Overview
The mystical landscapes that inspired W. B. Yeats—the wild beaches of Donegal, the ancient pilgrim paths of Gleann Cholm Cille, the spectacular cliffs of Slieve League and the intriguing Giant's Causeway—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
Itinerary at a Glance
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 spectacular limestone plateau of Knocknarea, the mountain that dominates West Sligo and holds the huge rocky cairn of Queen Maeve’s grave, and the dramatic table mountain of Benbulben, home to many Irish legends (we'll hear a few!).
Days 3-5
Carrowmore / Donegal Bay / Slieve League
We take a gentle ramble through the incredible archaeological landscape of Carrowmore, a region of green pastures that holds the largest complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age stone circles and dolmens in all of Ireland. We'll hike a section of wild beaches in Donegal Bay, and along the sea cliffes of Slieve League, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. In the hallowed glen of Gleann Cholm Cille, we walk mystical Christian pilgrim trails past ancient standing stones.
Days 6-10
Dunfanaghy / Magheroarty / Giant’s Causeway / Belfast
Following the coast into the far northwest corner of the island, we hike to the spectacular quartzite peaks of Errigal or Muckish, or choose a new trail along the old Burtonport railway line. The shifting pink sands of the peninsula of Magheroarty are the site of our hike and picnic lunch on Day 7, and on Day 8 a spectacular coastal trail brings us to the Giant's Causeway, an otherworldly World Heritage Site. We explore the pubs and cafes of lively Belfast and enjoy a fascinating visit to the Titanic Belfast museum. Depart on Day 10.
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)
