Strangford Lough Private Tour by Car

This private Ards Peninsula tour follows one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes, showcasing quiet beaches, charming fishing villages, and a memorable ferry crossing across Strangford Lough. Unlike busy group tours, this experience is relaxed and flexible, with time for photo stops, short walks, and lunch at your own pace. With local insight from your driver-guide and optional stops such as the Mourne Mountains and Spelga Dam, the itinerary can be tailored to suit cruise passengers, couples, families, or small groups seeking a more personal and authentic day out.

1. 1

   Groomsport

   10 min

   Begin the day with a scenic coastal drive through the charming seaside village of Groomsport, known for its peaceful shoreline, harbour views, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. A gentle introduction to the Ards Peninsula.

2. 2

   Donaghadee

   15 min

   Drive through the historic harbour town of Donaghadee, famous for its lighthouse, promenade, and classic seaside views overlooking the Irish Sea. Short photo stops available.

3. 3

   Millisle

   Pass by

   Pass through the traditional seaside town of Millisle, offering wide coastal views, sandy beaches, and a glimpse of everyday life along the Ards Peninsula.

4. 4

   Ballywalter

   10 min

   Travel along Ballywalter’s beautiful beachfront, known for its long sandy beach and open coastal scenery, one of the peninsula’s most photogenic stretches.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Drive through the quiet coastal village of Ballyhalbert, with uninterrupted sea views and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere along the shoreline.

6. 6

   Portavogie

   15 min

   Pass through Portavogie, a working fishing harbour and one of Northern Ireland’s most important fishing ports, offering an authentic glimpse of coastal industry.

7. 7

   Cloughey

   Pass by

   Enjoy views of Cloughey’s long sandy beach and low-lying dunes as the tour continues south along the peninsula’s quieter coastal stretches.

8. 8

   Portaferry

   30 min

   Enjoy a short ferry crossing across Strangford Lough, one of Ireland’s most scenic waterways, known for its islands, wildlife, and calm coastal beauty.

9. 9

   Strangford Lough

   20 min

   Enjoy a short ferry crossing across Strangford Lough, one of Ireland’s most scenic waterways, known for its islands, wildlife, and calm coastal beauty.

10. 10

    Strangford

    20 min

    Arrive in the picturesque village of Strangford, home to the famous Lobster Pot restaurant and lovely views across the lough.

11. 11

    Downpatrick

    45 min

    Travel through historic Downpatrick, where guests can stop for lunch at a local café or pub before continuing towards the Mourne coast.

12. 12

    Newcastle

    20 min

    Visit the seaside town of Newcastle, where the Mourne Mountains meet the Irish Sea. Time to enjoy beach views, photos, and a short stroll.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    20 min

    Optional visit to Spelga Dam in the Mourne Mountains, including the famous “Magic Road” optical illusion and stunning mountain scenery, subject to time and weather.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.