Legends, Landscapes and Hidden Places in Sligo and North West Ireland

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Overview

Legends, Landscapes and Hidden Places in Sligo and North West Ireland
Ireland
Jul 23 - 31, 2027
Group size: 1 - 20
Secret Ireland Tours LLC image
Secret Ireland Tours LLC
$2,945
Deposit: $300

About this trip

Important Notice Regarding Itineraries and Accommodation

Please read the following information carefully before booking your tour.

All itineraries are considered tentative at the time of publication and may remain subject to change up until the weeks immediately preceding departure.

Some attractions and venues only release tickets for online purchase closer to the date of the visit. They may not accept provisional bookings or guarantee availability in advance, and certain attractions operate seasonally. As a result, it may occasionally be necessary to remove or replace a scheduled venue, attraction, or hotel due to availability or other circumstances beyond our control.

Secret Ireland Tours LLC is committed to providing memorable, well-organised tours featuring wonderful places to visit and carefully selected accommodation. We will always do our very best to secure suitable venues and hotels and, where changes are necessary, to provide appropriate alternatives. However, we cannot guarantee that every venue, hotel, or itinerary detail will remain exactly as originally advertised.

Accommodation in Europe: Please be aware that many hotels operate in historic or listed buildings where architectural or heritage restrictions may prevent the installation of elevators. Consequently, some properties may have multiple flights of stairs, and elevator access cannot always be guaranteed. If you have mobility concerns or difficulty managing stairs, please take this into consideration before booking and contact us to discuss your needs.

By booking with Secret Ireland Tours LLC, you acknowledge that itineraries, venues, and accommodation arrangements may be subject to change. If you require a completely fixed itinerary or guaranteed accommodation at specific properties, our tours may not be the best fit for you.

We appreciate your understanding and encourage all guests to consider these factors carefully before making a reservation. Our goal is always to deliver an enjoyable and memorable experience while being transparent about the practicalities of organising tours.

Thank you for choosing Secret Ireland Tours LLC. We look forward to sharing wonderful adventures with you!

Step beyond the well-worn tourist trail and discover the wild beauty, ancient legends and hidden treasures of Ireland’s spectacular North West. From the mystical landscapes of County Sligo to the rugged Atlantic coastline, this unforgettable 9-day journey will take you deep into a region where history, folklore, music and breathtaking scenery come together. Explore ancient sacred sites and atmospheric ruins, wander through historic abbeys, hear the stories and legends passed down through generations, and experience the warmth of traditional Irish music and storytelling in the very places where these traditions still thrive.

And the adventure doesn’t stop on land! Take to the waters of the North West coast for an unforgettable boat journey in search of whales, dolphins and the incredible marine life of the Atlantic. From hidden places steeped in history to dramatic mountains, lakes, beaches and coastal landscapes, every day brings something new to discover. This is Ireland beyond the postcards — authentic, mysterious, beautiful and filled with stories waiting to be told. Come with us and experience Sligo and the North West of Ireland as you’ve never seen it before.

Hotels

Three hotels below or similar:

Riverside Hotel Sligo for 2 nights

Cawleys Hotel Tubbercurry for 4 nights

Fitzpatrick's Castle Hotel for 2 nights

Terms and Conditions

1  The company requires non-refundable deposits to be paid as per tour in a timely manner. By paying a deposit you are agreeing to the terms and conditions of the Company.

2  Our tours are all based on double occupancy. There will be an additional supplement for single travelers which will depend on tour taken. 

3  Payment for deposit will hold your place, final balance  payment will be 60 days before the start of your choice of  tour. If paying by credit card you might incur bank charges.

4  Installment plans are available for anyone who would like to avail of them.

5  Travel insurance is something that the company strongly suggests all clients purchase to protect their travel investment.  Please find a package that covers you if you have to cancel close to the tour time because we do not refund if you have to cancel for any reason.You can find links for Insurance companies on our website www.SecretIrelandToursLLC.com

6  Due to limited capacity on coaches, there may be a limit of one suitcase per passenger. 

7  Participants are responsible for all their property, luggage, backpacks, phone's, laptops etc. 

8  The company tour guide will give all participants phone no's of tour guides and driver at the start of the trip or in an email before the start of the trip, it is vital that you keep these in a safe place.

9  At the start of each day your tour guide will tell you what time you should be ready, or to be on the bus for the next day's journey, it is up to you to contact your guide if you missed announcements on times. 

10 We strongly suggest you to purchase travel insurance to cover your travel investment in the event that you have to cancel your trip closer to the travel date.

11  Some of our trips require walking over stony roads and pathways, it is advised to always bring strong waterproof walking shoes, and waterproof/windproof outer coats/jackets also.

12 We also advise all participants to let us know of food allergies they have. We also state that if there are walks on rough surfaces or up hills, if you don't think you can take part please let us know and you can stay on the bus with the driver.

13 Each participant is responsible for their baggage being brought from the Coach to their accommodation except in the case where the company have booked porterage. The group will be advised where porterage will take place.

14 Conditions, availability, or contractual obligations may warrant for dates, venues, lodging, talent/celebrity headliners/hosts/guests. Ambassadors, tour guides or transportation modes to be changed or cancelled. It is our intent and obligation, within the best of our ability, to substitute and /or accommodate equal or enhanced alternatives. We will not refund any deposits or payments towards the tour due to these conditions.

15 There is a certain fitness level required for this tour, if you feel that you cannot walk up hill or long walks, we will ask you to stay on the bus. 

16 Secret Ireland Tours operates on an 8 to 9 hour day policy. When we depart early, usually around 9 AM, we generally return to our accommodations between 6 PM and 7 PM. If we have evening excursions, we leave later in the day to comply with legal driving time regulations for our driver.

17 We do not hire additional drivers to extend the length of our tours. While some people may prefer tours lasting 10 to 12 hours, the majority do not.

18 We reserve the right to refuse service.

19 This tour is based on 25 participants booked.

Committment to Customers

Planning international travel — especially a multi-day trip to a new country — can be overwhelming. We know how important it is to choose a trusted travel company for your Ireland adventure, and we don’t take your investment of time, money, and energy lightly. That’s why, as an Irish-owned company, we’ve created a different kind of tour experience, built on transparency, comfort, and unforgettable moments.

One thing we want you to know, at the time of posting this itinerary, some venues might not have opened their booking system, so we might not have confirmation until later in the year. We are very well known to most venues so the always pencil us in provisionally, which more or less guarantees us a slot for the day and time we require. But even though we are on the ball and book as early as we can, some parts of the itinerary are tentative, and as soon as we have booked everything, I will let the group know. We do not anticipate any problems, though.


Here’s our commitment to you:

  • A thoughtful itinerary, not a packed checklist.
    Many travel companies try to squeeze too much into each day. We don’t. Our small group Ireland tours are designed to give you room to breathe — with time to truly explore, connect, and appreciate the culture, not just take photos from a bus window.


  • Fewer hotel changes and no exhausting early starts.
    You won’t be living out of a suitcase or waking up at 6 a.m. every day. Our stress-free tours prioritize relaxed pacing, multiple-night stays in key locations, and time to enjoy local pubs, music, and culture each evening.


  • Intentionally small group sizes.
    We don’t believe in overfilling seats just because we can. Our tours are designed to stay small — not only for comfort and accessibility, but to create space for genuine connection, flexibility, and a more personal, meaningful experience for everyone.


  • We do our very best to book early and make sure that if it is on the itinerary, it is confirmed.
    No vague placeholders or broken promises. Every listed stop or experience on your Ireland tour package is going to happen unless there is something beyond our control that happens.

  • If plans change, you’ll be the first to know.
    Travel can be unpredictable, but we’re upfront and communicative. If weather or local conditions force a change, we’ll replace it with something of equal or higher quality — and we’ll explain why. Honest travel experiences are the only kind we offer.


  • Real time at real places — no drive-bys.
    Unlike some tours that rush through each location, we provide time to explore and enjoy each stop. When we say we're visiting a destination, it’s not a 10-minute drop-off. (But yes, we still leave room for those spontaneous roadside stops when the moment calls for it.)


  • Clear, consistent communication.
    We believe in accountable travel planning and responsive customer support. You’ll always know where to turn if you have questions, and we’re right there with you — not just behind a desk.

This is more than a vacation. It's a journey we’re taking together — and we’re here to make sure it’s one you’ll never forget.

What's Included

What's included

Airport Transfers

We pick you up at the airport on the first morning of the tour and leave you back the last day.

Accommodation

You will stay in 3/4 star hotels and will also have 2 nights in an Irish Castle.

8 Breakfasts

8 full Irish breakfasts. Real hearty meals that would keep you going all day long.

Bus

We work with a very well established, reputable bus company who supply a very comfortable 27 seater bus.

Driver

Our drivers are amazing and will look after you very well. They know the highways and byways like the back of their hands.

Tour Guide

We are blessed to have great tour guides and we will have a great guide looking after you from the beginning of the tour until you return to the airport on the last day

Venus

Venue fees are included to all venues on the itinerary

Snacks/drinks

We have snacks and drinks on the bus for long journeys

Taxes and Charges

All hotel, bus and venue taxes and charges are covered

Farewell Meal

We cover a farewell evening meal in Fitzpatrick's Castle the night before you leave Ireland.

What's not included

Flights

We do not deal with flights.

Venues

Any venue you want to visit that is not on the itinerary, we do not cover.

Meals

We do not cover lunch or evening meals except the farewell meal

Laundry

We can arrange laundry but it is at your expense.

Travel Insurance

We strongly suggest that you purchase travel Insurance. It can be purchased here. When you are booking your spot you can see where the insurance is available to buy.

Charges by hotel

If you use the hotel room phone to make outside calls, or use the room bar, it will be at your own expense.

Pricing

Day 1

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Day 1

Belvedere House:

Belvedere House Gardens & Park is a beautiful 18th-century estate set on the shores of Lough Ennell near Mullingar, County Westmeath. Wander through its magnificent gardens, woodland trails and historic grounds while discovering the fascinating stories and legends surrounding the estate. With its stunning lake views, Gothic follies and peaceful landscapes, Belvedere is a wonderful place to step back in time and experience the beauty, history and hidden treasures of Ireland.

Lough Key Forest Park:

Lough Key Forest Park is a magical place woodland escape in the heart of County Roscommon, where ancient forests, sparkling lakes and centuries of history come together.

Once part of the Rockingham Estate, the park offers beautiful walking trails, spectacular views across Lough Key and fascinating remnants of the old estate, including the historic Moylurg Tower. 

With its peaceful woodland paths, scenic lake setting, and sense of adventure around every corner, Lough Key is a wonderful place to experience the natural beauty and hidden history of Ireland.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 2

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Boat ride from Rosses Point:

You are taken out onto the Atlantic Ocean to watch

Dolphins, Whales, and other wildlife. From the ocean you can look back and view the stunning scenery of Sligo, with Benbulben and Knockanrea standing tall over the Sligo coastline.

Once you have returned to shore, you will be taken on a stunning coastal drive around Mullaghmore. Where you will see Classiebawn Castle.

Creevykeel Court Tomb:

Creevykeel Court Tomb is one of Ireland’s finest and best-preserved megalithic monuments, dating back more than 5,000 years. Set beneath the dramatic slopes of Benwiskin in County Sligo, this ancient stone tomb offers a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of Ireland’s prehistoric people. Walking among its enormous standing stones and ancient chambers, visitors can almost feel the deep connection between the people who built it and the wild landscape around them. A truly atmospheric and unforgettable stop on any journey through Sligo’s ancient heart.

Gleniff Horseshoe drive:

The Gleniff Horseshoe is one of County Sligo’s most spectacular scenic drives, winding through a dramatic natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering mountains and rugged cliffs. As the road curves around the horseshoe-shaped valley, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Benwiskin, Truskmore and the ancient Gleniff landscape, with waterfalls, woodland and hidden caves adding to its wild beauty. Steeped in folklore and surrounded by an air of mystery, the Gleniff Horseshoe is a truly unforgettable journey through one of Ireland’s most magnificent and untouched landscapes.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 3

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Sliabh Liag:

Slieve League Cliffs are among the most spectacular coastal landscapes in Ireland, rising dramatically from the wild Atlantic Ocean to heights of almost 2,000 feet. Towering over the rugged coastline, these magnificent cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views across Donegal Bay and, on a clear day, far out towards the Atlantic horizon. Surrounded by untamed scenery, sea winds and ancient Irish landscape, Slieve League is an unforgettable experience and a perfect place to appreciate the raw beauty and magic of Ireland’s northwest.

Donegal Town:

We stop in Donegal Town on our return journey back to the hotel. You have time to get some good food and do a little exploring the Castle and the shops too.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 4

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Day 5

Knock Shrine:

Knock shrine is Ireland's most atmospheric places of pilgrimage drawing visitors from around the world to its peaceful grounds in County Mayo.

The story of Knock began in 1879, when local people reported witnessing an extraordinary apparition of the Virgin Mary at the gable wall of the parish church. 

Today, visitors can explore the beautiful basilica, historic church and tranquil grounds, taking time for reflection and discovering the remarkable story that has made Knock a treasured part of Ireland’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Galway city:

You get to explore Galway city for the afternoon. So many cobbled streets, cute stores, street musicians. The atmosphere is always friendly and light there. Restaurants serve amazing food and you can explore the bars and listen to great traditional music too.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 5

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Sheep Dog's working:

We are bringing you to a very special sheep farm today, where you will see the sheepdogs working

and watch how the farmer and dogs work together. It is amazing to see the bond between dog and his owner.

Alpaca Farm:

You will then go a few miles down the road and visit the local Alpaca Farm where Siobhán will introduce you to all the animals on her farm. You will have the pleasure of walking the alpacas and feeding the bunnies.

Sligo Shopping for the afternoon.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 6

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Strokestown Park House – A Journey into Ireland’s Past

Step back in time at Strokestown Park House, one of Ireland’s finest surviving Palladian-style mansions, nestled in the heart of County Roscommon. Built in the 18th century and home to the Anglo-Irish Pakenham Mahon family for generations, this magnificent historic estate offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s aristocratic past. Explore its elegant rooms, beautifully preserved period furnishings and grand architectural features, which tell the story of a way of life that has long since disappeared. Beyond the house, the estate’s walled gardens and extensive grounds invite visitors to discover the beauty and heritage of this remarkable property. Strokestown also holds an important place in Irish history through its connection to the Great Famine of the 1840s, offering a poignant insight into the lives of ordinary people during one of the most devastating periods in Ireland’s history. A visit to Strokestown Park House is more than a sightseeing stop; it is an opportunity to experience the grandeur, complexity and enduring stories of Ireland’s past.

Fitzpatrick's Castle Hotel:

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is a magnificent 18th-century castle hotel perched on Killiney Hill overlooking the sparkling waters of Dublin Bay. Family-owned and steeped in history, the castle combines old-world elegance and traditional Irish hospitality with the comforts of a modern four-star hotel. Guests can enjoy beautiful coastal views, elegant dining, cosy bars and relaxing leisure facilities, while the nearby villages of Dalkey and Killiney offer charming streets, seaside walks and plenty to explore. With its dramatic setting, fascinating history and warm welcome, Fitzpatrick Castle provides a memorable and distinctly Irish finale to any tour of Ireland.

You can enjoy all the facilities of the Castle or you can go exploring the village. Bono from U2 Band lives not too far away from the Castle, so you could explore and see where he lives.

You could also take a bus to the City Center if you wish to explore Dublin city.

Activity Level: low/moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on availability, weather, and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 7

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Powerscourt House and Gardens

Powerscourt House is one of Ireland's most spectacular estates, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sugar Loaf Mountains in County Wicklow.

Explore the magnificent formal gardens, ornamental lakes, grand terraces and peaceful woodland walks, all beautifully designed to create a sense of wonder at every turn. With its elegant 18th-century house, sweeping landscapes and spectacular mountain views, Powerscourt is a truly enchanting experience and a perfect opportunity to discover why County Wicklow is known as the “Garden of Ireland.”

Glendalough:

Glendalough Monastic City is one of Ireland’s most enchanting historic landscapes, nestled deep within the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. Once a thriving early Christian monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough is now home to remarkable medieval ruins, including its iconic round tower, ancient churches and atmospheric stone buildings. Surrounded by peaceful woodlands, two shimmering lakes and dramatic mountain scenery, Glendalough offers a magical glimpse into Ireland’s ancient spiritual past and is a truly unforgettable place to explore.

You return to Fitzpatrick's Castle to enjoy a farewell dinner for the group on us.

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Day 8

Ardgillan Castle:

Discover the charm and elegance of Ardgillan Castle, a magnificent historic country house nestled within a beautiful 200-acre demesne overlooking the Irish Sea. Built in the 18th century by the Taylor family, this impressive residence combines Georgian architecture with sweeping coastal views, enchanting woodlands, and beautifully maintained gardens. Visitors can explore the castle's fascinating history, stroll through its colourful walled gardens, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the surrounding parkland, where the sea provides a spectacular backdrop. From its elegant interiors to its picturesque grounds, Ardgillan Castle offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Ireland's historic country-house heritage while discovering one of Dublin's most scenic coastal estates.

Malahide Castle:

Step into centuries of Irish history at Malahide Castle, one of Ireland's most captivating historic castles, whose story stretches back almost 800 years. Once the ancestral home of the Talbot family, who lived here for generations from the 12th century until the 20th century, Malahide Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of an influential Anglo-Irish family. Its beautifully preserved rooms, period furnishings, impressive portraits, and striking medieval architecture bring the past vividly to life. Beyond the castle walls, visitors can wander through magnificent parkland and explore the renowned Talbot Botanic Gardens, featuring exotic plants, colourful displays, and winding paths. Blending history, architecture, and natural beauty, Malahide Castle is a wonderful destination for anyone wishing to experience the grandeur and enduring heritage of Ireland's great historic estates.

Christchurch Cathedral:

Step back almost a thousand years into the heart of Dublin's fascinating past with a visit to Christ Church Cathedral, one of Ireland's most historic and magnificent places of worship. Founded around 1030 by the Norse King of Dublin, Sitric Silkenbeard, and later rebuilt in the grand medieval style, this remarkable cathedral has witnessed centuries of religious, political, and social change. Its soaring Gothic arches, beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and atmospheric medieval crypt tell the story of a city shaped by Viking settlers, Anglo-Norman rulers, and generations of Dubliners. Beneath the cathedral lies one of the largest medieval crypts in Ireland and Britain, offering a fascinating glimpse into the building's long and colourful history. With its extraordinary architecture, ancient treasures, and enduring spiritual significance, Christ Church Cathedral is an unforgettable highlight for anyone wishing to discover the rich heritage and timeless character of Ireland's capital city.

Activity level: low/Moderate

This itinerary is subject to change depending on availability, weather, and other conditions beyond our control.

Day 9

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Dublin Airport

We bring you back to the airport in plenty of time for you return flight home.

We wish you a very safe flight and hope that you had a great time and you will be back again with us soon.

About your organizer

We are a 100% Irish-owned tour company that specialises in tours to Ireland. We offer authentic, affordable, unique itineraries to our clients. We have tours for groups up to 12 and up to 30. You will find tours for different parts of the country, different prices, and different times of the year. We bring you to some amazing places. We also offer packages for traveler who do not want to join a tour. If you want to put your own tour itinerary together but you need help, we offer consultation services also.

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