The Causeway Coastal Route — Northern Ireland's Greatest Drive
The Causeway Coastal Route stretches roughly 120 miles from Belfast to Derry~Londonderry along the Antrim coast, and it is consistently rated among the most spectacular drives in Europe. Think Big Sur but greener, with castle ruins instead of redwoods and whiskey distilleries instead of wineries.
From Belfast, head north through Carrickfergus — its Norman castle has guarded the lough since 1177 — then along the coast through Larne and into the Glens of Antrim. The road hugs the shoreline with the sea on one side and steep green valleys on the other. Every twenty minutes the scenery changes completely.
Key Stops Along the Route
The Glens of Antrim
Nine deep green valleys carved by rivers flowing from the Antrim Plateau to the sea. Glenariff — the Queen of the Glens — has a stunning waterfall walk through ancient woodland. Cushendall is the capital of the glens and a fine lunch stop. Cushendun has tiny caves used as a Game of Thrones filming location and allegedly the smallest bar in Ireland. Explore our full guide to the Glens of Antrim by car for detailed stops and walking trails.
The Dark Hedges
An avenue of intertwined beech trees near Ballymoney that became world-famous as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. Planted in the eighteenth century, the trees form a natural tunnel that is genuinely atmospheric in early morning mist. About an hour from Belfast on the inland route.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
A rope bridge connecting the mainland to tiny Carrickarede island, originally built by salmon fishermen. The bridge spans 20 metres above the churning sea and the views to Rathlin Island and Scotland on clear days are worth every wobbly step.
Giant's Causeway
Around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago, stepping down into the North Atlantic. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Northern Ireland's most visited attraction. Take the Shepherd's Steps path for the best views. Arrive before 10am in summer to beat the crowds.
Dunluce Castle
Perched on a basalt cliff edge between Bushmills and Portrush, this medieval ruin looks like it might slide into the sea at any moment. The kitchen block actually did fall during a storm in 1639. Used as reference for the Greyjoy castle in Game of Thrones.
Driving Tips
Allow a full day with stops, or spread it over two days if you want to linger. The road is well-maintained but narrow in places — pull into passing places for oncoming traffic. Summer traffic peaks between 11am and 3pm at the major attractions.
Fill up in Belfast or Larne — fuel stations thin out along the coast. National Trust membership covers parking and entry at the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede, saving you around £25.