Discover Northern Ireland 2025

Leaving Bangor in the morning, you head north, following the winding and magnificent Causeway Coastal Route. A truly sensational experience, the journey encapsulates the sweeping valleys and eternal beauty of The Emerald Isle. Along the way you make a quick stop at Carrickfergus Castle for a comfort break and a few photos.

Next, it’s time to visit Glenarm Castle, one of Northern Ireland’s oldest estates, has stood resilient through centuries of history. Its origins date to the 17th century as a family home for the Earls of Antrim and it has withstood long periods of conflict and change. Today, the castle is beautifully preserved and open to visitors with its elegant architecture and meticulously maintained walled garden. Glenarm Castle seamlessly blends its storied past with a welcoming, modern-day experience. Although it may be difficult to leave such an incredible place behind, we have so much more to see, so we head back out on the incredible Torr Road to our lunch spot of Ballycastle.

You arrive in Ballycastle, a charming seaside town voted the best place to live in Northern Ireland, and enjoy some lunch at its bustling cafes or pubs. Afterward, we continue with a stop at the Carrick-a-Rede viewpoint, offering a stunning aspect of the famous rope bridge. From here you take in the view of the infamous rope bridge and then head off to The Giants Causeway. Made up of around 40,000 hexagonal stepping stones formed during a volcanic eruption nearly 60 million years ago. Or is that what they want us to think? There is also a legend about the Causeway being once a bridge linking Ireland to the Isle of Staffa in Scotland … But that’s another story.

Before you return to Bangor for your second night there is time still for a few more sights. You might recognise our next stop from the TV series Game of Thrones but if you were not tuned in to the show not to worry, Dunluce Castle will have you awestruck. This now ruined medieval castle was once seat to the Clan MacDonnell and in modern times as the filming location for Pyke Castle of House Greyjoy. Finally we head for natural beauty spot Dark Hedges where an avenue of beech trees entwined has you feeling like you are stepping into a fairytale. It’s been a brilliant day but now you are ready to get back to Bangor and enjoy another night of relaxation, food and rest.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Bangor. (B)

Beginning a new day of sights and adventures, you leave Bangor and set out along the Ards Peninsula. At Portaferry, we set off on the picturesque ferry across the “Narrows” of Strangford Lough, where you have ample time for photos, whilst taking in the sights, sounds and scents of the lough.

After disembarking the ferry, you’ll visit the striking Castle Ward, known for its unique blend of classic and gothic architectural styles—a compromise between its lord and lady. Modern audiences may recognize it as Winterfell from Game of Thrones. Explore the iconic filming location while also learning about 18th-century life for its real residents.

Down Cathedral rises on the historic grounds of a Benedictine Monastery established in 1183. Within its serene graveyard is the final resting place of Saint Patrick, adding a profound spiritual significance to the site. If you take the chance to step inside, you’ll marvel at its stunning stained glass windows, the character of its box pews, and the intricate craftsmanship of its organ case. This remarkable cathedral blends history, faith, and artistry in an atmosphere that invites quiet reflection and curiosity about its past. You’ll head back on the road with plenty of time to ponder the places you have seen so far as you take the scenic route to your next destination.

Looking for more? There is still one stop left on your 3 day adventure and that is beauty spot, Rostrevor village. Although your visit is fleeting you’ll have time to take in its charm and maybe even venture to the Fairy Glen. Grab some refreshments and a comfort break if needed before the next leg of your return to Dublin. It’s a stunning, winding drive into the Mourne Mountains, where you’ll stand in awe amongst the towering granite peaks. From here we have a final stop at the shores of Carlingford Lough, before arriving in Dublin in the evening, with stories to share and a new understanding of this complex and inspiring country. (B)