Things to do in Portaferry

Day 1 You depart Dublin and travel north. You pass through picturesque countryside as you journey to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Here you take a short city tour which covers the capital’s triumphs, tragedies and soul. You get time to discover the Titanic Quarter, a regenerated hub where the famous liner was built and launched in 1911. Leaving its excellent museums and attractions by the afternoon, we head into the incredible rural landscapes of County Down, where you can discover the world famous gardens and estate at Mount Stewart. After exploring the dignified majesty of the 19th century estate, you’ll be driven a short way to the seaside town of Bangor, your cosy base for the next two nights. Day 2  Leaving Bangor in the morning, you head north, following the winding and magnificent Causeway Coastal Route. A truly sensational experience, the journey encapsulates the sweeping valleys and eternal beauty of The Emerald Isle. Along the way you make stops in Glenarm and Ballycastle as well as some splendid attractions. In the afternoon, you enter Giant’s Causeway, where geological beauty and myth collide spectacularly. Leaving Giant’s Causeway, we venture through iconic locations from the TV series*, Game of Thrones, and discover the rich heritage of coastal Ireland. Then you head back to your accommodation in Bangor, where you can relax with a craft beer in one hand and locally caught seafood in the other. *You may have a chance to see the Dark Hedges. Day 3 Beginning a new day of sights and adventures, you leave Bangor and set out along the Ards Peninsula. At Portaferry, we set off on the picturesque ferry across the “Narrows” of Strangford Loch, where you have ample time for photos, whilst taking in the sights, sounds and scents of the loch. Then it’s off to Castle Ward, the location for Winterfell from Game of Thrones. You have the opportunity to discover where the famed and fictional Starks made their dwelling, and what living conditions would have been like for the real residents. From here, you follow in the holy footsteps of St Patrick through his historic, beautiful country. You will have time for lunch here and perhaps a visit to Down Cathedral in Downpatrick or the St Patrick’s centre. Then it’s a stunning, winding drive into the Mourne Mountains, where you’ll stand in awe amongst the towering granite peaks. From here we have a final stop at the shores of Carlingford Loch, before arriving in Dublin.

Discover Ireland’s Hidden Gems on this Scenic Journey Between Dublin and Belfast While most travellers take the direct route between Dublin and Belfast, this off-the-beaten-path scenic tour offers a far richer experience. Journey through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks, making unforgettable memories along the way. Your private driver-guide will pick you up from any location in Belfast at a time that suits you, setting the stage for an incredible adventure through Strangford Lough, St Patrick’s Country, the Mourne Mountains, Carlingford, and the Boyne Valley—some of the island’s most unspoiled and picturesque regions. A highlight of the journey is the scenic ferry ride across Strangford Lough, where you’ll travel between the charming villages of Portaferry and Strangford, soaking in postcard-perfect views. Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by some of Ireland’s most renowned heritage sites and landscapes, with 2.5 hours allocated for stops at the attractions of your choice. With so many incredible options, the hardest part will be deciding what to leave out! Optional Stops Along the Way: - Scrabo Tower – Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the Lough and coastline. - Mount Stewart Estate – Explore a magnificent stately home and its award-winning gardens. - Castle Ward (Winterfell Castle, Game of Thrones) – Walk, cycle, or kayak along the scenic Loughshore. - St Patrick’s Heritage Trail & Museum – Uncover the fascinating legacy of Ireland’s patron saint. - Irish Whiskey Distilleries – Enjoy tastings at renowned craft distilleries such as Hinch, Echlinville, and Copeland. - Mourne Mountain Walking Trails – Choose from stunning hikes for all fitness levels. - Newgrange Monument – Visit a prehistoric site older than both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids (subject to availability, advance booking required). - Charming Villages – Wander the picturesque streets of Rostrevor and Carlingford. - Coastal Retreats – Relax at Newcastle Beach, Murlough Beach, or the secluded ‘Secret Beach’ near Portaferry. - Gastronomic Delights – Savor some of Ireland’s best food at local cafes, traditional pubs, and renowned restaurants. If you’d like more time to explore, we offer an optional 2-hour extended tour to delve deeper into these incredible destinations. We also offer flexible itineraries & Drop-Off Option and the tour can be taken in either direction—from Belfast to Dublin or Dublin to Belfast. At the end of your journey, your driver will drop you off at your accommodation or any transport hub in the Greater Dublin area. Transform your journey between Dublin and Belfast into an unforgettable experience filled with culture, nature, and history. Don’t just travel—immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland!