Price:
$3749 per person: (shared room)
Including the 1st night in the Malone Hotel in Belfast
$5069 per person: sharing
Including the 1st night in the Malone Hotel in Belfast
Physical Challenge
Embark on a journey through Ireland’s Causeway Coast and Glens, where every day brings a new adventure. From the dramatic cliffs of Fairhead to the serene beauty of Rathlin Island, this tour is a perfect blend of scenic hikes, cultural treasures, and authentic Irish hospitality.Highlights
Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter: Begin your journey in the heart of Belfast, exploring its vibrant history and culture before heading to the coast.
Causeway Coastal Route: Walk one of the most stunning stretches of coastline in Europe, including iconic sites like the Giant’s Causeway, Ballintoy Harbour, and White Park Bay.
Glenariff Forest Park: Marvel at the “Queen of the Glens,” with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Irish coast.
Fairhead and Murlough Bay: Discover a remote and breathtaking section of the Causeway Coast, with views of Scotland and untouched natural beauty.
Rathlin Island: Ferry to this charming island, home to a small community and one of Western Europe’s largest seabird colonies, with seals lounging along the coast.
Historic Castles and Whiskey: Visit the 15th-century ruins of Dunluce Castle and enjoy a taste of history at the world’s oldest licensed distillery in Bushmills.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: Test your nerves as you cross this iconic rope bridge suspended high above the ocean.
Authentic Irish Experience: Stay in charming local hotels, savor hearty Irish breakfasts, and enjoy evenings of traditional music and warm hospitality.
Scenic and Rewarding Walks: Six unforgettable days of guided and self-guided hikes through diverse landscapes, from inland cliffs to coastal trails.
This tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, with memories to last a lifetime.
Overview
Begin your Irish adventure with a warm welcome in Belfast’s historic Queen’s Quarter before venturing along the iconic Causeway Coast. Hike through the Antrim Hills, marvel at waterfalls in Glenariff Forest Park, and explore remote bays with views of Scotland and Rathlin Island. Along the way, experience iconic sites like the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and Dunluce Castle, while enjoying local culture, delicious food, and charming accommodations. With self-guided hikes supported by a knowledgeable host, this nine-day journey promises an unforgettable exploration of one of Ireland’s most captivating regions.
Itinerary
Day One: Arrival in Belfast
August 14 – Stay at Malone Hotel
Arrive at the Malone Hotel in Belfast’s charming Queen’s Quarter by mid-afternoon. Explore this historic red-brick neighborhood near Queen’s University and the Botanic Gardens.
Evening: Enjoy a group dinner at the hotel to kick off your adventure.
Day Two: Explore Belfast and Transfer to Ballymena
August 15 – Stay at Adair Arms Hotel
Spend the morning exploring Belfast’s vibrant atmosphere before a private group transfer to Ballymena, the gateway to the Causeway Coast and Glens. Immerse yourself in the character of this bustling market town.
Day Three: Glenarm Walk
August 16 – Stay at Adair Arms Hotel
Begin your hike at the trailhead above Ballygally, descending into the picturesque fishing village of Glenarm, home to a historic castle still in use. Enjoy peaceful trails away from the crowds.
- Distance: 9 miles
- Terrain: Undulating grass paths with stiles and some boggy sections (hiking boots recommended).
Return to Ballymena for the night.
Day Four: Glenariff Forest Park
August 17 – Stay at Marine Hotel
Walk through the breathtaking Glenariff Forest Park, known as the “Queen of the Glens,” and follow a Victorian walkway to stunning waterfalls.
- Distance: 8 miles
- Terrain: Forest trails with steep inclines and panoramic coastal views.
Transfer to Ballycastle and check into the Marine Hotel, with views of the Scottish coast and majestic Fairhead.
Day Five: Fairhead and Murlough Bay
August 18 – Stay at Marine Hotel
Hike the remote and dramatic Fairhead and Murlough Bay area, known for its solitude and unparalleled beauty. Enjoy views of Scotland and Rathlin Island.
- Distance: 8 miles
- Terrain: Gravel and tarmac paths with one steep climb and a fence crossing.
Experience the raw beauty of this unspoiled coastal region.
Day Six: Rathlin Island
August 19 – Stay at Marine Hotel
Take an early ferry to Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland’s only permanently inhabited island. Explore its rich birdlife and enjoy peaceful walks.
- Distance: 6 miles (gentle walking day).
- Highlights: Bird sanctuary with 150,000 seabirds, harbor village, and seals at Rue Point.
Return to Ballycastle for the evening, with a chance to enjoy traditional Irish music.
Day Seven: Carrick-a-Rede and the Giant’s Causeway
August 20 – Stay at Portrush Atlantic Hotel
Embark on the tour’s most iconic hike, from Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway.
- Distance: 13 miles (optional 5 miles by bus).
- Highlights: Ballintoy Harbour, White Park Bay, Dunseverick Castle, and dramatic cliffside views.
Stay in Portrush for the night.
Day Eight: Portstewart to Bushmills
August 21 – Stay at Portrush Atlantic Hotel
Begin your final hike in Portstewart and follow the coastal route to Dunluce Castle and Bushmills.
- Distance: Moderate walking with stunning beaches, castle ruins, and coastal vistas.
- Highlights: East Strand, Royal Portrush Golf Course, and the world’s oldest licensed distillery in Bushmills.
Return to Portrush for a celebratory final evening.
Day Nine: Return to Belfast
August 22
Enjoy a private group transfer back to Belfast, marking the end of your unforgettable tour.
Accommodations and Meals:
- Hotels: Malone Hotel (1 night), Adair Arms Hotel (2 nights), Marine Hotel (3 nights), Portrush Atlantic Hotel (2 nights).
- Meals: Breakfast daily, 4 packed lunches, and 4 group dinners.
Guided Walks: Enjoy self-guided hikes with host support and GPS guidance for six unforgettable walking days.
Price Includes
- Accommodations:
- 1 night at the Malone Hotel, Belfast.
- 2 nights at the Adair Arms Hotel, Ballymena.
- 3 nights at the Marine Hotel, Ballycastle.
- 2 nights at the Portrush Atlantic Hotel, Portrush.
- All rooms include bed and breakfast.
- Guided and Self-Guided Hikes:
- Six days of stunning hikes, supported by your tour host and GPS guidance:
- Antrim Hills.
- Glenariff Forest Park.
- Fairhead and Murlough Bay.
- Rathlin Island.
- Causeway Coast Way (2 days).
- Six days of stunning hikes, supported by your tour host and GPS guidance:
- Transportation:
- All trail transfers where public transport is unavailable.
- Activities and Tickets:
- Entry to tour attractions, including rope bridge crossings, ferry rides, and more.
- Meals:
- All breakfasts.
- 4 packed lunches for hiking days.
- 4 dinners (on the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and final night).
- Tour Host:
- Accompanied by a knowledgeable and friendly host throughout your journey.
Price Excludes
Meals not specified in the itinerary. Public transport fares for local buses on two days. Tips and gratuities. Alcoholic beverages. Flights to and from the tour location. Travel insurance (required for participation).
Tour Insurance
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Extensions
Belfast Post-Trip Add-On
- Duration: 3 nights of additional lodging in Belfast.
- Highlights:
- A full-day visit to the world-famous Titanic Museum.
- A free day to explore Belfast’s vibrant cityscapes, historic sites, and cultural attractions at your own pace.
- What is the physical activity level of this tour?
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Physical Activity Level