Duration: 5-Day Tour (09.00-19.00 hours)
Schedule: Every Wednesday (01/04/20-28/10/20) – except (13/05/20 & 05/08/20)
Every Sunday (12/04/20-11/10/20) – except (10/05/20,12/07/20 & 02/08/20)
Weave through Northern Ireland’s rich tapestry of Gaelic history and spectacular scenery.
History can affect you in different ways.
It can shock you with savage battles. It can inspire you with ancient beliefs and myths. And it can amaze you with feats of endurance and strength.
On this tour you experience all the extreme breadths of Irish history as you sweep down from dramatic sea cliffs to ancient castles. You weave through the modern tales of Belfast, the Celtic beliefs of Giant’s Causeway, and unlock the tales that made Ireland the place it is today.
Take this adventure and experience the enchanting and educational landscapes of Northern Ireland and the Atlantic Coast.
Departing Dublin you head north to Belfast, a city famed for its industrial heritage and turbulent past. You take a short city tour which covers the capital’s triumphs, tragedies and soul.
You then have time for lunch and exploring in the Titanic Quarter, a regenerated hub where the famous liner was built and launched in 1911. Here you can visit the award winning Titanic museum, board the HMS Caroline or take a black cab tour of the city.
Leaving bustling Belfast behind, you travel through the phenomenal scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Moving along the winding roads from Ballycastle, you enter the awe inspiring setting of the Giant’s Causeway, a place where history and myth collide spectacularly with raw geological power. Waving farewell to the giant’s steps, you head to Portrush*, a charming fishing village and your home for the night.
You head to Derry, the fabulous 17th-century walled city that boasts 7 ornate gates. Derry was designated as UK City of Culture in 2013, and you get time to explore its museums, galleries and excellent markets.
From here, you head to County Donegal, which boasts stunning scenery and a strong Gaelic heritage. You then head into the picturesque Glenveagh National Park and past the soaring peak of Mount Errigal, before traveling through the traditional fishing villages of the area. Along the way there will be plenty time for walks, photos and soaking up the local culture before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal.
In the morning, you pass south along the coast near Donegal and into County Sligo. This area is home to the burial site of famed poet WB Yeats, and dramatic views of the gorgeous mountain, Benbulben.
Outside Sligo Town lies Carrowmore, where you have the chance to visit the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, some of which date back over 6000 years.
Moving westwards, you enter County Mayo, an area ravaged by the Great Potato Famine. Winding roads curve through the picturesque farmlands, bogs and open moors, offering views of distant hills and the Atlantic coast, where you’ll visit the dramatic Achill Island. Here you have time to savour the rugged sea and peaceful beauty. From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next two nights.
Westport and the Connemara National Park are the areas you explore today.The itinerary is flexible today and your guide will ensure you take the route that best suits the weather .
Your options include the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Connemara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara.
After an incredible day of exploration you return back to Westport, where you can dine on the delicious local seafood in the town’s top notch restaurants.
Traveling through the heart of Connemara, you arrive in the town of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib. This area was where “The Quiet Man” was filmed and you’re free to wander the local museum devoted to the movie. Alternatively, you can visit the magnificently restored 12th century Cong Abbey.
Your route then weaves through the Maam Valley, a stunning pass lined by gorgeous mountains. Exiting the valley, you head to Galway City, a vibrant harbour city that combines traditional market life with high quality restaurants and pubs.
You have free time to sample the town’s delicious seafood before we head to Locke’s Distillery for a tipple. This is the oldest licensed distillery in the country, and boasts a superb museum.
You then travel back to Dublin.
Inclusion
All road tolls
Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
Air conditioning as standard
The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
All rates are inclusive of Breakfast unless stated otherwise.
Exclusion
Entry fees to visitor attractions
International Airfares
Optional activities
Other meals, drinks, tips and other personal expenses or services not specified on the program
Personal equipment
Travel insurance
Gratuities
Voluntary tips for guides or drivers
Travel and medical insurance
Any items not mentioned as included
Note
Tour departs on all Wednesdays as specified except 10/07/19+17/07/19 & all Sundays as specified except 02/06/18+14/07/19
All Tours departing from Dublin
Accommodation upgrade to 3 star property available on request.
Child supplement available on request.
All Tours are operated on mini and midi-coaches and with very experienced driver-guides.
Luggage - You’re restricted to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person on our tours. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items.
Important information - Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
