Causeway Coastal Route
The rugged, raw elemental beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route truly captures the thrill of an adventure in Northern Ireland. Maybe it’s the sheer breadth and beauty of its landscape. Perhaps it’s the mythical stories, shaped and inspired by the dramatic coastline. It's certainly in the warm and hospitable people you will meet along the way.
Wherever you find that legendary spirit of Northern Ireland, embrace it. And awaken your own. There’s quite a lot to see along the Causeway Coastal Route - voted the Number 1 Region in the World to visit by Lonely Planet in 2018 - so let's take it in stages, step by step.
Belfast to Carnfunnock
Your adventure begins (or maybe ends) in Belfast - you decide. From Belfast, head north, making your first stop at Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best persevered medieval structures in Ireland.
Your next stop-off is at the breathtaking cliff-face pathway, The Gobbins. Your spirit will soar - and your senses heighten - on exhilarating suspension bridges, caves, steps and tunnels. Your final stop is at Carnfunnock Country Park, an excellent spot with loads to do, including a chance to solve the mysterious hedge maze.
Cushendun via The Glens of Antrim
Once you’ve left Carnfunnock, a pit-stop in picturesque Ballygally is a must. It will come as no surprise that, in a land steeped in legend, the local hotel is haunted - but by a friendly ghost. From here, journey inland to the storied Slemish mountain. This extinct volcano is where, according to legend, Saint Patrick tended sheep after being captured and taken to Ireland.
Heading towards the coast again, you’ll find Glenarm Castle. Wander in its historic Walled Gardens or simply marvel at the sumptuous house interior. It is also worth your time exploring the mythical nine Glens of Antrim. The spectacular coast road to Cushendall, capital of the Glens, offers must-see views on route to your last stop – the pretty-as-a-picture Cushendun. Look out for the caves behind the village as seen in Game of Thrones®.
Rathlin Island via the Dark Hedges
For Thronies, this leg features another iconic location. First, take a detour to Torr Head, the closest point to Scotland with stunning views of Fair Head and Rathlin Island. Stop off next at the picturesque Bonamargy Friary ruins containing the remains of legendary chieftain Sorley Boy McDonnell.
From there, it's on to the legendary Dark Hedges. Game of Thrones® fans know it as the epic Kingsroad highway in Westeros. This is selfie heaven as well as a piece of natural paradise planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century to impress visitors. You will be seriously impressed.
For sheer beauty, Rathlin Island is the experience for you. Just embrace the spirit-enhancing and rugged tranquillity of our only inhabited island.
In Ballintoy Harbour follow the winding road from the village past the white-washed parish church. Spoiler alert: the harbour doubled as exterior Iron Islands shots in Game of Thrones®.
You simply can't miss the Giant's Causeway! Legend says it’s the remains of a causeway built by an Irish giant to meet a challenge to a fight by a Scottish giant. Or maybe the intriguing stones are volcanic. Either way the place is epic. End at one of the route’s jewels – Dunluce Castle. Perched dramatically on cliffs, it has already inspired C.S. Lewis’s Narnia and will inspire you too.
Dunluce Castle to Derry-Londonderry
As stunning experiences go, don’t miss the romantically wild Downhill Demesne. Beyond its ruined mansion perched on a cliff, you’ll find the iconic Mussenden Temple. Here, the line of dramatic basalt cliffs at Binevenagh dominates your surroundings with panoramas across Lough Foyle to Donegal. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow one of the hiking trails to the summit.
Your next beauty spot is the stunningly remote Magilligan Point, guarding the entrance to Lough Foyle. If you’ve arrived (or maybe started) in Derry-Londonderry, discover Ireland’s only remaining walled city and its rich history. It’s also a fun city, so if you have energy left or need a boost to get going, go there.
The Causeway Coastal Route has so much to see and do, chances are you may not do it all in one trip. So, there’s your excuse to come back and embrace another piece of the giant spirit of Northern Ireland. Same time next year?
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