Northern Ireland Panorama Small Group Journey

Depart Dublin around 9 am. Travel north towards the Republic of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland. From here it is a short journey into the city of Belfast, famous for its industrial past and turbulent history. After a short tour of some of the key areas of the city, you will arrive in the newly redeveloped Titanic Quarter where you will have time for lunch and a visit to the award-winning museum. In the afternoon, experience the contrasts between the busy city and beautiful scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens. Follow part of this coast from Ballycastle to the world famous Giant's Causeway – a stunning piece of coastal scenery. Spend time exploring this area before arriving in the holiday town of Portrush for the night. 

Today, your first stop is in the historic walled city of Derry - designated as UK City of Culture in 2013. You will have some free time to explore the old city or one of the many museums or galleries before crossing the border again back into the Republic of Ireland. You will now travel into one of the most remote and unspoiled parts of the country – County Donegal with its stunning scenery and strong Gaelic culture. The route passes Glenveagh National Park and Errigal Mountain, then follows the coast through traditional fishing villages. Along the way, there will be plenty time for walks, photos, and soaking up the local culture before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal. (B)

Travelling south along the coast from Donegal will take you into County Sligo.En route, look out for the dramatic mountain scenery of Ben Bulben. Near Sligo Town at Carrowmore, you will find the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland – dating back over 6,000 years. The route now turns westwards into County Mayo – an area hit hard by the great potato famine and from where many people emigrated to North America. The road takes you through large areas of farmland, bog, and open moor with views to distant hills before coming back to the Atlantic Coast and Achill Island. Here, you really are right on the edge of Europe and you will have time to savor the peace and quiet of this beautiful area. From here it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next 2 nights. (B)

Westport sits on the edge of Connemara and that is the area you will explore today. The itinerary will depend on the weather and your guide will advise on the best visits for the day. Possibilities include the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Connemara National Park, Clifden (the first transatlantic flight landed here), the Sky Road, and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. Along the way there will be many opportunities for taking photos of this dramatic landscape. Tonight, we recommend you sample some local seafood in one of the many excellent local restaurants. (B)

After a leisurely start, you will leave Westport behind and travel inland through the heart of Connemara to the village of Cong on the shore of Lough Corrib – where the classic film “The Quiet Man” was made. There will be time for a visit to Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum. From here, pass through the Maam Valley and then on to Galway City. Here, you will have some free time for lunch and to explore the vibrant city center. You will stop at Kilbeggan Distillery on the way back to Dublin. Arrive in Dublin around 7 pm. (B)