Tour the highlights of Northern Ireland on a day trip from Dublin aboard a comfortable touring coach. Explore iconic locations such as UNESCO Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle ruins, Dark Hedges and Belfast.
Depart central Dublin and enjoy rolling green countryside and historical commentary as you travel across the Irish border on the M1 motorway. The road signs change from miles to kilometres as you depart the European Union and enter the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Arriving in Co. Antrim by mid-morning you will have panoramic views of Glens of Antrim, Whitepark Bay, Portbradden, Causeway Coast, Mull of Kintyre, Rathlin Island and on clear days the coast of Scotland.
Your first stop on Northern Irish soil is typically at Dark Hedges - an amazing avenue of intertwined beech trees planted in the 1700s by the local Stuart family to line the approach to their estate and farm. Dark Hedges is eerily beautiful and has been made one of Northern Ireland’s iconic sights by Game of Thrones and Transformers. Apparently the road is haunted by a ghost - so we will only stop here briefly for fresh air and photos.
Afterwards, visit the spectacular ruins of Dunluce Castle for a comprehensive tour with paid entrance included. This is the former residence of the McDonnell clan, made famous as House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones and considered by many to be the most romantic castle in Ireland. Departing the area we’ll drive along the Causeway Coastal route between Dunluce and Ballycastle - one of the most dramatically scenic roads in the world.
There will be time for lunch, typically in a good local pub, cafe or restaurant with options to suit every taste. Alternatively, feel free to bring a packed lunch.
The highlight for many today is undoubtedly UNESCO Giant’s Causeway. Volcanic activity created the 37,000 basalt “stepping stone” columns and spectacular formations. Locals will tell you it was actually a local warrior Giant by the name of Fionn. Enjoy the local legend from your guide and then make your own mind up. You’ll enjoy at least 90 minutes at Giant’s Causeway - the perfect amount of time based upon 25 years of guest feedback.
End the day with an orientation tour of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Highlights include City Hall, Victoria Square and famous Titanic Dock, where the world famous ocean liner Titanic was built in 1912.
Your tour will drop you back in downtown Dublin with plenty of time for late dinner arrangements, entertainment and rest.
