April 16-24, 2026
Irish mythology and modern tragedy…
The warmth of whiskey and the cool spray of the North Atlantic…
And the opportunity to get hands-on with Irish traditions passed down through the years.
From vibrant Belfast to the storied streets of Derry, with coastal wonders and legendary landscapes in between, this tour explores the history and drama of Northern Ireland. Think castles, causeways, and just enough craic to keep things lively.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ulster on a meticulously crafted 8-day tour designed for the culturally curious traveler.
Highlights of A Giant Adventure
Traveling in Ireland Tours feature intimate group sizes, ensuring a cozy and personal experience. This tour has a maximum of 12 travelers.
Accommodations: Enjoy 8 nights of comfortable and carefully selected 4 and 5-star accommodations (including a castle!) that showcase the warmth and charm of Irish hospitality.
Culinary Delights: Start your mornings with daily breakfast and savor the essence of Ireland with an expertly guided food tour and tasting experiences that will introduce you to the rich flavors of Ireland.
Dining Experiences: Delight in the camaraderie of your small group during 4 group dinners, featuring authentic Irish flavors and lively conversations.
Immersive Highlights: Your journey will be filled with exclusive experiences:
- Flavorful Stops: The itinerary will include either a hands-on breadmaking workshop or a visit to a local cidery, and a whiskey tasting or artisan chocolate experience. These experiences will be selected by the group before the tour.
- City Tours: Guided tours in Belfast and Derry will lead us through powerful murals and street stories that have shaped the people and politics of ‘the North'.
- Coastal Walk: Join Jody for an early morning or after dinner walk above the Causeway Coast.
- Experience a Shepherd's Life: A hands-on look at sheep farming, skilled working dogs, and rural traditions passed down through generations. Doggy cuddles and lamb snuggles optional.
- From Ireland to America: Walk in the footsteps of emigrants through thatched cottages, an emigrant ship, and frontier cabins – brought to life by costumed guides.
Comfort & Convenience: Travel in style with a luxury touring vehicle and the guidance of a private driver guide who possesses a deep knowledge of Ireland's history, culture, and hidden gems.
Personal Touch: Jody Halsted, your friendly host, brings a special dimension to your journey. Benefit from pre-trip recommendations and expert planning guidance for your free time (and optional Dublin pre-trip), ensuring that your Irish adventure aligns with your unique interests and preferences.
Receive: Customized Giant Adventure Travel Planner & Journal
Gratuities for group meals & driver guide are included in tour price.
Payment Options: including a monthly payment plan!
$4329
Price is per person sharing. Single supplement $1600 applied to solo travelers.
Tour price does not include airfare
Daily Highlights
Add a day or two in Dublin
While our trip begins and ends in Dublin, Ireland's capital city is not included in the tour. If you would like to explore the city for a day or two, Jody will help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Have a look at the County Dublin Travel Guide for inspiration.
Day 1: A Warm (and Tasty) Welcome
Our Giant Adventure begins by 9am with pickup in Dublin or at the airport. We’ll head north for a delicious start— rolling up your sleeves for traditional breadmaking at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen.
After a light lunch, we’ll travel to Belfast for a guided tour of the city’s iconic murals and Peace Walls, offering a powerful look at its past and the progress that’s followed.
This evening we'll gather for a group dinner to kick off the week together.
Belfast Hotel: The Fitzwilliam
Day 2: Titanic Tales and Belfast Bites
This morning, we’ll dive into one of Belfast’s most compelling stories with a visit to Titanic Belfast, an award-winning experience that brings the ship’s history to life in the city where it was built.
Next up is a guided walking food tour through Belfast’s vibrant streets, where you’ll sample local flavors and hear the stories behind the bites.
The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy. After the food tour, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to keep exploring – and we’ll have recommendations ready if you need them.
Belfast Hotel: The Fitzwilliam
Day 3: From Market Tales to Mythic Trails
We’ll start the day at Belfast’s beloved St. George’s Market – a lively mix of local food, crafts, and character. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift or souvenir and grab something to-go for lunch later in the day.
Then it’s off to the Antrim Coast, where you’ll brave the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and take in sweeping views of the North Atlantic.
We’ll pause for a casual lunch break; whether you packed something from the market or prefer to grab a bite locally, you’ll have time to refuel before we visit the hauntingly beautiful Dark Hedges, a dramatic avenue of trees steeped in myth and made famous on screen.
We’ll meet up this evening for a group dinner and toast the start of our Causeway Coast adventure.
Overnight: Causeway Hotel
Day 4: Giant Tales & Coastal Trails
Join Jody for an early-morning walk along the cliffs above the Giant’s Causeway for a dramatic beginning to the day.
After breakfast we’ll head down to explore the legendary site itself, where ancient geology and Irish myth meet at the edge of the sea.
Late morning brings a flavorful experience, chosen by the group before the tour begins: either a guided tour and tasting at Bushmills Distillery or the hands-on Causeway Chocolate Experience.
From there, we’ll follow the coastal route toward Derry, with photo stops at Dunluce Castle and Mussenden Temple along the way.
We’ll end the afternoon with an indulgent afternoon tea, setting the tone for a relaxing evening on the coast.
Overnight: Causeway Hotel
If the weather doesn't cooperate for a morning walk, it will be rescheduled for this evening.
Day 5: From Fields to Fortified Walls
This morning, we leave the coast for the Sperrin Mountains to visit a fourth-generation sheep farm, where working dogs, cuddly lambs, and sweeping views set the scene.
After lunch on the farm, we’ll visit the Gorta Famine Story for a moving look at local history, followed by a drink (or two) at the local pub, where your first round is on me.
Then it’s on to Derry for a guided walking tour of the city, from its imposing walls to the Bogside murals.
Afterward, we'll enjoy another group dinner – plus some local tips on where to find the best pubs if you’re up for a night out.
Derry Hotel: Bishops Gate
Day 6: To the ‘End of Ireland'
We’ll spend the day exploring the stunning Inishowen Peninsula, where dramatic coastlines, quiet villages, and sweeping views feel a world apart.
Driving the Inishowen 100, we’ll visit an ancient stone ring fort, roll along a magic road, and stand at the northernmost point of Ireland.
We’ll return to Derry for our final night in the city, yours to enjoy as you wish. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a quiet pint, or one last wander through the city walls, you’ll have plenty of options to make it your own.
Derry Hotel: Bishops Gate
Day 7: From Famine to Fairytale
We’ll begin our journey south today, traveling from Derry to County Cavan. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Ulster American Folk Park – a compelling open-air museum that traces the story of Irish emigration through immersive exhibits, costumed interpreters, and even a full-scale emigrant ship.
This afternoon, we’ll arrive at Cabra Castle, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy the grounds, relax, or explore the castle a bit before gathering for a farewell group dinner in true storybook surroundings.
Day 8: Echoes of the Ancients
Our final day winds through the Boyne Valley, often called Ireland’s “Valley of the Kings.” We’ll stand on the sacred hilltop at Tara, tour the medieval stronghold of Trim Castle, and visit one of the island’s most iconic prehistoric sites: Newgrange, part of the ancient Brú na Bóinne complex.
By evening, we’ll arrive at our Dublin Airport hotel and say goodbye to our driver – marking the close of an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s landscapes and legends.
Dublin Airport Hotel: The Maldron
Slán go fóill
Whether your journey leads you to Dublin Airport for your flight home or onward to explore more of Ireland, it's “goodbye for now.”
It's been a week full of laughter, shared experiences, and new connections – and wherever you go next, may your travels be safe, joyful, and full of discovery.
Slán abhaile (safe home)
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon do I need to decide?
Sooner is better than later as space is limited to 12 people.
Do you have payment options?
I do! You can make monthly payments or pay in a lump sum after booking or 3 months prior to the tour date.
What is a single supplement?
Room rates are based on 2 people sharing a room. If you are traveling solo and prefer not to share a room then you pay the full room rate.