The Glens of Antrim — Nine Valleys, One Spectacular Drive
The nine Glens of Antrim are deep, lush valleys carved by rivers flowing from the Antrim Plateau down to the sea. Each glen has its own character — from the dramatic waterfall trails of Glenariff to the quiet harbour villages of Cushendun and Waterfoot. Together they form one of the most scenic driving routes in Ireland.
The A2 coast road from Larne to Ballycastle threads through the glens, with the sea on one side and steep green hillsides on the other. The whole stretch can be driven in two hours without stops, but allow a full day to explore properly.
The Nine Glens
Glenariff — Queen of the Glens
The largest and most visited of the nine glens. The Glenariff Forest Park waterfall walk is a three-mile trail through a gorge of ancient woodland, past three waterfalls and along a series of wooden walkways. The tea house at the top serves excellent scones. This is the single must-do walk if you only have time for one glen.
Cushendall — Capital of the Glens
A pretty village at the meeting point of three glens — Glenaan, Glenballyemon, and Glencorp. The Curfew Tower in the village centre was built in 1817 and now serves as an artist's residence. Good pubs, a sandy beach, and the trailhead for Lurigethan mountain walk with views along the entire coast.
Cushendun
A tiny village designed in a Cornish style by Clough Williams-Ellis (who also designed Portmeirion in Wales). The sea caves at the beach were a Game of Thrones filming location. Mary McBride's pub — allegedly the smallest bar in Ireland — is worth squeezing into for a pint. From Cushendun the road continues along the Causeway Coastal Route to Ballycastle and the Giant's Causeway.
Glenarm
The southernmost glen and gateway to the coast road. Glenarm Castle and its walled garden are open for visits, and the village hosts a popular food festival each summer. A gentle introduction before the scenery ramps up dramatically heading north.
Driving Tips
The coast road is well-maintained but single-carriageway with occasional tight bends. Traffic is light outside July and August. Fill up before leaving Larne or Ballymena. Allow a full day from Belfast — the route makes a natural loop returning via the A26 inland road.