Causeway & Castles

Leaving Dublin this morning, and Ireland for that matter, we head north towards Belfast, located in Northern Ireland.  Enroute we stop in County Meath at the brand new Slane Distillery, which is known typically for the massive concerts held at Slane Castle. This distillery was built within the surroundings of the 250-year-old stables and grain stores. Here we will learn everything about making Irish Whiskey, uisce beatha – the water of life. Once back on the bus, we continue our journey north, passing The Mountains of Mourne whose peaks and rolling hills inspired C. S. Lewis to write The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe and was also used as a backdrop in scenes of Game of Thrones. Arriving into Belfast we will do a panoramic tour of the Falls and Shankill Roads to learn of the effects The Troubles had on the city and the entire island.   Overnight – Ten Square Hotel, Belfast

After breakfast, we make the long journey across the street for a visit to the Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre which was recently voted as the world’s leading tourist attraction. Here you can learn everything about the legendary RMS Titanic, from standing in the shipyard it was built all the way to its maiden voyage and subsequent place in history. When finished up at the centre the rest of the afternoon and evening are yours, free to explore Belfast and everything it has to offer. Tonight we head to The Old Inn for a traditional Ulster Dinner.   Dinner/Overnight – Ten Square Hotel, Belfast  

Today, we head north along the Antrim Coast for a visit to the famous Giant’s Causeway. Enroute we make a stop in the Glenariff Forest Park at the Glenariff Teahouse for some coffee or tea, with beautiful views of the park, the shop also has freshly baked scones available that are delectable. When finished we continue along the Antrim Coast until we reach the legendary Giant’s Causeway. The story goes the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill built the causeway to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner, others claim it was the result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. Whichever story you believe, what remains true is that the Giant’s Causeway is definitely a sight to behold and one that will leave you in awe when you do. From here we make our way to the historic walled city of Derry, which was the last walled city to be built in Ireland and the only city whose walls remain completely intact in the country. Upon arrival we will be met by a local guide and embark on a walking tour of the city to learn all about Derry’s turbulent past.  Overnight—Maldron Hotel, Derry