07:30 – Enjoy the comfort of private collection from the door of your hotel / residence this morning. Meet your experienced driver- guide for the day and begin your drive north from Dublin. We recommend starting early to maximise your time on tour.
Your journey continues north and towards the Antrim coast, through part of the scenic Glens of Antrim, a series of valleys that are well known for their beauty.
Once up on the North Antrim Coast we'll stop at the village of Ballintoy, home to Ireland's most iconic rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede. Traditionally used by local fishermen to check their salmon nets in the waters 30 meters below, the rope bridge connects the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede island. Crossing the bridge requires a head for heights and isn't for everyone, but the location is beautiful nonetheless and makes for great photography. You’ll be rewarded with views of Rathlin and Scotland across the bay when the weather is clear. The UK Charity “National Trust” maintains the bridge and you can cross for a small donation, knowing that your visit is helping to preserve this treasure for future generations.
Following lunch, you'll have plenty of time to explore today's highlight, (UNESCO) Giant's Causeway (at least one hour and thirty minutes). Formed of 40,000+ columns of hexagonal basalt rock – the Causeway really will take your breath away. We learn from legend that the site was constructed by Irish mythological hero Finn McCool as a location for battle with a Scottish giant – however, more scientifically minded guests may prefer learning about how volcanic activity some 60 million years ago is to thank for creating the site. Make time to check out the "Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre". Recently updated, the center offers historic exhibits and a beautiful gift shop.
One last sight this afternoon is the nearby ruins of Dunluce Castle, ancestral home of the McDonnell clan and one of Northern Ireland’s most romantic locations. Hear the tale of how part of the castle collapsed from the cliff- face in the 17th century and is now haunted by staff who were killed in the tragedy. Some photos here round off the afternoon nicely before we turn around and head back towards Belfast.
Those of you who have planned with the driver for a one hour stop in Belfast this afternoon (instead of this morning) might wish to check out some of the downtown sights at leisure. You'll get a flavour of Belfast’s Imperial Victorian architecture with highlights such as City Hall, Albert Clock and nearby shopping district. Alternatively, perhaps pop in to the Crown Liquor Saloon for a swift pint of Harp lager or dram of Bushmills “Black Label” Whiskey in what has to be one of Europe's most remarkable pubs.
NB: Belfast is only really featured as it is the most efficient way into / out of the region when based in Dublin. The stop there is essentially for refreshments and is not suitable for exploring. For those interested in more in-depth exploration we also offer a private one day tour of Belfast.
18:00 / 18:30 – Depart Belfast for a comfortable 2 hour drive back to Dublin city in your private tour vehicle, arriving back to the location of your choice at approx. 20:30.
In order to guarantee guest access to these locations, we will secure your tickets at the time of booking. To maximise your experience we strongly recommend departing Dublin @ 07:30, arriving at the rope bridge @ 11:30 and the Giant’s Causeway @ 14:00. Please note that time slots for these attractions are not transferable or refundable once booked.
Naturally, fixing these times has a knock on effect on the tour start time, the finish time and other timings in between. These hours are our recommendation to you based upon decades of experience. Please don’t hesitate to raise any concerns you may have before making a booking.
Private Tours typically range from EUR 495.00 – EUR 795.00+ per vehicle per day including a driver- guide (& his overnight expenses), fuel, road tolls and associated taxes. Guest accommodation & entrance fees are not included in the above guideline to facilitate guest flexibility.
Tours are priced individually according to the route, group size, distances & hours required, date(s) in question, start & end locations, overnight locations (where applicable) and remaining supply at time of booking.