeran. Anyone wanna guess where? Irish folklore tells us there's a chunk of limestone built into a castle that grants its kissers the gift of the gab. Pucker up kids, we're paying her a visit! Whether heights are your cup of Irish Breakfast or not, these impressive cliff faces are not to be missed! From the moment we arrive in Galway, you'll understand why 2 nights were needed here. Everything you've dreamed Ireland to be is tucked into this small, atmospheric city. We'll wander through the streets of Galway, soaking up every bit of this magical city and even grab a bite to eat on the way.
Day 9: Galway
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Try your tongue at some Gaelic and carry on exploring gorgeous Galway. Or, if you hear the call of the wild, you can sign yourself up to a ferry ride to Aran Islands in summer where you can dance around with horses and take a bike ride around the picturesque farms, or head up to Dún Aonghasa (the ruins of a prehistoric fortress) - make sure you take photos, this area is not for the faint-hearted! Irish life, you so sweet.
Day 10: Galway To Derry/Londonderry
Location: Galway, Derry/Londonderry
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Derry (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Goodbye Galway, hello more Irish eye-candy. Here the 17th century walls stand at 8 metres high speaking of times gone by when this area was in battle. Times may have changed, but we're still keen to soak up the history and learn a thing or two from our wise Local Guide. What next? You can choose to meet a 4th generation shepherd at his farm for a rural Irish experience. Or even choose to head out for a Bogside walking tour. This day is as Irish as it gets!
Day 11: Derry/Londonderry To Belfast
Location: Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we've got a one way ticket to Belfast and a whole lot more exploration to do. UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway - also known as those giant rock columns you've probably drooled over on Pinterest, needs to be seen to be believed. Get those hashtags ready, a snap with the group is essential on the mind-blowing natural formation. Next up - we'll arrive in Belfast. Concluding the day will be a driving tour and an optional trip to the Titanic museum where the world's most famous ship was built.
Day 12: Belfast To Dublin
Location: Belfast, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With one night left in Ireland and on tour, we're on the fast track to Dublin where our Irish fairytale first began. A promise is a promise. Here we are back in the city that started our Ireland infatuations. You’ve got a free afternoon to explore every nook & cranny of this cosy, cosy city. And if you wanna finish off with a bang, there’s a traditional Irish dinner waiting just waiting to be devoured.
Day 13: End Dublin
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Ireland today with leprechauns in our hearts and memories in our souls. Say goodbye at breakfast as it will be the last bite our crew has together.
What's Included
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Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Tickets to a comedy show at the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival are included.
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Arthur's Seat Hike
A hike to Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh is included.
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Loch Ness Cruise
A cruise along Loch Ness is included, with a chance to spot the mythical 'Nessie'.
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Rewilding Centre Visit
Visit to a rewilding centre in the Scottish Highlands to learn about native animal species reintroduction.
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Dublin Walking Tour
A stroll around Dublin's folklorish streets with your Trip Manager is included.
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Yoga Session in Wexford
A gentle yoga session at a 250-year-old, family-owned barn in Wexford is included.
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Blarney Castle Visit
Visit to Blarney Castle with a chance to kiss the Blarney Stone is included.
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Cliffs of Moher Visit
Visit to the rugged and photogenic Cliffs of Moher is included.
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Galway City Tour
A tour of Galway, including Lynch's Castle and Eyre Square, is included.
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Derry/Londonderry Tour
A tour of Ireland's only walled city, Derry/Londonderry, is included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Tours
Optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour and Stirling Castle visit are not included.
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Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included as part of the sober curious travel experience.
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Titanic Museum Visit
The optional trip to the Titanic museum in Belfast is not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel between destinations in Scotland and Ireland aboard a modern, high-speed ferry with comfortable facilities, and enjoy scenic drives with stops along the way to explore localities in the British Isles.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, Ibis Budget Glasgow, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre, ensuring a restful experience throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From?January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through border control in the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an?Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
- London: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- London: What does sober curious mean? Sober curious travel means you’re interested in trialling a trip that doesn’t involve alcohol. (AKA travel without the hangover). Instead of spending evenings drinking in the pub, you’ll take part in whole range of other activities with your crew.
- London: Do I have to be completely sober to join this trip? Nope, this trip is for people who are interested in drinking less alcohol & want to travel with like-minded people. You don’t have to live a completely sober lifestyle to join in.
- London: How will we fill our time? This trip offers most of the same Included Activities and Free Time Add-ons as our classic trips to Great Britain and Ireland - but you’ll swap those that revolve around alcohol for some extra special experiences (exclusive to our Sober Curious trips!) - all without stepping foot in a bar.
- Edinburgh: How long are the drives? You’ll be on the road for around 2-3 hours between stops. We’ll check out some cities along the way, so that you can soak up some more of the localities in the British Isles. Either way, get ready for all the beautiful backdrops you’ll see.
- Edinburgh: How do we travel between Scotland and Ireland? You'll cross the Irish Sea aboard a modern, high-speed ferry with comfy facilities. Best part? You’ll be able to leave the coach and explore the ferry and its food court during the 2-hour journey. We’ll hop back on the coach before disembarking.
Included Experience
- Edinburgh: Wanna know what the buzz around Edinburgh Fringe Festival is all about? Here's your chance! We got you tickets to a comedy show at the festival. Get ready to witness this explosion of fun and creativity IRL.
- Edinburgh: You can't miss out on a hike to Arthur's Seat when you're in Edinburgh - it's practically a ritual!
- St. Andrews: If you like golf, you’ll love St Andrews. But if you think it spoils a nice walk in the park, there’s also Swilcan Bridge.
- Loch Ness: Sit back, relax and cruise along the loch with your Contiki crew. But keep your eyes peeled and camera ready for mythical ‘Nessie’.
- Scottish Highlands: Ever wondered how native animal species - like the Scottish Red Squirrel, Lynx and Beavers - are reintroduced into the wild? Come learn about it all from an expert (who'll also tell you how the Caledonian pine forest is being reforested too!). Every penny you spend here will directly support Trees for Life, a TreadRight supported project.
- Dublin: Join your Trip Manager for a stroll around the Dublin's folklorish streets that'll lead you to castles, cathedrals and museums.
- Wexford: Relax & recharge with a gentle yoga session at this 250-year-old, family-owned barn. We'll finish off with a light lunch too!
- Blarney Castle: Your chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and get the ‘gift of the gab’. And to visit the medieval Irish castle.
- Cliffs of Moher: These rugged, photogenic cliffs have been the star of many films, including a Harry Potter one.
- Galway: Tread the cobbles of this well-loved Irish city with your new Contiki crew. You'll see Lynch’s Castle, Eyre Square and enjoy the vibes of this vibrant town.
- Derry/Londonderry: One for the history fans. Take a look around Ireland’s only walled city, built in the 17th Century.
- Giant's Causeway: Sure, rock formations may sound a bit dull on paper, but this quirky natural wonder has to be seen to be believed.
- Belfast: Hang with a local guide to see all the landmarks and learn about the city’s checkered history.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the 'Sober Curious' aspect of this tour?
The 'Sober Curious' aspect of this tour means that it is designed for people interested in experiencing travel without alcohol. Instead of spending evenings in bars, participants will engage in a variety of other activities, offering a unique travel experience without the hangover.
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Do I need to be completely sober to join this tour?
No, you do not need to be completely sober to join this tour. It is for people who are interested in drinking less alcohol and want to travel with like-minded individuals.
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How will we travel between Scotland and Ireland during the tour?
The tour includes a crossing of the Irish Sea aboard a modern, high-speed ferry. During the 2-hour journey, you can leave the coach to explore the ferry and its food court before reboarding the coach upon arrival.
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What kind of activities can I expect instead of visiting bars?
The tour offers a range of activities that do not revolve around alcohol, such as attending a comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, hiking to Arthur's Seat, and participating in a yoga session in Wexford. These activities are exclusive to the Sober Curious trips.
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What is the travel time like between destinations on this tour?
You can expect to be on the road for around 2-3 hours between stops. The tour includes visits to various cities along the way, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful backdrops of the British Isles.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Monday - Saturday
Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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