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    Culture & Heritage

    Legends of Northern Ireland


    Deposit From: €940
    Region: Northern Ireland – Giants Causeway & Belfast
    Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
    Confirmed: When 3 Travellers Book

    Accommodation: Deluxe

    Grading: Gentle Discovery ? Trip Grading
    This trip is ideal for those who enjoy cultural depth without physical challenge, and who value engaging storytelling, local knowledge, and meaningful connection with place.

    Find Out More

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    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      From:  €3,650 View Prices & Dates

      Trip Overview

      Created by: Liz Olmstead


      History, myth, legend, and pop culture collide on this journey through Northern Ireland – one of the island’s best-kept secrets. A place of dramatic coastlines, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant cultural heritage waiting to be explored.

      Experience heritage hands-on while learning long-standing rural traditions, take tea in lavish settings with a castle butler, and go behind the scenes on Belfast’s 20th-century history as told by a local. This immersive journey blends myth and memory, hands-on experiences and luxurious touches.

      Discover timeless landscapes shaped by folklore and human history alike, and by evening, unwind in handpicked deluxe stays that offer a warm welcome and a touch of indulgence.

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      Day by Day
      Itinerary

      Day 1 – Medieval Castles and Ancient Myths Read Less

      Day 1

      Medieval Castles and Ancient Myths

      Meet your guide and group at the vibrant Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin before travelling north to uncover the rich heritage of Northern Ireland — a land steeped in myth, legend, and untamed beauty. Begin your journey on the Cooley Peninsula to discover the ancient tale of Queen Maeve and the legendary Brown Bull of Cooley, as part of Ireland’s most iconic myth, the Táin Bó Cúailnge (‘Cattle Raid of Cooley’). Continue to the charming town of Carlingford, where medieval streets, a towering Norman castle, and a 14th-century abbey offer a glimpse into the Irish Middle Ages. Delve into the town’s history at Carlingford Heritage Centre before enjoying a fresh seafood lunch by the sea. Afterwards, arrive in Belfast for your first evening in the north.

      Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

      Day 2 – 20th Century Belfast Read Less

      Day 2

      20th Century Belfast

      Today, explore Belfast — a city with a fascinating, if complex, past. Dive into maritime history at the award-winning Titanic Belfast museum, built on the slipways where the infamous ship was constructed. Later, join a local guide for an unforgettable black cab tour through streets that witnessed the Troubles, hearing powerful first-hand accounts from both sides of the divide. Visit politically significant murals and take a moment to reflect at the Peace Wall, a symbol of both division and progress. As night falls, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the city’s celebrated restaurants and perhaps round off your evening with a traditional music session in a cosy pub.

      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

      Day 3 – A Taste of Irish Tradition Read Less

      Day 3

      A Taste of Irish Tradition

      Continuing your adventure north, begin your day with a touch of elegance, enjoying a refined tea experience in a stately setting. Savour dainty pastries, freshly-baked scones, and a selection of steaming Irish teas as you soak up the quiet charm and warm hospitality for which the Irish are famous. Later, swap grandeur for green fields as you journey into the open countryside to meet a local shepherd and his expertly trained dogs. As the sheepdogs spring into action, discover the deep-rooted traditions of rural life — a lively, unforgettable window into Ireland’s pastoral past and present. Tonight, toast your adventure on the Causeway Coast with a taste of local tipple to the sound of waves.

      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

      Day 4 – Legends of the Causeway Coast Read Less

      Day 4

      Legends of the Causeway Coast

      Today’s journey along the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route feels plucked from the pages of myth. Board a boat with a local skipper and approach the Giant’s Causeway from the water — a unique perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to legend, chunks of the towering basalt columns were hurled into the sea by feuding giants, though science credits ancient volcanic forces. Either way, it’s a striking example of nature’s drama, where folklore and geology intertwine. As you sail beneath sea-arches and past craggy sea stacks, glide below cliffside castles, past seabird colonies, and discover magical places that inspired fantasy classics like Narnia and Game of Thrones. Keep watch for porpoises, dolphins, puffins, and other marine life in the waters around you — a reminder that wonder lies not just in the stories, but all around.

      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

      Day 5 – Derry & Irish Dancing Read Less

      Day 5

      Derry & Irish Dancing

      Much like Belfast, Derry blends a turbulent past with a vibrant present and hopeful future. Join a knowledgeable local guide on a walking tour through Ireland’s only fully intact walled city, strolling cobbled lanes, winding alleys, and historic ramparts. Featured in murals and other sites across the city, the hit comedy Derry Girls offers a humorous yet poignant glimpse into the city’s recent past. Discover Derry’s bustling Craft Village, buoyed by the craftspeople who bring a creative spirit to modern-day Derry. Round out your day with a spin into Irish culture — literally. Made famous by Riverdance and recognised by UNESCO, Irish dancing is fast, fun, and full of spirit. Join a dancing expert for a lively workshop where you’ll learn the steps and stories behind one of Ireland’s most iconic traditions, fulfilling your own Riverdance dreams. After a busy afternoon of dance, enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel in Derry.

      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

      Day 6 – Donegal’s Wild Heritage Read Less

      Day 6

      Donegal’s Wild Heritage

      Sometimes called the “Forgotten County,” Donegal is remote, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful. Start your day in one of the wildest spots at the heart of Donegal: Glenveagh National Park. A landscape of shimmering lakes and rugged mountains, admire a lakeside Victorian castle, once a rustic yet glamorous private hunting lodge with its lofty rooms, fragrant gardens, and peaceful paths. A voyage to Ireland is not complete without sampling the local tipple at a small but exceptional distillery. Not only can you sip smooth, golden whiskey, but you’ll also learn the true art of crafting a perfect Irish coffee. End your day at the Grianán of Aileach, a striking Iron Age stone fort perched high above the surrounding hills. Once an ancient royal seat, its name translates to “stony palace of the sun.” It’s an idyllic place to enjoy views of Donegal, bathed in the evening, before returning to toast your final night of the trip.

      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

      Day 7 – Ancient Wonders of Sligo Read Less

      Day 7

      Ancient Wonders of Sligo

      Our final morning leads through Sligo’s storied landscape — a place shaped by myth, poetry, and prehistory. With Ben Bulben rising to one side and the Atlantic stretching to the other, bask in the beauty that inspired poet W.B. Yeats, and folk legends like the tragic tale of Diarmuid and Gráinne. Travel back 5,000 years at the ancient court tomb of Creevykeel, one of Ireland’s finest Neolithic sites, before arriving in Sligo town, where you might have time to wander and shop before bidding farewell to your guide, your group, and the wild magic of the north.

      Meals Included: Breakfast

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      Legends of Northern Ireland

      To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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      The phone number field is not required but if you would like us to give you a call to help find the trip for you, then enter your telephone number including the country code.

      Trip Dates & Prices

      All payments taken in local currency EUR

      Trip Dates for 2026AvailabilityStatusPriceBook
      13th Jun - 19th Jun 2026 8 place(s) leftAvailable €3,650 Book Now
      15th Aug - 21st Aug 2026 6 place(s) leftGuaranteed €3,650 Book Now

      Make This Trip Private

      Fancy this trip just for your group? Get together with family and friends spend quality time exploring wild places. A private trip allows you to benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides but with the advantage of the flexibility to tailor the days to your group. Make the trip more or less challenging depending on your experience or choose to add in some optional extras like castle or distillery visits depending on your interests. The price of a private trip will depend on the number of travellers in your group. Let us know your preferred departure date and we'll take care of the rest.

      Enquire Now Learn More
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      Legends of Northern Ireland

      For private departure enquiries, please complete the form below:

      Trip Details

      Accommodation Read More

      This Culture & Heritage tour is based in three welcoming and comfortable accommodations in Belfast, Ballycastle and Derry. They offer warm hospitality and a place to eat, relax, and sleep after a great day out. Accommodation is a choice of double or twin rooms with en-suite facilities.

      Single Rooms

      There is no supplement charged to solo travellers, however, you will be required to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you request a double room for single occupancy, a supplement of €700 is charged.

      Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, single supplements are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis.

      Meals Read More

      This trip includes all meals, from lunch on day 1 to breakfast on day 7.

      Great food is paramount on all Wilderness Ireland trips, and we will enjoy excellent regional cooking throughout this all-inclusive trip. Of course, dietary requirements can be catered for; just let us know at the time of booking.

      Inclusions Read More
      • 6 nights accommodation in three welcoming and comfortable hotels.
      • Meals as stated in the itinerary.
      • The services of an experienced and knowledgeable guide/driver throughout.
      • Pickup and transport throughout the trip.
      • 7 days exploring the culture and heritage of Ireland.
      • Entrance and admission fees are as stated in the itinerary.
      Grading Read More

      This Culture and Heritage trip is designed for travellers interested in local history, traditions, and ways of life. It offers a relaxed pace with immersive experiences, guided visits, and opportunities to connect with communities, craftspeople, and custodians of heritage.

      Most days are spent almost entirely outdoors, exploring historic sites, gardens, or rural areas. Terrain is generally easy, with some uneven surfaces, steps, or gentle inclines. There are also occasional opportunities to make ascents to scenic viewpoints—these may involve steeper and winding staircases, rugged paths, or rougher terrain for those who are keen. These trips would be suitable for most reasonably active travellers.

      This trip is ideal for those who enjoy cultural depth without physical challenge, and who value engaging storytelling, local knowledge, and meaningful connection with place.

      Travel - Arrival and Departure Read More

      You will be met by your Wilderness Ireland Guide at the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin at 10:00am on Day 1 of your trip.

      The trip will conclude at Sligo MacDiarmada Railway Station at 12:30pm on the final day.

      ETAs, or Electronic Travel Authorisation, are currently required for all visits to the UK, including Northern Ireland, except in the case where you are an Irish or British citizen or resident. On this trip, you will be visiting Northern Ireland so you may need to apply for an ETA before travelling.

      To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, we recommend visiting the official UK Government website for the most up-to-date information and to apply for an ETA. Application and approval times are generally swift, but it’s best to apply early to ensure a stress-free trip. Any questions? Feel free to get in touch.

      Speak to an Expert

      Liz Olmstead

      Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of Ireland. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

      Ask Liz a Question

      Meet Your Guide

      Difficulty Grades Explained

      This Culture and Heritage trip is designed for travellers interested in local history, traditions, and ways of life. It offers a relaxed pace with immersive experiences, guided visits, and opportunities to connect with communities, craftspeople, and custodians of heritage.

      Most days are spent almost entirely outdoors, exploring historic sites, gardens, or rural areas. Terrain is generally easy, with some uneven surfaces, steps, or gentle inclines. There are also occasional opportunities to make ascents to scenic viewpoints—these may involve steeper and winding staircases, rugged paths, or rougher terrain for those who are keen. These trips would be suitable for most reasonably active travellers.

      This trip is ideal for those who enjoy cultural depth without physical challenge, and who value engaging storytelling, local knowledge, and meaningful connection with place.

      Find Out More

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