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Ireland Walking and Hiking Tour - The Northern Coast
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4.8
Read 4 reviews

Explore Ireland’s cliffs and castles on a small-group walking and hiking tour, limited to just 16 guests.

Hike along the awe-inspiring Slieve League cliffs, discover the wild beauty of Glenveagh National Park, and marvel at the Giant’s Causeway. This scenic journey through Donegal, Derry, and Antrim includes guided visits to monastic ruins on Devenish Island, the folk traditions of Glencolmcille, and the storied ruins of Dunluce Castle. You’ll balance active discovery with meaningful sightseeing and cultural encounters — making it the perfect way to experience Ireland’s northern wonders, up close and on foot. Ideal for active travelers, with up to 5 hours of scenic walking daily (2–6 miles) on mostly gentle paths and hill trails. Expect occasional muddy or rough sections and climbs up to 1,500 feet.

Trip details

Tour start Dublin

trip-destination

Tour end Dublin

9 icon

Days

8 icon

Nights

20 icon

Meals

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Solo Traveler

Solo Travel

Tour Highlights

Hike the Causeway Coast Way

One of the most scenic coastal walks in Ireland, the Causeway Coast Way offers stunning cliffside trails, golden beaches, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. This iconic hike connects you with Northern Ireland’s natural beauty — perfect for travelers searching for unforgettable hiking tours in Ireland.

Explore the Giant’s Causeway

Discover the natural wonder of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its otherworldly basalt columns and legendary folklore. This iconic stop on Ireland’s northern coast is a must for walking and hiking enthusiasts.

Trek the Slieve League Cliffs

Towering nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, the Slieve League cliffs offer one of the most dramatic hiking experiences in Ireland. These soaring sea cliffs deliver jaw-dropping views, making them a must-see for lovers of rugged coastal hikes.

Walk the Historic Derry City Walls

Take a fascinating walking tour along the 17th-century walls of Derry, one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities. This cultural walk reveals Northern Ireland’s complex past and vibrant present — perfect for those seeking walking tours that blend history with insight.

Hike Glenveagh National Park & Visit the Castle

Step into unspoiled beauty with a hike through Glenveagh National Park, where serene trails lead to Glenveagh Castle nestled among forests and lakes. This destination is a hidden gem for hikers seeking a blend of nature, heritage, and peaceful solitude in the heart of County Donegal.

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Trip Itinerary

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slide Day 1Dublin

At 2:30 PM, depart from your hotel for a walking tour of Dublin, taking in sights such as the River Liffey, Georgian architecture, historic pubs, and hidden gems as your guide provides insight into the character of this city, known for its wit and humor. In the evening, enjoy a welcome drink with your group followed by dinner at a popular Dublin restaurant. Walk details: about 2 hours 2 miles (4 km) (D)
Depart for County Donegal, stopping along the way in the picturesque town of Enniskillen for a traditional and hearty pub lunch. Embark on a scenic boat ride to explore Devenish Island, home to a monastic site dating back to the 6th century. Discover the rich history of the island, where 1,500 scholars once lived, as you wander among its church ruins, stone crosses, and round tower. Continue on to Donegal town for dinner at your hotel with your group. Walk details: about 1 hour 25 minutes 2 miles (4 km) (B, L, D)
Marvel at the breathtaking Atlantic views as you stand atop the soaring Slieve League cliffs, the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Continue hiking through Glencolmcille, rich in lush greenery and ancient stone structures in unspoiled landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch outdoors before visiting the Glencolmcille Folk Village. This open-air museum offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural life with meticulously reconstructed cottages; learn about the customs, crafts, and daily life of the local people of the past. Your evening is free to dine independently in Donegal town. Walk details: about 3 hours 6 miles (10 km) (B, L)
Hike through the breathtaking wilderness of Glenveagh National Park, with its rugged mountains, serene lakes, and dense woodlands. Enjoy a packed lunch along the trail. In the heart of the park, visit Glenveagh Castle, an opulent 19th-century mansion offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Ireland’s old ruling class. See the grand halls, beautifully furnished rooms and lush gardens before visiting the charming tearoom for a traditional snack of tea and scones with clotted cream and homemade jam. Dine at your hotel this evening. Walk details: about 2 hours 30 minutes 5 miles (8 km) (B, L, D)
Embark on a scenic hike along Horn Head, a rugged peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean near Dunfanaghy. As you traverse the coastal paths, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of towering cliffs, sweeping sandy beaches, and the azure waters below. Keep an eye out for seabirds overhead and seals basking on the rocky shoreline. After your invigorating hike and packed lunch, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your own pace and dine independently in Dunfanaghy. Walk details: about 2 hours 30 minutes 5 miles (8 km) (B, L)
Experience the stunning beauty of the Inishowen Peninsula today. Visit Grianán of Aileach, an ancient stone fort – a witness to history for centuries – offering hilltop vistas over the glistening waters of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. Continue along the peninsula, exploring Donegal’s sandy beaches and savoring fresh local seafood. Visit Derry for a fascinating walking tour along the historic Derry Walls, with sweeping views of the city and the scenic River Foyle. These well-preserved 17th-century fortifications offer a unique insight into the city’s rich heritage. Dine at your hotel this evening. Walk details: about 2 hours 4 miles (6 km) (B, L, D)
Embark on a hike along the dramatic Causeway Coast Way, with soaring cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky coves. Explore the intriguing basalt pillars of the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hear the legends that surround these stone columns sweeping into the sea. End your adventure at Dunluce Castle, a medieval ruin perched high on the ocean cliffs and echoing with history. Its wild beauty and storied past capture the essence of the island’s natural and historical magnificence. Dine with your group at a local restaurant this evening. Walk details: about 3 hours 6 miles (9 km) (B, L, D)
Depart Antrim and head back to Dublin. Along the way, stop in the historic town of Carlingford, known for its fresh seafood, scenic views, and leprechaun folklore. Stroll through the charming town center, exploring the medieval streets lined with colorful shops and pubs, then have lunch in a local café. Continue on to Dublin and bid farewell to your guide. Your evening is free to dine and explore as you wish. Walk details: about 1 hour 2 miles (3 km) (B, L)
Your tour ends after breakfast. (B)   B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner>

Where you’ll stay

The Mont Hotel

The Mont Hotel Dublin, Ireland

The Mont is a vibrant, modern hotel in the heart of Dublin, just steps from Grafton Street,...
Mill Park Hotel

Mill Park Hotel Donegal, Ireland

The spacious rooms at the Mill Park Hotel have flat-screen TVs, telephones and hairdryers. Some...
Shandon Hotel Dunfanaghy Ireland Hotel

Shandon Hotel Dunfanaghy, Ireland

The Shandon Hotel & Spa offers a relaxing escape, perched above the breathtaking Sheephaven...

Maiden City Hotel Derry

Iveagh Garden Hotel Main Entrance

Iveagh Garden Hotel Dublin, Ireland

Experience contemporary comfort and eco-friendly hospitality at the four-star Iveagh Garden Hotel...
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See what people are saying about this trip

5
Pamela Briggs Raymond
2 weeks 4 days ago

The hikes and walking took us to very scenic parts of Ireland many people don’t get to see … Our guides Calliam and Tom were very helpful and encouraging during the hikes.

5
CIE Tours Customer
3 weeks 4 days ago
Making the most of our walking & hiking tour

We stayed at lovely hotels and ate incredible food. My son and I swam in the North Atlantic; everyone else on the tour thought we were so brave to swim in such cold water, but I couldn't imagine having that opportunity and not making the most of it.

5
CIE Tours Customer
3 weeks 5 days ago

We loved the small group, going to places that large buses could not go, having spectacular hikes with amazing scenery. A small group that made for making new friends. Guides were personable and caring. Travel was comfortable, accommodations were good. Despite being seniors the hikes were strenuous, but doable. This hiking and walking tour met our expectations.

4
CIE Tours Customer
1 month ago
Off the Beaten trail

Well organized trip. Accommodations, meals, communication with guides was excellent. The sites were extraordinary and provided a different travel experience. Not touristy. The small group was a plus. Some of the hiking trails were more challenging, with rocky terrain, steep inclines, and slippery areas. There were also limited toilet facilities on the trails. Something to keep in mind depending on your comfort level with hiking.

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