Ireland's Northern Loop: Belfast, Donegal, Sligo & Dublin
Explore the unique beauty of Ireland
Discover the magic of Ireland on this unforgettable road trip through Belfast, Donegal, Sligo, and Dublin. With your included rental car, explore at your own pace — from the historic streets of Belfast to Donegal’s wild coastal beauty, Sligo’s poetic landscapes, and Dublin’s lively charm.
Choose the 10-night option to add nights in Clare, or the 12-night to add nights in Clare and Kilkenny.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for the duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Belfast at Titanic Hotel Belfast, or similar
- 2 nights in Co. Donegal at the Red Castle Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Co. Sligo at the Ocean Sands Hotel, or similar
- 1 night near Dublin at Dunboyne Castle Hotel, or similar
Great Ways to Explore
Explore the Giant's Causeway.
Enjoy an authentic Guinness in Dublin.Â
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Learn more about the history behind the RMS Titanic.
-
Listen to Irish folk music as you enjoy pints at a traditional pub.
-
Discover Irish history at the EPIC museum.
Are you ready to journey through the Northwestern lands of Ireland? While you venture through the beautiful mountainscapes adorned throughout the country, take in the natural beauty of green pastures and the livestock that graze the fields. During your multi-city adventure, you'll explore some of the most unique cities that the Northwestern region of Ireland has to offer.
Begin your vacation in the historic city of Belfast, where you'll be able to explore the original building site of the ill-fated RMS Titanic. You will then head to Donegal, the most Northeastern county in all of Ireland. There, you can spend time observing some Irish wildlife at the local preserve. Make your way through the captivating town of Sligo, where you can learn more about the Gaelic culture. Here, you will see beautiful architecture from the Stone Age as well as many nature-based attractions. End your jam-packed trip in Dublin, where you can become acquainted with the Irish nightlife and tasty eats!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Titanic Belfast
- Giants Causeway
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
- Admission to EPIC The Emigration Museum
- Admission to Christ Church Cathedral (self-guided tour)
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car rental for the duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Belfast at Titanic Hotel Belfast, or similar
- 2 nights in Co. Donegal at the Red Castle Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Co. Sligo at the Ocean Sands Hotel, or similar
- 1 night near Dublin at Dunboyne Castle Hotel, or similar
Explore the Giant's Causeway.
Enjoy an authentic Guinness in Dublin.Â
-
Learn more about the history behind the RMS Titanic.
-
Listen to Irish folk music as you enjoy pints at a traditional pub.
-
Discover Irish history at the EPIC museum.
Are you ready to journey through the Northwestern lands of Ireland? While you venture through the beautiful mountainscapes adorned throughout the country, take in the natural beauty of green pastures and the livestock that graze the fields. During your multi-city adventure, you'll explore some of the most unique cities that the Northwestern region of Ireland has to offer.
Begin your vacation in the historic city of Belfast, where you'll be able to explore the original building site of the ill-fated RMS Titanic. You will then head to Donegal, the most Northeastern county in all of Ireland. There, you can spend time observing some Irish wildlife at the local preserve. Make your way through the captivating town of Sligo, where you can learn more about the Gaelic culture. Here, you will see beautiful architecture from the Stone Age as well as many nature-based attractions. End your jam-packed trip in Dublin, where you can become acquainted with the Irish nightlife and tasty eats!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Titanic Belfast
- Giants Causeway
- Kildare Village 10% Discount voucher
- Admission to EPIC The Emigration Museum
- Admission to Christ Church Cathedral (self-guided tour)
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive at Dublin Airport and head to your hotel in Belfast. After checking in, begin your exploration of Belfast. Be sure to visit the Harland and Wolff shipyard and the Titanic Belfast, which are attractions dedicated to the history of the RMS Titanic. You can also spend time in the metropolitan area of the county that is filled with Irish restaurants and pubs.Â
Titanic Hotel Belfast, located in the heart of the transformed Titanic Quarter, stands as one of Northern Ireland's premier hotels. Just a five-minute drive from Belfast City Airport, the hotel is perfect for all types of travelers, from casual visitors to business guests.
The hotel's 100+ rooms are uniquely furnished with a sleek, modern plan. Guest rooms come with a flat screen TV, Wi-Fi access, a beautiful view of the city, and more. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage facilities, a babysitting service, and meeting and banquet facilities, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay for all guests.Â
Patrons of the Titanic Hotel Belfast may indulge in refined dining at The Wolff Grill, enjoy a memorable lunch or dinner at Drawing Office Two, and even enjoy an unforgettable Afternoon Tea experience with savory and sweet treats served on fine china. Breakfast is available in the early morning hours, buffet style.
The Titanic Quarter boasts numerous visitor attractions, heritage sites, restaurants, and public spaces within mere meters of the hotel. Guests can enjoy a rich variety of cultural and entertainment options, including family-friendly attractions and historic monuments, all within a short walking distance. Notable ones include Belfast Castle, WWT Castle, and Botanic Gardens Belfast.
Located ideally on Brunswick Street in Belfast's city center, the Maldron Hotel Belfast City makes for a wonderful and convenient stay. Along with easy access to all of the city's public transfer services, including Belfast's Great Victoria Railway Station, guests can enjoy on-site dining, a bar, a daily breakfast buffet, a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, room service, and concierge services.Â
Rooms are pleasant and include sitting areas, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, ironing facilities, a safe, a hairdryer, and a private bathroom. The hotel is just 2,650 feet from the Belfast Empire Music hall, St. Georges Market is a 9-minute walk away, and the Waterfront Hall is only 10 minutes away. An 18-minute walk will bring you into the Odyssey Arena, and the Titanic Belfast i just under 2 miles away. George Best Belfast City Airport is a little over 3 miles away.
Room: Double Deluxe Room Only (no breakfast)
Sitting in Belfast's heart, Grand Central Hotel Belfast makes for a wonderfully classy stay with easy access to sights, public transportation, and of course, Irish pubs. Those staying at the Grand Central can easily explore the Titanic quarter's history, as well as enjoy the hub of cobbled streets, charming shops, lively pubs, and lovely restaurants in the Cathedral quarter. While staying at the hotel, guests can enjoy an on-site bar, an on-site restaurant, a concierge to help with any questions about the quarters, room service, and more.
Rooms offer wonderful views and include air conditioning, a safe, ironing facilities, and a private bathroom including a hair dryer and complimentary toiletries. The modern hotel is set just three miles from George Best Belfast City Airport, and 16 miles from Belfast International Airport. Those looking for history, shopping opportunities, theater, arts and a lively city atmosphere can find it here.
Day 2. Belfast - Donegal
Arrive in Donegal and check in to your hotel. Once you are properly situated, head out and begin your exploration of the gorgeous county. Head over to Donegal Castle to learn the history of this restored 15th-century structure, built by Red Hugh O'Donnell. Afterward, you can visit another popular castle and tourist attraction – the Glenveagh Castle.Â
Built by Captain John George Adair between 1867 and 1873, this fortress is located within Gleaveagh National Park and remains an important fixture in Irish history. After your historic tour, enjoy a hot beverage at the tearoom located on the premises.Â
The Redcastle Oceanfront Golf & Spa Hotel in County Donegal is a superb 4-star hotel resort nestled on the shores of Lough Foyle in Inishowen. Located at the tip of Donegal below Malin Head, Inishowen will simply take your breath away with its wild Atlantic coastline, tiny fishing villages, and natural charm. Â
The hotel was once part of the Redcastle Estate and has a history all its own. This sense of history has never been lost but has always added to the elegance of this beautiful property, making it one of the most unique hotels in Donegal. Â
Redcastle Hotel offers 93 bedrooms and luxury suites boasting ocean or parkland views. With its own private 9 hole golf course, outstanding restaurant, and Thalasso therapy swimming pool, gym, and luxury spa, it offers the ideal escape to every guest.
Located 10 km from Ballyshannon, 19 km from Bundoran, 19 km from Donegal Town, 55km from Sligo Town, the Sandhouse is your gateway to the glorious North West of Ireland. Take a historical walking tour around Ballyshannon, one of the first towns in Ireland, or enjoy the finest in local and national talent in the Abbey Centre. Stroll around Rougey and the Cliff Walk in Bundoran, or go go-karting at the fun-fair. Visit Yeats’s grave in Drumcliffe, before enjoying an afternoon’s shopping in Sligo.
The Sandhouse Hotel, Rossnowlagh, is the perfect location to enjoy any of the wide range of activities the North West has to offer, whether you want to entertain the kids over a long weekend, learn how to surf, improve your golf swing, or simply ramble around the countryside.
Take a pleasant holiday at the Mill Park Hotel in Donegal Town. Offering 110 tastefully appointed guest rooms, a swimming pool, and tempting culinary options, the hotel is rich with amenities and modern conveniences. Venture out to explore the historic town or day trip through Ireland's North West and the Wild Atlantic Way. Upon your return, choose between the Granary Restaurant and Cafe Bar for a satisfying meal or pop over to the Mill Park Hotel Leisure Centre. Offering a steam room, Jacuzzi, fitness facilities, and gymnasium, the leisure center provides plenty of ways for you to keep active during your stay.
A truly unique luxury castle hotel in Ireland, the Lough Eske Castle, a hotel and spa, sits within 43 acres of forest woodland, hugging the shores of Lough Eske, with the Blue Stack Mountains in the background. Lough Eske Castle Hotel is the only 5-star hotel in Donegal. This lovingly restored castle hotel in Ireland blends its historic past with a dash of contemporary elegance.
Escape into a luxurious world of relaxed grandeur and extraordinary personal service. From the spa to the dining table to your beautifully appointed guest room, Lough Eske Castle provides a truly accommodating environment where the dedication to the guest is thoughtful, reliable, consistent and complete. Superb service and superior amenities make every day here a perfect day.
The Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa has been awarded the best luxury hotel in Ireland by The Times in the UK, Conde Nast's Top Ten Luxury Hotels in Ireland for five consecutive years including 2022, Ireland's Castle Wedding Venue of the Year 2022, two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence in Cedars Restaurant, Ulster Spa of the Year 2019 by Irish Tatler Magazine, and more!
Please Note
Day 3. Donegal
Continue your exploration of Donegal County. Be sure to visit many other well-known attractions and landmarks including Doagh Famine Village, Lough Eske, and Fairy Bridges. For locations that offer breathtaking views head to Malin Head which overlooks the North Atlantic Ocean, or the Fanad Head Lighthouse which provides views of the Fanad peninsula!
Fanad Lighthouse in Donegal, Ireland
Day 4. Donegal - Sligo
Arrive in the quaint area of Sligo and begin your exploration. Known for its heritage, art, and countryside appeal, the town of Sligo is separated into two parts by the Garavogue River. The region is rich in medieval architecture and is the site of the Sligo County Museum, which houses memorabilia from renowned poet, W.B. Yeats as well as paintings and several artifacts from the Stone Age. Other places to enjoy art include The Model, which offers contemporary pieces from 20th century Irish artists, and the Hamilton Gallery.
Enjoy a quiet escape on the Atlantic coast at the Ocean Sands Hotel Sligo. Ideally situated to provide stunning views of Enniscrone Beach and Killala Bay, the hotel oozes coastal charm and Irish hospitality. Equipped with modern comforts and amenities, the property offers fantastic cuisine and unbeatable coastal views. Enjoy high-quality food and live entertainment at the hotel restaurant, as well as close proximity to Enniscrone's championship golf links.Â
Set on beautiful grounds and within walking distance from the bustling town of Sligo, Clayton Hotel Sligo is the perfect retreat in western Ireland. Set in a historic building dating back to 1848, the hotel also boasts two churches on site, Canis Major and Canis Minor. Providing a range of luxurious accommodations, guests can enjoy the utmost comfort from over 162 rooms varying from superior rooms to suites. Enjoy meals and drinks at the two restaurants and lounge, a swimming pool, spa, gym and plenty of family friendly activities.Â
Nestled directly on the Wild Atlantic Way in Enniscrone, Sligo's stunning Killala Bay region, this opulent new hotel offers stunning vistas of Enniscrone's championship golf course and 5 km of pristine beaches and dunes.
With its close proximity to the beach, the Diamond Coast is perfect for indulging in water sports, swimming, and leisurely strolls. The surrounding countryside is an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of cycling and hiking opportunities.
Exuding elegance and comfort, the Diamond Coast Hotel features 98 lavishly furnished rooms, delectable cuisine at the Coral Restaurant, and a serene ambiance at the Stir Bar & Bistro.
Day 5. Sligo
Sligo is quite the place for foodies. With more than 20 eateries scattered around the town, you can sample many different types of cuisines. In addition to traditional Irish cuisine, you can even enjoy Asian fusion and Italian meals!Â
Be sure to snag a few souvenirs from the local shops before you head to your next destination – Dublin!
Livestock in Sligo
Day 6. Sligo - Dublin area
As you make your way back to the Dublin area in your rental car, take in all the beautiful sights of the surrounding areas. Be sure to snap pictures of the countryside, the gorgeous coastlines, and green pastures.
Once you arrive, check into your hotel and grab a bite to eat. Spend the evening becoming acquainted with the bustling streets of Dublin. Chat with locals, drink a few brews, and enjoy live sounds by local artists.
With a sophisticated combination of traditional old-world opulence and contemporary design, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa sets a new precedent and fresh interpretation for hotels around Ireland. As one of the leading 4-star hotels in Ireland, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features unique attributes that emphasize the beauty of its estate. Standing on 21 acres of mature manicured lawns and gardens, the hotel's most unique attribute is the peaceful oasis it offers guests, while also being located in such close proximity to Dublin's city center and surrounding golf courses.
The hotel is situated on the grounds of a former castle; the original castle was destroyed during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. The 18th-century Georgian house that we see today is at the heart of the hotel, blending seamlessly with the stylish, modern bedrooms and restaurant in the contemporary wing. The historic mansion, once home to the Lord of Dunboyne, today serves as one of Ireland's foremost exclusive hotels on Dublin's doorstep.
Its 145 large, comfortable rooms boast free WiFi, air-conditioning, HD TV, and much more. Relax at Seoid, meaning jewel in Irish, the decadent on-site spa. Unwind in the crystal steam room, enjoy an herbal sauna, pamper yourself with a mud treatment, and more. Take a stroll through the lavish garden, then indulge in a delicious meal at the Ivy Restaurant. Feast your eyes on its carefully prepared seasonal menu, then taste the award-winning flavors of the in-house chefs, who've earned 2 AA Rosettes from 2013 to date.
A hidden gem in Ireland, the Barberstown Castle Hotel is located in the village of Straffan, Co. Kildare. This elegant hotel was built in a 13th-century castle expanding over 20 acres of grounds and provides close, easy access to Dublin.
Guest rooms are individually furnished each boasting an old world charm. matched with all the modern amenities a traveler needs. These include free Wi-Fi, a TV, private bathroom, and lavish touches like chandeliers.
The hotel's fine dining restaurant blends the best of Irish and French cuisine with seasonally fresh, locally sourced produce. There is also live music on the weekends. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea and freshly baked scones in the Edwardian tea rooms. Other amenities at the hotel include bicycle rentals, a library, garden, and dry cleaning/laundry services.
Both central Dublin and the airport are about a 30-minute drive away; free parking on-site makes it easy for visitors with cars, while nearby buses for guests without. The quaint town of Straffan is about 1.5 miles away, while the impressive Powerscourt House and Estate is about 40 minutes away.
Day 7. Depart Ireland
Pack your bags and get ready to head to the airport! Return your rental car and board your returning flight home. Ciao for now, Ireland!
Fly Home!
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