Saturday To Holyhead for the crossing to Dublin and an overnight at the nearby 4 star Talbot Hotel, Stillorgan.
Sunday Into the beautiful local countryside and through The Boyne Valley to visit the award-winning Ulster American Folk Park. One of Northern Ireland’s major museums, it brings to life the powerful story of mass emigration as millions of people sailed to America in search of a ‘better life’. Then on to Buncrana for a 3 night stay at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel.
Monday We enjoy a tour of the Inishowen Peninsula with a local guide. The region is a protected national park, with wonderful ocean views and rare species of flora and fauna. First we go to Ireland’s northernmost point, Malin Head. And then to Derry on the banks of the River Foyle, the only completely walled city in Ireland and enjoying a resurgence following its 2013 crowning as UK City of Culture. We have a walking tour that takes in the walls and the peace bridge.
Tuesday A free day to explore Buncrana.
Wednesday Michael Palin described the train trip from Derry to Coleraine as “…one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world” and we take this delightful train that winds its way past pretty beaches, taking in historic landmarks along the way. Then to the UNESCO World-Heritage listed Giants Causeway, a series of volcanic stone columns created by the force of nature and surrounded by more stunning, coastal scenery. Then to our 4 star hotel for 1 night, the Stormont Hotel in Belfast.
Thursday We enjoy a 2.5 hour guided tour of this fascinating city. Following free time for an early lunch, we visit Titanic Belfast. This is one of the world’s leading attractions and we can explore the shipyard, walk the decks and travel to the depths of the ocean to uncover the true legend of Titanic. Afterwards we continue to Bray and our overnight hotel, the 3 star Esplanade.
Friday Our ferry is at 0800 from Dublin to Holyhead, so breakfast is included on the ferry.