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“My partner and I just got back from Run Ireland: The Hidden Northwest and we are already planning our next trip. Everyone’s stellar reviews pulled us in during our research, but we were hesitant to be too excited. We had an amazing first adventure running experience with an Italian company for a staged trail race in Iceland and we thought there’s no way anyone could match that epic trip.

Well, Rogue Expeditions, you’ve done it. You’ve met and exceeded our every expectation.

The on-the-ground team of Alain, Ciarán, Michelle, and Lorna was unbeatable. The gents were fantastic guides and made everyone feel immediately comfortable, had a handle on all the logistics, answered repetitive questions with grace, and went above and beyond at every step. Calling Michelle and Lorna “drivers” is a MASSIVE understatement. I have never laughed so much as I have in that van. Having those two as our official ambassadors to Ireland was a treat. Class! The runs were the perfect mix of maximum beauty, trails, bogs, climbs, descents, roads, beach, and sheep. The lodging and food were top notch. The communication leading up to the trip (Allison!) was super helpful; I’ve never felt so prepared. We met 16 fantastic people, even if most of them were from Texas ;). If I’m reaching for some constructive criticism, I would love to see more international representation from the runners/participants. Spread the word! You will not regret running with Rogue.”
— Stephanie G.

Ireland: Yes, it really is everything that you imagine it to be. This is a land of dramatic coastal cliffs, cozy pubs, crumbling castles, oft-moody weather, astoundingly green hills, rich traditions and warm, hospitable locals that will leave you feeling right at home no matter where you roam.

This itinerary ventures off the well-worn tourist track of the southwest and heads northward for lesser-known lands. We begin with pick-up in Dublin before heading cross country to take in a special section of the Wild Atlantic Way including the ‘surf coast’ of Sligo whose beauty is eternalised by the poetry of WB Yeats, a cross-border peek into County Fermanagh’s Marble Arch Caves Geopark, and finally the many hidden gems of Donegal, often called Ireland’s forgotten county (and best kept secret!) way up in the northwest corner of the island.

Windswept beaches, wild ocean views, soaring sea cliffs (some of the tallest in Europe!), rugged mountains, soft bogs, tranquil country roads and fresh sea breezes: every day and every run is wonderfully unique, and every moment is enhanced by our local crew who will immerse you in the history and lore of the land all along the way.

Meals will be hearty, accommodation will be warm & welcoming and restorative pints of Guinness will always be found in the nearest pub, preparing you for the next big day.

ITINERARY

Please note that all listed run distances can be shortened if desired, and that itinerary is subject to minor adjustments due to weather, logistical considerations, etc.

USE THE ARROWS AT THE TOP RIGHT OF THE IMAGE TO SCROLL THROUGH!
DAY 1: ARRIVAL + GO WEST
DAY 1: ARRIVAL + GO WEST

The trip begins with a meet-up location in the heart of Dublin, and we waste no time as we head straight northwest across the country to the Atlantic coast and County Sligo, our base for the first two nights. You’ll arrive to sea views, the smell of salt on the air and beautiful views of the mountains around the bay. No scheduled running today, just some decompression time and a walk over to our first group dinner where we’ll give you all of the details for your first run, happening the following morning!

Running: No scheduled run
Meals: D included

DAY 2: A CELTIC QUEEN
DAY 2: A CELTIC QUEEN

After a light breakfast we will head off for our first run on Knocknarea, a beautiful hill that stands sentry over the Sligo coastline with views for miles around. We will tell you all about the legend of Queen Meadhbh (and tell you how to pronounce her name!) whose shrine tops of the hill. A great mixture of challenging stair steps, seaside paths and gentle forest trails will satisfy every type of runner, and we’ll finish right back at the hotel for the chance to clean up before taking a walk down to the seafront for a cafe lunch. After a bit of downtime we will head into nearby Sligo Town to explore the city center and enjoy a nice dinner together.

Running: Up to 9 mi / 14km (1400 ft / 450m gain); trail
Meals: BLD included

DAY 3: A GLACIAL VALLEY, LAKEFRONT LIVING & A NEW COUNTRY, TOO
DAY 3: A GLACIAL VALLEY, LAKEFRONT LIVING & A NEW COUNTRY, TOO

After breakfast we will head out for a short drive to our second run in the heart of the Dartry Mountains at the Gleniff Horseshoe. This tranquil road run covers a route steeped in folklore with stunning views of the glacially formed valleys and cliffs along the way - have your camera ready! Lunch will take place at a beautiful sweep of beach called Mullaghmore, and then we’ll head just over the border into Northern Ireland and County Fermanagh. The rest of the day is spent kicked back at our cozy lakefront lodge complete with spa facilities for those tired legs!

Running: Up to 6 mi / 10km (600 ft / 200m gain), pavement
Meals: BLD included

DAY 4: THE LOCAL'S PICK
DAY 4: THE LOCAL'S PICK

Sean, one of our long-time guides and the original designer of this trip, grew up here in Fermanagh and today you get to enjoy his favorite local loop! There’s no way to disguise it - it’s a steep start up to the top of the locally infamous Magho Cliffs. Nearly 700ft of climbing in the first half a mile will work off breakfast and reward you with huge views over Lough Erne and several surrounding counties! From there you’ll settle into a great run through the Lough Navar Forest, past several picturesque lakes and along quiet forest trails, enjoying glimpses of the wild landscape all around. Afterward we will head back across the border and onwards to Donegal and the village of Carrick where colorful pub with cozy rooms awaits to welcome us in for the night.

Running: up to 11 mi / 17km (1500 ft / 500m gain); mix of trail, gravel road, paved road
Meals: BLD included

DAY 5: THOSE "OTHER" IRISH CLIFFS
DAY 5: THOSE "OTHER" IRISH CLIFFS

The Cliffs of Moher may be Ireland’s most famous cliffs but they aren’t the tallest - not even close! The highest point of Sliabh Liag towers nearly 2000 ft above the water below and – on a clear day! – the cliffs command astonishing views of a vast section of beautiful coastline. After breakfast we will head off on an epic run (perhaps more of a hike…) following a single track route up, up, up to the top of the cliffs, where some interpretive bog sections and unbelievable view await. Eventually you’ll enjoy cruising down a gravel road back to the village, where lunch awaits. Once everyone is finished and fed, we’ll take a short drive to our next stop of the trip where you’ll get to indulge in unpacking your bag - we’re staying for two nights!

Running: 8 mi / 13km (1800 ft / 600m gain); mix of trail, bog & gravel road
Meals: BLD included

DAY 6: ON ISLAND TIME
DAY 6: ON ISLAND TIME

This morning we will take a short ferry ride out to the charming island of Arranmore. Thanks to their remote locations, Ireland’s islands have preserved culture, heritage & language like nowhere else in the country, and Arranmore is no exception Today’s run takes us on a full loop of the island for firsthand look at the realities of this isolated existence: mountain sheep farming, turf cutting on the bog, storm-battered cliffs and the delight found in a cozy pub at the end of it all. Late in the afternoon we’ll head back to the mainland for a nice evening back at our lodge - complete with plenty of modern comforts.

Running: Up to 12 mi/20km (1500ft / 500m gain; mostly pavement
Meals: BLD included

DAY 7: A ROYAL FINALE
DAY 7: A ROYAL FINALE

After breakfast we’ll head to nearby Glenveagh National Park in the heart of Donegal, which spans over 40,000 acres of pristine lakes, rugged mountains and beautiful forests surrounding a 19th century castle. Our run takes us right through the center of the park, along the shores of Lough Veagh, past the castle (make sure to stop and explore!), and through beautiful gardens and native woodland. If you’re lucky you might even spot some Irish Red Deer or a Golden Eagle! This is a cruise-y run that will feel great at the end of a big week, and lunch awaits at the finish line. From there we head to our last stop of the week, a elegant manor house - nearly a castle itself! - on the shores of Drongawn Lough, for a very special final dinner and evening together.

Running: up to 8 mi / 13km (400ft / 120m gain), dirt path & pavement
Meals: BLD included

DAY 8: BACK TO REALITY...
DAY 8: BACK TO REALITY...

After breakfast we’ll head back to the Dublin airport, arriving by 1pm to say our reluctant goodbyes! Catch an afternoon or evening fligh home, or connect to onward travel from there.

Running: No scheduled run
Meals: B included

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PRICING & DETAILS

DATES: June 30 - July 7, 2025

COST:

Trip Price: $5,695
A $600 deposit secures your spot and balances are due 3 months prior to departure. Registrations after the balance due date will be due in full.

Please refer to the FAQs on our website for our cancellation & refund policy.

COST INCLUDES

  • Pre-trip guidance + communication

  • Pickup in Dublin on arrival day

  • Departure transfer to the Dublin airport (DUB) on the final day

  • Transportation: clean, comfortable minibuses, fuel, tolls, and dedicated drivers

  • Seven nights in comfortable bed & breakfast or lodge style accommodation (double occupancy)

  • Six unique organized and supported runs (flex distances)

  • Ferry to Arranmore, boat tour at Sliabh Liag, and entry fees for other planned activities

  • Experienced Rogue Expeditions trip leaders & and local logistics team

  • All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8

  • Rogue Expeditions swag

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE

  • Flight

  • Transport to the meet-up point in Dublin (we’ll provide detailed instructions for getting there!)

  • Alcohol and beverages other than water (coffee, tea & juices are provided with breakfasts)

  • Travel Insurance

  • Personal purchases/souvenirs

  • Tips (optional)


GROUP SIZE
There will be a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 14 runners. Please do not book flights until you receive the go-ahead from us; group communication begins 4 months out.

Spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so early deposits are recommended!

RUNNING REQUIREMENTS
All levels welcome! Daily run maximums are listed on the itinerary and there are no minimums nor time restrictions. Expect a variety of terrain (road, trail, grass, mud!) and a variety of weather conditions; as with all of our trips, a sense of adventure and an adaptable attitude is a must!

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This trip begins with an 1pm meet-up in Dublin and then a drive to the northwest coast immediately afterward. Participants are encouraged to arrive in Dublin at least one day before our trip begins to ensure that flight delays do not cause you to miss the start of the trip (plus, this gives you a chance to see the city and recover from the travel!). If you choose to fly in on arrival day, please ensure that your flight lands no later than 11am and know that if you miss our departure time from the city you will be responsible for finding transport to Sligo.

We will provide transfers to the Dublin airport on the final day, arriving at 1pm; from there you can catch a flight or transport links into the city. If you fly out that day, please ensure that your flight departs no earlier than 3pm.

US citizens will need a passport with at least 3 months of validity left and, beginning in 2025, will also require an ETIAS authorization to enter the EU. The launch date has yet to be confirmed; you can check for the latest here. Participants from other countries should check with their consulate for entry requirements.

Please note that travel insurance is strongly recommended. Although we hope you never need it, we've seen enough to know that it can be a lifesaver in the event of a medical emergency, flight delays that cause you to miss the start of the trip, lost baggage or cancellation on your part (broke your leg two weeks before departure? Insurance could cover the entire cost of your trip!). 


FAQS
You can find those here.


CONTACT
Allison Macsas at allison@roguexpeditions.com

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