Ireland is a country that is uniquely its own. Saturated with a deep patriotic culture and exemplified by awe-inspiring panoramas, Ireland wonderfully blends the rugged charm of Scandinavia and Iceland’s wilderness with some of the finest poetic rural landscapes in Europe.
This extensive photo tour will take you through all the landmarks of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, between wild coastal scenery, high-reaching lighthouses, gentle hills, fairy-tale castles, picturesque roads, and cozy villages, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the atmosphere and indulge in the call of traditional music echoing from the pubs. From the surreal Giant’s Causeway to the dizzying Cliffs of Moher, we will encounter endless photographic opportunities on our journey.
The journey to Dublin is individual. Right after our arrival at Dublin Airport, we will travel in a comfortable minibus to the beautiful North of Ireland, which we will reach in the late afternoon. The Irish North Coast is unique! There, we experience nature in its most original form – as wild formations that ignite our imagination. It’s no wonder that these places are surrounded by dreamy and imaginative myths.
Especially spectacular is the Giant’s Causeway. The description of the “Giant’s Dam” gives a glimpse of the magic of this place: “A rock gorge in perfect green leads to a collection of volcanic rock formations that seem completely surreal: about 40,000 almost perfect hexagonal basalt columns stand here, one next to the other, like pieces of a puzzle.” It’s no wonder that the Causeway is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. As a unique Irish natural monument, it provides insight into the prehistoric times of our Earth – a magnificent legacy of lava flows that cooled and shrank here 60 million years ago. The light changes here throughout the day: from greens to grays to a warm tobacco brown – an exciting place for landscape photography at sunset on our first evening. After an eventful day in Ireland, we will end the evening in our accommodation right on the North Coast.
Early on, we embark on a tour to the majestic beech tree avenue known as the “Dark Hedges,” aiming to reach it at dawn. Ancient beech trees line the narrow Bregagh Road, creating an impressive sight with their intertwined, gnarled branches. The avenue exudes an extraordinary atmosphere, evoking both reverence and awe, especially in the soft light of the Golden Hour. However, the Dark Hedges are not solely a whim of nature. In the 18th century, the owners of the Georgian estate, Gracehill, decided to offer their visitors a truly special welcome. The Stuart family planted dozens of beech trees along the approach to their magnificent mansion; they have been growing for hundreds of years, developing their fantastic shape. Unbeknownst to them, the lovingly landscaped avenue would later achieve fame – it even made its way into the cult series ‘Game of Thrones’.
We spend the day driving around the picturesque Causeway Coast and its numerous attractions. As the sun sets, the light is perfect. The grass glows refreshingly green, the water shimmers gently turquoise, and the clouds in the sky are already tinged with color. This could appear very idyllic and tranquil, were it not for the roaring waves and rugged cliffs. This contrast immediately sets the “Mussenden Temple,” perched on the edge of a precipitous cliff over the Atlantic, apart as something special. During the Golden Hour, we dedicate ourselves to this historic site, artfully capturing it in the soft, expressive light.
Early on, we set out on a tour to Dunluce Castle, one of the largest ruins of a medieval castle in Ireland, aiming to reach it at dawn. Perched high above the cliffs of the rugged Atlantic, this ancient fortress seems to defy all tides. The picturesque Dunluce Castle is located on an impressive basalt rock on the rugged coast. Even though the imposing castle ruin on the mighty rock conveys an image of idyll, its history is dark, marked by sieges and violence. Today, only old stories give a hint of what once played out within the cold walls of the medieval castle.
After an extensive sunrise session, we now head to another world-renowned location on the windswept Fanad Peninsula in the northeast of Ireland. With every meter we travel northward on the island, we feel farther and farther away from civilization. We enter a world that belongs entirely to its land and its seascapes. Here, the untamed waves of the Atlantic meet the Irish mainland, shaping an impressive coastal scenery. Wild, rugged, and defying the tides, the mighty cliffs of Fanad Head present themselves. And in the midst of this spectacular Atlantic coast stands the Fanad Head Lighthouse, one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Ireland, overlooking the promontory from a small fjord, making it an inspiring location for landscape photography.
We capture all the facets of this breathtaking coastal landscape in the best light and end the evening with a cozy dinner at our hotel.
Today, we set course for the legendary Wild Atlantic Way, the spectacular coastal road that winds along the sea for a length of 2,500 kilometers in the far west of Ireland. Wild, untamed, and windswept! The white spray shoots up meters high as the waves thunder against the cliffs with brute force. There are 4,000 kilometers of water between the American continent and the Irish coast, no landmass and no breakwaters diminish the force of the roaring ocean. The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s counterpart to California’s Pacific Coast Highway and Australia’s Great Ocean Road. Our destination for the day, Dún Briste, is already visible from afar with its nearly 50 meters in height, and it’s one of the most distinctive points along the Wild Atlantic Way. Majestically rising at Downpatrick Head, a gigantic chunk of cool rock emerges from the Atlantic, defying all winds and tides. The sea stack Dún Briste, surrounded by boiling and foaming waves, has perched at the top of this impressive coastal area for many centuries. An unparalleled beauty envelops this place, which holds significant historical importance. We seek out the best lighting and use long and short exposure times to skillfully capture the unique scenery in photos.
Today, we leave Downpatrick Head behind and drive for about 3 hours in the morning to our next destination, Doolin. After a midday refreshment, our flagship tour to one of the highlights of our journey is on the agenda. The Cliffs of Moher are for good reason the most spectacular stretch of coastline that the European continent has to offer. Dark, grass-covered plateaus come to an abrupt end here, plunging almost vertically into the depths, providing an equally fascinating and dizzying view. Between the fragile edge and the roaring sea, there is nothing but air and a 214-meter free fall. Below, the spray splashes, countless seagulls, jackdaws, and guillemots frolic in the rock niches, but storm petrels and puffins also call this place home. Since the sight of the cliffs is truly breathtaking, it’s not surprising that the Cliffs of Moher have served as the filming location for numerous movies, including “Harry Potter,” “Hear my Song,” and “The Princess Bride.” While most tourists stop at the main viewing platform, we will hike a bit further to enjoy the best view of the majestic cliffs and capture them in our pictures.
It’s time to begin the journey back to Dublin. We reach the capital in the early afternoon, just in time for check-in at the hotel. As the sun begins to set, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink, we embark on an enchanting evening stroll in the heart of Dublin. The city, steeped in rich history and culture, comes to life under the gentle glow of street lamps. The cobblestone streets resonate with the melodies of street musicians, while the scent of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee wafts from the local cafes. We pass by the iconic Ha’penny Bridge, its reflection shimmering in the River Liffey, and make our way to the lively Temple Bar district. Here, the lively chatter from the pubs and the clinking of glasses create a symphony of typical Dublin nightlife. As we continue our walk, we are greeted by the illuminated facade of Trinity College, a beacon of knowledge and heritage. This evening stroll in Dublin is not just a journey through the city’s alleys, but also a journey back in time, a narrative of Dublin’s soul, told by the city itself.
Unforgettable mornings, evenings and nights let us tell stories that will be remembered for a long time through our pictures. Today we go home with lots of impressions and photos in the camera.
Note: We reserve the right to adjust the exact daily program at short notice, if necessary, in order to be able to respond to the respective weather and light conditions. With sunrise times around 5 a.m., sunsets around 10 p.m. and many kilometers of driving time, the schedule can be quite exhausting. In order to make the trip less stressful, in the places where it makes sense, we will consider focusing on only one of the two sessions depending on the better lighting conditions.
* (DAY1) Arriving flights must be scheduled in the morning, ideally before 12am, to guarantee enough transferring time to Northern Ireland.
To book this tour send an email to mail@marcobottigelli.com or fill the form below
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Photo tours are an ideal way to enhance your photography skills and capture stunning photographs in breathtaking locations. As an experienced tour leader with profound knowledge of the destinations we visit, we can provide you with the expertise you need to take your photography to the next level.
Our photo tours are designed to offer unique opportunities for photographers of all skill levels to take breathtaking shots in picturesque locations. By joining our tours, you’ll have access to top-quality photography gear, as well as expert guidance and invaluable tips and techniques from experienced photographers.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our photo tours are an excellent way to explore new locations, meet like-minded individuals, and create lasting memories.
Our photo tours take you to some of the most spectacular locations in the world, carefully selected by our experienced photographers who are location specialists. Our tours include destinations such as Patagonia, Namibia, Japan, Iceland, Madeira, Ireland, Italy, Norway, and many others.
Each of these destinations has been chosen for its stunning and unique landscape, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos. Our experienced photographers have profound knowledge of these locations, and will guide you through the best photography spots, provide tips and techniques, and help you capture unforgettable memories.
Yes, beginners are welcome on our photo tours! Our tours are designed to cater to photographers of all skill levels, and we provide expert guidance and tips to help beginners improve their skills and capture stunning photographs.
Our experienced photographers will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance on camera settings, composition, and other techniques to help you capture amazing shots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our photo tours offer a unique opportunity to learn from the best and capture stunning photographs.
Join us on one of our tours and let us help you take your photography skills to the next level, regardless of your skill leve
We recommend using a DSLR or mirrorless camera for our photo tours, as they offer greater flexibility and control for capturing stunning photographs. While the specific equipment required can vary depending on the destination, we generally recommend bringing a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto to capture a variety of perspectives.
In addition to your camera and lenses, we also recommend bringing filters to enhance your shots, such as polarizers or neutral density filters, as well as a sturdy tripod to ensure stability and sharpness in your shots. Our experienced photographers can provide guidance on equipment and settings, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Ultimately, the equipment you bring will depend on your personal preferences and the specific destination. We recommend checking our website or contacting us for more information on the equipment needed for each tour.
Our photo tours are designed to provide a personalized and exclusive experience, so we limit the group size to a maximum of seven participants. This ensures that our experienced photographers can provide individual attention and guidance to each participant, helping them to capture the best possible shots and improve their photography skills.
With a smaller group size, we can also explore more off-the-beaten-path locations and provide a more intimate and immersive experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our small group sizes ensure that you get the most out of your photography tour.
Join us on one of our photo tours and discover the benefits of exclusive, small group travel. With our experienced photographers as your guide, you’ll capture stunning photographs and create unforgettable memories.
When preparing for a photo tour, it’s important to bring the right gear and accessories to help you capture the best possible shots. Beyond your camera and lenses, we recommend bringing comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for outdoor activities and adventure travel.
We also suggest bringing a sense of adventure and a willingness to chase the best possible conditions for photography. Our tours are designed to take you to the most picturesque locations, often in remote or hard-to-reach areas, so a spirit of adventure and flexibility is key.
In addition, we recommend bringing any accessories that may be useful for your specific destination, such as a rain cover for your camera or hiking poles for challenging terrain. Our experienced photographers can provide additional guidance on what to bring for each tour, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Our photo tours are designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience of each destination, while also allowing ample time for photography and exploration. The duration of each tour varies depending on the destination, but our tours typically range from 8 to 13 days, providing ample time to explore and capture stunning photographs.
Our experienced photographers will guide you through each location, providing expert advice on composition, lighting, and technique to help you capture the best possible shots. We also provide opportunities for image reviews and feedback sessions to help you improve your skills and techniques.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our tours provide a unique and rewarding experience that combines photography, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Yes, we offer private photo tours for individuals or small groups who are looking for a more personalized and exclusive experience. Our private tours provide a flexible itinerary that can be customized to your specific interests and needs, allowing you to explore your preferred destinations at your own pace.
Our experienced photographers will work closely with you to create a tailored itinerary that matches your photography goals and preferences, providing expert guidance and support throughout the tour. You’ll have exclusive access to our photographers’ knowledge and expertise, ensuring that you capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories.
Our private tours are available for individuals or groups of up to 7 people, and can be scheduled at your convenience. Join us on a private photo tour and discover the beauty of the world’s most spectacular destinations in a personalized and exclusive way.
Our photo tours are unique in that we not only provide an immersive experience in some of the world’s most stunning destinations, but we also prioritize teaching our participants how to improve their photography skills.
What sets our tours apart is our focus on small group sizes, with a maximum of 7 participants per tour. This allows us to provide a more personalized and exclusive experience, ensuring that each participant receives ample guidance and attention from our experienced photographers.
Our photo tours are designed to help participants improve their photography skills in a supportive and immersive environment, allowing them to grow as photographers and capture unforgettable images. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, we welcome you to join us on one of our photo tours and discover the beauty of the world’s most spectacular destinations while enhancing your photography skills.
Booking a photo tour with us is easy! Simply fill out the contact form on our website to get in touch with Marco. Alternatively, you can follow the link provided on the tour page to reach out to the agency handling the ground services for the tour you’re interested in.
Our team will be happy to provide you with additional information on tour availability, itinerary details, pricing, and any other questions you may have. Once you’ve decided on a tour and are ready to book, we’ll guide you through the booking process and ensure that you have all the information you need to prepare for your adventure.
Join us on a photo tour and capture breathtaking images of some of the world’s most spectacular destinations while learning new photography skills and making unforgettable memories. Contact us today to book your next adventure!
We partner with trusted tour agencies that specialize in each of our destinations to handle the logistics of our photo tours. These agencies are carefully selected for their expertise and experience in providing high-quality travel services, including transportation, accommodations, and activities.
Our team of experienced photographers lead the tours and provide photography guidance and instruction throughout the tour. We work closely with our tour agency partners to create a flexible itinerary that allows for plenty of time for photography while also experiencing the culture and natural beauty of each destination.
Our tour agency partners also provide important services such as travel insurance and emergency assistance, so you can rest assured that you are well taken care of during your trip. If you have any additional questions about how our tours are organized, please don’t hesitate to contact us.