Description
Windswept with mountain passes, labyrinthine coastlines and picturesque towns, we explore the unspoilt highlights of County Donegal in the stunning north west of Ireland on this delightful break. We take in some of the breathtaking coastal scenery from different perspectives, including a cruise around Donegal Bay and a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, which struts proudly as the world's longest defined coastal route. We also admire the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the incredible Slieve League Cliffs, soak up the magic of charming Bundoran and discover the history of the area with a fascinating visit to the Glencolmcille Folk Village.
Itinerary
What's Included
Includes- Return coach travel & ferry crossings- 2 nights at a selected hotel in the Dublin area (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast*- 3 nights at the Central Hotel or Abbey Hotel, Donegal (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast- Excursions to Glencolmcille Folk Village, Slieve League Cliffs, Killybegs, Bundoran & Dublin- Cruise on Donegal Bay- Escorted by a tour manager in IrelandOptional locally guided city tour of Dublin (£20pp)*Please note: due to our early departure, breakfast on the final morning will be taken on the ferry.
Itinerary
ItineraryDay 1We catch the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin where our tour manager joins us. We continue onwards to our overnight hotel in the Dublin area.Day 2 - Glencolmcille Folk Village & KillybegsWe start with a visit to Glencolmcille Folk Village. This living history 'museum' is a replica of a rural village offering a glimpse into life as it was for our ancestors. Next, we call at Killybegs, Ireland's largest fishing port with a scenic harbour and also famous for its tapestries and carpets.Later we check in to the Abbey Hotel or the Central Hotel in Donegal, our base for the next three nights.Day 3 - Donegal Waterbus Cruise & Slieve League CliffsWe head to Donegal where we start with a leisurely cruise on Donegal Bay. Here we can spot the seal colony on Seal Island and admire the beauty of the Bluestack Mountains. Complete with a full commentary about the history, environment and wildlife of the area, this is a lovely way to take in the stunning natural beauty of Donegal Bay.We then head to the Slieve League Cliffs, one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. We enjoy a guided minibus transfer to the Cliffs, rising almost 2,000 feet from the Atlantic, they are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe and offer outstanding panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay.Day 4 - BundoranToday we make our way to Bundoran, the most southerly town in County Donegal and a lovely seaside resort which has been delighting visitors for over two centuries. The Blue Flag beach is the perfect place to get some sea air, or why not enjoy some nostalgic entertainment at the traditional amusement arcades? There are plenty of cosy eateries on offer too, along with stunning coastal walks dotted with fairy bridges and a wishing chair.Day 5 - Dublin (with optional guided tour £20pp)Checking out of our hotel, we travel to Dublin where we spend an afternoon at leisure. There are plenty of historic sites, architectural splendours and iconic monuments to see from the oldest, Dublin Castle, to one of the newest, the Spire of Dublin. Or you may like to experience one of Dublin's traditional pubs - there are 1,000 lining the city's cobbled streets! We also have the option to join a locally guided tour of the city before spending the night in our hotel in the Dublin area.Day 6We check out of our hotel very early to catch the ferry back to Holyhead; therefore a voucher will be provided to enjoy breakfast on board. On arrival in Holyhead, we continue our journey home.Due to ferry times, coach pickup times may be very early in the morning.
Donegal
The breath-taking scenery of Donegal County cannot fail to seduce all who come on a coach holiday to explore this spectacular region.. With soaring sea cliffs, stunning landscapes, miles of deserted white sandy beaches and striking ancient sites, you won't be disappointed.
Venue Information
Hotel
Central Hotel, DonegalJG3 ratingThe Central Hotel (JG3 rating) is ideally located in the Diamond, the main square in Donegal town. The en-suite rooms offer multi-channel TV, free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar and leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and steam room.Abbey Hotel, DonegalJG3 ratingThe Abbey Hotel (JG3 rating) is located in the main square of charming Donegal and is right next to Donegal Castle. The en-suite rooms offer tea and coffee-making facilities, Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also features a bar and restaurant that uses only fresh, Irish produce.Hotel RatingJG3 ratingHotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.