Ireland’s North Atlantic Coast 5-Day Tour from Dublin

Discover the Charm of Ireland’s North Atlantic Coast on a 5-Day Tour from Dublin

This 5-day tour from Dublin by Rabbie’s offers an engaging journey through Northern Ireland and Ireland’s Atlantic coastline. Priced at $1,182 per person, it provides a well-rounded experience that highlights iconic sights like the Giant’s Causeway and Achill Island, along with immersions into Gaelic culture and local history. With small groups limited to 16 participants, the tour ensures a more personalized and intimate exploration of this stunning region.

The itinerary balances scenic drives, cultural visits, and time for exploring key destinations. The tour is particularly praised for its knowledgeable guide, Gabriel, whose storytelling and local insights enhance every stop. While the tour includes accommodation in cozy B&Bs and guesthouses, travelers should be prepared for modest facilities and some walking to local venues. This tour best suits those interested in a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Ireland’s Atlantic coast over five days.

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Key Points

• Five-day guided tour exploring Ireland’s Atlantic coast and Northern Ireland highlights.
• Small group experience limited to 16 participants for a more personal journey.
• Highlights include the Giant’s Causeway, Achill Island, Donegal, and Connemara.
• Includes 4 nights B&B accommodation in locally owned guesthouses.
• Expert guide Gabriel provides engaging stories and local knowledge.
• Price is $1,182 per person, covering transportation and accommodation; meals and attraction fees are extra.

From Dublin to Belfast and the Antrim Coast

The tour begins in Dublin, where participants gather at a meeting point opposite the Kilkenny Shop on Nassau Street. From there, the journey heads north to Belfast, a city known for its industrial past and historic significance. The tour includes a short city tour covering Belfast’s major sights and the famous Titanic Quarter. Visitors can choose to explore the Titanic museum, visit the HMS Caroline, or take a black cab tour—each offering a glimpse into Belfast’s complex history.

After exploring Belfast, the route follows the scenic Antrim Coast and Glens, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape features dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys, and rugged coastlines. The day concludes at Portrush, a charming seaside village, where travelers spend the night in a cozy guesthouse. The combination of urban history and breathtaking scenery makes this first day a compelling start.

Visiting the Giant’s Causeway and Achill Island

The journey from Belfast takes travelers along winding roads to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its fascinating geological formations. The legend and geology collide here, with visitors able to marvel at the hexagonal basalt columns—a sight that sparks imagination and wonder alike. The tour allows ample time for photos and exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Later, the group continues westward to Achill Island, known for its rugged sea views and tranquil atmosphere. The island’s sea vistas and untouched landscape provide a perfect backdrop for appreciating Ireland’s wild Atlantic coastline. After a short drive, the group heads to Westport, where they settle in for two nights, offering a base for further exploration.

Exploring Derry, Donegal, and County Sligo

On Day 2, the tour visits the walled city of Derry, designated as a UK City of Culture in 2013. Visitors get free time to stroll through the old city center, explore museums, or visit galleries, gaining insight into Derry’s vibrant culture and history. Crossing the border into the Republic of Ireland, the group enters County Donegal, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and Gaelic traditions.

The route takes in Glenveagh National Park and the Errigal Mountains, offering scenic views and nature walks. The journey then follows the coast through traditional fishing villages, blending natural beauty with rich local culture. The evening finds the group settling into Donegal for the night, surrounded by unspoiled scenery.

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Westward to Sligo, Mayo, and Achill Island

Day 3 emphasizes the stunning vistas of County Sligo, home to Benbulben mountain, a prominent and iconic peak. Outside Sligo Town, the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery features the largest collection of ancient tombs in Ireland, some dating back over 6,000 years. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.

Continuing west, the group travels into County Mayo, an area shaped by historical hardships like the Great Potato Famine. The landscape features farmlands, bogs, and open moors, with occasional views of distant hills and the Atlantic Ocean. A highlight is a stop at Achill Island, where rugged sea views and peaceful coastal scenery await.

Connemara’s Natural Wonders and Kylemore Abbey

Day 4’s activities depend on the weather but may include a visit to Kylemore Abbey, famous for its stunning grounds and historical significance. Alternatively, travelers might explore Connemara National Park, renowned for its wilderness and mountain scenery. The Scenic Sky Road and 12 Bens of Connemara are also options, offering breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.

The afternoon provides leisure time in Westport, where visitors can enjoy local seafood in one of the town’s many restaurants. This relaxed evening allows for personal exploration or simply soaking up the charming atmosphere of this seaside town.

Visiting Cong and Galway before Returning to Dublin

Day 5 begins with a drive through the Maam Valley to the village of Cong, known for its connection to the film The Quiet Man. Visitors can explore Cong Abbey or the Quiet Man Museum before heading to Galway City, a lively town famous for its vibrant atmosphere and seafood.

The tour concludes with a visit to Kilbeggan Distillery, Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery, for a tasting and museum tour. The journey back to Dublin ends around 7:00 PM, completing an immersive and scenic five-day adventure along Ireland’s Atlantic coast.

Practical Details and Accommodation

The tour includes transportation in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes minicoach and is led by a professional driver/guide. Accommodation spans small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs, all with en suite rooms. Guests should expect 20-30 minute walks to local facilities and note that lifts are unavailable in these accommodations.

This small-group tour prioritizes personalized service with a maximum of 16 participants. Meals, refreshments, and visitor attraction fees are not included, giving travelers flexibility in dining and sightseeing choices.

Final Thoughts on the Ireland’s North Atlantic Coast 5-Day Tour

This five-day journey offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and historic locations. The inclusion of iconic sites like the Giant’s Causeway and Achill Island ensures memorable experiences, while the small-group setting fosters a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The expert guidance of Gabriel adds depth and context to every stop, making this tour a great choice for those who appreciate storytelling and local insights.

While some accommodations are modest and involve walking to local venues, the overall value lies in the comprehensive coverage of Ireland’s Atlantic coast and Northern Ireland’s highlights within a manageable five-day schedule. This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking an immersive, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Ireland’s wild coasts and historic towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price includes transportation by a luxury Mercedes minicoach, a driver/guide, and 4 nights B&B accommodation.

Are meals included?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, allowing flexibility for guests to try local restaurants and cafes along the way.

How many participants are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years due to the nature of the itinerary and accommodations.

What are the main highlights of Day 1?
Day 1 features a short Belfast city tour, exploration of the Titanic Quarter, and a visit to the Giant’s Causeway after enjoying scenic views of the Antrim Coast.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, Day 4 activities depend on the weather, and the guide will advise the best options for sightseeing.

What should I expect from the accommodations?
Guests stay in small local guesthouses and B&Bs with en suite rooms, often located on the outskirts of towns, requiring a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

When does the trip conclude?
The tour returns to Dublin around 7:00 PM on the final day, completing a rich and scenic five-day adventure.

This Ireland’s North Atlantic Coast 5-Day Tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally immersive experience for those eager to explore Ireland’s striking coastline and historic towns over an engaging five-day schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby