Highlights of Northern Ireland Private Luxury Tour

CARRICKFERGUS CASTLE EXPERIENCE

Overview: Carrickfergus Castle, situated on the shores of Belfast Lough since 1177, stands as a testament to Norman architecture and is recognized as the most impressive Norman Castle in Ireland and Great Britain. Your visit to this historical gem offers a chance to immerse yourself in its grandeur and explore both the exterior and the well-preserved Courtyard. 40 minutes.

ANDREW JACKSON CENTRE & US RANGERS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

Overview: Tucked away behind the bustling streets of the A2 highway departing Carrickfergus lies the esteemed Andrew Jackson Centre. This historical site celebrates the profound connections between County Antrim and the United States, narrating the story of Andrew Jackson. Explore the heritage of Jackson’s family, who departed their thatched cottage homestead for the New World in the 1700s. Additionally, be surprised by the museum’s focus on the foundation of the UN Rangers in June 1942, offering insights into the history of the US Army Elite Forces. 1 Hour.

GLENARM GLEN & CASTLE EXPLORATION

Overview: Embark on a journey to the first of the nine Glens of Antrim, the captivating Glenarm, known for its desolate beauty, rugged valleys, pastures, dry-stone walls, and the charming presence of numerous sheep that inhabit the area year-round. Your visit extends to the remarkable Glenarm Castle, a unique gem that holds the distinction of being the only castle in Northern Ireland continuously inhabited by the same family since its construction in 1659. 90 Minutes.

CARNLOUGH HARBOUR EXPLORATION

Overview: Discover the enchanting seaside town of Carnlough, where a picturesque limestone harbour and the remnants of historic limestone bridges weave a tale of unique industrial heritage. This coastal gem holds the distinction of being home to the world’s first narrow gauge industrial railroad. With stories hidden around every corner, Carnlough Harbour also played a role in the renowned Game of Thrones saga, contributing to the series’ captivating scenes filmed in the Glens from 2009 to 2019. 45 minutes.

GLENARIFF GLEN & WATERFALLS EXPLORATION

Overview: Embark on a journey to Glenariff Glen, hailed as the most amazing of the Glens of Antrim, earning the title of “Queen of the Glens” for its majestic and magnificent landscapes. Revered by author C.S. Lewis, a Belfast native, Glenariff served as one of the inspirations for his Chronicles of Narnia. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer scale of mother nature and the breathtaking beauty of numerous waterfalls cascading from imposing clifftops. 1 Hour.

CUSHENDALL | CUSHENDUN | GLENDUN EXPLORATION

Overview: Embark on a journey through the coastal villages of Cushendall, Cushendun, and Glendun, where authentic architecture, rich heritage, and breathtaking views await. Cushendall, proudly known as ‘The Heart of the Glens,’ offers amazing views of historical sites like Redbay Castle, the Red Arch, Agnews Field, and the Curfew Tower. The upper road provides panoramic views of Glenariff, Glenann, Glencorp, and Glendun, featuring an imposing 1830s stone viaduct. Cushendun, situated at the mouth of the River Dun and Glendun, boasts unique architectural heritage reflecting close links with Scotland, visible on clear days just 20 miles away across the Irish Sea. 1 Hour.

BALLYCASTLE EXPLORATION

Overview: Ballycastle offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life. This town is renowned for hosting the ancient market day, The Auld Lammas Fair, which marks the end of summer each year. Voted as the Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland in both 2016 and 2017 by The Times/Sunday Times, Ballycastle invites visitors to browse through its quaint, family-owned craft shops and art galleries. 45 minutes.

BALLINTOY HARBOUR

Overview: Ballintoy Harbour has a rich history as a fishing community, and its stunning coastal scenery made it an attractive location for filmmakers, gaining popularity through its inclusion in the globally acclaimed television series, Game of Thrones. The transformation of such natural landscapes into fictional settings like the Isle of Pyke in the Iron Islands is a testament to the diverse and captivating beauty of the area. 30 minutes.

PORTANEEVY & CARRICK-A-REDE ROPE BRIDGE

Overview: This vantage point looks out over several islands, namely Rathlin, Carrick-a-rede and Sheep Island. The famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen in 1755. Suspended almost 100ft above the Atlantic Ocean, the exhilarating crossing covers a chasm connecting to the rocky island of Carrick-a-Rede. The name, from the Gaelic 'Carraig-a-Rade', means ‘The Rock in the Road’, an obstacle for the migrating salmon as they search for the river in which they were born. Regretttably, time does not permit a visit to the bridge itself (3 hours minimum). 15 minutes.

GIANT"S CAUSEWAY

Overview: One of Ireland’s most treasured landmarks, this is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 40,000 basalt columns, formed some 60 million years ago, are testament to a major stage in the earth's development. Flanked by the wild Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, for centuries the Giant’s Causeway has inspired artists, stirred scientific debate and captured the imagination of all who see it. 1 Hour.

DUNLUCE CASTLE

Overview: The iconic ruin of Dunluce Castle bears witness to a long and tumultuous history. First built on the dramatic coastal cliffs of north County Antrim by the MacQuillan family around 1500, the earliest written record of the castle was in 1513.

It was seized by the ambitious MacDonnell clan in the 1550s, who set about stamping their mark on the castle under the leadership of the famous warrior chieftain Sorely Boy MacDonnell during an era of violence, intrigue and rebellion. In the 17th century Dunluce was the seat of the earls of Antrim and saw the establishment of a small town in 1608. Visitors can explore the findings of archaeological digs within the cobbled streets and stone merchants’ houses of the long-abandoned Dunluce Town.

The dramatic history of Dunluce is matched by tales of a banshee and how the castle kitchens fell into the sea one stormy night in 1639. 30 minutes.

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