Trip created by Patricia Doe
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Region: Ireland;North West – Donegal & Sligo;Northern Ireland – Giants Causeway & Belfast
Trip Type: Self Drive
Comfort: Deluxe
Deposit From €450.00
Difficulty: Your Own Pace
All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.
Download ItineraryMagical and mythical, hear tales of giants, Jedis and heroes of Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway and Donegal as you explore the landscapes that inspired The Chronicles of Narnia, Game of Thrones TV series and Star Wars.
Highlights include the fascinating Giant’s Causeway as well as Belfast and the Causeway Coast, whose rejuvenated streets and inspiring landscapes have been collectively named Lonely Plant’s top region to visit. You’ll also climb the Slieve League Cliffs, three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, spot puffins while island hopping, and visit the remote Glenveagh National Park, one of six parks in Ireland.
This trip features luxury graded accommodations. On our Self Drive trips, enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace as well as benefit from passionate, local guides on certain days (marked G) who will interpret the landscape and introduce you to the culture and history of Ireland. Leave the planning and reservations to us – we’ve identified the very best of each region to get a great sampling of the nature, history and culture of Ireland. Hikes and other outdoor activities are matched to your ability levels. Minimum group size is 2. Prices based on 4 people.
From Dublin, head north into Ireland’s Ancient East, once the heart of Ireland’s ancient Celtic civilisation and still replete with tombs and monuments. Off to Belfast, we’ll recommend the best way to learn more about this fascinating city and its turbulent history. (B)
A region that once inspired CS Lewis’ Narnia series, the Mourne Mountains are rightly called a mystical place. Meet a local hiking guide to explore the wild region’s peaks and valleys, including the strange Mourne Wall, a 22 mile long wall crossing over a dozens hills and mountains and enclosing vast tracts of remote land. In the evening, perhaps get a taste of Belfast’s well-deserved reputation as a foodie destination! (B,G)
Following a stunning coastal route – the ‘secret’ way to visit the Giant’s Causeway – it’s easy to see why the Causeway Coast was named as top region to visit by Lonely Planet. Admire castle ruins, dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches and picturesque harbours and even visit a few places that inspired and appeared on HBO’s Game of Thrones. The grande finale is at the spectacular Giant’s Causeway – octagonal columns of rocks created by feuding giants or volcanic activity – myth or science, you decide! (B)
A bit of island hopping today! We’ll sail along the Causeway Coast and off to Rathlin Island, where (depending on the season) we might spot the resident island puffins! Discover hidden coves, dramatic lighthouses and many species of seabirds as well as heart-stopping coastal scenery while learning the local myths of the region. (B,G)
Into the quaint city of Derry, we’ll explore one of Europe’s few remaining fully walled cities as well as learn the city’s dramatic past and how it shaped Irish history to finally become a beacon of culture. Leaving Northern Ireland behind, we travel to the wilds of Donegal, hiking in Glenveagh National Park. Take in remote mountain and lake vistas and explore the forlorn castle tucked into a romantic mountain backdrop. (B)
The Slieve League Cliffs are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe (three times the Cliffs of Moher). With your private guide, explore the little-visited cliffs on one of the several hiking trails. One of our favourites follows a little-known ancient pilgrimage path where the remains of a mass rock (illicit church) stands, arriving at the top of the cliffs. In the evening, it’s off to bustling Donegal town where fabulous local pubs await. (B,G)
Today, say goodbye to the wilds of Donegal. From here, you may head straight to the airport – we will provide interesting stops along the way. Alternatively, why not combine this itinerary with The Wild Atlantic Way: Ireland’s Surf Coast and enjoy another fantastic week in Ireland! (B)
To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this vacation, please complete the form below:
This self drive trip features classic accommodations chosen for their excellent location, service and comfort. Expect small, comfortable and characterful lodgings. You will have the choice between cosy B&Bs or 3-star family-run hotels or guesthouses, with options and in towns or rural communities. Accommodation rooming is a choice of double or twin rooms, which are en-suite with a shower.
Pick up your rental car at Dublin Airport (please note that all car rentals are made independently by you) and head to Belfast on Day 1 of your trip. You can drop off your car at the airport of the final day of your trip.
Learn more about getting around Ireland here.
An avid cyclist and hiker, Patricia enjoys exploring Ireland’s wild landscapes every chance she gets – she particularly loves the under-appreciated regions of Mayo, Connemara, Sligo and Donegal. Having spent nearly a decade in the hospitality industry, Patricia is an expert on Ireland’s luxury and unique accommodations. As Wilderness Ireland’s General Manager and head of the sales team, Patricia is ready to help make your Irish adventure spectacular!
- Patricia Doe
Ask Patricia a QuestionAt your Own Pace
Discovery journeys are self-drive with personal activity experiences tailored to your own personal activity level. They allow you to discover Ireland with one-to-one meet ups with local guides and experts who can lead you through activities and hikes at you own pace. They also include overnight stops at the very best local 4 and 5 star accommodations. For the days you are self-guided, we will provide you with suggestions of places to stop, eat and things to see along with maps and directions.
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