Amazing Causeway Coast Road Trip

The Causeway Coast Road is a scenic drive that spans over 200 kilometres along the coast of Northern Ireland. The route has stunning views, historical sites, and colourful coastal villages, making it a popular destination for road trips and sightseeing tours. The Causeway Coastal Route is home to the Glens of Antrim, the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, and plenty of walks and hikes, making it one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.

Visitors can enjoy charming towns, emerald-green meadows, and the spellbinding Giant’s Causeway along the route. The Causeway Coast Road Trip in Northern Ireland is a unique journey for locals and tourists. This breathtaking scenic drive is located in County Antrim and offers a total distance of 130 miles/209km. It can be completed in seven days with a drive of 3-4 hours daily.

The Causeway Coastal Route offers a logical itinerary, with main stops in order and a map that can be used to plan the trip. Visitors can also explore the hidden coast of Northern Ireland from A to Z and enjoy the stunning views along the way. With its breathtaking scenery, historical sites, and charming coastal villages, the Causeway Coastal Route is undoubtedly one of the best road trips in Ireland.

Planning Your Causeway Coast Road Trip

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Causeway Coast Road is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and the days are longer. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.

Itinerary Suggestions

There are many itinerary suggestions available for the Causeway Coast Road trip. One popular itinerary is to start in Belfast and drive north along the coast towards the Giant’s Causeway. You can stop at attractions like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and the Glens of Antrim. Another popular itinerary is to start in Derry/Londonderry and drive south towards Belfast, stopping at attractions such as Mussenden Temple, Portstewart Strand, and the Dark Hedges.

Budgeting and Expenses

Budgeting for a Causeway Coast Road trip will depend on various factors, such as the length of the journey, accommodation, and food expenses. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels with varying prices. Food expenses can be managed by cooking meals or eating at local pubs and cafes. Entrance fees for attractions like the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle should also be in your budget. Budgeting around £50-£100 per day per person for a comfortable trip is recommended.

Getting There

Arriving in Northern Ireland

The Causeway Coast Road trip starts in Northern Ireland and can be reached by air, sea, or land. The main airport is Belfast International Airport, located approximately 30 minutes from Belfast City Centre. Other nearby airports include George Best Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.

Several ferry services operate between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, with ports in Belfast, Larne, and Warrenpoint. For those from the Republic of Ireland, regular bus and train services connect Dublin and other major cities with Northern Ireland.

Car Rental and Insurance

To make the most of the Causeway Coast Road trip, it is recommended that you rent a car. Several car rental companies are available at the airports and ferry ports, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability and to get the best deals.

Adequate insurance coverage is essential when renting a car. Most car rental companies offer collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, but these can be expensive. It is recommended to purchase insurance coverage from a third-party provider, such as World Nomads or Allianz, which can often be cheaper and provide more comprehensive coverage.

It is also important to note that driving in Northern Ireland is on the left-hand side of the road, and distances are measured in miles. It is advisable to take some time to familiarize oneself with the rules of the road and to plan the route to avoid getting lost.

Key Destinations

The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is a unique journey packed with scenic beauty, historical sites, and colourful coastal villages. Here are some of the key destinations that you should not miss on your road trip along the Causeway Coastal Route:

Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder of over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by a volcanic eruption. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination on the Causeway Coastal Route. Visitors can explore the site on foot, take a guided tour, or even enjoy a helicopter ride to get a bird’ s-eye view of the columns.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a thrilling attraction not for the faint of heart. The bridge spans a 30-meter deep and 20-meter vast chasm, offering spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and sea. Visitors can cross the bridge and explore the island of Carrick-a-Rede, home to abundant wildlife and flora.

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a medieval castle perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea. Built in the 13th century, it has a rich history, including sieges, battles, and ghost stories. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about its fascinating history.

Overall, the Causeway Coastal Route is a fantastic road trip, offering everyone something. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or adventure, you will find something to enjoy along this spectacular route.

Accommodations

Finding the right accommodations can be crucial to a comfortable and enjoyable road trip along the Causeway Coastal Route. Luckily, plenty of options are available to suit all preferences and budgets.

Luxury Hotels

Several high-end hotels along the route offer luxurious stays. The Bushmills Inn, located in the charming village of Bushmills, offers elegant rooms and suites with traditional Irish decor and an on-site restaurant and bar. Another option is the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, set in a stunning location overlooking the River Maine. This five-star hotel boasts luxurious rooms, suites, a spa, and two award-winning restaurants.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts are popular for travellers seeking a cosy and personal experience. The Cullentra House in Cushendall is a highly-rated B&B with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast served each morning. Another option is The Old Schoolhouse Inn in Lisbane, which offers charming rooms with traditional decor and a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.

Camping Sites

Several camping options are available along the route. The Causeway Coast Holiday Park in Ballycastle offers caravans, camping pitches, on-site facilities, a swimming pool, and a play area. Another option is the Ballyness Caravan Park in Bushmills, which offers spacious pitches and modern amenities such as a laundry room and free Wi-Fi.

Many accommodation options are available along the Causeway Coastal Route to suit all preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, cosy bed and breakfasts, or camping under the stars, there is something for everyone.

Local Cuisine

One should not miss the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine when embarking on a road trip along the Causeway Coastal Route. Northern Ireland is known for its fresh seafood, traditional Irish dishes, craft breweries and distilleries. Here are some of the must-try culinary experiences:

Seafood Specialties

Being surrounded by the sea, it’s no surprise that the Causeway Coast is a seafood lover’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including mussels, oysters, and scallops. The local smoked salmon is a must-try, usually served with brown bread and a wedge of lemon. Another popular dish is seafood chowder, made with a creamy broth loaded with chunks of fish, shrimp, and mussels.

Traditional Irish Dishes

Northern Ireland is known for its hearty and comforting traditional Irish dishes. One of the most popular dishes is the Irish stew, made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions. Visitors can also try the famous Ulster Fry, a breakfast dish with bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, fried eggs, mushrooms, and tomatoes. There’s the champ, mashed potatoes with scallions and butter for a vegetarian option.

Craft Breweries and Distilleries

Northern Ireland is home to several craft breweries and distilleries, producing some of the best beer and whiskey in the world. Visitors can tour the Bushmills Distillery, which has produced whiskey for over 400 years. Another popular stop is the Hilden Brewery, which makes a range of craft beers, including stouts, IPAs, and lagers.

Overall, the Causeway Coastal Route offers various culinary experiences that satisfy any foodie. From fresh seafood to traditional Irish dishes and craft beer and whiskey, visitors can indulge in the local flavours and tastes of Northern Ireland.

Cultural Experiences

The Causeway Coastal Route offers a variety of cultural experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Northern Ireland’s rich heritage. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to enjoy during your road trip:

Historical Sites

The Causeway Coastal Route is home to numerous historical sites that glimpse Northern Ireland’s fascinating past. One of the must-visit sites is the Carrickfergus Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in the country. Another historical site worth visiting is Dunluce Castle, which sits on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Music and Festivals

Music is an integral part of Northern Ireland’s culture, and visitors to the Causeway Coastal Route can experience it firsthand by attending one of the many music festivals held throughout the year. The Portrush Raft Race and the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival are two of the most popular festivals in the area, featuring live music, food, and drink. Additionally, visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music sessions at local pubs and restaurants.

Art and Craft Workshops

The Causeway Coastal Route is also home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many artists and artisans showcasing their work in galleries and studios. Visitors can participate in workshops and classes to learn about traditional Irish crafts such as pottery, weaving, and glassblowing. The Seamus Heaney HomePlace is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts, dedicated to the life and work of the famous poet.

Overall, the Causeway Coastal Route offers many cultural experiences that delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, music, or art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a road trip along this stunning coastal route.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking Trails

The Causeway Coast Road is a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts. The route boasts several spectacular hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the coast and the surrounding landscapes. The most popular trail is the Giant’s Causeway Cliff Path, a four-mile trail that runs along the cliffs from the Giant’s Causeway to Dunseverick Castle. The trail is moderately challenging, but the stunning views of the coast make it worth the effort.

Another popular hiking trail is the Glens of Antrim, a series of nine glens that run from the coast to the Antrim Plateau. The glens offer a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails are well-marked, and hikers can choose the trail that suits their fitness level and interests.

Water Sports

The Causeway Coast Road is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The route offers a variety of water sports activities, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The most popular spot for surfing is Portrush, which has some of the best waves in Northern Ireland. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in the calm waters of the River Bann and the River Roe.

Golf Courses

The Causeway Coast Road is home to some of the best golf courses in the world. The most famous course is the Royal Portrush Golf Club, which hosted the 2019 Open Championship. The course is challenging and offers spectacular views of the coast and the surrounding landscapes. Other notable golf courses include the Portstewart Golf Club and the Castlerock Golf Club, which offer challenging courses and stunning views.

Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a water sports enthusiast, or a golf lover, the Causeway Coast Road offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable outdoor adventure on one of the most scenic routes in the world.