This memorable MS Albatros cruise excursions full-day tour with Diamond Chauffeurs Ireland shore excursions will enable you to discover some of the finest scenery Northern Ireland has to offer, from the rugged cliffs of the coast to the magical beauty of the Glens, you will see all this and much more besides
This epic route delivers everything you want from an authentic Irish coastal experience, magical volcanic landscapes, soaring cliffs and pristine beaches. Traveling through the iconic Irish coastline, you will uncover a wealth of castles, visitor attractions and heritage sites. Hugging the rugged cliffs and coves, your journey will take you away from the frantic bustle of modern life and lead you through the tranquil enchanting Glens of Antrim. The slow road will connect you with the rich history and folklore amidst the mystical landscapes. These landscapes have been pivotal locations for the production of the huge world wide tv series Game of Thrones.
A few miles down country roads to the rugged slopes and wild green beauty of Cairncastle, now better known as the land of the House of Stark in Game of Thrones. Set out and you will find yourself treading in the footsteps of history, past ancient Celtic cashes and monuments. On the black hill ( Knockdhu), about a mile west of Cairncastle, you will come across a vast awe-inspiring Bronze Age fort carved into the landscape, where the views sweep down to the sea. Stay here for a while and let the enormity of this place sink in. It truly is a mystical experience. It is just a short drive from here to Carnfunnock Country Park, where the options to enjoy yourself are endless. You can crack the mystery of the Maze or loose yourself in its craftily designed paths forever! Try giant chess, get to know the famous collection trees close up and personnel, enjoy a barbecue , hearty meals in the cafe with wonderful views of the coastline and Irish sea. Onwards to the nearby Ballygally Castle hotel, fashioned from a 17th century Castle for lunch. You can relax listening to the waves from the beach below and cast an eye to the Scottish coast barley twenty miles away. MS Albatros excursions.
Game of Thrones locations Cairncastle GOT
Discovering the coastal road: As you pass Ballygally towards Glenarm, the intense blue waters seem to get closer as unique rock formations appear on either side. Headlands appear in the distance and grow nearer as the road meanders between them, sometimes veering through manmade arches in the cliffs. At glorious Glenarm Castle the tranquil grounds belie a history of savage conflict that goes back centuries. Stroll along the Castle Trail to get a birds eye view of the 17th century Palladian Castle, if there is ten or more you can book ahead and arrange a private tour. The highlight here will be the walk around the colourful walled garden originally designed before Queen Victoria was born. In recent years Viscount and Viscountess McDonnell have created a magical transformation, restoring the garden to the pristine beauty of the original and creating awesome colour that pervades all.
You can enjoy the refreshments in the Tea Rooms, were you can sample the world famous organic beef and salmon, delicious breads, wonderful homemade cakes and scones. Lunch at the Walled Garden Tea Rooms is an experience for a foodie to remember. MS Albatros Excursions.
Heavenly mountain: Now its time to head towards the mountain at the heart of our spirituality and home of St Patrick – Slemish. The journey will take us through endless rolling green hills and valleys towards lovely and award winning Broughshane, at the foot of Slemish mountain. You will relax and enjoy some time in the UK’s Village of the Year 2018, wander the beautifully restored Raceview Mill. A 200 year old mill, now full of wonderfull shops, including delicious locally sourced foods. A short drive takes you to Slemish car park, where you will begin your climb to the summit of “Patrick’s Mountain”. There are several paths to the summit and if your legs complain remind them your reward will be heavenly! The distinctive domed shape of Slemish Mountain, the central core of an extinct volcano, can be seen from across the county of Antrim. You can imagine the scenic views from the summit, 1500 feet above sea level. You will be looking down on the beautiful Shillanavogy Valley below. This valley famously recreated in Game of Thrones as the Dothraki grasslands. As you breathe in this spectacle, imagine the young shepherd, Patrick and his lonely six year vigil on these slopes working for a local farmer. It was here that the captured slave discovered his spirituality through endless prayer and communicating with the beautiful natural world around him. From a vision of the angel Victoricus were born the seeds to convert the Irish to Christianity. You can visit the ruins of nearby Skerry Church, thought to be one of the first churches Irelands patron saint built on that return.
Diamond Chauffeurs Ireland work along side a network of businesses ready to work with you and your clients. We know each other well and have developed the Giant Spirit brand together. Our Giant Spirit puts the warmth in our welcome, we appreciate clients and enjoy spending time with them. We understand you and your clients vacation is the most important time of the year and we will work hard to make it great for them. Diamond Chauffeurs Ireland share a commitment to high quality attractions and businesses. We know that everyone is different and so offer individually tailored experiences. We hope your excursion has enhanced your experience of the Albatros cruise ship.
Contact Diamond Chauffeurs Ireland to book a tour or excursion from your cruise ship MS Albatros. You can view a selection of tours on our website www.diamondchauffeursireland.com