The Hidden West

Fermanagh Lakelands

Meet your Wilderness guide at the fabulous art spot, the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin this morning before travelling northwest. Crisscross the border of Northern Ireland to arrive at Lough Erne – a jewel in the watery wonderland of Fermanagh Lakelands. Enjoy a boat trip to an ancient monastic island and visit the monastery, a captivating symbol of Ireland’s early Christian heritage and the legacy of the country’s position as ‘the land of saints and scholars’ throughout the Middle Ages. The lakes are also rich in mythology and folklore. The warrior queen Méabh (anglicised to Queen Maeve), various high kings, and even giants are said to have spent time here. After your boat trip, continue to your lovely hotel and settle in before dinner.

Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Exploring Slieve League

After breakfast, head west to explore the impressive Slieve League Cliffs. Rising dramatically above the crashing waves of the North Atlantic, these towering cliffs climb over 600 metres into the salt-flecked sky. Accompanied by your guide, follow the little-known Pilgrim’s Path, part of an ancient route which ribbons up the mountain to a monastic site, the remains of which can be seen near the top plateau. Enjoy the fantastic panoramic views of the cliffs, listening to the unrelenting power of the ocean’s constant, rhythmic roar. This afternoon, enjoy learning more about the tradition of tweed-making and watching artisans ply their craft on handlooms passed down through generations.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Walk Details: 8 km / 5 miles

The Devil’s Chimney

Today, enjoy a gentle walk through the woodlands beneath the striking profile of Benbulben, following well-kept forest paths through quiet glades and open views across the surrounding landscape. Continue to Devil’s Chimney, Ireland’s highest waterfall, where a short trail leads to a scenic viewpoint overlooking its dramatic cascade (most impressive after rainfall). Learn more about the landscapes that inspired the poetry of W. B. Yeats and, if the weather is fine, pause for a picnic. This afternoon, return to your hotel refreshed and rosy-cheeked, with time to relax before dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Walk Details: 10 km / 6 miles

The Sligo Way

After breakfast, head out to walk a beautiful section of the Sligo Way. Traverse rolling, heather-cloaked hills and pause for a break at a secluded mountain lake – rumoured to be bottomless according to local legend. As you walk, enjoy the peace of this quiet trail, looking out for birds and soaking up the uninterrupted views across the glittering waters of Lough Gill. Weave your way into the tranquillity of Slish Wood, tucked on the southern shores of the lake and through the soft shadows thrown by the old trees. Head out to a cosy pub tonight to listen to traditional Irish music and enjoy a refreshing pint.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Walk Details: 8 km / 5 miles

Coolera Peninsula

Just a short drive from the bustling town of Sligo is Strandhill, a bohemian surf town with amazing ocean views and a lively, energetic atmosphere. Popular with surfers, stand-up paddle boarders and sea kayakers, watch the locals catching waves before heading off with your guide to follow a trail that winds through an extensive dune ecosystem to the tip of Coolera Peninsula. Pass the ruins of an early Christian Church (where St Patrick is said to have lost a tooth) and return to Strandhill through a fresh pine woodland. This evening, settle into your welcoming hotel and enjoy an aperitif before dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Walk Details: 7 km / 4 miles

Benwee Head & Carrowteige

This morning, set out to explore the spectacular An Bhinn Bhuí (Benwee Head) at Carrowteige – a wild, far-flung headland on the north coast of Co. Mayo. Looking out over the rolling Atlantic swell, the coast here is romantically rugged, full of secluded coves, lonely sea stacks and wind-swept clifftops. It is also a place of rich cultural heritage, where traditions are upheld, and the Irish language is still spoken as the vernacular. Chat with your guide about the mythical tale of the Children of Lir – siblings condemned to live as swans and wander the countryside for 900 years.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Walk Details: 11 km / 7 miles

Downpatrick Head & Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a visit to the impressive Downpatrick Head. From the wildflower-flecked clifftop, soak up the spectacular views of the lonely sea stack Dún Bríste, the Staggs of Broadhaven islands, and a watch tower from the Napoleonic era. Those visiting during the early summer may be lucky enough to see the puffins that nest here, as well as many other coastal birds. Your guide will drop you at Sligo Train Station before lunch, where the trip will conclude.

Meals Included: Breakfast