Hiking the Mountains of Mourne and the Causeway Coast

Meet your guide this morning at Belfast Airport and travel south by road to the Mountains of Mourne. The highest and most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland, these mountains and hills are criss-crossed by a network of paths and tracks that were once smuggler’s routes in the 18th century and its peaks are topped with dramatic granite tors. The Mournes are divided into two distinct sections, the Eastern or ‘High’ Mournes and the Western or ‘Low’ Mournes. Your afternoon walk starts near the coast and takes in some of the spectacular sea views as well as panoramic views across the central Mourne peaks. (L)
Hike details: 6 km/4 miles – approximately 3 hours

Accommodation in Newcastle: The Briers Country House (or similar)

Today you will explore the beautiful High Mournes and you and your guide will plan the day’s walk together. While many visitors converge to the highest point of this mountain range, your guide instead will share some of the less familiar areas and hidden gems of the Mournes. Expect quiet gentle slopes and picturesque valleys dotted with lakes all against a backdrop of jagged silhouettes. Your route will likely intersect with the Mourne Wall, a 22-mile dry-stone wall that traverses the whole mountain range. Completed in 1922 it took 18 years to build, it was originally built to keep cattle and sheep away from the Silent valley reservoir, but today the desolate Mourne Wall is as much an iconic part of the Mournes as the soaring granite peaks. (B/L)
Hike details: 11-16 kms/7-10 miles (depending on the route) – approximately 5-6 hours
Accommodation in Newcastle: The Briers Country House (or similar)

This morning head north with your driver-guide to Ballycastle and the Causeway Coast in North Antrim. This protected National Trust coastline offers outstanding natural beauty and stunning panoramic views. After picking up a packed lunch in Ballycastle, commence the first part of the Causeway Coast Way on a lesser-walked section of the trail where the landscape inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The trail is full of hidden gems isolated coves, ruined fortresses and crumbling fishing cottages. (B/L)
Hike details: 10 km/6.5 miles – approximately 3-4 hours
Accommodation near Bushmills: The Causeway Hotel (or similar)

This morning board the ferry from Ballycastle and enjoy the fresh sea air for 6 miles as you cross the Sea of Moyle to Rathlin Island. Steeped in history there are many tales surrounding Rathlin, the most famous tells of Robert the Bruce who in 1306 was driven from Scotland by Edward I. Whilst seeking refuge on Rathlin he watched a spider attempting to bridge a gap with its web. Taking heart from the spider’s efforts, he returned to Scotland and eventually regained his crown in 1314. On arrival in Rathlin enjoy a circular walk taking in the RSPB bird sanctuary, which is important for breeding seabirds, including seasonal puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills, and fulmars. You will also have time to enjoy the stunning coastal views, sea stacks and the picturesque west lighthouse. (B/L)
Hike Details: 8 km/5 miles – approximately 3 hours
Accommodation near Bushmills: The Causeway Hotel (or similar)

Start your day at the pretty harbour of Ballintoy as you explore a further section of the Causeway Coast Way. Walk across one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches and along dramatic cliffs where on a clear day you can enjoy breathtaking views of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. Your walk ends at the fascinating Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is steeped in myths and legends. Spend time at this wonderous landmark which features over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. Enjoy your final night on the Causeway Coast where you may wish to visit a local pub or restaurant to experience local and traditional Irish fare. (B/L)
Hike details: 15 km/9 miles – approximately 4 hours
Accommodation near Bushmills: The Causeway Hotel (or similar)

After a relaxing morning head back to Belfast with your driver/guide where you will stay for the next two nights. As the services of your driver /guide will end on your arrival in Belfast, you will have the next couple of days at leisure to explore this vibrant city. You may wish to spend the afternoon meandering through Belfast’s bustling streets visiting the various galleries and craft shops and stopping for a refreshment at a local pub. (B)
Accommodation in Belfast: Titanic Hotel (or similar)

Today is a self- guided day to get to know this fascinating city. Places of interest include the St George’s Market – the last surviving Victorian market in Belfast noted for its fresh produce, the Ulster Museum situated in the Botanic Gardens and the Titanic Experience, the world’s largest exhibit dedicated to RMS Titanic. Paddy Campbells Black Cab Tours is another great way to see the city – jump in a London-style black cab and visit the political murals that adorn the city walls whilst learning the of the history of the troubles in Belfast and Northern Island. (B)
Accommodation in Belfast: Titanic Hotel (or similar)