Secrets of the Northern Coast

Welcome to Ireland

On your arrival in Ireland, meet your private guide and transfer north. Take the time to visit the medieval town of Carlingford, admiring its impressive medieval fortifications, historic buildings and delicious, local oysters. Afterwards, join your guide for a stunning walk through the hills of the Cooley Peninsula, an area that is technically a protected leprechaun habitat. Steeped in Irish mythology, listen to tales of warrior queens and cattle raids, before ferrying across the fjord to the majestic Mountains of Mourne and your accommodation for the next two nights. This evening, relax into your impressive Victorian hotel, tucked below the region’s highest peak and bounded by a perfect strand of silver sand.

Overnight: Slieve Donard Hotel | Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains

Today, enjoy exploring one of the most captivating corners of Northern Ireland – the sweeping, soaring peaks of the Mourne Mountains. Head out with your guide to hike, ride or ramble through this dramatic landscape, which served as inspiration for C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. Home to some of the best walking and biking trails in the region, enjoy panoramic views that stretch beyond the granite tors, all the way to the glittering ocean. The diverse habitat supports ravens, skylark, meadow pipit and peregrine falcons, while the Mourne Wall – which was finished in 1922 and took 18 years to complete – connects the desolate summits of 15 mountains and stretches for over 22 miles. Tonight, relax in the hotel’s award-winning spa, before choosing to dine in one of the three renowned in-house restaurants.

Overnight: Slieve Donard Hotel | Mourne Mountains

In the Footsteps of Giants

After a leisurely breakfast, head out with your guide to hike along the majestic Causeway Coastal Route. Bright in the summer months with blue spring squill, pink thrift and white sea campion, stroll along the Causeway Coast’s cliff tops watching seabirds swoop and dive above the swell. With the cliffs growing wilder with each step, soon the iconic Giant’s Causeway will come into view – the world-famous interlocking columns formed by volcanic eruptions 50-60 million years ago. Chat with your guide about the giants Finn MacCool and Benandonner, a legend born from this unique and mesmerising coastline. Later this afternoon, enjoy a scenic transfer to a lovingly-restored former coaching inn, located in a town known for its whiskey.

Overnight: Bushmills Inn | Causeway Coast

Exploring Rathlin Island

Off the northern shores of the Causeway Coast lies Rathlin Island. This morning, make the short crossing over the water to arrive in its welcoming bay. The history of the island is entwined in folklore, with the best known being that of Robert the Bruce. When driven from Scotland in 1306, he is said to have found inspiration to reclaim his crown by watching a spider’s perseverance when building its web. Today, Rathlin is home to Northern Ireland’s largest bird sanctuary and also three enchanting lighthouses. Enjoy exploring the salt-stung cliffs, ancient woodlands and secluded beaches with your knowledgeable guide. Learn about the island’s history of shipwrecks, before returning to the mainland in the golden glow of the afternoon.

Overnight: Bushmills Inn | Causeway Coast

Derry City and Glenveagh National Park

Travel west this morning to the city of Derry. Join a local guide on a walking tour of one of the finest walled cities in Europe, learning about the city’s civil strife and proud, resilient culture. After a lovely lunch and an amble along the winding cobblestone streets, head into the rugged region of Donegal to explore Glenveagh National Park. With shimmering lakes, valleys ribboned in dark water and rocky peaks that shift with mountain mist, the best way to explore the national park is on foot. For those seeking a challenge, there is also the option of summiting Mt Errigal, the highest peak of the Derryveagh Mountains. This evening, relax in your stunning castle hotel, perhaps enjoying a swim before dinner.

Overnight: Lough Eske Castle | Donegal

The Wild Atlantic Way

Some of the best cold-water waves are found off the northwest Atlantic coast of Ireland. Renowned for both its beauty and its world-class surfing, it is a well-loved destination for both travellers and locals alike. This morning, if you wish, enjoy a private surfing lesson with a lovely instructor. Warm up again afterwards with hot coffee, soaking up the bohemian atmosphere of the west coast. After lunch, meet a local tweed-weaver to learn about the ancient craft and visit a traditional workshop. This evening, head into town to catch a live music performance in one of the spirited pubs – pint in hand sitting by a crackling fire, it’s the perfect Irish evening.

Overnight: Lough Eske Castle | Donegal

Homeward Bound

Depending on when you choose to depart, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your castle hotel. Enjoy a wander around the fantastic castle grounds before joining your guide, who will transfer you to the airport, to begin your journey home or to extend your stay in Dublin City.