Why the Causeway Coastal Route Is a Must-Drive
The Causeway Coastal Route is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular drives in Europe. Stretching roughly 120 miles from Belfast to Derry~Londonderry along the Antrim coast, this route delivers a relentless parade of sea cliffs, castle ruins, sweeping sandy beaches and some of the most photographed landscapes in Ireland. Whether you have a full day or want to spread the journey over two or three days, hiring a car gives you the freedom to linger at every viewpoint and detour down every country lane.
Getting Started: Belfast to Carrickfergus
Leave Belfast heading north on the A2 and within 20 minutes you will reach Carrickfergus, home to one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland. Carrickfergus Castle sits right on Belfast Lough and is worth a quick stop to stretch your legs and snap a photo. The castle dates back to 1177 and offers guided tours if you have the time. From here the road begins to hug the coast and the scenery improves with every mile.
The Glens of Antrim: Glenarm to Cushendall
As you continue north, the road dips into the nine Glens of Antrim, a series of lush green valleys that run from the hilltops down to the sea. Glenarm is the first glen village you will encounter, a charming harbour settlement with a castle estate and forest park. Push on to Carnlough with its white limestone harbour, then wind around the coast to Cushendall, known as the capital of the Glens. Stop for coffee or lunch in one of the village pubs and take in the views across to Scotland on a clear day.
Ballycastle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Ballycastle is a lively market town and a great place to refuel, both the car and yourself. From here it is a short drive to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a 20-metre rope bridge that connects the mainland to a tiny island used by salmon fishermen for centuries. Crossing the swaying bridge above the Atlantic is a thrilling experience, and the cliff-top walk to get there is just as rewarding. Booking in advance is strongly recommended during summer as visitor numbers are limited.
The Giant's Causeway
No trip along this coast is complete without visiting the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity create a surreal, almost alien landscape at the edge of the sea. The visitor centre provides excellent context on the geology and the legend of the giant Finn McCool. Allow at least 90 minutes to walk down to the stones, explore the different formations and climb the cliff-top trail for panoramic views. Parking is available at the visitor centre and is included in the admission ticket.
Bushmills, Dunluce Castle and Portrush
Just two miles from the Causeway sits the village of Bushmills, home to the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Tours run throughout the day and include a tasting. Continue west to the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched on a basalt cliff edge with sheer drops to the sea on every side. A few miles further you will reach Portrush, a popular seaside resort with championship golf links, sandy beaches and a lively restaurant scene that makes it a great overnight base.
Mussenden Temple and Onward to Derry
Approaching the end of the route, take the detour to Mussenden Temple at Downhill Demesne. This small circular library sits on the very edge of a 120-foot cliff overlooking Downhill Beach, and the sight of it against the Atlantic sky is unforgettable. From here it is roughly 30 minutes into Derry~Londonderry, where you can walk the historic city walls, explore the Bogside murals and enjoy excellent food in the growing culinary quarter.
Practical Tips for Driving the Causeway Coastal Route
- Best time to visit: May to September offers the longest daylight hours and best weather, but spring and autumn are quieter and often just as beautiful.
- How long to allow: You can drive the route in one long day, but two days is ideal so you can explore properly without rushing.
- Parking: All major stops have car parks. The Giant's Causeway car park costs around eight pounds and covers admission. Carrick-a-Rede has a separate National Trust car park.
- Fuel: Fill up in Belfast or Ballycastle. Petrol stations are less frequent on the coast road itself.
- Road conditions: The route is mostly well-maintained A-roads and B-roads, but some stretches are narrow and winding. Drive cautiously and use passing places where provided.
- Hire car tip: A compact or mid-size car is ideal for the narrow coastal roads. Pick up at Belfast International or Belfast City Airport for the easiest start.