Overview
The mystical landscapes that inspired W. B. Yeats—the wild beaches of Donegal, the ancient pilgrim paths of Gleann Cholm Cille, the soft Mountains of Mourne sweeping to the sea in County Down—these are the stunning landscapes that fill our adventure in Ireland’s stunning north. Trip Leaders Con Moriarty and Ann Curran have conjured up a journey to delight both body and soul in this dramatic and delightfully less traveled part of Ireland, bringing us across the north of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our adventure includes exhilarating hiking with two levels offered many days, as well as welcoming and historic hotels, wonderful meals (Ireland’s new food scene is renowned, with tremendous farm to table cuisine), music, poetry, and a fascinating look into prehistoric and pagan Ireland. Highlights include walking the wild beaches of Donegal, hearing the best of local musicians, hiking clifftop trails to the spectacular Giant’s Causeway, and meeting a host of Con and Ann’s friends, including a Yeats scholar and an expert on Celtic myths. Along the way, we’ll tailor each day for serendipity and the special opportunities that arise—this is what makes a journey with Con and Ann so unforgettable. Join us!
Absolutely loved it—the guides and itinerary were fantastic. And the personal connections that Con has with fascinating people along the way really enriched the experience.
— Diane S., Greenville, SC
Days 1-2
Dublin / County Sligo / Yeats Country
In enchanting County Sligo, renowned for its traditional music and the landscapes that inspired some of Yeats’ finest poetry, we explore the Bricklieve Mountains and the dramatic table mountain of Benbulben, home to many Irish legend (we'll hear a few!).
Dublin / County Sligo / Yeats Country - Days 1-2
Coopershill House
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Riverside, IrelandBuilt in the late 1700s, this Georgian manor is set amid 500 acres of private pastures, green meadows, and shaded woodlands. The home has been in the same family for centuries, currently occupied by the 7th generation of O’Hara’s. The hotel is decorated with its original antique furniture, and guests are welcomed with open fires and views of the rolling Sligo countryside. Electric blankets, cozy duvets, and fluffy towels warm the rooms, while the gardens are filled with fruit trees and local vegetables. The friendly, local staff is delighted to share insights about nearby activities and the history of the area.
Days 3-5
Knocknarea / Donegal / Slieve League
We hike up Knocknarea, the mountain that dominates West Sligo and holds the huge rocky cairn of Queen Maeve’s grave, and along Slieve League, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for magnificent views over Donegal Bay. In the hallowed glen of Gleann Cholm Cille, we walk mystical Christian pilgrim trails past ancient standing stones.
Knocknarea / Donegal / Slieve League - Days 3-5
Woodhill House
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Ardara, IrelandWoodhill House is a modest period home dating back to the 15th century. Situated in the Donegal Highlands close enough to the Atlantic to hear waves crashing, the house is nestled in a lovely walled garden and has simple, pleasant rooms, each with its own design. An intimate bar and spacious dining room complement the quiet surroundings.
Arnolds Hotel
Day 5 (1 night), Dunfanaghy, IrelandOwned and operated by the fourth generation of a local family, Arnolds Hotel is a simple but comfortable rural hotel in the scenic village of Dunfanaghy. The hotel is set on Sheephaven Bay just across from the village green with the long sandy beach of Killahoey Strand right across the road. The restaurant at Arnolds serves local vegetables and seafood, and the Whisky Fly Bar features live enternainment several times a week.
Days 6-10
Giant’s Causeway / Belfast / Mountains of Mourn
A spectacular coastal trail brings us to the Giant's Causeway, an otherworldly World Heritage Site, and we explore the pubs and cafes of lively Belfast. At historic Downpatrick, we visit the powerful St. Patrick Centre to learn of the life and times of this man who influenced Ireland, and our final hikes are in the mountains of Mourne, the shapely granite peaks that rise above the Irish Sea. Depart on Day 10.
Giant’s Causeway / Belfast / Mountains of Mourn - Days 6-10
Europa Belfast
Days 6 to 7 (2 nights), Belfast, IrelandThe 4-star Europa Hotel is a legendary landmark built on the site of the Great Northern Railway Station. Featuring 272 rooms, the hotel is situated in the center of Belfast next to the Grand Opera House with excellent views of Great Victoria Street. Guests can enjoy an afternoon tea or a glass of wine in the elegant bistro, the bustling bar, or the piano lounge. Rooms come in a range of styles and decor, each providing a comfortable, quiet retreat from the city center.
Slieve Donard
Days 8 to 9 (2 nights), Newcastle, IrelandOriginally built by the Belfast and County Down Railway as an "end of line" holiday destination, the Slieve Donard is a picturesque Victorian hotel at the foot of the Mountains of Mourne. It sits on six acres with stunning views of the coastline — a golden beach on one side and the Royal County Down golf links on the other. Typical of hotels from its era, it was designed with a Drawing Room, Grand Coffee Room, Reading and Writing Room, Smoking Room, Billiard Room and Hairdressing Rooms. Modern amenities include a full spa, health club, and heated pool.
A Northern Arc Across Ireland
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Choice of moderate of strenuous hikes, 2-6 hours a day, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day’s hike)
