Brendan Vacations Introduces New Small Group Travel Style

Brendan Vacations is introducing a new small group tour travel style set to debut in 2026, along with new accommodation and experience options for its flexible itineraries.  

“With the introduction of our new Small Group Tours, we’re giving travel advisors more options to create vacations that truly feel personal for their clients,” said Catherine Reilly, managing director of Brendan Vacations. “These smaller tours emphasize depth over distance, offering travelers the chance to experience Ireland and Scotland in a more meaningful way. From connecting with locals and savoring authentic dining to enjoying exclusive stays in boutique and iconic properties like Ashford Castle, these new tours use their size to deliver experiences that are both distinctive and unforgettable.”

Brendan’s small group tours have a maximum capacity ranging from 18 to 24 guests, and include the guidance of a dedicated Travel Director and at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience.

Among the tours available in the new small group style are:

• Timeless Ireland & Ashford Castle: A nine-day journey across Ireland featuring a stay at Ashford Castle, along with an in-depth city tour of Dublin, a hike at the Cliffs of Moher, and more.
• Ireland at Leisure: A premium 10-day itinerary that takes in Galway, the Aran Islands, Cork, the Ring of Kerry, and more.
• Incredible Ireland: This 12-day luxury tour includes a stay at Dromoland Castle, and visits to Killarney National Park, Glensane Farm and more.
• Wild Scotland & Isle of Sky: A nine-day trip that includes two nights on the Isle of Sky, a Glasgow street walking art tour, a crafted cocktails tasting in Edinburgh, and more.

Among the new accommodations available on Brendan’s flexible tours are the five-star Dunluce Lodge on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast, Seaton House in St. Andrews (Scotland), The Dean boutique hotel in the heart of Galway, and the four-star The Scott Hotel in Edinburgh. New activities available as part of the tour operator’s flexible itineraries are Harry Potter Train & Scenic Highlands and a 1.5-hour private Edinburgh People’s Story walking tour.