The Causeway Coast is the stretch of highway between Belfast and Derry in Northern Ireland. Plan a couple of days to wind through the beautiful countryside following Ireland’s scenic coastline. This world renowned drive offers endless views and numerous phenomenal places to stop along the way.
Belfast
Belfast is the birthplace of the Titanic, has a gorgeous coastal landscape and is rich in culture and history. This is also the starting point to your Causeway Coast Drive. Spend some time at the Titanic Museum, visiting City Hall and shopping at Saint Georges Market before you take off!
The Gobbins
The Gobbins is an unbelievable coastal walk along cliffs and through suspension bridges, caves, and tunnels. The guided tour on the peninsula of Islandmagee takes about 2.5 hours and costs £15. If you don`t have time for the tour (which you really should do if you have time!) there is a cliff top path you can walk for free and a Visitor Center. Learn more HERE.
The Glens of Antrim
Driving north from The Gobbins will bring you through the Glens of Antrim. These nine unique valleys are incredibly scenic and great for walking and exploring! Picturesque views are around every corner and the roads are quite and peaceful.
Torr Head
This road to the car park is narrow and winding but beautiful and very rewarding! A short but steep hike to the viewpoint gives you a panoramic view of the coastline and the ocean. On a clear day you can even see Scotland which is only 25 kilometers away!
The Dark Hedges
The Dark Hedges are slightly inland but absolutely worth the detour! This wonderful avenue of beech trees forms a tunnel over a rural road. Known as The Kings Road in Game of Thrones; the hedges are increasingly more popular among tourists and locals.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
This beautiful rope bridge leads out to an island off the coast of Northern Ireland. Plan to walk about 1 kilometer each way on a scenic trail from the parking lot to the bridge. Entrance is £7 and you can spend as much time in the area as you would like.
BUDGET TIP: National Trust members get a discount on the entrance so don`t forget your card if you have one!
The Giants Causeway
Home to a wealth of history and legend this was one of my very favorite stops on our entire Ireland road trip. Thousands of columns were formed by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago creating this geological wonder. Walk through the interpretation center for a ton of information and maps of different walking routes. The entrance fee is €11.50 which includes parking.
BUDGET TIP: National Trust members get a discount on the entrance and you can also save money by pre-purchasing your tickets HERE.
Dunlace Castle
Dunlace Castle is one of the most iconic monuments in Northern Ireland and there`s no question why. The entrance fee is £5.50 and you actually get to go in and explore the castle! If you get there after hours or want to save some money; you can view the castle from the fence for free.
White Rocks Beach
This stunning beach is known for its mystical white cliffs, caves, and arches. Only a short walk from Dunlace Castle this is a must visit destination!
Old Bushmills Distillery
Bushmills Irish Whiskey is manufactured in Ireland’s oldest working distillery. If you have time; take a guided tour which of course includes whiskey tastings! Entrance is £8.00 and interestingly enough children over 8 years old are allowed on the tour (when in Ireland.. right?)
Derry
Finish your Causeway Coast Drive in the only remaining intact walled city in Ireland. This ancient yet contemporary city is unlike any other place you will visit. Take a walking tour of the city walls, check out St Columb`s Cathedral or walk across the peace bridge!
We hope you enjoy your time along the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland! Feel free to contact us with any questions or comment with your favorite stops!
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