Your adventure begins this morning as you set off along the Causeway Coastal Route, a breathtaking stretch of Northern Ireland’s surf-worn coast. Pass by the enchanting Glens of Antrim, home to numerous locations used in the filming of ‘Game of Thrones’, including the hypnotic tree tunnel of the Dark Hedges.
Stop first at Carrickfergus Castle, a grand Norman structure that has stood proudly for over 800 years. Continue to the incomparable Giant’s Causeway, where some 40,000 basalt columns tightly fit in a stony sweep of hexagonal steps. Vanishing into the tempestuous sea beyond, these volcanic towers tell the story of ancient natural forces. Climb the rolling rocks and uncover the landscape behind the fantastical legend of the Irish giant Finn McCool, for which this natural monument is named.
Later, return to your Belfast accommodation for a restful evening.
This morning, wake to a day of maritime discovery as you set a course for the Titanic Belfast exhibition. Reconstructing the story of Belfast’s most infamous vessel, and once the world’s largest ship, you’ll dive into the fascinating planning and building process, before combing through the details of the Titanic’s ill-fated maiden voyage.
Later, travel south to Enniskillen for a scenic cruise across idyllic Lough Erne. Home to the World Waterski Championships, these two connected lakes are home to over 150 emerald islands, which you can easily admire as you glide by.
Back ashore, rejoin your coach and cross the border into the Republic of Ireland, making your way to Athlone for an evening in the countryside.
Rise and shine, ready to embrace Ireland’s most dramatic scenery as you travel around Liscannor Bay to the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher. At over 200 metres high, these towering rock walls are an astounding display of oceanic power, carved out over countless ages. From the tumultuous surf to the green hills above, mighty winds sweep up and over the sheer edge, catching you where you stand atop this 14-kilometre stretch of Atlantic coast.
Later, continue on to Cork to check in at your hotel for the evening.
Your day begins with a trip to the famous Blarney Castle, dating back to the 15th century. Most famously, the castle is home to the Blarney Stone – a worn-down piece of the battlements, known for the mysterious legend that claims any who kiss it will be given the ‘gift of the gab’. Beyond this off-the-wall oddity, Blarney is host to a spectacular array of flora, by turns manicured and overgrown, evoking the magic of the Secret Garden.
Continue to the lush shores of Killarney National Park for a look at nearby Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain. Follow the Ring of Kerry on a sweeping tour of the region’s rugged scenery, then return to Cork for an evening at leisure.
Depart this morning for Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city and home of the coveted Waterford crystal tradition. A thousand-year-old seaport, Waterford wears its Viking history proudly. Step into the House of Waterford and catch a glimmer of the internationally prized craftwork, unpacking the crystal-cutting process for which these local artisans are known.
Later, continue to Dublin, Ireland’s charming capital, where you’ll check in for an evening to spend wandering across the city on your own.
Today is dedicated to unveiling Dublin’s many welcoming delights. Start with a visit to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in the Docklands, where the history of the far-flung Irish diaspora is laid out in captivating detail. Following the Irish Potato Famine of the 19th century, up to two million people emigrated to the US, Canada, Australia and beyond, resulting in the widespread Irish heritage of communities across the globe today.
The rest of your day is yours to explore freely, wandering the banks of the Liffey and catching the popular sights of Temple Bar, or perhaps paying a visit to Phoenix Park for a glimpse of the elegant fallow deer.
After one last breakfast, your adventure concludes upon checkout. Though your Irish expedition is over, the merriment and memories are sure to buoy you long after you return home.