Discover a beautiful and less-visited corner of Northern Ireland on a flexible private tour combining Strangford Lough, St Patrick's Country and the spectacular Mourne Mountains.
Your local driver-guide will collect you from your Belfast accommodation, cruise terminal or Grand Central Station before travelling south through Belfast and onwards towards Strangford Lough. Along the way, pass Stormont Parliament Buildings, Northern Ireland's seat of government, with an optional stop at Scrabo Tower for spectacular views across Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside.
Continue to the shores of Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland's largest sea lough. Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful coastal landscape, with opportunities for photographs and short stops along the way. Depending on your interests, there is also the option to visit Mount Stewart, one of Northern Ireland's finest historic houses and gardens. Admission is optional and not included.
Cross Strangford Lough on the scenic car ferry from Portaferry to Strangford, enjoying views across the water as you travel towards St Patrick's Country.
Continue into an area strongly associated with Ireland's patron saint. Visit Downpatrick and see Down Cathedral, traditionally associated with St Patrick's burial place. Your guide will bring the landscape and history to life, explaining the connections between St Patrick, Christianity and this part of Northern Ireland.
From St Patrick's Country, continue towards the Mourne Mountains, an area of spectacular granite peaks, valleys and coastal scenery. Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains with opportunities for photographs and short walks, depending on the weather and your interests.
Depending on the time available, there may be an opportunity to visit Tollymore Forest Park, with its beautiful woodland, rivers and mountain views, or spend more time exploring the Mourne landscape and the seaside town of Newcastle.
On the return journey to Belfast, there is also the option to visit Hillsborough Castle, the official royal residence in Northern Ireland. Admission is optional and not included.
The exact route can be adapted to suit your interests, the weather and the amount of time you want to spend at each location. Choose historic houses and gardens, St Patrick's heritage, forests and scenery — or simply enjoy a relaxed journey through one of Northern Ireland's most beautiful regions.
Travel in comfort in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable local driver-guide, with Belfast pickup and drop-off included.