Take in the best of Northern Ireland on this 3-day group tour from Belfast. Drive through incredible coastal scenery to reach the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway and see dramatic Dunluce Castle. Enjoy optional whiskey tasting, take in the historic walls of Derry and join an optional walking tour of the city. Learn about American emigration to Ireland at the Ulster American Folk Park, stay in the island town of Enniskillen, visit Armagh and the royal Hillsborough Castle.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
The Giant's Causeway
Belfast - Portrush. Departing Belfast, we head north along the mesmerizing and picturesque Causeway Coastal Route. Admire craggy cliffs, majestic ruined castles, and the sweeping Glens of Antrim, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We stop in the seaside town of Ballycastle for lunch and have time to see the impressive Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge before we continue our drive.
The highlight of this coastal drive is the magnificent Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO-listed geological formation where history, myth, and the sheer power of geology converge in a spectacular display. Marvel at this highlight of Northern Ireland before we continue to Bushmills Distillery for optional whiskey tasting. We also see the dramatic Dunluce Castle.
After being invigorated by the refreshing sea air and the mind-blowing scenery, we arrive in the charming town of Portrush in the late afternoon. The rest of today is at leisure.
Please note: Pick up point for this tour is at 8:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Belfast Pick-Up, Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH
Accommodation: Mandalay B&B, Aranmore Lodge or similar
Overnight: Portrush
Derry & the Ulster American Folk Park
Portrush - Derry - Ulster American Folk Park - Enniskillen. Departing Portrush, we head towards the border with the Republic of Ireland and the city of Derry (Londonderry). Derry teems with history, from its remarkably well-preserved historic walls to the poignant murals that commemorate its troubled past. With some free time on your hands, you have the option to independently explore Derry or join a guided walking tour.
Our next visit is to the Ulster American Folk Park, a fascinating destination that delves into the tale of emigration from Ulster to North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. There is a long intertwined history between the USA and Ireland. President Joe Biden's family hail originally from County Mayo and John F Kennedy's four grandparents were all children of Irish immigrants.
Our final destination today is the island town of Enniskillen. Take advantage of the evening to leisurely stroll through the beautiful surroundings or immerse yourself in the renowned Irish hospitality by engaging in friendly conversations with the locals at a cosy pub.
Accommodation: Westville Hotel or similar
Overnight: Enniskillen | Breakfast
Hillsborough Castle
Enniskillen - Hillsborough Castle - Belfast. This morning is free to further explore Enniskillen. You could visit one of the local art galleries, explore the 15th-century castle or cruise on Lough Erne.
Bidding farewell to Enniskillen, we head to royal Hillsborough Castle, which boasts magnificent gardens. Here, you can explore the ornamental grounds, tranquil woodlands, and delightful glens that have delighted both the Royal Family and countless visitors. If you wish, you can also choose to visit the beautiful state rooms of the castle and learn more about its fascinating history (tickets subject to availability). From Hillsborough Castle, it is just a short journey back to Belfast, where our tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour finishes at 17:30 - Belfast Drop Off, Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
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.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Aaranmore Lodge , Portrush
This premium B&B is a 6-minute walk from Portrush railway station, which offers direct trains to Londonderry/Derry and Coleraine, and is 7.9 miles from the Giant's Causeway. The bright, airy rooms feature wood floors, TVs, free WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. A full Irish breakfast and off-street parking are included, and there is also a guest lounge with a TV.
Westville Hotel, Enniskillen
An 11-minute walk from Enniskillen Golf Club and 4.8 miles from Castle Coole, this stylish hotel features modern rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Room service is available, and guests can enjoy a full Irish breakfast included in their stay. The chic terrace restaurant offers a mix of contemporary and traditional dishes, and there's a cosy bar with live music on weekends.
Prices & Dates
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
