Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne | Northern Ireland
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FROM: R31,091 pp

Discover the highlights of Northern Ireland and County Donegal on this 6-day group tour encompassing the Causeway Coastal Route and the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit the spectacular Giant's Causeway and see the towering Slieve League Cliffs. Admire filming locations including Game of Thrones' Mussenden Temple and Star Wars' Malin Head. Visit Derry and Donegal, explore royal Hillsborough Castle and stay in the island town of Enniskillen.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Guesthouse
Hotel
Accommodation

Trip Highlights

Giant's Causeway - Marvel at this incredible UNESCO-listed rock formation, one of the highlights of Northern Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way - Admire the stunning scenery, dramatic cliffs and wheeling seabirds of the Donegal section of this famous coastal trail
Causeway Coastal Route - Wander along the sandy shores of Downhill beach and take in the 18th century Mussenden Temple
Derry - See the incredibly well-preserved city walls and explore this historic city at your own pace
Malin Head - Stop at the most northerly-point of the island of Ireland, where filming for Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi took place
Old Bushmills Distillery - Sample traditional Irish whiskey in the world's oldest licensed distillery, which has been operating since 1608

Included

5 breakfasts
Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
All road tolls
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.
5 nights simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
Escorted by a local driver-guide (tour guide and minibus changes on day 3)
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details

Not Included

International flights & visas
Meals not specified in itinerary
Entry fees unless specified
Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!

Itinerary

Day 1

The Giant's Causeway & whiskey

Belfast - Giant's Causeway - Portrush. Departing Belfast, we head north along the Causeway Coastal Route. Admire craggy cliffs, majestic ruined castles, and the sweeping Glens of Antrim, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We make a stop for lunch in the coastal town of Ballycastle and we'll pop down to see the impressive Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge before it's back on the road.

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 an optional tasting of their famous whiskey. We also make a quick photo stop at Dunluce Castle.

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

Day 2

Derry, Ulster American Folk Park & Enniskillen

Portrush - Derry - Ulster American Folk Park - Enniskillen. Departing Portrush, we head to Derry (Londonderry). The city 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 explore the beautiful surroundings or immerse yourself in Irish hospitality down at a local pub.

Accommodation: Westville Hotel or similar
Overnight: Enniskillen  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Into the Republic

Enniskillen - Donegal (Republic of Ireland). There's free time this morning to further explore the galleries, shops and 15th-century castle in Enniskillen. Then it's on 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). We then journey across the border into the Republic of Ireland, arriving in the town of Donegal.

Please note: At Hillsborough Castle, we change bus and there may be new additions to the group. Rest assured that the maximum group size of 16 will not be exceeded. You may also change guides at this point on the tour.

Accommodation: Eske Villa, Railway Lodge or similar
Overnight: Donegal  |  Breakfast

Day 4

The Wild Atlantic Way

Donegal - Letterkenny. Today we explore the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route, home to some of Ireland's most impressive scenery. We start with a visit to the Slieve League Cliffs, which tower 600 metres above the ocean.

Passing through the Gaelic-speaking communities of rural Ireland, we drive through the striking mountain pass at Glengesh to Ardara, a scenic village where we stop for lunch.

Heading back to the coast, we make our way to Letterkenny, stopping often at viewpoints and other attractions to make the most of this idyllic region. Passing though Glenveagh National Park, we arrive at our destination.

Accommodation: Dillons Hotel, Killererin House B&B, Ardlee House B&B or similar
Overnight: Letterkenny  |  Breakfast

Day 5

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, this area served as a filming location forStar 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.

Accommodation: Dillons Hotel, Killererin House B&B, Ardlee House B&B or similar
Overnight: Letterkenny  |  Breakfast

Day 6

Causeway Coastal Route

Letterkenny - Downhill (Northern Ireland) - Portstewart - 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 Portstewart. It's then time to make our way back to Belfast, but our guide will choose an additional stop or two on the way back!

Please note: This tour finishes at 18:00 - Belfast Drop Off, Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.

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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

Our Category: Simple   |   Regional Category: Mid Range Lodge

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.

Bed & Breakfast, Enniskillen

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Guesthouse

On this tour, you will stay in bed and breakfast properties (B&Bs). These are usually smaller residential properties, with just a handful of guest rooms. You’ll have a bedroom, bathroom and often, access to a communal dining room for breakfast. Rooms will always be clean and comfortable, with a private bathroom. Bathrooms are usually en-suite, but on rare occasions, access may be via a communal hallway. This means that the bathroom will still be private and only for your personal use, but it is not en-suite (located in the room). You will need to leave the room to use the bathroom.

Westville Hotel, Enniskillen

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

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.

The Railway Lodge, Donegal

Our Category: Simple   |   Regional Category: Guesthouse

The Railway Lodge Guest House, located just a 3-minute walk from the centre of Donegal Town, is a well-established, family-run B&B operating since 1999. All rooms are en suite and include free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Killererin House B&B , Letterkenny

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Guesthouse

Located close to the Wild Atlantic Way, Killererin House provides breathtaking panoramic views of Donegal and is perfect for exploring the Atlantic Coast. From Slieve League in West Donegal to Malin Head on the Inishowen Peninsula, and including attractions like Glenveagh National Park, Fanad Lighthouse, Mount Errigal, and the scenic Dunlewey, all are easily accessible by car. The guesthouse is also just moments from Letterkenny and offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, flat-screen TVs, and a garden.

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.

Read More

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Belfast
Ends
Belfast
Departs
Mondays & Thursdays
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 16
Hotel Rating
Simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
Tour Guide
Yes - escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 5
Countries
Ireland, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Minimum Age
5 (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Arr. Transfer
No
Dep. Transfer
No

Our bus driver/guide Dauphie was excellent. She was very helpful, kind and cheerful. Planning of the itinerary could have been better as we were backtracking in different areas. We did enjoy the tour. Accommodations and food was great.

Janice Holmes
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