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active 3 hours ago

Justine Stewart

Hello! I am Justine and come from Sydney, Australia where I grew up surfing on the world-famous Manly Beach. After finishing university I travelled the world and ended up in North Canada where I developed my love of the mountains. After 3-years in North America splitting my time between the mountains of Canada and the beaches of Hawaii, I moved to Chamonix, France where my time is spent hiking, climbing and skiing in the stunning Mont Blanc Massif. Ten years on, I now share my time between Chamonix and the UK where I love exploring the beautiful West Country of England, the Scottish Highlands and the stunning West Coast of Ireland.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"My two great loves are the French Alps and the UK and I adore helping people experience the best of both of these parts of the world! Whether you are looking for a mountain adventure, a history and food-filled ramble through the countryside or a luxurious castle stay, I'm here to help you create your perfect journey using my local knowledge. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"My parents are great travellers and I have always roamed around the world with them - we even lived in Bali for a year when I was 3 years old! My gap year was spent backpacking the world and since then travel has remained a very important part of my life. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Fresh out of high school and on my gap year before I started university I spent a year travelling around Europe with my best friend. On our way to the beautiful Isle of Skye in the Scottish Highlands, we stopped at Elieen Donan castle to take some photos. The locals were having a big ceilidh in the castle and invited us to join! We spent the whole evening being twirled around the castle to the tune of bagpipes followed by an amazing meal. Highlander hospitality at its finest!"

Top itineraries and travel advice

Favorite experiences

Hike to Lac Blanc in the French Alps

Enjoy a full day trekking in beautiful Chamonix, hiking to the one-and-only Lac Blanc (Lake Blanc) set at 7760 feet (over 2300 m). This route is set in the Chamonix Valley, offering panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the most famous peak in the French Alps.  You can start in the village of Les Praz,...

Recent trip reviews for Justine

The beautiful island of Ireland, with its warm and welcoming people.
Ireland | Sep 14 - Sep 27, 2024

Julie
Julie E.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 07, 2024
Every aspect of our trip to Ireland that Kim Kim helped us plan was absolutely wonderful!
We loved our two day stay in Dublin. The Dublin Food and Drink tour was a blast and a great way to see some of the city and learn about and taste traditional Irish food. I can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he had a great personality and really made the tour even more enjoyable. We also loved the Historical walking tour. We learned so much about the history of Ireland and Dublin in...
Read more

Every aspect of our trip to Ireland that Kim Kim helped us plan was absolutely wonderful!
We loved our two day stay in Dublin. The Dublin Food and Drink tour was a blast and a great way to see some of the city and learn about and taste traditional Irish food. I can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he had a great personality and really made the tour even more enjoyable. We also loved the Historical walking tour. We learned so much about the history of Ireland and Dublin in particular.
We loved Donegal town and Harvey’s Point hotel. Our day tour with Henry was fantastic and we especially loved the Slieve League Cliffs. Henry was so knowledgeable and loved spending the day with him. He recommended great restaurants and pubs for music.
We loved the drive to Galway by way of Achill Island. This was a great recommendation to take the long way and fit in the island.
On our way to Doolin, we stopped at the Cliffs of Moher visitors center and walked out to the cliffs. The views were spectacular but this area was very touristy and crowded with huge tour buses.
We loved our afternoon ferry out to Inisheer island and the bike ride all around the island. One of our favorite tours for sure!
I think perhaps Dingle Town was our favorite…. staying at the Pax House was unlike any place I’ve ever stayed. The rooms, the scenery from the common rooms and our bedrooms, and the beautiful breakfast prepared by the owner was simply amazing. An experience never to be forgotten! The Archaeological Tour of the peninsula was great. So beautiful!
Really enjoyed Killarney and the Cahernane House Manor. The National Park Walking Tour was nice and the Ring of Kerry Day Tour was great. Aiden, our tour guide was very knowledgeable and had so much good information about Ireland’s history and that area in particular. He was so enjoyable to spend the day with.
The last night of our trip at the Cashel Palace Hotel was beautiful with a wonderful breakfast the next day.

Hotel Reviews
Pax Guest House
Dingle
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pembroke Townhouse Dublin
Dublin
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Shamrock Inn
Doolin
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cahernane House Manor Hotel
Killarney
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Harvey's Point Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cashel Palace Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Dublin Food and Drink tour
Dublin Food and Drink tour
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Welcome to Donegal!
Welcome to Donegal!
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Trinity Trails & Book of Kells Guided Tour
Trinity Trails & Book of Kells Guided Tour
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Historical Walking Tour of Dublin
Historical Walking Tour of Dublin
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour
Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour
Kenmare
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Killarney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Oct 07, 2024
Mary & Julie, Working with you to create this trip was an absolute JOY! The planning phases were so great and collaborative...I feel like you were so responsive and enthusiastic about everything we spoke about. The roadbook chat we had just before you left was filled with lots of laughs and it was so nice to meet you both face to face! And to top it off, you all had a fab time on the actual trip which is why we do what we do! I'm so happy to have shared some of my favourite bits of... Read more

Mary & Julie,

Working with you to create this trip was an absolute JOY! The planning phases were so great and collaborative...I feel like you were so responsive and enthusiastic about everything we spoke about. The roadbook chat we had just before you left was filled with lots of laughs and it was so nice to meet you both face to face! And to top it off, you all had a fab time on the actual trip which is why we do what we do!

I'm so happy to have shared some of my favourite bits of Ireland with you (but keep Pax on the downlow will you! We don't want everyone going there! haha ) and have you love them as much as I do.

If you fancy coming to England or Scotland, I would LOVE to work with you again! It has been the best :)

Thank you so much,

Justine & the High Point Holidays Team

All hotels and hotels staff were amazing. We ...
Ireland | Sep 14 - Sep 27, 2024

Mary
Mary R.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 06, 2024
All hotels and hotels staff were amazing. We loved all os the tour guides. Our favorite ones were:
1. Donegal Tour Guide - Henry
2. Ollie Tours - Eleanor (Aran Island bike tour)
3. Mossies Tour- Helen (archaeological tour of Dingle Pen)
4. Killarney Guided Walks - John O’Connor (Killarney National Park)
5. Killarney Touring Co - Aiden O ‘Donaghue ? (Ring of Kerry)
Read more

All hotels and hotels staff were amazing. We loved all os the tour guides. Our favorite ones were:
1. Donegal Tour Guide - Henry
2. Ollie Tours - Eleanor (Aran Island bike tour)
3. Mossies Tour- Helen (archaeological tour of Dingle Pen)
4. Killarney Guided Walks - John O’Connor (Killarney National Park)
5. Killarney Touring Co - Aiden O ‘Donaghue ? (Ring of Kerry)

Hotel Review
Pax Guest House
Dingle

We are 65 years old and have traveled quite a bit. This is our favorite hotel we have ever visited. The setting was so quiet and peaceful. The view was gorgeous. The hospitality and breakfast was the best we have ever experienced. I could go on and on. It was perfect in EVERY way.

Authenticity & Character
It is small enough to make each customer feel cherished.
Location
Beautiful views. Easy walk to the village.
Staff
Waitresses and housekeepers were so friendly. The owner introduced himself personally to all guests and asked if he could be of help.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome to Donegal!
Welcome to Donegal!
Ireland

The tour guide was very personal and shared so much history

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our tour guide was amazing - so knowledgeable in the history of the area, so friendly
Transport
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
Ireland

Whoops - see above post

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Ireland

We over the bike tour. Such a magical island. Wonderful scones.

Quality of Experience
The remoteness of the island and seclusion of the inhabitants made us feel as if their lives haven’t changed much in the last few years.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Eleanor was very friendly and knowledgeable. Great sense of humor.
Transport
Bikes were the way to go!,,
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Killarney

The park was beautiful - not crowded - many deer. It felt like a magical place.

Quality of Experience
The park is beautiful and not crowded.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
John was so much fun! Burst out in Irish songs sporadically. He loves hiking like we do.
Transport
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Ireland

Wonderful history shared with us.

Quality of Experience
The sunny weather allowed us to see amazing views. What a special place!! Not as crowded as the Ring of Kerry.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Helen was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable about the local history and very friendly.
Transport
Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour
Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour
Kenmare

Very beautiful tour even in bad weather.

Quality of Experience
The views were gorgeous. The bog village village and the sheepdog demonstration were amazing!,,
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Aiden was great,,,
Transport
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Oct 07, 2024
Mary & Julie, Working with you to create this trip was an absolute JOY! The planning phases were so great and collaborative...I feel like you were so responsive and enthusiastic about everything we spoke about. The roadbook chat we had just before you left was filled with lots of laughs and it was so nice to meet you both face to face! And to top it off, you all had a fab time on the actual trip which is why we do what we do! I'm so happy to have shared some of my favourite bits of... Read more

Mary & Julie,

Working with you to create this trip was an absolute JOY! The planning phases were so great and collaborative...I feel like you were so responsive and enthusiastic about everything we spoke about. The roadbook chat we had just before you left was filled with lots of laughs and it was so nice to meet you both face to face! And to top it off, you all had a fab time on the actual trip which is why we do what we do!

I'm so happy to have shared some of my favourite bits of Ireland with you (but keep Pax on the downlow will you! We don't want everyone going there! haha ) and have you love them as much as I do.

If you fancy coming to England or Scotland, I would LOVE to work with you again! It has been the best :)

Thank you so much,

Justine & the High Point Holidays Team

Memorable adventure
Ireland | Aug 28 - Sep 17, 2024

Dennis
Dennis B.
Henderson, NV | Reviewed on Sep 30, 2024
Memorable adventure We were in Ireland for three weeks, from Aug 28 to Sept 17. This was our first trip to Ireland, and everything went well. We mostly followed the itinerary Justine had set up for us, though we did skip a couple of items when we found other things we chose to do instead. Among the highlights, actually, were two stops we added on our own — the medieval town of Athenry and its castle (which we learned about when we just happened to tune in to a TV program on the town on one... Read more

Memorable adventure

We were in Ireland for three weeks, from Aug 28 to Sept 17. This was our first trip to Ireland, and everything went well. We mostly followed the itinerary Justine had set up for us, though we did skip a couple of items when we found other things we chose to do instead. Among the highlights, actually, were two stops we added on our own — the medieval town of Athenry and its castle (which we learned about when we just happened to tune in to a TV program on the town on one of our first nights in Ireland) and the ruins of Sligo abbey, which were spectacular. We'd recommend both to other travelers to Ireland. We spent a little over four days in Dublin (for logistics reasons, we chose to put Dublin at the end of our trip, rather than the start), but we could have spent our whole three weeks there and not seen all the things there are to see and learn there. We skipped the Guinness brewery tour Justine had set up in favor of a visit to the Irish National Archaeology Museum. Fascinating! That's another thing we'd recommend to other travelers. Think: bog bodies!

And, while we skipped the Guinness tour, we did sample plenty of Guinness on the trip. We also skipped a 2.5-hour walking tour of Dublin. We did plenty of walking without the tour! :-) We did make use of three-day passes we bought for one of the hop-on/hop-off bus companies in Dublin. On previous trips to big cities in Europe, we’ve found those buses make good, cheap alternatives to taxis and they also allow you to take a load off your feet and see a bit of the city in comfort.

The driving on the “wrong” side of the road/car was no big deal after the second day. We had a car for the first two weeks. Driving on some of the "L" roads -- one-lane but two-way -- could become pretty interesting, we found.

We would recommend skipping Peter Curtin’s storytelling session in Lisdoonvarna, were we to set up a trip for other travelers. That was really the only experience we thought wasn’t worth the effort. His stories weren’t really stories or of much interest, honestly. Nice enough guy, but … meh.

We drove through much of Ireland, from Dublin airport through Cork, Galway, Kinsale, Kenmare, Dingle, Westport, Doolin and all along the south and west coasts and up as far as Donegal, before our days in Dublin. The Aran Islands tour to Inisheer was great, as were the Cliffs of Moher, Slea Head Drive, Achill Island, etc. There were no stops on our trip that I would suggest skipping. The Blasket Islands Centre was really interesting. The EPIC museum was different and interesting, but it took a bit to figure out what they were doing. Essentially, the museum recounts how people of Irish heritage -- we lucky few -- have basically taken over the planet! :-)

We’d love to go back for more of Ireland. We’d like to find more castles and more ring forts to explore if we ever go back, and a full week in Dublin wouldn’t be too much. But we wanted to pack as much of Ireland into our three weeks as we could, and so we had a busy three weeks — but very enjoyable.

My ancestry on my father's side is Irish, and we are relatively certain that the family sprang from County Donegal, in the far NW corner of Ireland. As we got our tickets to see Donegal castle, the man behind the desk asked if either my wife or I had Irish ancestry. When I told him I did, he said there were lots of people in the area who had the same last name as mine or the recognized spelling variations of the name. And just as he said that, a van went by bearing the name of a plumbing company with one of the spelling variations of our last name!

This was our second trip through Kimkim (you arranged Greece for us a couple of years ago) and we’ve been happy with both trips. We are pretty independent travelers who prefer a sort of loose itinerary and a set of car keys to getting on a bus with 50 other people each morning for a package tour. Justine took good care of us and checked in by phone when we were in Ireland.

Hotel Reviews
Greenmount House Luxury B&B

Beautiful spot right on edge of Dingle. Great rooms and lots of lounge areas for relaxing. And Dingle town is terrific! Attended a trad music concert in St. James Church that was very, very good. Would highly recommend that experience to folks traveling to Dingle in summer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Castle Hotel
Dublin

Smallish room with water stain on ceiling, but otherwise clean and comfortable. Nicely located near O’Connell Street and only about 1/2 block from stop for hop-on/hop-off and city buses. Fairly good restaurant and good breakfasts. Hotel is in several old Georgian buildings that have been connected into one hotel, making the corridors kind of interesting.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gateway Lodge
Donegal
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyatt Hotel Westport
Westport

Small room but located right in downtown Westport. Great breakfast!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Knockaguilla House Bed & Breakfast
Doolin

We ended up cancelling our reservation at this hotel and making one at a hotel closer to town. Simply too far outside town, and we didn’t want to be driving one-lane roads after dark.

Harbour Hotel
Galway
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Happy Pig
Kenmare, Co. Kerry

Loved this one. Irma, the owner, had tons of great suggestions for us, and she was a delight to talk to. Highly recommend! And the breakfasts were terrific!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Kinsale & Spa
Kinsale

Beautiful hotel, but too far out of town. Would have much preferred something in Kinsale proper.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
King Sitric Guesthouse
Howth

Breakfasts were terrific. We only stayed here one night, but we ate dinner in their restaurant that night. I had crab claws that were out of this world!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Trinity Trails & Book of Kells Guided Tour
Trinity Trails & Book of Kells Guided Tour
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Ireland

The island was fantastic. Our guide was great and we spent about a half hour chatting with Gail, the daughter of a shop owner on the island. She was very interesting. Only downside: the driver of our van on the island dropped us at the foot of a steep hill leading to the island’s castle, then told us we’d have to walk back to town because he had to go meet another ferry coming from the mainland. “It’s only 5 minutes,” he told us. Forty minutes later, we trudged into town. Not impressed. But Ollie’s guide service refunded the cost of that part of our trip. The driver also wouldn’t stop at the shipwreck on the island because he was worried about getting stuck behind the horse-drawn buggies. Ferry on way back to mainland took us past Cliffs of Moher, which are spectacular. Dolphins played in our ferry’s wake for much of the trip back to mainland. Great day, except for that bus driver’s actions.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mixed. Our guide on the ferry ride and for part of the island visit (I think his name was Phil)?was terrific. Van driver, not so much.
Transport
Entry into the Emigration Museum EPIC
Entry into the Emigration Museum EPIC
Dublin

This is a different kind of museum, a largely audio-video experience. Basically, it’s the story of how those of us of Irish ancestry — we lucky few — have taken over the planet!

Newgrange and Knowth Day Tour from Dublin
Newgrange and Knowth Day Tour from Dublin
Dublin

Guides were great, and the archaeology was fascinating. One of the highlights of the trip!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tickets for St Patrick Cathedral, Dublin
Tickets for St Patrick Cathedral, Dublin
Dublin
Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey
Ireland

Beautiful drive to and beyond the abbey. Also, make sure to stop at grave of WB Yeats about five miles beyond abbey. All very interesting. Setting of the abbey is spectacular and the drive thru Connemara is incomparably beautiful — until you get to County Donegal, which is drop-dead beautiful in a whole different way. We saw lots of Ireland, and virtually all of it was gorgeous, but Connemara and Donegal are in a class by themselves.

Quality of Experience
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Ireland

The cliffs are beautiful and spectacular, whether seen from sea or land, and the visitor center is very well done. Our tickets were for somewhere around 11 or 11:30 am, but we got there shortly after they opened and got right in.

Quality of Experience
Storytelling experience in Doolin/Lisdoonvarna
Storytelling experience in Doolin/Lisdoonvarna
Ireland

Not a total waste of time, but not one of the trip’s highlights, either. Peter’s stories of the Burren were not terribly interesting or informative. Nice enough guy but not an experience we’d rate anywhere near the top of our Irish experiences. And we'd recommend not including it on other travelers' itineraries.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kenmare Heritage Walking Tour
Kenmare Heritage Walking Tour
Kenmare

Passed on this one in favor of just strolling on our own, seeing stone circle, etc.

Don & Barry's Kinsale Historic Stroll Walking tour
Don & Barry's Kinsale Historic Stroll Walking tour
Kinsale

Good and interesting Irish history lesson.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cork City History Tour
Cork City History Tour
Cork

We passed on this one.

Jameson Experience Tour Premium Whiskey Tasting
Jameson Experience Tour Premium Whiskey Tasting
Cork

Really enjoyed the premium whiskey tasting presentation.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Oct 07, 2024

Dennis!

Thank you so very much for your wonderful review - I love the level of detail you have provided! It has been so great working with you...and all of your messages we received over the course of the three weeks you were travelling were a great source of entertainment at the office!

I am so glad that you enjoyed your huge adventure! And love even more that you were so happy to fit lots in and go exploring on your own...you guys really fit a huge trip into just 3-weeks!

Thanks so much for choosing to work with us :)

Justine & The High Point Holidays Team

History, Food and Fun
Scotland | Sep 4 - Sep 18, 2024

Maureen
Maureen P.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 25, 2024

For me, the highlights of our tour were the city guides in Inverness and in Edinburgh . The Hebridean Tour in the Isle of Lewis was outstanding, and I would have planned more trips with Hugh had we had more time. We had the B&B plan at our lodgings over the two weeks and the food was very good and hearty. We had good times hiking for three days on the West Highland Way, and around the many castle trails in Stornoway.

Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Oct 07, 2024

Hi Maureen!

Thank you so much for your review :) This was an incredible trip to help create and you certainly saw a lot during your time with us! From the West Highland Way to the far reaches of the Hebridean Isles, you saw parts of Scotland that others don't even dream of!

I shall pass on your high regards to Hugh! He will be so chuffed to hear what you have said!

All the best and thank you so much for trusting us with this adventure!

Justine & The High Point Holidays Team :)

Ireland/Scotland
Ireland | Sep 3 - Sep 19, 2024

Ralene
Ralene G.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Sep 21, 2024
We loved the fact that we had walking tours in each city the day we arrived and the trip got better and better each day. I couldn’t have planned this trip on my own. All the different places we stayed kept us excited for what was next. The best dinner we had was at Rufflets in St Andrew’s. If we were too tired to go out to eat, the locations we stayed served very good food. Read more

We loved the fact that we had walking tours in each city the day we arrived and the trip got better and better each day. I couldn’t have planned this trip on my own. All the different places we stayed kept us excited for what was next. The best dinner we had was at Rufflets in St Andrew’s. If we were too tired to go out to eat, the locations we stayed served very good food.

Hotel Reviews
Trinity Townhouse
Dublin

location was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perryville House
County Cork
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cahernane House Manor Hotel
Killarney
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Glenlo Abbey

Beautiful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
We had a slow leak in the tire of our car. The bellmen pumped up the tire for us and made sure it was still at the right PSI for our drive to the airport that morning.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Market Street Hotel
Edinburgh
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rufflets St Andrews
St. Andrews
Authenticity & Character
Loved staying in the Shepard Hut. We used the amazing copper bathtub after a day of golf.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bunchrew House Hotel
IV3 8TA
Authenticity & Character
Location
A bit out of town but it was peaceful and quiet
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Manor House
Oban
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Machrie
Islay Island
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
restaurant staff was excellent
Cleanliness & Comfort
very comfortable beds and linens
One Devonshire Gardens - Hotel du Vin
Glasgow
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was huge with the tallest ceilings I have ever seen.
Activity Reviews
A Round of Golf at Jameson Golf Links, Portmarnock
A Round of Golf at Jameson Golf Links, Portmarnock
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kinsale Walking Group Food Tour
Kinsale Walking Group Food Tour
Kinsale

Walking through town and learning history.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Killarney

We walked through the forest on trails. Fun to see something we would have never discovered on our own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Richard Clancy was great!
Transport
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Ireland

Lots of people there but was worth to see.

Quality of Experience
Galway Evening Food Tour
Galway Evening Food Tour
Galway

food was very good. There was so much we couldn’t finish it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private transfer in town
Private transfer in town
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh with a Top Local Guide
Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh with a Top Local Guide
Edinburgh

Great learning the history.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience - Whisky Explorers
Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience - Whisky Explorers
Edinburgh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Sep 27, 2024

Ralene & Vince!

I'm so glad you enjoyed your holiday with us! You were so amazing to work with...totally open to any suggestions I made and so lovely to communicate with :) You managed to see so much of both countries and I'm glad you loved the places, guides and experiences we chose for you...with some wonderful golf courses squeezed in too!

Thanks so much for choosing to work with us!

Justine & the High Point Holidays Team

Fantastic trip, couldn't have done it without...
Ireland | Jun 19 - Jun 28, 2024

B
Barret S.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2024
Fantastic trip, couldn't have done it without KimKim, and Justine and Fanny were terrific!
First two days in Dublin were great, loved Number 59, the food and drink tour was so fun and informative, and our guide, Collum was great. Guinness Factory is a must!
Don't let the car rental people talk you into a bigger car! As you know, when we arrived at the Maldron in Cork, my husband stood in a hotel parking spot while I went to get the car; the hotel only has like 10 spaces out front. As he...
Read more

Fantastic trip, couldn't have done it without KimKim, and Justine and Fanny were terrific!
First two days in Dublin were great, loved Number 59, the food and drink tour was so fun and informative, and our guide, Collum was great. Guinness Factory is a must!
Don't let the car rental people talk you into a bigger car! As you know, when we arrived at the Maldron in Cork, my husband stood in a hotel parking spot while I went to get the car; the hotel only has like 10 spaces out front. As he stood there, a gentleman (local to Ireland) pulled in the spot, hitting my husband in the knees, demanding him to move, saying, 'we don't do that here". My husband moved but was very angry as was I when I returned seconds later with our rental. Anyway, the hotel was very busy and didn't give great directions to the parking garage 3 minutes away, I was flustered and drove down a very narrow street, hitting a concrete ballast on the left bumper as I was making a left turn. I finally made it back to the hotel and found a spot to park, but the damage was done. We ended up getting very drunk at the bar hotel and didn't do anything in Cork.
The next morning Europcar said they were bringing us a replacement car when I finally reached them to make the report, and I got a reference number. A tow truck came and picked up the wrecked rental. After several hours of waiting, I called Europcar and got passed around a phone chain, no one could find the reference number or report of my accident, and told me it would be 24 hours before I was given a replacement. Upset at this news, as we had already extended our check out time at the Maldron, we took a taxi to the airport. We were able to secure another rental after putting down a $2000 deposit with the threat that if ANYTHING happened to this car we would lose our money. This put quite the damper on the day and overall experience as the Europcar people were a nightmare to deal with.
Anyway, on to Killarney which we absolutely fell in love with. The Dromhall was really nice. It was such a pleasure to meet Richard and take the hike around the National Forest after our experience in Cork, and the weather was beautiful. Unfortunately because of the accident we were late arriving to Killarney and did not get to take our boat tour. In speaking with Richard, he recommended not driving the Ring of Kerry after hearing about our driving ordeal, as well as we really didn't have time. He recommended we just go to Kenmare, which I really wanted to do, but we again were a little shy of driving due to the threat of losing our money. We had a beautiful evening in Killarney at the Killarney Brewing Company and did some shopping.
On to Dingle, which was delightful. An Capall Dubh was a great place to stay, we went on a boat tour of the cliffs, had fish and chips at Harrington's, dinner at Paidi O Se's. The next morning was our anniversary and we lit a candle at St. Mary's and walked the labrynth. It was awesome to be on the coast. We stopped in Adare Village on our way to Doolin and had lunch at The Arches, which was delicious.
Doolin was gorgeous! Our accommodations were beautiful and Ceol na dTonnta was great.
We really enjoyed our talk with Peter Curtin. Such a fascinating man! However, his pubs are not open on Mondays and Tuesdays, and we almost missed him because his assistant changed the time but didn't tell him! We had him all to ourselves. After the talk we had a good dinner and some Irish music at McGann's pub.
The Cliffs of Moher are breathtaking and that was amazing. We did not hire a celebrant to renew our vows, that was really expensive! It was special nonetheless. We went back to Peter's Roadside Tavern that night for dinner and also heard some live music.
Galway was wonderful as well as the Hardiman Hotel, probably our favorite accommodation, They had valet parking too! Very helpful. I really enjoyed the shopping and we had a great meal in a pub around the corner.
When flying out of Dublin, you should probably start the morning there. The drive from Galway (and my planning) got us to the airport too late to make it through customs to catch our flight home on Friday; Delta said we needed to be there 3 hours in advance. We were lucky enough to get a room at the Camden Court Hotel and had another fun night in Dublin. We had lunch at the Bleeding Horse and dinner at the hotel restaurant Ivey, which was really nice for our last night!
No problems flying out the next day, Delta worked hard to get us home. Aer Lingus was striking so the airlines were busier than usual, which added to the long customs lines.
We had a wonderful adventure and will totally book our next trip through Kim Kim. Justine was awesome and Fanny was really kind and helpful with me during the car rental accident!

Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Jul 17, 2024

Barret!

Thank you so much for this incredible recount of your trip! I was so gutted for you guys when I heard about the rental car, but am thrilled that everywhere else seemed to exceed your expectations and help you have the best Anniversary Adventure ever!

It was so wonderful planning this with you and I'm really happy we got to create something magical for your 30th Anniversary!

All the best,

Justine & the High Point Holidays Team

A great family trip to Ireland
Ireland | Jun 26 - Jul 5, 2024

M
Mary C.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2024
We had a great trip to Ireland -- and a great collaboration with our specialist Justine. We did not want to go on a tour and we wanted to tailor the travel to our preferences. Justine helped us explore scenarios, and then bring the plan to life with excellent suggestions for both places to stay and memorable activities. Having support with accommodations and travel took the stress out of planning and also let us spend our planning and research time on the fun activities we wanted to do.... Read more

We had a great trip to Ireland -- and a great collaboration with our specialist Justine. We did not want to go on a tour and we wanted to tailor the travel to our preferences. Justine helped us explore scenarios, and then bring the plan to life with excellent suggestions for both places to stay and memorable activities. Having support with accommodations and travel took the stress out of planning and also let us spend our planning and research time on the fun activities we wanted to do. Justine suggested two of our favorite actives on the trip -- a tour of Slea Head with Mossie and a walk through the Gap of Dunloe. It was also nice to know we had KimKim's help if our plans were thrown off by any disruptions - especially since the airline we were flying was on strike. It was our first time working with KimKim, but I would definitely do it again -- the perfect level of support for how we like to travel. Thank you Justine for all your wonderful help and responsiveness!

Hotel Reviews
Pax Guest House
Dingle

It would be hard to improve on anything at Pax House - the location is beautiful, the service is excellent and the breakfast was a highlight of our trip. We loved it!

Authenticity & Character
Location
The beautiful view of the harbor is so lovely and peaceful!
Staff
We particularly enjoyed meeting Michelle -- she was so kind and helpful and made our experience very special.
Cleanliness & Comfort
George Hotel Limerick City
Limerick
Wilder Townhouse
Dublin

Excellent location and service! We loved it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Nice quiet location -- and the prettiest neighbor we encountered in Dublin
Staff
Great service from people who were kind and fun to interact with.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Fairview Boutique Hotel
Killarney

The Fairview has a great location and the rooms were nice. The service was not at the super high level we experienced elsewhere -- but we enjoyed our stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Dingle Distillery Tour
Dingle Distillery Tour
Ireland

We enjoyed the tour - but our guide talked so much it went from 60 minutes to 90 minutes which felt a bit dragged out.

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
Killarney

Richard is a knowledgeable and relaxed host - like having a friend in Killarney. We enjoyed two hours of exploring the park, learning about some of the history and the natural environment and Richard also gave us great recommendations on pubs and other places to check out in Killarney.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour
Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour
Ireland

This was one of our highlights of the trip. We got very lucky with a cool, sunny morning - perfect for enjoying the incredibly beautiful surroundings. While we did see other people and, of course, the jaunting carts, we were mostly on our own and to enjoy the peace and beauty around us. The board ride back to Killarney was another highlight -- a perfect way to appreciate the National Park from the water.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our boat driver did a nice job of highlighting some of the nature, history and beautiful views on the way back through the lakes.
Transport
A Private Half-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
A Private Half-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Ireland

We had a wonderful morning with Mossie. He is a very experienced guide -- funny, knowledgeable, great conversationalist and kept a relaxed pace with lots of time for us to enjoy each stop. He showed us lots of beautiful places that we enjoyed all the more for not having to worry about driving the narrow roads. We loved touring with Mossie and very highly recommend!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Jul 11, 2024

Mary!

Thank you so very much for your wonderful review :) It was so lovely getting to know you as we made this trip together. You had such a strong idea about what you were hoping for on this trip and I'm really glad that what we came up with really fulfilled that!
Mossie, Rich and the team at PAX are always incredible experiences for visitors and I'm super happy that you loved them as much as I do!
I wish you all wonderful travels going forward!
Justine & The High Point Holidays Team

A Perfect Way to Experience Scotland
Scotland | May 23 - May 30, 2024

Carol
Carol F.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 21, 2024
My husband and I had a great time touring Scotland on our own via car. Justine worked with us to customize our trip and made all arrangements including the rental car and transfer via train to Manchester, England on our final day.
In the Trossachs National Park we stayed at Cameron House on Loch Lomond. We explored the nearby conservation village of Luss and despite the rain, enjoyed a beautiful view of the lake while dining at Colquhoun's.
The village of Glencoe and Eilean Donan Castle were...
Read more

My husband and I had a great time touring Scotland on our own via car. Justine worked with us to customize our trip and made all arrangements including the rental car and transfer via train to Manchester, England on our final day.
In the Trossachs National Park we stayed at Cameron House on Loch Lomond. We explored the nearby conservation village of Luss and despite the rain, enjoyed a beautiful view of the lake while dining at Colquhoun's.
The village of Glencoe and Eilean Donan Castle were interesting stops enroute to the Isle of Skye. We loved our two-night stay at Ullinish House with views of Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mtns. Blue skies prevailed for our exploration of the Trotternish Loop which included a whiskey tasting and sunset on the black sand, Talisker Beach.
During our drive to the Cairngorms National Park/Fife Arms at Braemar, we stopped at the amazing Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site just outside of Inverness. Two highlights of our time in Braemar are a four-mile hike on the "Braemar Circular via Queen's Drive" and a leisurely afternoon stroll around the grounds of Balmoral Castle.
Our final destination in Scotland was Edinburgh. We started with a fantastic private walking tour of the city with our guide Robert; he was exceptional! In the evening we enjoyed the Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience followed with dinner in their 1820 Rooftop Bar with wonderful views of the city and Edinburgh Castle. After touring the historic castle the next morning , we departed Scotland on our Manchester bound train. Our Scottish Adventure was perfect!

Hotel Review
Ullinish House
Isle of Skye

Wonderful hosts! Helpful and accommodating. Our room was perfect and the breakfast was very tasty. A beautiful and relaxing rural experience with views of Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mountains.

Authenticity & Character
You feel like you are a guest in someone's home.
Location
It is located off the beaten path and has beautiful views of the countryside, the lake, and the mountains.
Staff
Both hosts - wife and husband
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our room was clean and the bed was comfortable.
Activity Reviews
Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience - Whisky Explorers
Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience - Whisky Explorers
Edinburgh

Interesting and Entertaining!

Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh with a Top Local Guide
Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh with a Top Local Guide
Edinburgh

Robert was an exceptional guide! He asked us a couple questions about our backgrounds and the customized the tour to include our interests... and still shared the traditional sites of the city with their interesting stories. In my opinion, Robert should be your go-to Edinburgh guide.

Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Jun 25, 2024

Hi Carol!

Thank you so much for your review :) I really appreciate the detail and am so chuffed you were happy with your Scottish Adventure. I think that we managed to get you to some beautiful places in a relatively short space of time and am glad that the pace and locations were perfect for you...I'm also happy that you loved Ullinish House too - it is a favourite of mine!

I hope you enjoyed the rest of your travels in Herriot country and thank you for coming to us for the Scottish portion of your trip!

All the best,

Justine & The High Point Holidays Team

We will press repeat in capital letters.
Scotland | May 13 - May 27, 2024

Donna
Donna K.
Canada | Reviewed on May 28, 2024
We will press repeat in capital letters Every guide and every place was amazing. The trip was so well organized that it felt stress free. It felt like a trip of a lifetime. We already have given several friends, family and even complete strangers your name and recommended you highly.. Read more

We will press repeat in capital letters

Every guide and every place was amazing. The trip was so well organized that it felt stress free. It felt like a trip of a lifetime. We already have given several friends, family and even complete strangers your name and recommended you highly..

Hotel Reviews
Tigh Grianach Bed and Breakfast
Barra

This definitely earns the title of 5-star. Spotless, comfortable. Jackie is an amazing cook, gifted hostess and kind and friendly. Rob our tour guide was over the top. He was very knowledgeable, personable and accommodating. He took interest in researching information about Donna’s family even after the tour was over. When he finds info he emails me and we will keep in touch. Wow.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Oban Bay Hotel
Oban

Clean, beautiful views, friendly and accommodating staff.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Coolin View
Portree

Loived everything.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Bluebell House B&B
Inverness

Ken was friendly, organized and a great cook. Too bad he got sick the next morning and we missed breakfast but the place was pristine.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Garrison
Fort William

Clean, with everything we needed very handy and accessible.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Stirling Highland Hotel
Stirling

Clean, comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
24 Royal Terrace
Edinburgh

Very clean and unique.

Authenticity & Character
Location accessible to most sites.
Location
Great breakfast and great location.
Staff
Very accommodating. Karen needed a charger and they supplied one to borrow.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean- room tidied everyday.
Activity Reviews
Edinburgh Castle Tickets
Edinburgh Castle Tickets
Edinburgh

Good- informative. But short. Didn’t take us in to anything. Was just an introduction.

Quality of Experience
Longer more detail
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
One way to Mallaig on the Jacobite Train (of Harry Potter fame)
One way to Mallaig on the Jacobite Train (of Harry Potter fame)
Scotland

Was extremely hot.

Quality of Experience
The tour guide was great. Told us about sites along the way in time to take pictures.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on Jun 17, 2024

Hello Donna!

Thank you so very much for your review. I'm so very happy that you had a lovely time :) I am particularly chuffed with your experiences on the Isle of Barra! Rob is such a friendly, passionate guide and he loves sharing his home with people so it is wonderful that you got to experience Barra with him! Jackie is the ultimate host and I'm glad you loved your stay with her too.

Thank you so very much for your wonderful words and for trusting us to plan this trip for you!

Justine & the High Point Holidays Team

Amazing Trip to Ireland
Ireland | Apr 13 - Apr 27, 2024

Eric
Eric D.
Florence-Graham, CA | Reviewed on May 12, 2024
The trip was fantastic. Justine did a wonderful job with the itinerary including all the necessary details. We enjoyed the cities of Dublin, Cork, and Galway and the towns of Kinsale, Dingle, Doolin and Killarney. Too many highlights to mention them all but a few of them are The Guinness Storehouse, the Middleton Distillery tour and premium tasting, Kinsale, the Perryville House and Don and Barry‘s walking tour, Inasheer Island and Ollies Tours with Phil, the Pax Guest House in Dingle, the... Read more

The trip was fantastic. Justine did a wonderful job with the itinerary including all the necessary details. We enjoyed the cities of Dublin, Cork, and Galway and the towns of Kinsale, Dingle, Doolin and Killarney. Too many highlights to mention them all but a few of them are The Guinness Storehouse, the Middleton Distillery tour and premium tasting, Kinsale, the Perryville House and Don and Barry‘s walking tour, Inasheer Island and Ollies Tours with Phil, the Pax Guest House in Dingle, the music at Sin E bar in Cork, the Irish dancing in the Dingle Bar, the Galway Food Tour, the Cliffs of Kerry and our final night at Ballyfin.
Also, the people in Ireland were so nice and accommodating.

Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on May 15, 2024

Eric!
Thank you so very much for your wonderful review. You, Russ, Heidi & Janis were ever so much fun to work with and I am so happy that I got to share some of my favourite places with you all.
We have some wonderful guides we love to work with and I think its just great that you loved them as much as we do (Ollies Tours we are looking at you!)...and of course incredible hotel experiences too (John at PAX can do no wrong!). It was lovely working with you all!
Justine & The High Point Holidays Team