September 8th - 15th, 2026

Price $4,500

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An 8-Day Ireland & Scotland Journey.

Many activities and destinations are still being finalized and will be announced soon.

This journey reveals the deep musical ties linking Ireland, Scotland, and the Ozark region, tracing the paths of migration that carried songs, instruments, and storytelling traditions across the Atlantic and into the American heartland. As Irish and Scottish immigrants settled in the Appalachian and Ozark regions, their ballads, fiddle tunes, and dance rhythms evolved into the distinctive folk music of the Ozarks—preserving old-world roots while shaping something entirely new.

Featuring masters of their craft—Brendan McCreanor (uilleann pipes), Betse Ellis (fiddle), Beau Bledsoe (guitar), and Clarke Wyatt (banjo)—this program illuminates the living connection between Celtic and Ozark heritage. Through music and storytelling, the ensemble explores how Irish and Scottish traditions informed American folk music, revealing a shared lineage of rhythm, melody, and community that continues to resonate across Ireland, Scotland, and the Ozarks today.

“Ensemble Iberica, Thank you all for the beautiful trip to Turkey. I can't say enough other than it is in the top 5 of my life travels. The leaders, fellow travelers, music, the country and it's history, all are unsurpassable. A unique journey"

"I loved the experience, music, and meeting people with interests and appreciation in common. I'm looking forward to more concerts, and more trips with Ensemble Iberica!"

"A heartfelt "Thank you" to Erin, Beau, Jeff, and Brendan for a fantastic trip to Ireland! You were so responsive to all of our questions ahead of departure. When we arrived, you and the team had thought through every angle, leading to a genuinely memorable experience. The music was always stellar, and the last evening was one for the books! We hope to see you on a future adventure with Ensemble Iberica."

"This was a great trip. I experienced so much more of the people and history and beauty of Turkey than I ever would have found on my own. Thank you to Ensemble Iberica for putting this together. If you want to see beauty, go with artists."

"We went on our second trip with Ensemble Iberica in October. These trips are well-planned with every detail explored and experienced before guests are taken overseas. The food, music venues, cultural events are excellent, and all the hosts and guides are kind, compassionate, and highly competent. We will definitely travel with Ensemble Iberica again."

"We have had wonderful times on the Ensemble Iberica trips we have taken to Ireland, New York City, & Turkey! They make sure we stay in great hotels, eat at great restaurants, they are sure to provide us with great tour guides to take us sightseeing, & they find talented musicians to entertain us! We hope to go on more trips with them!"

"Beau and George were amazing care givers. I felt like I personally mattered; the group felt like a family not a cattle drive. Even if someone doesn't know about fado, the experience and travel is just as important as the love of that genre of music. Human connection through travel, shared experience, wine, food and music. Laughter and love for all.”

Begin with three inspiring days in Belfast, where dramatic coastal landscapes and layers of living history set the stage for the journey ahead. Discover the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose striking basalt columns and ancient legends capture the raw beauty of Northern Ireland’s coast.

Delve deeper into the story of migration and cultural exchange with a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park, where immersive exhibits and historic buildings trace the journeys of Irish emigrants to North America—revealing the deep roots that connect Ireland to the music, traditions, and communities of the American Ozarks.

Wander the charming streets of Bushmills Village, where quaint shops, historic pubs, and local character offer a relaxed glimpse into everyday life in Northern Ireland, and enjoy a guided tour of the historic Bushmills Distillery, home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. The experience is crowned with an evening concert at The Red Room in Cookstown, an intimate venue where traditional music is shared up close, creating a powerful and unforgettable connection between artists, audience, and place.

Continue to Glasgow for two days, crossing by scenic ferry and immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural energy, rich musical legacy, and striking architectural beauty. In addition to exploring the city’s iconic sights and neighborhoods, the journey features an evening concert collaborating with local musicians, offering a unique opportunity to experience Glasgow’s thriving music scene firsthand and celebrate the living connection between Celtic and contemporary traditions.

The journey concludes with three magical days in Edinburgh, featuring a visit to the storied Stirling Castle, participation in traditional music sessions, and a celebratory dinner at a historic venue. Guests will also enjoy a whisky tasting and an evening concert collaborating with local musicians, offering a firsthand experience of Edinburgh’s vibrant arts scene and deep-rooted musical traditions, while fully immersing themselves in the city’s rich history, culture, and community spirit.

Discover the living musical connection between Ireland, Scotland, and the Ozarks on this unforgettable journey, where Celtic melodies, Ozark folk traditions, and centuries of migration come alive through live performances, collaborations with local musicians, historic sites, culinary delights, and immersive cultural experiences. From the Giant’s Causeway to Stirling Castle, intimate concerts to whisky tastings, this tour celebrates the shared heritage, storytelling, and rhythm that continue to inspire music—and the flavors—that travel across the Atlantic.

Trip is strictly limited to 27 people.

Participants will need to be able to walk moderate distances unassisted, climb stairs, and manage uneven surfaces.

Schedule and activities may slightly change if unforeseen circumstances arise.

Arrange your own flight. Flights are not included in the cost of the trip.

How it works

Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit refundable until 120 days prior to departure. Pay deposit here.

Pay remaining balance 90 days before date of departure. Financing available through Affirm.

You will be contacted for an orientation/meet and greet a few weeks before departure and given a detailed travel itinerary with recommendations, detailed time frames and transportation information to and from the airports.