Northern Ireland Tour
For 6 days/ 5 nights this Northern Ireland tour takes you beyond the typical tourist traps for a firsthand look at the real Northern Ireland, steeped in history and surrounded by pristine scenic wilderness. This idyllic small group tour of Northern Ireland blends sightseeing and private exploration to perfection.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Omagh
Your Ireland tour departs from Dublin to the amazing prehistoric site at Newgrange (entry to tomb itself conditional on availability). The New Stone Age passage grave is regarded as among the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Europe. Next, you stop at the site of the Battle of the Boyne, one of the defining events in the history of Ireland, where the Protestant William of Orange defeated James II’s troops. From here it is a short distance to the Hill of Tara, historically the foremost spiritual and political centre of Ireland before arriving at our Irish accommodation.
Day 2: North Irish Coast (D)
You take part in a fascinating morning Belfast tour, a Victorian city currently experiencing a cultural and economic resurgence. Highlights of central Belfast include the Titanic Quarter, as well as a drive through both sides of this divided city with a trip up the Falls Road and down the Shankill Road. This afternoon you visit the intriguing Giant’s Causeway, a World Heritage Site and jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim. Finally, you head to your accommodation along the beautiful Northern Ireland coastline.
Day 3: North Irish Coast (B)
This morning you enjoy a historical guided walk along the ancient city walls of Derry. Then the coastal drive will take you to the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, a lesser known, but one of the most enchanting and beautiful parts of Ireland. The day continues with a visit to an Iron Age fort, Grianan Aileach, offering stunning views of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. From there, you travel to the home of the last Gaelic chieftain at Buncrana, then through the breathtaking mountain pass of the Mamore Gap. At the Isle of Doagh Visitor Centre you will hear an alternative view of the devastating Irish Famine and look at the social customs of the area. We end our touring day with a scenic drive through the northernmost parts of Northern Ireland.
Day 4: Sligo (B)
The day commences at the Ulster-American Folk Park. Arguably one of the best of its kind, it examines why two million people left Ulster for the New World in the 18th and 19th centuries. You then cross through County Fermanagh, along the shores of Lough Erne, to the Sligo area and into Yeats country. For those already familiar with the great 20th century poet, a visit to sites associated with him will be a real highlight.
Day 5: Galway (B/D)
It is a relaxing drive to the picturesque 18th century town of Westport, in County Mayo, where you will enjoy a break before heading westward towards Connemara. The west of Ireland is one of the principal motivations for visiting the country and the Connemara region is considered by many to be ‘the best of the west’. Connemara is much visited, but there are many scenic back roads we travel down, such as the spectacular Sky Road overlooking Clifden Bay. There are also other less frequented attractions in the area. Roundstone, a picturesque fishing village where Ireland’s championship bodhran (traditional Irish drum) maker has a workshop, is just one example. Today’s tour ends in Galway.
Day 6: Galway (B)
After breakfast your guide will offer advice on how to make the most of this small jewel in Ireland’s crown. Galway is a ‘walking city’ so you may enjoy wandering its shopping alleyways, cathedral, waterfront areas and local pubs at your own pace. Those who like an adventure, you may choose to take an excursion to the Aran Islands, considered the foothold of Irish culture and area of outstanding beauty.
Typical Inclusions:
• 5 nights accommodation in unique & traditional Irish accommodation
• All mini-coach transportation
• Service of driver/guide
• Irish cooked breakfast daily
• 2 dinners
• Entrance fees as listed:
• Newgrange prehistoric site
• Battle of the Boyne visitor centre
• Hill of Tara
• Ulster-American Folk Park, Omagh
• Parkes Castle, Sligo
• Cottage of Patrick Pearce
Prices vary with seasonality please contact your Concierge Traveller Advisor for more information.
