A Taste of Ulster
Tour of Northern Ireland
Hosted by Alison Balzer
17th – 26th May 2024
Embark on an enriching cultural journey with Brack Tours’ A Taste of Ulster Tour, and explore the captivating locations of Belfast, Ballycastle, Derry, and Newry. From the bustling streets of Belfast to the beauty of the Antrim Coastline then onto the historic walls of Derry, and the outstanding natural landscapes of Newry, Mourne, and Down every moment presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic essence of Ulster. Our expertly curated tour offers insights into the region’s rich heritage, allowing you to connect with locals, appreciate local art, and uncover the hidden stories that define each location. We hope you join us and begin to Embrace a Giant Spirit.
Alison Balzer, originally hailing from the picturesque Northeast coast of Ireland, has since made her home in Canada but maintains a deep-seated love for her native land. Her fervent interest lies in the enthralling histories of Ulster and Scotland. Armed with a Master’s degree in Scottish Heritage, she possesses a Level 2 Award in Tour Guiding and a Level 1 Award in Introducing Ulster-Scots, reflecting her dedication to her academic pursuits.
Alison has evolved into a distinguished destination specialist for Northern Ireland. Over the past year, she has diligently assisted numerous travelers in meticulously planning their journeys to the region. Her enthusiasm for Northern Ireland knows no bounds, and she is particularly excited about her role in hosting “A Taste of Ulster.” In this capacity, she leverages her profound knowledge of travel and her intimate familiarity with the area.
Our 8 Nights / 9 Days Tour of Ireland includes:
- Deluxe motor-coach for all transfers, Touring, and Sightseeing
- Services of a professional Tour Director throughout
- First-class hotel accommodations for eight (8) nights: Europa Hotel, Belfast (2), Marine Hotel, Ballycastle (2), Ebrington Hotel, Derry (2), Killeavy Castle Estate, Newry (2)
- Full Irish Breakfast daily including the day of arrival.
- Four (4) hotel dinners
- Welcome drink reception
- Porterage at hotels throughout of 1 suitcase per person
- Taxes and Service Charges on items included
- Travel documents to include: luggage tags and daily itinerary
*Courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland*
Tour Details:
| TOUR PRICE | Land Only – £2505.00 per person based on Double Room Occupancy (2 persons)
*Minimum of 20 tour participants* |
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| SINGLE SUPPLEMENT | £554.00 to be paid along with full per-person tour price based on Sole Room Occupancy (1 person) | ||
| START DATE | Tour Commences 18th May at Dublin Airport | ||
| END DATE | Tour Finishes 26th May at Dublin Airport | ||
| WEAR | Clothing (we recommend layered clothing, sensible walking shoes, rain jacket and carry bag for daily touring) | ||
| INCLUDED |
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| NOT INCLUDED |
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Tour Registration
For all tour registrations please fill out the booking form found on the right-hand side of this webpage please also click the number of members that you will be signing up for and that all information is correct before proceeding.
To register for this tour and if paying by check please click on the PDF icon below and download & print this registration form.
Upon doing this please mail the check and registration form along to Brack Tours, 133 Washington Street #524 Dover, NH 03820
We recommend you have adequate Travel Protection
Travel Protection Policy Details
To obtain a quote with our partners Travel Insured please click on the image above.
Additional information
| Tour Type | Land Only |
|---|
Taste of Ulster
Day-to-Day Outline Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1 - Friday 17th May - Overnight Flight to Ireland
Dinner and refreshments will be served. You will awaken this morning to your first glimpse of Ireland.
Day 2 - Saturday 18th May - Arrive Dublin - Belfast
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Welcome Breakfast
- Panoramic Tour of Belfast City
- Titanic Belfast
Dinner, Overnight & Breakfast: Europa Hotel, Belfast
Day 3 - Sunday 19th May - Glenshane & Belfast City
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Glenshane Country Farm Experience
- Lunch at Friels Historic Pub
- Free time to Explore Belfast City
Overnight & Breakfast: Europa Hotel, Belfast
Day 4 - Monday 20th May - Antrim
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Glenarm Castle & Gardens
- Antrim Coastal Scenic Drive
Dinner, Overnight & Breakfast: Marine Hotel, Ballycastle
Day 5 - Tuesday 21st May - Causeway Coast
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge (subject to weather conditions)
- Giant’s Causeway
- Causeway Coastal Route
Overnight & Breakfast: Marine Hotel, Ballycastle
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Panoramic Tour of Derry City
- Derry City Walking Tour
- Museum of Free Derry
Dinner, Overnight & Breakfast: Ebrington Hotel, Derry
Day 7 - Thursday 23rd May - Derry City
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Tower Museum
- Free time to Explore Derry City
Overnight & Breakfast: Ebrington Hotel, Derry
Day 8 - Friday 24th May - Derry to Newry
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Ulster American Folk Park
- Hill of O’Neill & Ranfurly House
Dinner, Overnight & Breakfast: Killeavy Castle Hotel, Newry
Day 9 - Saturday 25th May - Newry, Mourne & Down
Visits & Sightseeing to include:-
- Mourne Coastal Route
- St. Patricks Visitor Centre
- Lunch at Denvirs Coach Inn
- Hinch Distillery
Overnight & Breakfast: Killeavy Castle Hotel, Newry
Day 10 - Sunday 26th May - Depart Ireland to US
In the blink of an eye, your vacation in Ireland has come to an end! After breakfast, you will be escorted to Dublin Airport where you bid your last farewells to your Irish Tour Director.
18th & 19th May 2024 – Europa Hotel, Belfast
The World Famous Europa Hotel in Belfast is located in the heart of Belfast City Centre. Due to its prime location, the Europa Hotel is a short distance from many of Belfast’s top visitor attractions including the Ulster Museum, Grand Opera House, City Hall, Titanic Belfast, the Waterfront Hall and the SSE Arena.
The Europa Hotel has an international reputation for hosting prestigious events and looking after many of the celebrities and VIPs who visit Belfast. At the Europa, every guest is a VIP and will experience the finest in Irish Hospitality and the highest level of customer service.
20th & 21st May 2024 – Marine Hotel, Ballycastle
There has been a hotel on the current seafront site for many years and it is a well-known landmark throughout Moyle and Giants Causeway area.
The hotel is run by General Manager Philip Murphy and is owned by Claire Hunter (a local businesswoman from Armoy), alongside her business partner, Colum McLornan. Together they have over 40 years’ of experience in the tourism industry running hotels throughout the world, from small 18-bedroom properties to international 300-room resorts.
22nd & 23rd May 2024 – Ebrington Hotel, Derry
Experience a luxury city centre sanctuary at the Ebrington Hotel & Spa where a warm welcome will await. Enjoy a privileged and unique location, overlooking the River Foyle and the entire historic city with shopping, museums, entertainment and many attractions on your doorstep.
24th & 25th May 2024 – Killeavy Castle Hotel, Newry
Killeavy Castle Estate is the perfect antidote to the modern fast-paced world. As the centrepiece of 350 acres of mixed farm and woodland in County Armagh’s stunning Slieve Gullion, it’s the ideal place to escape, retreat, relax and unwind.
At Killeavy, they all about living life more slowly and in the present; cherishing those ahhh moments – when the distractions of the modern world finally ebb away and you get closer to the things that matter most. Whether that’s nature, history, loved ones or even yourself, this secluded country estate will provide everything you need to emerge fully rejuvenated.
26th May 2024 – Return Flight from Dublin
You bid farewell to the Emerald Isle as you board your flight back home.
Midi Coach
- These custom-built vehicles are ideal for small groups of 16 to 29 and come with a full leather interior, tables, USB charging points. With climate control and ample luggage storage, these vehicles are ideal for small groups and family trips, corporate transfers, and VIP events. A fully qualified Driver/Guide can be provided upon request.
- Seat Belts
- Fully Air-Conditioned
- Privacy Glass
- Seat Belts
- Large Luggage Capacity
- WiFi on request
*Subject to change depending on numbers going on tour *
A Taste of Ulster
Tour of Northern Ireland
Hosted by Alison Balzer
17th – 26th May 2024
Land Only Tour Price
- Land Tour Price £2505.00 per person – Based on double occupancy
- Single Supplement £554.00 (Book early limited availability) – Based on single occupancy & to be paid along with Full Tour Cost.
How To Join
- To join this tour, complete the below registration form and send along with a check deposit of $500.00 per person and make payable to Brack Tours or if paying by credit card please see the right-hand section of this webpage for the tour booking form.
Deposits & Payments Schedule per person:
- A deposit of £500.00 per person is required at the time of booking
- Second Part Payment of £900.00 per person due by 15th January 2024
- Final Payment due by 18th March 2024
If paying by check:
- Complete the registration form
- Make check payable to Brack Tours
- Mail the form along with the check to: Brack Tours, 133 Washington Street #524 Dover, NH 03820
Tour Booking Code:
- TASUL24
Air Cancellation Penalties:
- Air: 120 days prior to departure air is Non-refundable
Land Cancellation Penalties:
- Land: Outside of 65 days Forfeit of deposit per person
- Land: 64 – 46 days Forfeit 35% Land Price per person
- Land: 45 – 16 days Forfeit 50% Land Price per person
- Land: 15 days or less Forfeit 100% Land Price per person
Tour Registration
To register for this tour and if paying by check please click on the PDF icon below and download & print this registration form.
Travel Protection Policy Details
To obtain a quote with our partners Travel Insured please click on the image above.