Wild Northern Ireland & Donegal

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

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

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

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

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

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