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  1. A woman and child having a pretend sword fight in the room at the top of the castle keep with the sun beaming through the window behind.
    Why not start with a view over Belfast Lough from Carrickfergus Castle. With a history dating back eight-hundred years this Norman citadel has played an important role in Northern Irish history. Well worth a visit if you want to find out more.
    1. A view of the tubular bridge with flowers on the rock face and the ocean beyond.
      The glorious Gobbins Cliff Path is a great introduction to the drama of the oceans and seas you are about to experience along the Causeway Coastal Route. This two-and-a-half hour fully guided walking tour through suspension bridges, tunnels and pathways offers visitors a unique cliff-walking experience you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
      1. Located at the heart of the Glens of Antrim, and set in a classic u-shaped valley, the Waterfall Walkway in Glenariff Forest Park opened 80 years ago. The forest trail follows a recently renovated boardwalk through the nature reserve, past spectacular scenery, river gorges and three beautiful waterfalls. This is a big attraction for nature lovers and those after a pretty picture too.
        1. With its striking lighthouses and picturesque backdrop, Rathlin Island lies just off the coast and can be reached via a regular ferry service from lovely Ballycastle. Once the refuge of Scotland’s Robert the Bruce it is now a haven for wild birds, seals and puffins and it can be yours for a day too. Bird watchers, do not miss.
          1. You’ll quite fancy having a pair of wings yourself when you’re halfway across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This National Trust site crosses a deep chasm, which was originally erected by salmon fishermen. On a good day you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Rathlin and the Scottish Islands, and nature lovers will find themselves surrounded by unique geology, flora and fauna. Just as well there’s plenty to look at because you don’t want to look down.
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          2. You’re going to need a settler, so treat yourself with a visit to Ireland’s oldest working distillery in Old Bushmills Distillery. Go and take the guided tour and learn all the secrets behind the tastes you’ll get to sample.
            1. waves lap over the basalt stones at the giants causeway
              Don’t have too much though, you’ve more balancing to do at the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. Arguably Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction, the causeway was formed over 60 million years ago, when molten lava cooled suddenly on contact with water. It’s an awe-inspiring landscape featuring hexagonal basalt columns and has left behind distinctive stone formations with fanciful names including the camel, wishing chair and the organ. When you’re there, make sure to head for the world-class Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn all about it.
              1. Back on dry land don't miss Dunluce Castle. This 17th century castle sits perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the North Atlantic. During a stormy night in 1639, part of it fell into the sea and it was abandoned. The magical ruins have inspired many including Winston Churchill and writer CS Lewis.
                1. Whiterocks Beach is a Blue Flag Award winner, featuring limestone cliffs which stretch from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. This is a magnet for water sports enthusiasts and is a great spot for surfing, body boarding and kayaking. Surfers should check in with local tube catchers in Portrush, Portstewart and Portballintrae to find out more about the best waves and rides on nearby beaches.

                  Best things to do on the Causeway Coastal Route

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