Sign upLog in

Back to Trip Details

Saddle Up & Slow Down in Ireland

Apr 14 - 22, 2026

user avatar

Your Advisor

Margaret Critz

For The Good Times Travel

SOT - Florida: ST39093

SOT - California: 2164892-40

SOT - Washington: 603 308 394

advisor business logo

margaretcritz@forthegoodtimestravel.com

5012299356

Overview


This is an intimate hosted journey based in Derry and along the Causeway and Donegal coasts. With Bishop's Gate Hotel as your home base, you'll spend a week in the company of horses, coastline, and countryside -- with time built in to simply be present in one of the most beautiful corners of Ireland.

The experience has been shaped in close collaboration with Crindle Bespoke Experiences, whose deep roots in Northern Ireland open doors to people and places that most visitors never see. Each day has been thoughtfully arranged so that nothing feels rushed -- just one meaningful experience following naturally from the last.

From a private heritage ride at Crindle Stables to a sunset beach ride along the coast below Mussenden Temple, from the walled streets of Derry to the wild quiet of Glenveagh National Park, this week is designed for travelers who want to feel a place, not just see it.

Trip Details


Good to Know & Helpful Hints

Documents and Entry Please ensure your passport is valid for travel. Keep a photo of your passport on your phone and leave a copy at home with someone you trust. For Northern Ireland, a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required and must...

View details

Day 1 · Tue, Apr 14


Arrival in Dublin

Welcome to Ireland. This morning you'll arrive into Dublin following your overnight flight from Boston. After clearing passport control and collecting your luggage, you'll make your way into the arrivals hall to meet your onward arrangements or tr...

Day 2 · Wed, Apr 15


Private Transfer · Dublin Airport (DUB) to Derry

9:15AM

This morning, your journey north begins as you make your way to Derry, where your time together really begins to take shape. Settle in and get to know your fellow travelers as you enjoy a private transfer from Dublin up to Derry. The drive is a be...

Bishops Gate Hotel

24 Bishop Street, Londonderry BT48 6PP, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Arrival in Derry & Check-In You'll arrive in Derry in the afternoon and make your way to Bishop's Gate Hotel, your home for the next several nights. Set within the historic city walls and housed in a former gentleman's club (where Winston Churchil...

Evening at Leisure - Derry

This evening is yours to settle in and enjoy Derry at your own pace. Margaret and Hazel will be available for a casual drink this evening if you'd like to stop by and say hello. Details will be shared upon arrival. If you prefer a quiet evening, t...

View details

Day 3 · Thu, Apr 16


Morning Transfer · Bishop's Gate Hotel to Crindle

10:00AM

This morning, you'll meet in the lobby at 9:45 AM ahead of your 10:00 AM departure. Your private coach is a Mercedes Sprinter equipped with individual leather captain chairs, extra leg room, and a fridge -- the coach of choice for luxury small gro...

Crindle – Heritage Welcome & First Ride

11:00AM

Today, you'll be welcomed to the home of your hostess, Hazel Patterson of Crindle Bespoke, for a truly personal introduction to this special place. You'll arrive to a warm Irish welcome, very likely with a cup of tea in hand, as you settle in, mee...

Brook Hall Estate & Arboretum Tour

Following lunch, you'll continue on to Brook Hall Estate & Gardens for a guided walk through the estate. Set along the banks of the River Foyle, Brook Hall is an 18th-century family estate that has been cared for over generations and is home to on...

Return Transfer · Brook Hall Estate to Bishop's Gate Hotel

4:30PM

Following your afternoon at Brook Hall, you'll return to the hotel with a bit of time to relax and refresh before dinner.

Welcome Dinner at Seven London Street

7:00PM

This evening, we'll gather for our official welcome dinner at 7:00 PM in a private dining space at Bishop's Gate known as Seven London Street. This is a relaxed and convivial evening to come together, share impressions from the day, and ease into ...

Day 4 · Fri, Apr 17


Discover Historic Derry on a Private Tour

10:00AM

This morning, you'll head out with your private local guide from Derrie Danders for a deeper look at one of the most fascinating cities on the island. You'll explore the walled city, hear the stories behind the streets, and gain a richer sense of ...

Walled City Brewery – Taste & Tour Experience

3:30PM

This afternoon, you'll return to Walled City Brewery for a guided taste and tour experience beginning at 3:30 PM. You'll be welcomed behind the scenes for an introduction to the brewing process, from grain to glass, with a look at the equipment, i...

Evening at Leisure - Derry Dining Suggestions

Following your time at the brewery, the remainder of the day and evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might choose to head out for a relaxed dinner or continue to wander around the city -- check out the Guildhall or stroll over the Peac...

View details

Day 5 · Sat, Apr 18


Crindle Signature Day – Morning Transfer to Causeway Coast

9:30AM

This morning, you'll meet your driver guide outside Bishop's Gate Hotel at 9:00 AM as you set out for a day along the Causeway Coast. Today weaves together elements of heritage, landscape, and time outdoors, offering a deeper connection to this pa...

Mussenden Temple | Private Coastal Experience

9:45AM

Today is one of the defining experiences of our time together. You'll set out with Crindle Stables for a private coastal experience guided by a former National Trust ranger, offering a deeper connection to both the landscape and its history. For t...

Castlerock Village & Heritage

1:30PM

You'll make a stop in the seaside village of Castlerock, where you'll have time to enjoy a relaxed lunch and explore at your own pace. This is a charming coastal spot, perfect for a gentle wander, a bit of browsing in local shops, or simply taking...

Dinner Together at Seven London Street

7:00PM

This evening, we'll gather again for dinner at 7:00 PM in our private dining room at Bishop's Gate. You'll have a bit of time beforehand to return, refresh, and settle in after the day along the coast. It's a relaxed opportunity to come together, ...

Day 6 · Sun, Apr 19


Exploring the Causeway Coast – Morning Transfer

9:00AM

This morning, you'll meet your driver guide outside Bishop's Gate Hotel at 9:00 AM as you set out along the coast. As the day unfolds, you'll move through a landscape shaped by history, sea, and story, with time to pause along the way and take it ...

Giant's Causeway & Dunluce Castle

11:30AM

You'll stop at Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle, two of the most notable sites along this stretch of coast. At Giant's Causeway, you'll have time to walk among the distinctive basalt columns and take in the setting, along with the stories tied ...

Sunday Lunch at Bistro at The Courthouse

1:00PM

You'll enjoy a seasonal Sunday lunch at Bistro at the Courthouse, highlighting regional cuisine and local Ulster produce. This is a relaxed and welcoming pause in the day, offering a taste of the area in a comfortable setting.

Old Bushmills Distillery | Tour & Tasting

3:30PM

This afternoon, you'll visit Old Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed working distillery, with roots dating back to 1608. You'll enjoy a guided tour offering a look into the distillation process, followed by a tasting of three of thei...

Evening at Leisure – Sunday Night in Derry

After a full day along the coast, you may prefer a quiet evening, a light bite, or simply time to settle in and reflect on all you've seen.

View details

Day 7 · Mon, Apr 20


Exploring Donegal – Morning Transfer

11:00AM

This morning, you'll depart Derry with your driver guide and head west into County Donegal, crossing from Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland. As you travel, you'll take in shifting landscapes of rolling hills, rugged coastline, and trad...

Donegal Town

As you make your way into County Donegal, you'll arrive in Donegal Town, a charming and walkable town known for its local character and easy pace. You'll have time to look around, browse a few of the shops, and take in the feel of the town before ...

Hanna Hats Workshop Experience

11:00AM

We'll visit Hanna Hats of Donegal for a private workshop experience rooted in one of Ireland's long-standing craft traditions. You'll learn about the history of Irish hat making and the heritage behind Hanna Hats, with a demonstration that offers ...

Glenveagh National Park

2:00PM

This afternoon, you'll continue on to Glenveagh National Park, one of Ireland's most beautiful and remote landscapes. Here, you'll have time to take in the natural setting, with opportunities to see native wildlife, including red deer, and explore...

Return Transfer · Glenveagh to Derry

4:30PM

Later in the afternoon, you'll begin your return to Derry, taking in the scenery once more along the way. This evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might choose to wander through the city, find a cozy spot for a quiet drink, or simply settle...

Day 8 · Tue, Apr 21


Fireside Farm Lunch at Glenshane Country Farm

1:00PM

Following your time on the farm, you'll gather for a relaxed fireside lunch with your hosts. You'll enjoy a simple and satisfying meal of soup and sandwiches -- a chance to sit, warm up, and take in the atmosphere of the farm. Lunch has been arran...

Your Final Day Along the Coast – Morning Transfer

10:00AM

You'll head out with your driver guide for one last day here, experiencing the landscape and a final series of moments that reflect the heart of this part of Ireland. Pickup location: Bishops Gate Hotel

Glenshane Country Farm | Sheepdog Experience

11:00AM

We'll set out for a visit to a local working farm, where you'll be welcomed for a traditional sheepdog experience. You'll see the dogs in action as they respond to their handler with remarkable precision, working the sheep across the fields. You'l...

Sunset Beach Ride | Crindle Bespoke Experiences

3:00PM

This evening brings one of the defining experiences of the trip. We'll return to Crindle for our private sunset beach ride, following a route that leads you down to the coastline below Mussenden Temple, with the temple rising above the cliffs in t...

Beach Bonfire & Supper

As the evening settles in, we'll gather on the beach for a bonfire to close out our time together. A relaxed supper of locally prepared fish and chips will be brought in, offering a simple and authentic finish to the day. As the fire warms and the...

Day 9 · Wed, Apr 22


Departure Day Transfer · Bishop's Gate Hotel to Dublin Airport (DUB)

This morning, you'll depart from Bishop's Gate Hotel, Derry for your onward journey home. Pickup location: Bishop's Gate Hotel, Derry Pickup date: April 22, 2026 Your driver will be on hand to assist with luggage and ensure a smooth departure. Saf...