A Journey Along The Wild Atlantic Way & Northern Coast – 8 Days
Waves & Wonders
This journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland combines stunning landscapes with meaningful cultural and historical experiences. From Dublin’s iconic landmarks and vibrant traditions to the dramatic scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way along the west coast, the tour highlights Ireland’s heritage, language, and identity.
Traveling through Donegal, Derry/Londonderry, and Belfast, participants gain insight into the island’s complex history and Peace Process through guided tours and local engagement. Blending history, dialogue, and authentic hospitality, this program offers a thoughtful introduction to Ireland’s past and present.
What's Included
- Transport
- Dedicated Coach & Experienced Driver
- Experienced & Professional Tour Manger
- 2 nights in Galway
- 1 night in Westport
- 1 night in Derry/ Londonderry
- 1 night in Belfast
- 2 nights in Dublin
- Listed Activities & Attractions
What's Not Included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Tips
Day 1 – Welcome to Ireland
Arrive in Galway, a city where creativity, history, and coastal energy come together. After time to settle in, begin easing into Irish life with a visit to Micil Distillery, where you will enjoy a guided distillery tour and tasting. Here, generations of tradition are brought to life through stories of poitín-making and carefully crafted spirits rooted in the Connemara landscape.
In the afternoon, take time to explore Galway at leisure, wandering through the Latin Quarter where narrow cobbled streets are filled with music, colour, and local character. Pause at the Spanish Arch, a reminder of Galway’s trading past, and continue toward Eyre Square, a lively gathering place at the heart of the city. Along the way, browse independent shops, street markets, and historic buildings that reflect Galway’s layered past.
As evening falls, step into one of the city’s welcoming pubs to experience traditional Irish music, where live sessions create a warm, informal atmosphere and offer a true sense of connection to local culture.
Overnight: Galway
Day 2 – Cliffs Stone and Sea
This morning, set out along the western coastline on a Wild Atlantic Way coastal drive, where the scenery unfolds in wide ocean views and shifting light. As you travel south, the landscape transitions into the unique terrain of The Burren, a region of limestone formations, rare plant life, and ancient archaeological sites that tell stories stretching back thousands of years.
Continue onward to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. Here you can walk along the cliff paths, taking in the scale and drama of the Atlantic crashing below, or choose to take a boat cruise beneath the cliffs for a striking perspective from the water. The views extend far beyond the horizon, often revealing the distant Aran Islands on a clear day.
Pause in Doolin, known for its strong musical heritage and relaxed charm. After time to explore and unwind, return to Galway where the evening is free to revisit favourite spots or simply enjoy the rhythm of the city.
Overnight: Galway
Day 3 – Connemara to Westport Stories of Land and Tradition
Leaving Galway behind, travel into Connemara, a region defined by its raw beauty and sense of space. The journey itself is part of the experience, with winding roads passing through mountains, lakes, and stretches of open countryside that feel untouched and timeless.
Arrive at Kylemore Abbey, where you will explore the Victorian castle and walled gardens, set against a tranquil lakeside backdrop. The stories here are deeply personal, adding emotional depth to the striking setting, while the restored gardens provide a quiet contrast to the wild surroundings.
Continue to Glen Keen Farm to experience a traditional sheep farm visit, where a sheepdog demonstration showcases the skill, precision, and heritage of rural Irish life. This hands-on encounter offers insight into traditions that remain central to the west of Ireland.
Arrive in Westport in the late afternoon, a town known for its charm and character. Spend the evening to dine locally and explore, enjoying its colourful streets, welcoming atmosphere, and strong sense of community.
Overnight: Westport
Day 4 – 8
North Coast
Day 4 – Donegal to Derry
This morning, journey north into Donegal, where the landscape becomes more rugged and the connection to Irish tradition feels even stronger. The route passes through remote countryside shaped by wind, sea, and centuries of history.
Stop to enjoy lunch in Donegal Town, where you may take time to explore around Donegal Castle or browse local shops known for traditional crafts and textiles.
Continue onward to Derry, a city defined by its history and resilience. Spend the afternoon at leisure, with opportunities to walk the historic city walls, offering a unique perspective over the city, or visit the Museum of Free Derry, which provides powerful insight into more recent history. A visit to the Guildhall adds another layer through its architecture and civic significance.
In the evening, take time to dine locally and experience the city’s atmosphere, where culture, history, and modern life intersect.
Overnight: Derry/ Londonderry
Day 5 – Causeway Coast Giants and Castles
Today follows the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, a journey filled with dramatic coastal scenery at every turn.
Stop at Dunluce Castle to explore the cliffside ruins, perched high above the Atlantic and rich in legend and history. The location alone offers striking views and a sense of the past shaped by both power and nature.
Continue to the Giant’s Causeway, where you can walk among the basalt columns that form this remarkable natural feature. Whether viewed through the lens of geology or mythology, the experience is both visually and culturally compelling.
As the journey continues, enjoy a scenic coastal drive, passing through places like Ballintoy, where the rugged coastline and small harbour create memorable views.
Arrive in Belfast and spend the evening to discover the city’s dining and nightlife scene, reflecting its vibrant and evolving identity.
Overnight: Belfast
Day 6 – Belfast City Discovery
Begin your morning to explore Belfast at leisure, taking in the character of the city as it comes to life. Stroll through its streets and pass landmarks such as Belfast City Hall, an impressive symbol of the city’s heritage, or wander through local areas where historic architecture sits alongside vibrant street art.
Continue to Titanic Belfast, where you will explore the interactive museum experience located on the site where the Titanic was built. Through immersive exhibits, the story of the ship and the city’s shipbuilding legacy is brought vividly to life.
Afterward, visit the Titanic Distillery for a guided tour and tasting, set within the historic docklands and reflecting Belfast’s ongoing revival through craft and innovation.
Cathedral Quarter, known for its cobbled streets, creative energy, and lively cultural scene. This area offers a mix of traditional pubs, modern spaces, and local character.
Travel onward to Dublin, a city where centuries of history sit comfortably alongside a lively, modern spirit.
Overnight: Dublin
Day 7 – Dublin City
Travel onward to Dublin, a city where centuries of history sit comfortably alongside a lively, modern spirit.
Begin with a guided walking tour of the city, exploring its historic core and the stories woven through its streets. Visit Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest buildings, River Liffey and Trinity College.
Continue to the Guinness Storehouse, where you will tour the brewery experience and enjoy a pint with panoramic views from the Gravity Bar, offering a sweeping perspective across Dublin’s rooftops.
In the evening, take time to explore the Temple Bar area, where cobbled streets, live music, and a lively atmosphere create a memorable final night, bringing together the spirit, culture, and energy of the capital.
Overnight: Dublin
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, depart Ireland, taking with you a journey that has moved seamlessly from coast to city, from history to modern life, and from landscape to lived experience.