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Day 1 Omagh
Our tour departs from Dublin as we begin our journey to the amazing prehistoric site at Newgrange (entry to tomb itself conditional on availability). Here we step back into the mists of time, to almost the very beginning of history, the New Stone Age passage grave being regarded as among the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Europe. Next, we stop at the site of the Battle of the Boyne, one of the defining events in the history of Ireland, where the Protestant William of Orange defeated James II’s troops. Ultimately, this battle lead to the continuation of Protestant supremacy in Ireland. Even now, celebrations of this battle are an important and controversial event in the North of Ireland. From here we travel a short distance to the Hill of Tara, historically the foremost spiritual and political centre of Ireland before arriving at our Irish accommodation. (D)
Day 2 North Irish Coast
We enjoy a fascinating morning tour of Belfast, a Victorian city currently experiencing a cultural and economic resurgence. Highlights of central Belfast include the Titanic Quarter, as well as a drive through both sides of this divided city with a trip up the Falls Road and down the Shankill Road. We learn more about the history of the area as we pass the famed political wall murals, which are fast disappearing as the communities learn to live side by side. This afternoon we visit the intriguing Giant’s Causeway, a World Heritage Site and jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim. The sheer strangeness of the place and the bizarre regularity of the 37,000 basalt columns have made it the subject of many legends. Finally, we head to our friendly Irish accommodation along the beautiful Northern Ireland coastline. (B)
Day 3 North Irish Coast
This morning we enjoy a historical guided walk along the ancient city walls of Derry and hear how the shutting of the city gates, prohibiting entry to an English king, led to over 300 years of hostility. Our coastal drive will take us to the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, a lesser known, but one of the most enchanting and beautiful parts of Ireland. The day continues with a visit to an Iron Age fort, Grianan Aileach, offering stunning views of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. From there, we travel to the home of the last Gaelic chieftain at Buncrana, then through the breathtaking mountain pass of the Mamore Gap. At the Isle of Doagh Visitor Centre we will hear an alternative view of the devastating Irish Famine and look at the social customs of the area. We end our touring day with a scenic drive through the northernmost parts of Ireland towards tonight’s accommodation. (B)
Day 4 Sligo
Our day commences at the Ulster-American Folk Park. Arguably one of the best of its kind, it examines why two million people left Ulster for the New World in the 18th and 19th centuries. The park has more than thirty historic buildings, including a variety of thatched Irish cottages a Pennsylvanian farmstead, a reconstructed shopping street and a full size replica emigrant ship. In addition, costumed guides and demonstrators re-enact this bygone era, bringing it back to life. We then traverse through County Fermanagh, along the shores of Lough Erne, to the Sligo area and into W.B.Yeats country. For those already familiar with the great 20th century poet, a visit to sites associated with him will be a real highlight and for those as yet unfamiliar with his work and times, it will be a fascinating introduction. These sites include Drumcliffe Church, located at the foot of magnificent Ben Bulben and the location of Yeat’s grave, as well as Parkes Castle, a well preserved 17th century fortified Plantation manor house on the shore of lovely Lough Gill. (B,D)
Day 5 Galway
It is a relaxing drive to the picturesque 18th century town of Westport, in County Mayo, where we will enjoy a break before heading westward towards Connemara. The west of Ireland is one of the principal motivations for visiting the country and the Connemara region is considered by many to be ‘the best of the west’. Connemara is much visited, but there are many scenic back roads we travel down, such as the spectacular Sky Road overlooking Clifden Bay. There are also other less frequented attractions in the area. Roundstone, a picturesque fishing village where Ireland’s championship bodhran (traditional Irish drum) maker has a workshop, is just one example. If we have time, we will visit the modest traditional cottage of Patrick Pearce, father of independent Ireland and leader of the 1916 uprising. We complete today’s tour in the wonderful city of Galway. (B)
Day 6 Galway
After a hearty breakfast we say farewell. (B)
Galway is a ‘walking city’ so we recommend you extend your stay to enjoy wandering its shopping alleyways, cathedral, waterfront areas and local pubs at your own pace. Those who like an adventure, may choose to take an excursion to the Aran Islands, considered the foothold of Irish culture and area of outstanding beauty.
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