12th June 2022
TR Tours - Ireland 2022 - ONLY FOUR PLACES LEFT
TR Tours was started to encourage members to drive their TRs further afield. Our first tour in 2016 was to County Kerry in Ireland where 23 members and their partners discovered the delights of gentle touring in good company. Ireland proved to be a very popular destination as we returned again in 2017, this time to County Down. Since then we have been to France, Spain, Belgium and Scotland. Therefore we are delighted to once again return to Ireland, this time to County Antrim on the North coast with our travel partners Travel Destinations. To drive your TR along the Causeway Coastal Route is to experience one of the most dramatic roads in the world. The coastline is sprinkled with historic castles set amongst rugged cliffs and unspoilt beaches. The neighbouring Glens of Antrim, where ancient woodlands border green hills, create a mythical backdrop to this essential Irish journey. We will explore this from our luxurious hotel; the award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, allowing you to relax with like minded members in the evenings after great day touring in your TR.
Like most TR Tours, we try to stay in one hotel for the duration allowing a high level flexibility so that members can choose what to do and when. The tour is built around a set of relatively short but very scenic routes provided in a well written, easy to follow route book. You are encouraged to stop frequently to enjoy the surroundings, local attractions, food and culture. The tour is lead by a Mark and Sarah Ockendon from the TR Register, who's role is to ensure that you have a good time and everything goes according to plan but they are also there to help resolve any hiccups along the way. This makes this tour ideal for members who may not have much experience of touring or taking their TR beyond their comfort zone. The suggested itinerary is as follows:
Sunday 12th June
Depart from Holyhead to Dublin (routes from Cairnryan or Liverpool to Belfast are also available). After arriving in Dublin, we drive north up the coast to Ballymena in County Antrim. After checking in at the Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort, you are invited to join a welcome barbecue at the hotel. (Approximate driving distance: 130 miles)
Monday 13th June
The first of our circular road runs takes us to Bushmills, where you will be able to tour the oldest working distillery in Ireland. From Bushmills it is a short hop to view the iconic rock formations at Giant’s Causeway. Our route back passes Mussenden temple and Magilligan strand before turning inland past the picturesque Roe Valley Country Park. A 3-course evening meal will be hosted in the hotel’s Grill Restaurant. (Approximate driving distance: 87 miles)
Tuesday 14th June
Heading back to the coast, past Dark Hedges; an avenue of entwined beech trees, we visit the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge that stretches over a 24m deep chasm to a rocky island. From here we continue clockwise, past Torr head; with views across to Scotland, to the small fishing village of Cushendun. Here is the gateway to the Glens of Antrim and we head back via Glenariff Forest Park. Tonight’s dinner will be hosted in the hotel’s Italian restaurant. (Approximate driving distance: 77 miles)
Wednesday 15th June
Today can be a day to rest to enjoy the exceptional hotel facilities. Perhaps take a walk by the river or indulge in the hotel’s award-winning spa facilities. Alternatively, for those wishing to explore, there is the option to visit the famous Titanic quarter at Belfast docks. There will be an option to join other members dining locally if you choose.
Thursday 16th June
Our third road run takes us to Carrickfergus. The castle dominates the skyline, dating back to 1178. From the castle we continue around the coast, beyond Larne, to Ballygally and Glenarm Castle, where it is possible to visit the walled garden. A private suite at the hotel has been reserved for tonight’s final group dinner. (Approximate driving distance: 75 miles)
Friday 17th June
After breakfast, we return to our ferries. Those returning via Scotland can return to Belfast for the morning crossing, whilst those heading South can return to Dublin for the afternoon crossing (Approximate driving distance: 130 miles)
TOUR PRICE:
£899.00 per person (based on 2 people in a car sharing a double or twin room)
A deposit of £100.00 per person is required at the time of booking
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Return cruise ferry crossings from Holyhead to Dublin Port, or Cairnryan to Belfast with Stena Line (A supplement will apply for Liverpool to Belfast)
Hotel accommodation for 5 nights in a double or twin, Superior Room, at the Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort
Five breakfasts & four evening meals at the hotel
Monday morning tour of Bushmills Distillery
Tour escorted by TR Register volunteers
Suggested road runs, route guides and rally boards
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
Entrance and/or car parking charges at points of interest away from the hotel and not mentioned above
Other meals not stated above
Spa treatments at the hotel (bookable in advance)
Personal Travel Insurance & European breakdown cover
For more details, or to make a booking please call Travel Destinations on 01707 329988.