The Backpacker Co.

Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin - Derry

Immerse yourself in Ireland’s historic past at the impressive Trim Castle - a twelfth century Anglo Norman fortress which some would say was where the Troubles all began .... back then. Next up are the awe-inspiring prehistoric tombs at Lough Crew – which are older than the pyramids of Giza! Then why not relax over a pint or take a stroll in picturesque Enniskillen - a pretty island town on Lough Erne, just over the northern border, infamous for troubles during the 80s. Then it’s onto Derry City for a night of traditional music and song. Overnight Derry
cross the Carrick-a-Rede ropebridge if you dare!

Day 2: Derry - Belfast

A beautiful coastal drive takes us straight to Dunluce Castle, thought to be one of the most romantic and picturesque of Irish castles. Find your own space at the mysterious Giant’s Causeway, with its thousands of hexagonal columns it is a source of many a legend, and on a clear day you can see right across to Scotland! Not for the faint hearted, the next stop is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge* swaying 80ft above the ocean. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Antrim glens as you journey to Northern Ireland’s capital city – Belfast - Party the night away in vibrant Belfast. *Rope bridge – weather permitting.

Day 3: Belfast - Dublin

A real eye opener - see the murals of the Falls and Shankill Road on the famous Black Cab tour of the City. Stop off at Monasterboice for intricately carved Celtic High crosses before passing by the site of the Battle of the Boyne, crucial to Northern Ireland’s History. Next up is the Fair City of Dublin

Day 4: Dublin

Soak up the atmosphere in Dublin as we prepare for the biggest day in the Irish calendar, St. Patrick's Day! Grab your Guinness Storehouse ticket and discover all there is to know about Guinness. For those who want to learn about Irish history a trip to Kilmainham Gaol is a must. See where the leaders of the Easter 1916 rising were held and hear of a troubled past. Whatever your interests are you will find something in Dublin to keep you entertained!

Day 5: Dublin

Today is the day you've been waiting for, St. Patrick's Day. Grab your spot early as the streets of Dublin fill fast! Get ready to bombard your senses with colour, music and scenes you will remember forever from the Dublin parade!

Day 6: Dublin - Killarney

Leaving Dublin City passing the river Liffey. Travel through the Curragh Ireland’s famous racecourse. Pass through Co. Kildare, home of the Irish national stud (farm!). Wonder at the dramatic spectacle of the Rock of Cashel, a church fortress overlooking the fertile plains of Munster. Be inspired by the tower of Babel formation in the Mitchelstown Caves. Pass through the peoples Republic of Cork. Blarney Castle – explore this magical castle and get the gift of the gab. Our overnight stop is the bustling town of Killarney, surrounded by Killarney National Park and the famous lakes. Overnight Killarney

Day 7: Killarney - Ennis

This morning we head to the charming and colourful fishing town of Dingle – Spot the dolphin ‘Fungi’ from the shore. Take in the spectacular views along the Dingle peninsular, a magical place of unique beauty, beaches, stonewalls and Irish speakers! Spot the Sleeping Giant and the Three Sisters as you walk on the edge of the ancient world! Heading north on our ferry crossing of the mighty River Shannon keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. We spend the night in the capital of Co. Clare Ennis. Overnight Ennis.

Day 8: Ennis - Dublin

Today we explore the ‘Burren’ Plateau, a barren limestone landscape before enjoying the dramatic views at the Cliffs of Moher- the most famous cliffs in Europe. Then we head on to the Culture Capital of Ireland – Galway. Hear tales of the Tribes of Galway before heading back to the Fair city of Dublin!