Hidden Treasure of Donegal
-
Port
Greencastle (Londonderry), Ireland
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$129.95
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals included
Departing from the pier at Greencastle, a panoramic drive takes you along the banks of Lough Foyle to the walled city of Derry. The walls of this city were never breached, so Derry is often referred to as the Maiden City. Today, with "the Troubles" in the past, Derry enjoys the freedom and bustle of a small, compact and developing city.
Upon arrival, you'll stop to photograph St Columb's Cathedral (outside view only). This Gothic cathedral, constructed early in the 17th century, has a fine spire and 13 bells. In the vestibule is the mortar shell that fell in the churchyard during the Siege of Derry in 1689.
Leave the city and travel to the small village of Raphoe in County Donegal.
You'll visit Oakfield Park, an 18th-century Georgian deanery, which has won several national awards for the restoration of its gardens and buildings in a lush landscape of parklands and mature woodlands. The deanery overlooks the distant Croaghan Mountains and its grounds include a traditional walled garden and kitchen garden. Flower meadows, lakes and streams, as well as wild and wetland areas, give hours of pleasure. Discover willow tunnels, oak circles, boardwalks, a par-terre and a classical Nymphaeum by the upper lake. There is wildlife in abundance here and, if you are lucky, you may glimpse the large red Irish hare, foxes, badgers or rabbits that call these gardens home. The varieties of dragonflies, damselflies and the myriad of pond life that have taken up residence are also a constant delight. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or perhaps take a short ride on the small train. This is the best way to see all of the Lower Gardens. Two miles of narrow-gauge track weave through the trees, revealing many pleasing vistas. Lose yourself in the pure peace and serenity of this wonderland of natural beauty.
Enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee before you re-join the motorcoach and return to Greencastle and the ship.
Notes:
Dress warmly in layers so you are comfortable despite the inevitable changeability of Ireland's weather. Oakfield Park house is not open to the public. The terrain in the gardens is a mixture of gravel, steps and inclines and is not fully accessible; however, there is partial access for wheelchairs on the main roadways and many of the paths through the gardens. An access train carriage is available to guests using a wheelchair.