North of Ireland Escape

North of Ireland Escape

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7 Days From

$1188

North of Ireland Escape

7 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland

Visiting: Dublin, Galway, Donegal, Belfast

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

KANX-2024

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1188

NB: Prices correct on 03-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "North of Ireland Escape" and immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Begin your journey in Dublin, exploring iconic sites like St. Patrick's Cathedral and Trinity College. Experience the charm of Galway, the elegance of Westport, and the historic town of Donegal. Walk the ancient walls of Derry and marvel at the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway. In Belfast, delve into the Titanic Experience museum and enjoy free time to explore. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the medieval village of Carlingford before returning to Dublin. This tour promises a blend of cultural insights, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Highlights

  • See O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College in Dublin.

  • Visit the town of Athlone on the River Shannon.

  • Try scone baking and learn about sheep herding at Rathbaun Farm.

  • Explore the elegant holiday resort of Westport on Ireland’s west coast.

  • Walk on the ancient city walls of Derry with a local guide.

  • See the Giant’s Causeway with its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns.

  • Visit the Titanic Experience museum in Belfast.

  • Stop in the charming village of Carlingford on the Cooley Peninsula.

Places You'll See

The Address Connolly

Galmont Hotel And Spa

Clanree

Europa

Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Dublin,Ireland

Location: Dublin

Accommodation Name: The Address Connolly

Meals Included: Dinner

ARRIVE IN DUBLIN, IRELAND Céad mile fáilte—a hundred-thousand welcomes! At 3pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for an afternoon orientation drive to see O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. (D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS “In Dublin’s fair city where girls are so pretty” you’ll also find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and the bounty of pubs here is matched only by the gorgeous Georgian Squares, 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and legendary library of Trinity College.

Day 2: Dublin,Athlone,Rathbaun Farm,Galway

Location: Galway

Accommodation Name: Galmont Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

DUBLIN–ATHLONE–RATHBAUN FARM–GALWAY Shannon's Shores & Farmer's Chores ATHLONE Visit the town on the River Shannon.RATHBAUN [LF] Try your hand at scone baking, learn about sheep herding, and enjoy coffee and your scones at an Irish farm. (B) 130 mi / 210 kmLOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Someone’s in the kitchen in Rathbaun Farm, just outside of Galway. You can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. Learn about the long-time tradition of sheep farming in this beautiful Irish landscape.

Day 3: Galway,Westport,Donegal,Letterkenny

Location: Donegal

Accommodation Name: Clanree

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

GALWAY–WESTPORT–DONEGAL–LETTERKENNY West Is Best WESTPORT Visit the elegant holiday resort on Ireland’s west coast.DONEGAL Visit the Vikings’ town. (B,D) 181 mi / 292 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT The long Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland stretching to Donegal's Inishowen peninsula encapsulates some of the most dramatic landscapes and charming towns such as Westport, with its Georgian town center and tree-lined promenade, and “The Cathedral Town” of Donegal.

Day 4: Letterkenny,Derry,Northern Ireland,Giant’S Causeway,Belfast

Location: Belfast

Accommodation Name: Europa

Meals Included: Breakfast

LETTERKENNY–DERRY, NORTHERN IRELAND–GIANT’S CAUSEWAY–BELFAST Ancient Walls & Giant Steps DERRY Walk on the city walls with a Local Guide. GIANT’S CAUSEWAY See more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed millions of years ago. (B) 124 mi / 200 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDS & LORE Follow in the legendary footsteps of giants at the foot of the cliffs along the coast of Northern Ireland, where 40,000 massive black basalt columns jut out of the sea. Hear the legendary myth of two battling giants that caused the magnificent geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway, which actually evolved through volcanic activity 50–60 million years ago.

Day 5: Belfast

Location: Belfast

Accommodation Name: Europa

Meals Included: Breakfast

BELFAST A Grand Ship & Great Sights BELFAST Orientation drive. Visit Titanic Experience museum. Free time this afternoon. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOT Explore the fascinating Titanic Belfast Experience for an in-depth look at the history and mystery of the legendary ocean liner. See artifacts and amazing accounts of Belfast’s boom in shipping and those who built her. Learn about the courage and loss of all involved on a fateful night in April 1912. Get an immersive look at the launch, sinking, and final resting place of the doomed ship, with myths and reality revealed.

Day 6: Belfast,Carlingford,Ireland,Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre

Meals Included: Breakfast

BELFAST–CARLINGFORD, IRELAND–DUBLIN Seaside Charm CARLINGFORD Stop in the charming village on the Cooley Peninsula.DUBLIN Free time in the evening. (B) 105 mi / 169 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT BEAUTY SPOT Carlingford is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Ireland, known for its oyster farms, quaint buildings and the 12th-century King John’s Castle overlooking the harbor. Explore this magical place, full of character, and walk through the narrow lanes and small streets including Tholsel Street, where the remains of the medieval walled town's gates can still be seen.

Day 7: Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.DUBLIN Safe Travels Until We Meet Again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at The Address Connolly in Dublin, Galmont Hotel and Spa in Galway, Clanree in Letterkenny, Europa in Belfast, and Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre in Dublin.

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast and select dinners are included.

  • Tour Director and Local Guides

    Guided tours and orientation drives with expert Tour Director and Local Guides.

  • Sightseeing

    Visits to key locations including Dublin, Athlone, Rathbaun Farm, Galway, Westport, Donegal, Letterkenny, Derry, Giant’s Causeway, Belfast, and Carlingford.

  • Titanic Experience Museum

    Entrance to the Titanic Experience museum in Belfast.

  • Small-Group Discoveries

    Option for Small-Group Discoveries with an average of just 24 guests per departure.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for the Tour Director, driver, and local guides are not included.

Small Group

Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.

UNESCO Sites

Giant?s Causeway and Causeway Coast

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at The Address Connolly in Dublin, Galmont Hotel and Spa in Galway, Clanree in Letterkenny, Europa in Belfast, and Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre.

Meals

6 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities can I expect on the second day of the tour?

    On the second day, you will visit Athlone, try your hand at scone baking, learn about sheep herding, and enjoy coffee and your scones at Rathbaun Farm.

  • What will I see during the orientation drive in Dublin on the first day?

    During the orientation drive in Dublin, you will see O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College.

  • What unique experience is offered at Rathbaun Farm?

    At Rathbaun Farm, you can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. You will also learn about the long-time tradition of sheep farming.

  • What are some highlights of the visit to Belfast?

    In Belfast, you will have an orientation drive and visit the Titanic Experience museum. You will also have free time in the afternoon.

  • What can I expect to see at the Giant’s Causeway?

    At the Giant’s Causeway, you will see more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed millions of years ago. You will also hear the legendary myth of two battling giants that caused this magnificent geological wonder.

  • What is special about the town of Carlingford?

    Carlingford is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Ireland, known for its oyster farms, quaint buildings, and the 12th-century King John’s Castle overlooking the harbor. You can explore its narrow lanes and small streets, including Tholsel Street, where the remains of the medieval walled town's gates can still be seen.

  • What is included in the Small-Group Discoveries offered by Globus?

    A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. It includes all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with an expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides. The focus is on ensuring your health and safety while providing extra space between travelers.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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