2026 Ireland Walking & Hiking: The Northern Coast - 9 Day/8 Nights
Day 1: Dublin
At 2:30 PM, depart from your hotel for a walking tour of Dublin, taking in sights such as the River Liffey, Georgian architecture, historic pubs, and hidden gems as your guide provides insight into the character of this city, known for its wit and humor. In the evening, enjoy a welcome drink with your group followed by dinner at a popular Dublin restaurant. Walk details: about 2 hours, 2 miles (4 km).
(D)
Day 2: Donegal & Devenish Island
Depart for County Donegal, stopping along the way in the picturesque town of Enniskillen for a traditional and hearty pub lunch. Embark on a scenic boat ride to explore Devenish Island, home to a monastic site dating back to the 6th century. Discover the rich history of the island, where 1,500 scholars once lived, as you wander among its church ruins, stone crosses, and round tower. Continue on to Donegal town for dinner at your hotel with your group. Walk details: about 1 hour 25 minutes, 2 miles (4 km).
(B, L, D)
Day 3: Slieve League & Glencolmcille
Marvel at the breathtaking Atlantic views as you stand atop the soaring Slieve League cliffs, the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Continue hiking through Glencolmcille, rich in lush greenery and ancient stone structures in unspoiled landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch outdoors before visiting the Glencolmcille Folk Village. This open-air museum offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural life with meticulously reconstructed cottages; learn about the customs, crafts, and daily life of the local people of the past. Your evening is free to dine independently in Donegal town. Walk details: about 3 hours, 6 miles (10 km).
(B, L)
Day 4: Glenveagh National Park
Hike through the breathtaking wilderness of Glenveagh National Park, with its rugged mountains, serene lakes, and dense woodlands. Enjoy a packed lunch along the trail. In the heart of the park, visit Glenveagh Castle, an opulent 19th-century mansion offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Ireland’s old ruling class. See the grand halls, beautifully furnished rooms and lush gardens before visiting the charming tearoom for a traditional snack of tea and scones with clotted cream and homemade jam. Dine at your hotel this evening. Walk details: about 2 hours 30 minutes, 5 miles (8 km).
(B, L, D)
Day 5: Horn Head
Embark on a scenic hike along Horn Head, a rugged peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean near Dunfanaghy. As you traverse the coastal paths, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of towering cliffs, sweeping sandy beaches, and the azure waters below. Keep an eye out for seabirds overhead and seals basking on the rocky shoreline. After your invigorating hike and packed lunch, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your own pace and dine independently in Dunfanaghy. Walk details: about 2 hours 30 minutes, 5 miles (8 km).
(B, L)
Day 6: Inishowen Peninsula & Derry City
Experience the stunning beauty of the Inishowen Peninsula today. Visit Grianán of Aileach, an ancient stone fort – a witness to history for centuries – offering hilltop vistas over the glistening waters of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. Continue along the peninsula, exploring Donegal’s sandy beaches and savoring fresh local seafood. Visit Derry for a fascinating walking tour along the historic Derry Walls, with sweeping views of the city and the scenic River Foyle. These well-preserved 17th-century fortifications offer a unique insight into the city’s rich heritage. Dine at your hotel this evening. Walk details: about 2 hours, 4 miles (6 km).
(B, L, D)
Day 7: Causeway Coast & Giant’s Causeway
Embark on a hike along the dramatic Causeway Coast Way, with soaring cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky coves. Explore the intriguing basalt pillars of the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hear the legends that surround these stone columns sweeping into the sea. End your adventure at Dunluce Castle, a medieval ruin perched high on the ocean cliffs and echoing with history. Its wild beauty and storied past capture the essence of the island’s natural and historical magnificence. Dine with your group at a local restaurant this evening. Walk details: about 3 hours, 6 miles (9 km).
(B, L, D)
Day 8: Carlingford & Dublin
Depart Antrim and head back to Dublin. Along the way, stop in the historic town of Carlingford, known for its fresh seafood, scenic views, and leprechaun folklore. Stroll through the charming town center, exploring the medieval streets lined with colorful shops and pubs, then have lunch in a local café. Continue on to Dublin and bid farewell to your guide. Your evening is free to dine and explore as you wish. Walk details: about 1 hour, 2 miles (3 km).
(B, L)
Day 9: Tour Ends in Dublin
Your tour ends after breakfast.
(B)
B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner
Authentic Local Experiences:
- Step back in time at Glencolmcille Folk Village, where reconstructed thatched cottages offer a glimpse into rural Irish life from centuries past, complete with authentic furnishings and tools.
- Step into a fairytale at Glenveagh Castle, a 19th-century gem set amid the tranquil beauty of Glenveagh National Park’s mountains, lakes, and woodlands.
Dining Experiences:
- 8 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L) and 5 dinners (D)
Trip Highlights:
- Causeway Coast Way
- Derry City Walking Tour
- Devenish Island
- Dunluce Castle
- Giant’s Causeway
- Glencolmcille Folk Village
- Glenveagh National Park & Castle
- Horn Head
- Inishowen Peninsula
- Slieve League Cliffs
Hotels:
- Camden Court Hotel or Iveagh Garden Hotel, Dublin (1)
- Mill Park Hotel, Donegal (2)
- Shandon Hotel or Arnolds Hotel, Dunfanaghy (2)
- Everglades Hotel, Derry or Causeway Hotel, Bushmills (2)
- Iveagh Garden Hotel, Dublin (1)