Excursion A visit to oakfield park tour at Greencastle

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Discover the splendid natural beauty and history of Donegal during a scenic, half-day excursion to this lovely county.

Derry City

Depart the pier for the short drive along the banks of Lough Foyle en route to the walled city of Derry. Since the walls of this city were never breached, she is known as the 'Maiden City'. Upon arrival, take a sightseeing drive through the centre of this small, developing city.

Raphoe Village and Oakfield Park

Next, re-board your coach and drive to the charming village of Raphoe, which is located over the border in County Donegal. Upon arrival, head to Oakfield Park, an 18th-century Georgian Deanery, which has won several national awards for the restoration of its gardens and buildings. Oakfield Park is nestled in a lush landscape of parklands and mature woodlands, and overlooks the distant Croaghan Mountains. The grounds include a traditional Walled Garden and Kitchen Garden. Peaceful, serene flower meadows, lakes and streams, as well as wild and wetland areas round out the ideal setting for hours of pleasure.

Free Time at Oakfield Park

During your visit to Oakfield Park, ample time is provided to discover this natural wonderland at your leisure. Discover willow tunnels, oak circles, boardwalks, a par-terre, and a Classical Nymphaeum by the Upper Lake. Relax with tea, coffee and biscuits, then take a leisurely stroll through the Walled Garden, or down by the lake or a pond, where many varieties of dragonflies, damsel flies and a myriad of pond life thrive. Wildlife also abounds here; look for an otter playing in the water or large red Irish hare, especially down by the tree circle. Foxes, badgers and hundreds of rabbits may be seen feeding on the wild grasses planted for them. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Lisahally, Derry City, Raphoe, Oakfield Park, Parklands, Woodlands, Mountains, Gardens, Flower Meadows, Lakes, Streams, Wildlife

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking at Oakfield Park is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but the coach is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, animal sightings are not guaranteed.