Uncover the best of Northern Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way and County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland on this 4-day group tour from Belfast. Wander through the gardens of royal Hillsborough Palace and visit Armagh. See the towering Slieve League Cliffs, drive through Glenveagh National Park and take in the strategic Fort Dunree on the Inishowen Peninsula. Admire the view from Malin Head, stroll along Downhill beach and sample Irish whiskey at the world's oldest licensed distillery.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Belfast!
Belfast - Armagh - Donegal (Republic of Ireland). Welcome to Northern Ireland! Leaving Belfast, we make our way to Hillsborough Castle, renowned for its beautiful gardens. This is a favored residence of the Royal Family and you can stroll through the gardens or opt to head inside and take in the ornamental state rooms (availability of tickets may vary).
Our next stop is Armagh, a town that is particularly devoted to St Patrick, as evidenced by its two cathedrals dedicated to him. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local cider!
Crossing the border into the Republic of Ireland, we make our way through the rugged landscapes of County Donegal, arriving at Donegal town for our first overnight. Donegal offers a variety of restaurants and cozy pubs where you can enjoy traditional music alongside a hearty meal.
Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 9:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:30) - Belfast Pick-Up, Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH
Overnight: Donegal
Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way
Donegal - Wild Atlantic Way - Letterkenny. Today we are exploring the untamed wilderness of the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route. Our journey begins with a visit to the Slieve League Cliffs, which plummet an impressive 600 meters down to the untamed ocean.
We continue through sparsely populated Irish-speaking communities on our way to Glencolmcille. Here, depending on the season, you can visit the Folk Village and gain a fascinating glimpse into the culture and daily life of people from the 18th century onwards.
We drive through the striking Glengesh mountain pass and make a stop in the village of Ardara, where you can enjoy lunch at leisure. Returning to the coast, we continue to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, pausing at breathtaking locations that offer stunning views of the rugged coastline and picturesque islands. We then pass through the magnificent Glenveagh National Park.
Arriving in the town of Letterkenny, the evening is free to head out and explore.
Overnight: Letterkenny | Breakfast
Fort Dunree, Mamore Gap & Grianan of Aileach
Letterkenny - Fort Dunree - Carndonagh - Grianan of Aileach - Letterkenny. This morning, we set off for the Inishowen Peninsula and Fort Dunree. This fort, situated on a strategic clifftop, also houses a military museum.
Next, we pass through Mamore Gap, one of the most picturesque routes in Ireland. Along the way, take the opportunity to explore the various attractions, including a holy well dedicated to St Eigne. We then stop for lunch in the charming town of Carndonagh. This market town offers an array of pubs and restaurants, and it is also home to the ancient Donagh Cross or St Patrick’s Cross.
After lunch we travel to the northernmost point in Ireland, Malin Head. Known for its untamed and rugged coastline, the unique beauty here has even caught the attention of filmmakers, as it served as a filming location for Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi.
Our final visit of the day is Grianan of Aileach. Dating back to 1700 BC, this remarkable hilltop fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Then it's back to Letterkenny for the evening.
Overnight: Letterkenny | Breakfast
Causeway Coastal Route, whiskey & Belfast
Letterkenny - Downhill (Northern Ireland) - Castlerock - Belfast. Crossing back into Northern Ireland this morning, we visit Downhill, a popular stop along the Causeway Coastal Route. Marvel at the stunning cliffs and expansive sandy beach that stretches along the water's edge. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Downhill beach before we make our way up to Mussenden Temple. This 18th-century temple was originally built as a library for the unusual Earl Bishop and has now become one of Ireland's most famous landmarks and a location featured in the television series Game of Thrones.
We then enjoy a well-deserved lunch break in the pretty coastal village of Castlerock, which has a population of just 1,500 people.
No visit to Ireland is complete without indulging in some whiskey. The final stop on our tour is the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery which has been in operation since 1608. With the delightful taste of whiskey lingering within, it is time to make our way back to Belfast, where our tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour finishes at 18:00 - Belfast Drop Off, Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price.
At a Glance
