fivecups wrote:I agree that the bus trip would be worth doing.
If your in Comber you could consider a night in Newcastle - get there early and get climbing. I recommend slieve bearnagh as your mountain of choice - the Mournes are stunning. You should try and get right into the heart of them. Stay in the Slieve Donard and if you play golf, one of the best courses in the world is beside you. The seafood restaurant in Dundrum is supposed to be superb - people drive from Belfast to eat there.
I'd spend a day seeing the Giants Causeway, the rope bridge etc. I'd eat in the Ramore wine bar in Portrush - good atmosphere. Again Royal Portrush is a worlds top 10 golf course.
If you like history you should stop off in Derry on the way to Donegal. Walk the walls (only fully open for the past few years), see the cathedrals and the tower museum - the siege of derry is interesting history. Have Phil Coulter in the car for a bit of atmosphere. Browns restaurant in the Waterside - hidden gem.
I'd then get out of NI to Donegal - thats where I go for a break. If I'd 3-4 days i'd head to Moville. Dinner would be in Keeleys (might meet John Hume). Drive to Malin and Ballyliffin (walk the beach). Try and find Kinagoe Bay on the way - hidden gem. Drive through Mamore gap to Buncrana and get the ferry to Rathmullan (if running otherwise drive). Stay here - beach, pier, cracking local pub - the White Harte (Guiness) and great food - An Bonnan Bui.
I'd go onto Portsalon and Fanad Head (best if its stormy), then on round the coast (stop and look at Mulroy Bay) to Downings/ Dunfanaghy.
You may enjoy the gardens of Glenveagh castle and you should consider climbing Erigal or at least walking through poison glenn - can be wet.
If your there with the wife that would be a fantastic 6 days in my opinion. Bring the camera.
Top stuff, mate--we were looking to do some hiking and the Mourne Mts sound ideal. Derry was on the list as well as was Donegal but the guidebooks have nothing on you! Thanks for the tips...especially the places to eat (which are always a shoot when you travel).