Such is the splendour of the magnificent Causeway Coastal Route that it inspires people of all ages. Its steep cliffs, dramatic sites and crashing seas have fuelled the imaginations of those who wrote both ancient folklore and more recent children’s tales like C.S. Lewis. With fantastic scenery, lots of fun and plenty of activities, there is something for every member of your clan.
Bridge the divide at Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
Get your family holiday off to an epic start at the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. This will go down in your own family folklore as the day you found out who was the bravest of all the family. As you make your way across the bridge just be sure you don’t look down. It’s a whopping thirty metres and there’s nothing but the sea to catch you.
Follow the giant footprints to the Giant’s Causeway
You’ll be feeling ten feet tall after that epic adventure so why not follow in the footsteps of giants at the Giant's Causeway. These perfectly formed stone columns were the result of volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago - or if you prefer, it was carved from the coast by the legendary Finn McCool himself.
Shack up for sea and seafood in Portstewart
Of course even the smallest giants need a refuel every now and then, so check out Harry’s Shack on the Strand Road in Portstewart. Don’t be fooled by the name, there’s nothing shabby about this place. Enjoy their top-class seafood, meat dishes and delightful desserts inside in their spacious hall or outside on the beach. Stick your feet in the sand and listen to the waves rush in.
Catch a wave in Portrush
You might need to give it a while before you attempt to pull on your wetsuit and become a legend of the Atlantic Ocean. When you’re ready though, Alive Surf School in Portrush is only too willing to help. This award-winning school is highly regarded in the surfing world and it says a lot about them that they can cater for children as young as five. Try their two-hour lesson to get the whole family laughing while making magical memories.
Capture the castle at Dunluce
The magic continues at Dunluce Castle. Perched precariously peeping over a cliff, this structure is said to have inspired CS Lewis and it certainly inspired Winston Churchill who once owned the mighty sight. Well worth a visit!
Hungry? Hunker down in some of our prettiest harbour towns
After all that, you might need to seek out something a little more serene. Try Mary McBride’s pub and restaurant in Cushendun on the north east coast or the quaint harbour at Ballintoy. With its sandy coves, rock pools and secluded bays, it makes for a picturesque pit-stop and has charming tea rooms, shops and restaurants. The Fullerton Arms Restaurant does lovely hearty meals and excellent sea food.
From here, finish your adventure by taking to the high seas and exploring the area by RIB with Abháinn Cruises. Abhainn is the Gaelic word for one and this is definitely one trip that will go down in the annals of your family to be told and recalled around your table for ever more.
