Ireland's landscape still holds the memories of an ancient and beautiful civilisation. From the sixth century, Ireland's art, culture and learning shone like a beacon as the Dark Ages extinguished the bright lights of Celtic sophistication throughout the European continent.

A long and turbulent history that stretches from before Christ to the day before yesterday, is waiting to be discovered along the North West Passage. A journey that takes you from Dublin through towns and small villages, across borders and bogs, glens and mountains and into Donegal, the North West Fringe of Europe.

Some of Europe’s finest Celtic Christian sites can be found on this corridor of history. The Book of Kells, the Passage Tombs of Knowth and Newgrange, Navan Fort in Co. Armagh and Glen Columcille are all awaiting you on your trip along the North West Passage, where wonders unfold.

Day 1
In to the city of Dublin, Trinity College is a must for all tourists to Ireland. Not only do the cobbled courtyards provide a fantastic photo but in the treasury the Book of Kells and the Book of Armagh are on Public Display. These ancient manuscripts depict bible scenes in picture and letters along with the other 200,000 of Ireland’s oldest books. We then visit Dvblina, a multimedia representation of the history of Dublin from Viking times , Strongbow and his Anglo Norman Knights to the 16th century. Afterward wander around Templebar, or in the afternoon you can discover Dublin yourself either on an open-air tour of Dublin bus or in a cosy pub with a pint of Guinness. Overnight in Meath

Day 2
Though best known as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, the Hill of Tara has been an important sight since the late Stone Age, when a passage tomb was constructed there. Tara was at the height of its power as a political and religious centre in the early centuries after Christ.

At the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre, we explore the megalithic passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth. The centre is the starting point for all visits to both monuments, and contains interpretative displays and viewing areas. Dating from the Stone Age, this 5,000 year old passage tomb is regarded as the worlds first solar observatory. The carved stones have attracted attention since the monument was rediscovered 300 years ago.

We also take in a tour of Monasterboice monastic site, one of the most beautiful sites in Ireland. It was a foundation of St Buithe (d. 521 AD). He was said to have known St Patrick and to have carried out many miracles involving the sick and the dead. After his death, the monastery grew in importance, becoming a great centre of learning with a fine library.
Overnight in Monaghan

Day 3
A full day is needed to explore Armagh, the Christian capital of Ireland. St Patrick’s Trian Heritage Centre tells the story of St Patrick and shows the history of Armagh. From here you can walk to see the two St Patrick’s Cathedrals (Church of Ireland and Roman Catholic). Taking the Pilgrim trail self guided walking tour , The Church of Ireland cathedral stands on the original site where according to tradition, St Patrick built his church in 445 AD. Th Catholic cathedral was begun in 1840 and consecrated in1904. The main interest here is the artwork and stained glass which depicts in full the story of that church from St Patrick to St Malachy. The ruins of the Franciscan Abbey at the entrance to the Palace Demense are spectacular as is the Georgian palace and Stables that offer a window into the household of the Archbishop in the 18th Century.
Overnight in Armagh

Day 4
We take a drive through the Clogher Valley where Aine the Ancient Queen of Connaught was buried, we then visit Donaghmore High Cross. We then visit Tyrone Crystal, this tour shows how the product is the only completely hand blown crystal product in Ireland.
Overnight in Omagh

Day 5
We set out for Donegal, but en route we spend the morning at the Ulster History park in Omagh. This Park traces the settlement history of Ireland from the arrival of the Stone Age hunters c.8000 BC to the plantation period of the 17th century, including the Celtic period. Outdoor reconstructions include an 89 foot high round tower. Crossing the border at Strabane, the ancient graveyard ruins situated at Cumus are dated to the 6th century. The graveyard was said to have been established by St Eoghan, a pupil of St Columcille (Columba). We then drive on to Gartan Lough, Co. Donegal, the birthplace of St Columcille. We visit the Colmcille Heritage Centre, Gartan, on the shoes of the Lough, which tells the story of the saint and his association with the area.
Overnight in Donegal

The above is only one example of what approach visitors can follow along the North West Passage. There are endless options however and our European partner Gaeltacht Irland Reisen, a very experienced organisation in bringing groups and helping individuals travel along the North West Passage can be contacted, and for further information and expert help in putting together a tailor made trip to suit your exact requirements, contact:

Christian Ludwig,
Gaeltacht Irland Reisen,
Schwarzer Weg 25,
D-47447 Moers,
Tel: 0049 2841930121